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5 Changes the New York Giants Need to Make for the 2015 Season

5 Changes the New York Giants Need to Make for the 2015 Season

Tom Coughlin New York Giants
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Coming off their second consecutive losing season, it’s not difficult to name a few things the New York Giants must change going forward. Despite all their holes, which led them to a 6-10 record, there were still a few bright spots on New York’s roster and in their game plan. With a healthy roster, and a full year implementing a few of these ideas, it’s very possible that they turn their franchise around and make their way to the playoffs.

5. Use Henry Hynoski More

Henry Hynoski New York Giants
William Perlman/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports

5. Use Henry Hynoski More

Henry Hynoski New York Giants
William Perlman/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports

As a current FA, there’s still a chance Henry Hynoski won’t return to the Giants. However, he won the fullback competition in camp last year, meaning the Giants really like him. Yet first-year offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo didn’t utilize him quite as often as he should – he received some short-yardage carries but he needs to be in on most rushing plays. Hynoski is a huge body and a great blocker that will turn New York into a power-run team.

4. Attack on Defense

Stevie Brown New York Giants
Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

4. Attack on Defense

Stevie Brown New York Giants
Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

With their star on defense, Jason Pierre-Paul, hitting free agency, his return may or may not affect this plan. With him, the Giants can rely more on their d-line to reach the QB, but if he walks, then they must implement more creative blitzes. Luckily, they’ve brought in Steve Spagnuolo on defense, and he’s known for his attacking style.

3. Play Man Defense

Prince Amukamara New York Giants
Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

3. Play Man Defense

Prince Amukamara New York Giants
Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

The Giants never really had the chance to use this, whether they wanted to or not in 2014, as their top two corners were each injured. With Prince Amukamara and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie both 100 percent healthy, Spagnuolo should have no issues with lining them up in man coverage every down. The Giants’ zone defense led to a “bend-but-don’t-break” style of play that broke far too often last year.

2. Incorporate All Offensive Weapons

Victor Cruz New York Giants
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

2. Incorporate All Offensive Weapons

Victor Cruz New York Giants
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

With the offense entering its second year, no doubt it should look better in 2015. However, with the emergence of Odell Beckham Jr., it appeared Eli Manning had tunnel vision for him. Defenses could still barely slow him, but with Victor Cruz returning and with Rueben Randle as a solid No. 3 WR, in addition to two good running backs, the Giants mustn’t forget to utilize all the talent they have.

1. Use Players Based on Performance, Not Salary

Damontre Moore New York Giants
Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

1. Use Players Based on Performance, Not Salary

Damontre Moore New York Giants
Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Some teams have difficulties playing someone over their highly-paid veteran who’s not quite getting it done anymore. The Giants had a few instances of this last season, notably at the linebacker and defensive line positions. It’s time Tom Coughlin puts his trust in the younger players and gives them the chance to shine on Sundays. The veterans are great leaders and would be reliable backups, but that’s about all they are at this point.

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