Brad Penner-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
The pass rush of the New York Giants has been solid this season, but not yet anything to write home over. The Giants are currently tied for No. 12 in the league with 10 sacks, one fewer than the New Orleans Saints and currently ranks No. 15 in pressure percentage, around the middle of the league, per Next Gen Stats.
Overall, the numbers show that the Giants have had a slightly above average pass rush.
However, the names that man the defensive trenches are ones that should strike fear in opposing offensive lines.
Giants Have Talented Group On Defensive Line
Edge rushers Abdul Carter, Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux are each first-round talents that are relentless pass rushers that can be incredibly disruptive when they get going. Meanwhile, three-time Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence II is in the middle of the group at nose tackle.
All four defensive linemen will make up the most talented unit the Saints’ will have to fend off in order to keep quarterback Spencer Rattler clean.
While their production doesn’t lead the league or feature eye-popping numbers, the high-level investments and skilled playmakers that populate the Giants’ defensive front could be a difference-maker against the Saints on Sunday.
Saints Offensive Line Managing Injury
New Orleans may be without both starters at guard and one of its best depth pieces with starting right guard Cesar Ruiz already ruled out multiple weeks with a high ankle sprain. Left guard Trevor Penning is currently nursing an ankle injury two games after returning from a toe injury and his primary backup, Dillon Radunz, is still nursing a toe injury of his own.
If New Orleans takes the field with backup and reserve offensive linemen, the Giants’ pass rushers are sure to pin their ears back and test the Saints’ protection early and often.
