Run the Ball Successfully

In Week 1, the Giants had plenty of success running the ball against the Jaguars. Running the ball on the Jaguars isn’t an easy task. The Giants game plan for this week and going forward should include a heavy dose of Saquon Barkley. Like most teams, the run game can set up the Giants’ aerial attack to be more explosive.

Barkley only had 20 total touches (18 carries, two receptions) in the game last week. That should increase this week against a weaker Cowboys’ defense. Running Barkley should take tons of pressure off of Eli Manning and the passing game. A successful rushing attack also allows you to control the clock and dictate the tempo of the game.

The run blocking last week wasn’t amazing by any means, leaving plenty of room for improvement this week. The Giants spent a lot of money on a guy like Nate Solder in the offseason. They’ll need him to show why he deserved that type of money.

It will be key for the Giants to begin the game getting their running game going, creating some momentum on their side. On the other side, the Cowboys will likely try to do the same with Ezekiel Elliott. If the Giants can get Barkley going, Pat Shurmur’s first win as head coach could be coming Sunday night.

Next Page: No. 2