Credit: BOBBY O’HARA/PureSportsNY
The Giants are clearly going to have to rely on the run game this year unless the passing game improves dramatically. However that isn’t exactly a bad thing. In fact the Giants have been successful in the past when they proved that they could run the ball. With the backs on this years roster New York can definitely bring it in that department. Rashad Jennings and Andre Williams are running exceptionally well this preseason and although the passing game hasn’t looked so pretty, if you can have a good run game and a strong defense you can get far in this league contrary to all of the NFL’s new implemented, pass-happy rules.
In the final game of the preseason for the Giants against New England on Thursday, Reshad Jennings ran for 20 yards on only three carries. Then Andre Williams came into the game and gained 44 yards on five carries thanks to a long 38 yard run down the sidelines that led to a Giants field goal. Williams has been a pleasant surprise that keeps on flashing more and more of his talent each week. The Giants have experience with a two headed monster rushing offense and I wouldn’t be shocked if we see more of it this year between Jennings and Williams.
The two backs are both averaging over 4 yards a carry this preseason. Jennings is averaging six yards a carry with 192 yards and a touchdown on 32 attempts. Andre Williams is averaging 4.4 yards a carry with 151 yards and two touchdowns on 33 attempts.
Another reason why the Giants are full speed in the run game is due to the blocks up front. Although the O-line has had its trouble with injuries and standing defenders up against the pass, the men in blue sure can maul defenses. With the push and holes that the offensive line is creating and the right amount of patience and pace for the backs, New York could take important time off the clock for their opponents come the regular season. Keeping the other teams in check may be the only way for the Giants to succeed due to a lack of movement in the passing game.
Bobby O’Hara:PureSportsNY