The New York Giants are coming off of another disappointing loss in Week 8. The Giants lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-25 on Monday night while facing off against one of the best defensive fronts in the NFL. Surprisingly, the Giants’ offensive line held up and exceeded expectations. In Week 9, the Giants’ front line will have another tall task as the team travels to Washington.
The Washington Football Team’s Defensive Front
The Washington Football Team has one of the most talented defensive fronts in the NFL. Washington spent the second overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft on stud pass-rusher Chase Young who has been impressive during his rookie season. Washington added Young to an already frightening defensive front that features the likes of veteran Ryan Kerrigan, Montez Sweat, Daron Payne, and Jonathan Allen.
Similarly to the Giants, Washington has invested a lot of assets into their defensive line. Their investments have paid off, as The Football Team has seen tremendous production from each of their defensive linemen.
Montez Sweat leads Washington with five sacks and 28 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. Ryan Kerrigan is second on the team with four sacks. Rookie Chase Young has 2.5 sacks and two quarterback hits (via Giants.com).
Washington’s defense has allowed the fewest passing yards (185.9 per game), ranks fourth in total defense (309.1 yards allowed), has totaled the sixth-most sacks (22), ranks 11th in scoring (23.6 points), and is 17th against the run (123.3 yards), according to the Washington Post.
The New York Giants’ offensive line has been a weakness, once again, this season. But in Week 8, they kept Tampa Bay’s dominant defensive front quiet for the most part. The addition of rookie guard Shane Lemieux into the starting lineup seemed to jumpstart the offensive line and elevate their performance. The New York Giants’ offensive line will look to build on their solid performance in Week 8 with another well-blocked game against the Washington Football Team in Week 9.