Coming out of the gate, The New York Football Giants were looking like a straight up mess. A 0-2 start to the 16 game season already had some fans thinking "oh man, not again!" Is this year going to be another mediocre season? Is this team even going to make the playoffs? But there's nothing to fear Giant fans, you have Eli!
First off, let's look at how this team started the season, hobbling on one leg so to speak. There's Jason Pierre-Paul (out due to his fireworks incident), Victor Cruz (calf injury) and Jon Beason (out with a knee injury) just to name a few. But the most important thing to note is that in their first two games, the Giants put up only three offensive touchdowns and one defensive touchdown. Sure, the Giants defense allowed 52 points in total offense which could be better, but it isn't horrid either.
Consider this...the defense isn't the issue!
In the first two games, the G-men forced two fumbles, two sacks, and one interception. The main problem is that the offense has to find a way to stay on the field so they can do more damage. For both of these showdowns the Giant offense saw less time on the field than their opponents, yet only lost by a few points. All they need is more opportunities.
NOW HERE COMES THE TURN AROUND!
Giants vs Redskins on Thursday night football. What a time to be alive!
The Giants came out strong and hit the Redskins with a safety within the first five minutes. Giants 2, Redskins nada. With the Giants putting pressure on Washington QB Kirk Cousins, the New York offense had their chance to shine. Between some misdirection plays and the O-line sustaining stable blocks, Eli and the Giants put up 32 points made up of two passing touchdowns, one running TD and a few field goals. The Giants finally earned their first win of the season and hit a record of 1-2.
Keys to this win: NYG defense (2 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles and 1 sack)
NYG offense- The running game, however limited, opened up the passing game for someone other than Odell Beckham Jr. such as Rueben Randle (8 catches for 116 yards and 1 touchdown) who was kept somewhat quiet in the first two games.
Last, but not least, is the greatest stat of them all.
Eli Manning has gone through all three games of this season with 0 PICKS. Yes, you read that correctly. Mr. Picks-a-lot from 2013 and even 2014 seems to be M.I.A. Eli currently has a solid passer rating of +90 and he doesn't seem to be letting up.
The season will be a difficult one, but with the return of Victor Cruz within the coming weeks and the hopeful return of Jason Pierre-Paul, the future isn't looking so bleak. Next week the Giants will face the fearsome defense of the Buffalo Bills, but if New York has the full strength of their wide receivers, they should give 'em a run for their money without a doubt!
Most importantly, if the Giants do a better job of holding their leads in the 4th quarter, this may be a season to remember after all ladies and gentleman! Stay tuned!
