Devito Magic Fizzles out in New Orleans

The Giants’ game-win streak hit a roadblock this weekend as the team traveled to New Orleans to face the Saints. The GMen lost 24-6 in a rough showing on both sides of the football. Offensively, the team failed to score outside the two field goals in the first quarter, and defensively, an uncharacteristic game plan from Wink Martindale led to Derek Carr having his best game as a Saint.

What hindered the Giants on Sunday has hindered them for the better part of a decade now: the offensive line. The front failed to get any type of consistent push in the run game throughout the game. Saquon Barkley was bottled up in the backfield on nearly every play, registering only 14 yards on nine carries. Rookie Quarterback Tommy Devito struggled as his pocket continuously collapsed in his face. He completed 20/34 passes for 177 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. With seven sacks allowed in this game, it brings Devito's total to 35 on the year. Thirty-five sacks are enough to come in tied for 5th league-wide despite only playing five games. It's no wonder the offense cannot move the ball when they are constantly behind the sticks due to negative plays.

Surprisingly, the defense struggled on Sunday after playing very well these past few weeks. Defensive Coordinator Wink Martindale went with more of a zone-heavy defense and ultimately paid the price. With multiple miscommunications leading to points, deciding to take the foot off the gas with the blitz and run more zone is questionable. New York's defense couldn't garner consistent pressure with the basic four-man rush. The front seven registered only one sack and two QB hits on the night, a large part of the defensive failure. Being unable to register pressure on Derek Carr led him to throw three touchdowns with no interceptions.

Moving Forward to next week's matchup versus the Eagles, the Giants need to attempt to shore up the line even just a little to have a fighting chance. Getting Saquon Barkley going in the rushing game and having Devito hit easy play action with some mixed-in reads needs to be the game plan.