Giants' Run Defense Under Pressure Ahead of Week 3

The New York Giants are grappling with significant concerns over their run defense following a winless start to the season. Head coach Brian Daboll is facing mounting pressure to find solutions, especially with a tough Week 3 matchup against the Cleveland Browns on the horizon.

In their recent 21-18 loss to the Washington Commanders, the Giants allowed a staggering 215 rushing yards, with Brian Robinson leading Washington with 133 yards at 7.8 yards per carry. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels added another 44 yards on the ground, further exposing the Giants' defensive vulnerabilities. As a result, the Giants rank 28th in the league in run defense, surrendering an average of 163 yards per game over the first two weeks.

Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen , who joined the Giants from the Tennessee Titans, has struggled to find a fix. While Dexter Lawrence continues to perform at a high level, New York's depth on the defensive line remains an issue. Rakeem Nunez-Roches has not provided the necessary support next to Lawrence, and the absence of A’Shawn Robinson has left the unit weakened in key areas.

The Giants' inability to stop the run has allowed opponents to dominate time of possession, limiting offensive opportunities for New York. Against Washington, the Giants gave up several rushing first downs and allowed the Commanders to convert 60 percent of their third-down attempts.

Looking ahead to their game against the Browns, the Giants must tighten their run defense. Cleveland comes into the game with momentum after rushing for 125 yards against the Jacksonville Jaguars, with Jerome Ford averaging 9.1 yards per carry. To avoid falling to 0-3, the Giants will need a stronger defensive showing.

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Daboll and his staff are likely focused on making necessary adjustments , knowing that continued struggles could lead to further setbacks. Improving their run defense is essential if the Giants hope to keep their season from slipping away.