Challenges Ahead for Giants’ Defensive Backs
In the opening weeks of the season, the Giants’ defensive backs face tough matchups right away. In Week 1, it’s George Pickens, followed by CeeDee Lamb in Week 2. Then, they’re set to take on Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. Not an easy start.
“It’s going to be a strong start for us,” cornerback Dru Phillips shared in a recent conversation. “In my view, we’re up against maybe four of the top ten receivers in the league. The Rams are unique, though. They blend their run and pass plays exceptionally well, so you have to keep that in mind.”
Currently, Nacua is dealing with a hip issue and is listed as questionable for Monday’s game, which could impact the Rams’ strategy.
The Giants are grappling with their own challenges in the secondary. Starting cornerback Deonte Banks is questionable due to a calf injury. Paulson Adebo, who was anticipated to step in, has been placed on injured reserve with a knee issue and will be sidelined for at least four weeks.
If Banks can’t play, it looks like rookie Colton Hood, whom the Giants selected with the 37th overall pick in the draft, will be in line to start opposite Greg Newsome II.
“Let’s not make this bigger than it is,” Newsome advised. “Just go out there and play. Colton’s got a lot of confidence, and I admire that in him. If he gets the call, I know he’ll be prepared.”
During their season-opening victory over the Cowboys, Phillips faced criticism after committing three pass interference penalties. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson pointed out some issues with defensive coverage.
“There’s no need to grab,” Wilson stated. “We were positioned well at the top of the routes; we just need to refine our hand placements. We plan to play physically and challenge receivers. But at that crucial moment, we can’t let our hands go where they shouldn’t.”
This season is noteworthy, as it marks the first time since 1970 that three teams—in this case, the Giants, Chiefs, and Rams—will all play their first two games during primetime. In the opener, the Giants had issues with ball security, fumbling four times—though, fortunately, the Cowboys only capitalized on one of those fumbles. To help address this, running backs coach Willie Taggart had the team practice with weighted balls to enhance their grip on the ball.
And let’s not forget, facing Matthew Stafford on the road is always a challenge. Last season, in eight games at SoFi Stadium, he threw 22 touchdowns and just one interception, boasting an impressive passer rating of 114.7. It’s going to be a tough task for the Giants’ defense.
