Who Are The 2009 Giants?

My concerns about the 2009 Giants started before the pre-season when learning that Robbins and Cofield both had significant off-season knee surgeries. My worry then was that the Bernard and Canty signings weren't all about putting together the most dominant defensive line in history but were instead a sign of concern about health. Of course, my concern then was that Robbins and Cofield would have health issues, not that Bernard and Canty would have their own health issues. But the bottom line is that the awesome most dominant defensive line in history concept remains just that - a concept and a pipe dream.

Add in season ending injuries to Alford and Phillips - and Ross' inability to yet play a game in 2009 with the half way point rapidly approaching - and I suppose it shouldn't be too surprising to see the defense struggle against teams like Dallas and New Orleans. But that doesn't mean it shouldn't be disturbing, considering that most people view the Giants as a young and very talented club. Before the New Orleans game there were even whispers of "the next NFL dynasty". I would think any such thoughts have now been thoroughly put to bed.

The Giants are, indeed, a young and talented team but the 2009 version is a team that is struggling to find its identity. Are they a running team capable of physically dominating other teams with multiple 8-10 minute drives in any one game? Are they a "defense first" team that forces other teams to spend most of their preparation time figuring out how they are going to put points on the board? Unfortunately the answer to both of the above questions - after 6 games thus far - appears to be "no". Despite their lofty defensive ranking, it is this one man's opinion that the ranking is more about the schedule than about actual defensive dominance.

Things may change. The Giants may find their pass rush. And they may tighten up against the run. And Brandon Jacobs may return to doling out more than the considerable punishment he receives. And cows may fly. For now, the Giants may have to take solace that their passing game - questioned so heavily before the season - is their primary strength. Indeed, if Brandon Jacobs doesn't return to form and start cracking heads, the success of the 2009 Giants' season may very well depend upon Manning's arm and his wide receivers. Who woulda thunk it.