Through two games, Giants offensive line has shown some improvement

Sep 19, 2024 at 10:40 PM

Giants' Offensive Line Transformation: A Promising Start to the Season

The New York Giants have faced their fair share of offensive line struggles in recent years, but this season, they seem to have found a unit that can get the job done. After a shaky start in the season opener, the Giants' offensive line and offense have shown significant improvement, providing hope for a better year ahead.

Revamped Offensive Line Brings New Hope for the Giants

Addressing the Weaknesses of the Past

The Giants' offensive line was a major concern last season, as the team gave up a franchise-record 85 sacks, contributing to their 6-11 finish. This offseason, the team took steps to address the issue, revamping the unit with new additions and a change in coaching staff.The Giants brought in Carmen Bricillo as the new offensive line coach, replacing Bobby Johnson. Bricillo brought along some players from his previous stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, including tackle Jermaine Eluemunor, who was signed as a free agent. The team also added former Packers guard Jon Runyan Jr. and signed free agent guard Greg Van Roten during training camp.With holdovers Andrew Thomas at left guard and John-Michael Schmitz at center, the Giants' offensive line has started to click, despite some early injuries to Schmitz and Runyan.

A Promising Start to the Season

After a shaky performance in the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings, where Daniel Jones was sacked five times and the offense failed to score a touchdown, the Giants' offensive line and offense took a significant step forward in the 21-18 loss to the Washington Commanders this past Sunday.Jones threw two touchdowns, the running game generated 129 yards, and Devin Singletary scored his first rushing touchdown with the Giants. If not for an injury to kicker Graham Gano on the opening kickoff, the Giants might have come away with a victory and a share of the lead in the NFC East.The Giants' offensive line has shown improvement, and the unit is not as much of an issue as it was a year ago. The players have stayed healthy, and the coaching staff has done a good job of keeping them on the same page.

Tight Ends Contribute to the Offensive Line's Success

Another area that has been overlooked is the play of the Giants' tight ends, Daniel Bellinger, Chris Manhertz, and rookie Theo Johnson. While they have only been targeted five times by Jones in the first two games, they have played a crucial role in the team's offensive success.The tight ends have been effective in chipping on the edge rushers, blocking on the running plays, and providing maximum protection to ensure Jones is not getting sacked. Their contributions have been an integral part of the offensive line's improved performance.

Preparing for the Browns

As the Giants head to Cleveland to face the Browns (1-1) this Sunday, the focus will be on continuing the progress made by the offensive line and the offense. While the team is still winless, the improvements in the trenches have provided a glimmer of hope for the Giants' faithful.Offensive coordinator Mike Kafka has praised the work of Bricillo and assistant coach James Ferentz in keeping the offensive line on the same page, and the veteran players have been instrumental in the unit's success.The Giants' offensive line and offense will face a stiff test against the Browns, but the team is confident that they can build on their recent performance and continue to show progress as the season progresses.