Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
While the rest of the league appears to be playing above the surface, the New York Giants running game looks like they are moving under water.
Through the first three weeks of the 2013 season, the Giants’ rushing attack is ranked dead last in the NFL, rushing for a measly 44 yards per game. David Wilson‘s 39 yards in last week’s massacre at the hands of the Carolina Panthers marks a season-high for any Giants running back.
The trio of Wilson, Brandon Jacobs and Da’Rel Scott have done nothing but add to the pressure mounting on Eli Manning‘s shoulders. Feeling like he has to put this team on his back, Manning has been pressing and turning the ball over at a record pace.
The offensive line has to take the brunt of the blame. It’s ridiculous that runs for negative yards have almost been as common as positive-yardage plays.
However, the Giants ground game can be much better.
Despite his two fumbles, Wilson should be the focus of the Giants running game. Jacobs is not the back he used to be and Scott is nowhere near as talented. The Giants have to give Wilson their full trust and let him run with a free conscience.
Offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride also needs a revamped game plan. Running Wilson between the tackles over and over and then mixing it up with a sweep once in a while is doing him and the Giants no favors. Also, running counters doesn’t seem to work because of the offensive line’s inability to hold their blocks. Wilson can regain some confidence if Gilbride designs some short pass plays or shovel passes in his direction.
The Giants rushing attack has been a train wreck this year but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Hopefully, someone on the New York sideline realizes that as well.
Daniel Brennan covers the New York Giants for www.RantSports.com. You can follow him on Twitter @DBrennan30 and add him to your network on Google.
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