This week, the New York Giants are set to take on the Chicago Bears in a matchup that is about more than just numbers; it”s about pride. With a current record of 2-7, the Giants find themselves in a tough spot, having suffered a three-game losing streak. The Bears, under head coach Ben Johnson, have established a strong commitment to their ground game, recently showcasing this with a remarkable 283 rushing yards against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Giants” defense, managed by Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll, has struggled significantly against the run. They allowed a staggering 276 rushing yards to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 8 and followed that with 159 rushing yards surrendered to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 9. As snow is forecasted for Chicago this weekend, the Bears are poised to attack the Giants” defense aggressively.
Defensive players like Dexter Lawrence and Brian Burns understand the urgency of the situation. “It doesn”t take a ton of talent to be a run-stopping defense,” Burns stated. “It takes an attitude and technique.” With teams running effectively against them, the Giants must find a way to stand their ground.
Burns, who leads the NFL in sacks, expressed frustration about the team”s defensive performance, highlighting that the ability to rush the passer hinges on the success of stopping the run first. “I want to rush the passer. Can”t rush until you stop the run,” he emphasized.
Safety Jevon Holland offered insight into the solution, suggesting that execution is key. “If you execute, you do your job, and if you do your job, you make the play,” Holland explained. He believes that even if players dislike run defense, adhering to their responsibilities can create opportunities for stops.
Head coach Brian Daboll hinted at potential schematic changes to address the defensive struggles. Lawrence echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of making plays when positioned correctly. “When we”re in the right spots, we gotta make those plays,” he affirmed.
Discussions among players during defensive meetings have focused on accountability and possible adjustments to the game plan. Holland highlighted the need to analyze who is failing to execute their assignments and how the offensive scheme of opponents impacts the Giants” defensive strategies.
The Giants have faced significant challenges from both starting and backup running backs this season. Notably, Saquon Barkley has been a standout, recently rushing for 150 yards and scoring two touchdowns. Conversely, the Giants” defense has also been exploited by backups like Tank Bigsby and Brian Robinson Jr., who enjoyed productive outings against them.
This week, the Giants must be wary of Bears” backup running back Kyle Monangai, who has recently emerged with impressive performances. Whether or not Chicago”s top back D”Andre Swift returns from injury, the Bears are positioned to capitalize on the Giants” defensive frailties.
Holland stressed the necessity of stopping opposing rushing attacks early in the game, as successful early stops can diminish the opposing team”s confidence in running the ball, forcing them into passing situations that can benefit the Giants” pass rush.
However, the Bears have consistently maintained a strong run game throughout the season, averaging nearly 30 rushing attempts per game, ranking third in the NFL. Meanwhile, the Giants” defense has struggled, allowing the highest yards per carry and ranking second-worst in rushing yards allowed per game.
Linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux expressed the team”s frustration after a recent loss, stating, “We gotta do a better job as players, coaches, support. Everybody”s gotta do a better job. That”s unacceptable.”
As the Giants prepare for this crucial game, the pressure is on to adapt and execute effectively. The stakes are high, and the time for change is now.
In addition to the defensive issues, the Giants are also dealing with injuries. Kicker Graham Gano missed practice due to a neck injury following a missed field goal in the last game. The injury report for the Giants is extensive, with several key players unable to participate or limited in practice, including cornerbacks and offensive linemen.
The Giants know what lies ahead. It”s time for them to step up and respond against a formidable Bears team.
