For the first time since 2006 the New York Giants have gone undefeated in the preseason after last night's victory over the New England Patriots. However, the record doesn't matter if the first team offense doesn't look like they've improved over the course of the last six weeks.
Before the preseason began, the New York Giants coaching staff set a goal for Eli Manning to complete 70% of his passes during the regular season. Well, the two-time Super Bowl MVP finished the five-game preseason 20-for-41 (49%) for 188 yards and just one touchdown in about 1 ½ games of playing time - not quite what the team was expecting as they continue to install their new West Coast offense under first-year coordinator Ben McAdoo.
But to be fair, the Giants and their first team offense haven't revealed much of the offense, which is confusing to many because the preseason is the quintessential time to spend working out the kinks and trying new things before it all counts in Week 1. And because Manning seemingly struggled (again, it's the preseason, so it's all unknown at this point), Victor Cruz and Rueben Randle did as well. The two starting wide receivers combined for just seven receptions and 114 yards with just one touchdown. Rookie Corey Washington led the team throughout August with 10 receptions for 155 yards and four touchdowns.
Manning doesn't seem too concerned with the struggling offense, as he's reiterated the team trusts the system and that it's just going to take some time for everyone to learn their individual assignments and get the timing and rhythm down. Although many think there should be at least a small cause for concern, Manning is confident about their preparation and progress.
You don't lose your confidence," said Manning in this NJ.com article. "You're just trying to get everybody on the same page, your teammates and coaches ... We didn't get much going [Thursday night], but we're getting ready for Detroit, that first game. We got the starters out healthy so that's always the most important thing. We have to get ready for Detroit on Monday night. It should be fun."
It's a good sign that the team feels they're on their way to be prepared for the Monday Night Football opener on the road against the Detroit Lions, although we'll find out then if they're really prepared or not. A few things the Giants should be happy about at this point are the running game, defense and their second- and third-string players.
Rashad Jennings rushed the ball 35 times for 212 yards (6.1 average), rookie Andre Williams ran for 195 yards on 38 attempts (5.1 ypc), and Peyton Hillis had 18 carries for 76 yards (4.2 ypc). The defense gave up 18.4 points per game, 305 total yards per game (including 87.8 rush yards per game), and helped the team maintain a +1 turnover ratio. As for the nonstarters, quarterback Ryan Nassib was 44/74 for 588 yards and five touchdowns, including a 107.3 rating, and we've already mentioned Corey Washington. The team will make the final roster cuts on Saturday by 4 p.m.
Tune in to ESPN on Sept. 8 to watch the Giants face the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football.
