New York Giants Beat Indianapolis Colts, Offense Still Looking for Rhythm

On Saturday night the New York Giants played in their third preseason game, and for the third straight time they came away with a win. Following three quarters of Indianapolis points, the Giants got on a roll in the fourth quarter.

More from New York Giants

• New York Giants deliberately disrespecting Saquon Barkley at this point
• 2023 NFL Season: Saquon Barkley signs silly deal with Giants
• New York Giants make big move with star RB disgruntled
• NFL: Which Giant deserved a contract extension – Barkley or Jones?
• 5 NFL teams that will definitely disappoint fans in 2023

Former Colt Curtis Painter would find Kellen Davis in the end zone for a three yard touchdown. The Giants would subsequently score when Spencer Adkins recovered a fumble in the end zone. The next two possessions would be touchdowns for Big Blue. Michael Cox would punch one in, and Corey Washington would cap off a nine play, 86 yard drive led by Ryan Nassib with a touchdown. Washington has scored what would turn out to be the game winning touchdown every game this preseason.

The Giants showed a whole lot of resiliency and never once gave up. Although the Giants came away with a remarkable comeback, the new look offense still remains the biggest storyline in the Big Apple.

For the third consecutive game the starting offense looked inept, especially through the air.

Manning was 1/7 for only six yards. So far this preseason Manning has completed a measly total of seven of his 16 pass attempts. Sure, the new offense needs to do some fine tuning, but it’s beginning to get a little bit concerning.

Manning did connect with Victor Cruz on what would’ve been a big gain, but Cruz fumbled and gave the ball to Indianapolis. The play would end up being negated due to a penalty. Eli’s receivers had a few drops, but the balls were anything but perfect.

The run game was decent. Michael Cox would lead the team with 32 yards. Both Andre Williams and Rashad Jennings failed to have any big plays. Both backs totaled for 36 yards on 15 carries. The defense looked good, albeit spotty at times. Former Giant Hakeem Nicks had over 50 receiving yards. Emerging defensive end Damontre Moore had a sack, marking his second of the preseason.

Unfortunately, starting cornerback Prince Amukamara left the game due to a partial groin strain. Nothing too severe, but worth keeping an eye on.

Yes, it’s only the preseason, but sooner or later the preseason will bleed into the regular season, and if Eli Manning and the offense continues to be faulty, the Giants will have an uphill battle. There is always the idea that perhaps the Giants didn’t want to give away any of their real strategy on offense. The Giants host the Colts in week nine, and it’s not too crazy to think New York wanted to give Indianapolis as little film to work with as possible.

Next week the Giants have their dress rehearsal game against the Jets. With the starters playing more than a typical preseason game, the Giants need to establish some offensive stability. The Giants won’t be contending for anything other than a good draft pick if the offense continues to flounder.

Final Thoughts

* I think rookie Corey Washington has shown enough so far to all but guarantee him a roster spot. Wouldn’t be surprised to see him get a lot of playing time, especially in the red zone.

* Speaking of rookie wide receivers, it will be interesting to see the long awaited debut of Odell Beckham Jr. next week. Should be exciting.

* Ryan Nassib should be named the primary backup. He’s developed better than most people probably thought he would.

* It’s always nice seeing the Giants play in Lucas Oil Stadium.