Who will win the NFC East?
By: Nathan Nguyen
Big Blue may not make the Super Bowl this year (like they did in 2011). But, even with all the circumstances last night, they pulled off the 20-12 win over the Chicago Bears. It’s safe to say all three stages of the game made their mark on Sunday, and we’re going to break it down right now.
Let’s face it: the New York Giants do not need a quarterback.
Okay, that may be an overreaction.
Daniel Jones was obviously the starter at quarterback heading into the season. The same was the case against Chicago. He played well, even if he only threw for 87 yards. Call him Daniel Allen or Daniel Jackson, because his arm isn’t the only thing that can give defenses headaches.
You would think Chicago’s defense would adjust and prevent that from happening again. Well…
Yup, this team is a running team. Personally, I don’t blame coach Daboll for relying on the run. These wide receivers are not getting the job done. The best statline from a wide receiver on Sunday was Darius Slayton, who had one catch for 11 yards. The leading receiver against Chicago was Daniel Bellinger (three catches for 23 yards).
But, those shortcomings will be fixed soon. Hopefully. On the bright side, Saquon Barkley is officially back. 146 rushing yards plus 16 receiving yards? The Giants need to re-sign him ASAP because there is no running back out there that can make something out of nothing. For example:
Something to note: HOW ABOUT DANIEL JONES WITH THE BLOCK? This play was one to remember, as Barkley made something that looked like a big loss into a first down. It would lead to Daniel Jones’s second rushing touchdown of the day.
Unfortunately, Jones went down with an ankle injury in the second half. In stepped Tyrod Taylor. But, after 30 rushing yards and an interception, he would also get hurt himself.
So, who would step in and be the emergency quarterback? There was no other quarterback available to play. Right?
Well, that works.
How About That Defense?!
Yes, Justin Fields threw for more yards against New York than he ever did during the first three games of the season. Chicago still only scored 12 points.
This Giants defense is for real. Wink Martindale deserves all the praise in the world because of his defensive scheme. Fields was sacked six times and the offense was held to 5/15 on third down. New York also forced three fumbles against the Bears.
No wonder Justin Fields looked sad every time the camera pointed at him. Khalil Herbert was brought back down to earth, only putting up 77 yards on the ground after having 157 the week before.
Constant pressure on the quarterback and not allowing many big plays down the field was the theme for this defense against Chicago. It seems to be working, and this defense is having fun.
Up next, the Giants will travel to London to play against the Green Bay Packers next Sunday.
