I think we all agree that the defense is the big question mark heading into the season and it's largely because of how many rookies we have who are expected to play a big role early.
I thought I'd just list out all the rookies we need to step up:
1. Lawrence - It all starts with the big man up front. He's the one I'm most confident in right away.
2. Baker - He missed some important preseason work but will be counted on early. He'll probably have his fair share of rookie challenges this year.
3. Ximines - Probably a pass rush specialist early. Look to him for a spark off the bench.
4. Connelly - I doubt I'm alone when I say I expect him to take a starting role in the middle sooner or later.
5. Ballentine - He's earned the snaps he's going to get. Let's see if he can keep it up.
I expect all of these players to start at some point this year. It's a lot to ask of a young group, but I'm excited to see how they do and watch them grow.
After the preseason games I am less confident he will step in and dominate as a rookie vs teams like Dallas and Philly with very solid or even excellent OLs.
If he can be dominant against them, we have a shot at the playoffs.
The schedule is manageable though. The Dallas game is going to be difficult but the next three contests are all winnable games. If Shurmur can navigate a course to 3-1 start then notion of contending for a playoff berth gains some traction.
Kenny Phillips too.
I'm not sure we want to see a lot of Julian Love yet
If they can stop the run they will compete with both Philly and Dallas this year. I am confident that on the offense side the Giants will have very strong interior OL play and thus the offense will be strong.
Hate to put that pressure on Lawrence but he needs to become a leader of the D.....and fast. I believe he will.