Are there any positives with the Giants?
There are, but the prevailing dark shadow that has been cast over the team has been widening and has left little room for sunlight.
The major positive has been first-round choice tight end Evan Engram, who has lived up to his billing. Engram has been among the leaders in tight end with 34 catches for 412 yards and four touchdowns.
Engram moved into the lead role when all three of the Giants’ top receivers went down, and he has had his moments.
Orleans Darkwa has been a bright spot in the backfield this season, even though he had 345 total yards. Over the past five games, though, the Giants have averaged just over 100 yards per game, a stat to take some solace. It is a work in progress as they have averaged 86 yards per game through eight games, placing them 27th in the league.
Rookie defensive end Avery Moss has been a pleasant surprise on a defensive unit that has left a lot to be desired. Fellow rookie defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson has been rounding in the form the team expected.
Eli Manning didn’t exactly have a good game against the Rams, as he overthrew two potential touchdown passes that could have changed the complexion of the game. For the season, Manning has thrown for over 1,800 yards with 12 touchdowns and six picks.
In his defense, Manning isn’t the most mobile quarterback, and he isn’t playing behind a protective offensive line. He has a series of awkward attempted escapes to avoid sacks that have resulted in turnovers.
Any more of them?
You may have an argument or two, but it likely would be a stretch.
This was supposed to be the season where glaring positive statistics and situations would be easy to find.
Yes, injuries to key personnel were a major setback to the overall plan. When your receiving corps is decimated and your running game is a work in progress, the offense could get a pass. But the front office apparently didn’t fully address the deficiencies on the offensive line in the offseason, and they quickly surfaced in the wake of this collapse.
The defense? Try and find some positives. Think about this – Landon Collins has the lone interception on the season. The list goes on from there.
Punter Brad Wing has been consistent and his recently blocked punt wasn’t his fault. Place kicker Aldrick Rosas has made 8 of 12 attempts.
Head coach Ben McAdoo said Wednesday that his 1-7 team “can make a run.” This is the same week a handful of players –reportedly mainly on defense – stated that some have quit and McAdoo has lost his team.
The Giants should discover some more positives in their match with the winless 49ers Sunday. If not, it will be very difficult to stay positive the rest of the way.