EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The New York Giants and New York Jets meet annually for their preseason match-up, formerly known as the “Snoopy Bowl”. This has always been an entertaining game, no matter the direction of either team nor a lack of severity as the regular season. These preseason games are first hand looks of the progress made both in the off-season and in training camp.
The Giants were able to secure a 22-16 win over Gang Green. Here are three of the biggest takeaways from Big Blue’s win at MetLife Stadium this past Friday:
Eli Manning sacked zero times in 23 pass attempts:
- There is an immense amount of pressure on this offensive line to protect Manning. In recent years, Manning has taken a myriad of punishment from opposing pass rushes. It would be an understatement, saying getting better on the offensive line was Big Blue’s top priority coming into this season. For them to not have Manning sacked and only have Davis Webb sacked once, is a huge step in the right direction. Granted the Jets don’t have the most imposing pass rush, yet still it’s a confidence boost for this line that is learning its cohesion. Especially for Ereck Flowers, since moving to RT (which he played briefly in college).
2nd Straight DNP for Saquon Barkley
- It’s safe to say that the Giants are taking it safe with their rookie sensation. Barkley has not appeared in the past two preseason games, since his hamstring injury in training camp. The rookie has voiced that his hamstring “feels good” and will be ready for Week 1. Barkley practiced the past two days fully, which should be encouraging for Giant faithful. You don’t want to impede on the growth and maturity for Barkley as an NFL running back, by missing valuable reps running behind this new offensive line. It will be interesting to see if Barkley sits out the final preseason game against the New England Patriots.
2 for 12 on Third Down Conversions
- Last season the Giants ranked 30th in the league in third down conversion percentage (32%). This has been a thorn in Big Blue’s side, and has been a main reason that the offense hasn’t consistently put up big numbers. You have to be able to move the ball and sustain drives late into games. To be able to win games in the NFL, you must keep the chains moving on third down especially. The Giants did a poor job on third down against the Jets last Friday. This Giant offense all needs to be on the same page, and can’t afford wasted plays on third down. Punting the ball is demoralizing to an offense, and the best way to prevent that is getting it done on third down.
Barry Holmes is a Senior Writer for PureSportsNY.com. Follow him on Twitter @BHO732
(Featured Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta/USA TODAY Sports)