Giants Struggle with Bottom-Five Rushing Attack Against Competition
The New York Giants are facing significant challenges on the ground this season, currently ranking among the bottom five rushing teams in the league. Despite initial optimism about their backfield, the team’s rushing attack has averaged a mere 79.0 yards per game, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike.
Preseason expectations suggested that the Giants would showcase an improved running game. With Tyrone Tracy Jr. returning for another year at running back and rookie Cam Skattebo demonstrating potential as a change-of-pace back, the combination was thought to provide a dynamic duo. However, the results have fallen short.
Offensive Line Struggles Impact Performance
Analysts from ESPN NFL Nation attribute much of the team’s rushing woes to the performance of the offensive line. While there was hope that the unit would improve in run blocking, the interior line continues to struggle. The analysis indicates that the offensive line has shown minimal push, which has severely hampered the running game.
Pro Football Focus statistics reveal alarming grades for the Giants’ offensive linemen, with none scoring above 60.0 in run blocking. Rookie Marcus Mbow leads the group with a score of 56.5, highlighting the overall underperformance. Veteran guard Greg Van Roten, who re-signed with the Giants on a one-year deal in the offseason, holds a dismal grade of 48.4. The situation is even worse for third-year center John Michael Schmitz Jr., who has received a low score of 42.1.
Interestingly, tight end Daniel Bellinger has emerged as the team’s top run blocker with a score of 78.4, indicating that the challenges primarily lie with the offensive linemen. Fans are increasingly aware of the struggles and the need for the offensive line to create rushing lanes for the running backs.
Looking Ahead: Time for Improvement
The struggles of the Giants’ rushing attack have been evident in the individual performances of their running backs. Tracy has accumulated 39 yards on 15 carries, while Skattebo has rushed for 42 yards on 13 attempts, including a touchdown in a loss against the Dallas Cowboys. The lack of production underscores the urgent need for improvement across the board.
Despite the disappointing start, there remains potential for a more effective rushing game. History may breed skepticism, but both Tracy and Skattebo have demonstrated the capacity to succeed when provided the right opportunities. It is vital for management to address this pressing issue swiftly.
Reviving the ground-and-pound game, which has long been a hallmark of the Giants’ identity, could also provide rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart with the support needed to develop as a passer at the NFL level. As the team prepares to face the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday night, all eyes will be on how the Giants’ coaching staff adapts their running strategy to boost the team’s performance.
The upcoming matchup could prove pivotal. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the Giants’ approach as they seek to turn their rushing game around.
