September 10, 2018
It’s always disappointing when a team loses, but this was a lot better than watching the Giants last year.
The Giants were in the game and had a chance to win against a very good Jacksonville team, especially their defense. The Giants have improved, but they were 3-13 last year for a reason.
The Giants were able to move the ball at times and Beckham adds a lot to the Giants. Barkley broke a long run for a touchdown and that should be the first of many. An overlooked part of that run was the block from Sterling Shepard on the edge. I only wish they would have kicked the extra point instead of going for two.
As far as the offensive line goes, it’s a work in progress, Ereck Flowers does not look any better, and I have a feeling they will have a new right tackle next year. His missed blocks and penalties hurt the Giants chances, especially the penalty wiping out a nice completion to Evan Engram when they were deep in their own territory. The line also has to learn to play together and that will improve throughout the season.
In addition, Manning threw a costly interception, but Eli will be Eli with good passes and some hiccups. When he’s good, he’s very good and when he’s bad, he’s very bad and awkward. The Giants could do a lot worse at quarterback.
I am not for moral victories, but the Giants showed a pulse, something they rarely showed last year. It was great to see the fans cheer the defense on for a stop – I don’t think that happened last year; we were too mentally beat up by the third or fourth game.
Their rookies showed signs of being good players. Barkley and Hernandez are expected, but BJ Hill and Lorenzo Carter showed promise. Add Eli Apple showing some of his 2016 form and the defense will be better.
I said they would be 8-8 and I am sticking with it. Lets hope they show more of the positive against Dallas next week.