Giants Offense Surprises; PFF Grades Breakdown

As the New York Giants kicked off their preseason campaign against the Detroit Lions , the performance of their offensive line stood out as a significant positive. Pro Football Focus ( PFF ) provided a detailed analysis of the game, highlighting the Giants' offensive players who made an impact, as well as areas that need improvement.

Leading the charge on the offensive line was Joshua Ezeudu , who earned an impressive overall PFF grade of 82.5. Ezeudu’s performance in run blocking was particularly noteworthy, as he received a standout grade of 93.1, helping to create lanes for the Giants' running backs throughout the game. Despite giving up one hit and two hurries, Ezeudu’s contributions in the run game were a key factor in the Giants' success on the ground.

The Giants' backup running backs also made a strong impression, with Eric Gray delivering his best performance since joining the team. Gray received a PFF grade of 90.2, bolstered by two touchdowns, including a highlight-reel 48-yard run where he skillfully navigated the Lions' defense. Tyrone Tracy and Turbo Miller also contributed, each making the most of the opportunities created by the offensive line.

While the offensive line and running backs shined, the Giants' quarterbacks had mixed results. Drew Lock struggled, finishing with a PFF grade of 30.2, as his performance hindered the effectiveness of the passing game. In contrast, Tommy DeVito performed better, earning a grade of 66.3, including a well-placed pass to Gray on a wheel route that gained 24 yards.

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Not all players fared well, as Matt Nelson and Yodny Cajuste received low pass-blocking grades of 29.9 and 31.4, respectively. These struggles in pass protection highlight the ongoing challenges the Giants face as they seek to solidify their offensive line ahead of the regular season.

Overall, the Giants' preseason opener offered a glimpse of what could be a promising new era for the team’s offense, particularly in the run game. With continued focus on improving pass protection and consistency across the board, the Giants have the potential to build on this performance as they move through the preseason.