Week One of the preseason isn't exactly drawing rave reviews.
As you would expect.
The Giants' new look defense had a same look result with the starters early --- struggling against the run. That's where we last left things in Philadelphia, when the Eagles ran the football on the gamewinning drive and kicked a field goal to end the 2006 season. As if I needed to remind you.
The offense capitalized on a big special teams play (Derrick Ward's 67-yard kick return) with Jeremy Shockey's touchdown. But the backup quarterback battle mostly resembled a war of attrition.
All of this is true. But focus on two words of that first sentence -- week one. This defense is nowhere near as bad as it played Saturday night. There were major tackling issues -- and that seems like it would be a red flag. In actuality, that's an easily correctable problem.
As is players out of position early (Mathias Kiwanuka.) That's where the adjustments to the new defense are coming in, and that will improve. I'm not going to tell you that this will be a great defense, but I think it will be more than serviceable.
As far as some offensive observations, here's a couple.
Not much to tell about Eli. He threaded the needle quite nicely on Shockey's touchdown, and showed great pocket presence and awareness. Brandon Jacobs ran with good authority, and the offensive line.... wel, it's a work in progress. I'll use the adjective........."OK."
Yes, my parents must be thrilled with their educational investment in me. It's all about the vocab.
Ward has good explosion. I was a little worried about his roster spot, because the Giants like Ahmad Bradshaw quite a bit. But on the return, he broke tackles and was quick. He also ran the ball very well when he got the opportunity.
Sinorice Moss has great quickness, but needs to learn he doesn't need to dance and juke so much. Cut and go. His speed will take most others out of the play.
Bald is not always beautiful on TV. If you have the game in TiVo, watch the beginning. You'll see what I mean.
So remember, WEEK ONE. You'll get your best looks in the first half of the Giants/Jets game. It's the closest thing to a dress rehearsal.
And I promise -- I will start answering questions this week. Send them to giants@wfan.com.
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