TIME TO SAY GOODBYE

The GIANTS will go from 90 bodies to 75 before Tuesday night.  Gone will be some familiar faces, but mostly the undrafted free agents that did not show well during the first 3 pre-season games.

The GIANTS played what some have called an uninspired game the other night in Baltimore.  After watching the game again, I would have to agree with Coach Coughlin's interpretation that some players did not seem to perform with a high level of energy.  However, I believe that this game served it's purpose.  It was an odd game in that the Ravens who are usually a run first team, ran the ball just a few times in the first half.  They came out throwing and continued to throw all night.  The GIANTS played their base defense all night, with man coverage, in order to test some young players that want to make this team.  Some showed themselves to be worthy, others did not.  That is what the preseason is all about.  Their was no way Coach was going to change to a nickel or dime coverage, or show exotic blitzes, just to match the Ravens offense.  In preseason you look for execution of your scheme, play from individuals, and team concept.  The defense actually showed well in many categories.  The hitting of safety Kenny Phillips for instance.  He forced a fumble and put the starting RB for Baltimore out for the game.  He showed his recovery is for real, and he is ready to become his old self again.  Antrel Rolle showed his toughness and quickness.  They will be the feared tandem we envisioned when play starts for real.  Justin Tuck was unstoppable.  The center of the D-Line got a good push and the pressure on the qb was consistent.
The linebacking corp is still in a state of flux to the fans.  Perry Fewell continues to mix and match linebackers in all different positions.  In one series we saw Gerris Wilkerson play outside isolated on a back, inside against the run, and then blitz on the next play from the opposite side.  I don't believe it is a desperate search for someone to do the job as many have thought.  I think he is putting guys in different positions, on different plays, that will all work into his grand scheme when the season arrives.

The offense is a different story in some ways.  The offensive line is a unit that needs to work as one.  I also know guys need to step in at any time for any reason and perform as if they are part of that unit.  Their is great depth at these positions this year.  Shawn Andrews was a great pick up for this team and will pay big dividends down the line.  The rookie center Jim Cordie looks good.  This unit however is the key to this teams success.  Bradshaw is healthy and ready for a break out season at running back.  Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith are ready to dominate.  The offensive line, tight ends, and fullbacks need to step up and play as a unit.  They need to impose their will on the opposing team.  Right now, there are a lot of guys standing around at the end of some plays, looking lost, having blocked no one.  This is not GIANT football.

The punting unit had a good game Saturday.  An average of over 41 yards net.  Nothing to complain about.  The return game will be a cause for concern, but we will get a better feel for that Thursday against New England.

As we learned the last time we switched defensive schemes, there can be confusion, and a learning curve.  That is why it is critical for the offense to get itself set, practice as a unit, and be prepared to carry this team through the first few weeks if necessary.

Roster moves were made Tuesday morning.  The GIANTS placed QB Jim Sorgi, WR Sinorice Moss and Rookie LB Adrian Tracy on injured reserve, thus ending their seasons. Cut was WR Nyan Boateng who had one catch this pre-season against the lowly Jets.

New England Thursday night. More roster moves Saturday to get to 53.

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