Anemic would be a good way to describe the New York Giants’ offense in 2020. Averaging under 18 points per game, coordinator Jason Garrett displayed an inability to spur creativity and points production. Ultimately, second-year quarterback Daniel Jones took a step backward in multiple categories, but he did see his ball security improve gradually. After starting the season with his familiar fumbling problems, he cut down tremendously on the issue.
However, over a very similar sample size to his rookie season, Jones threw just 11 touchdown passes compared to 24 in 2019. Under Pat Shurmur, he was a far more productive quarterback through the air, averaging an additional 22 yards per contest as well as being sacked seven fewer times. Garrett’s system primarily focused on running the football, and the moment Saquon Barkley tore his ACL against the Chicago Bears in week two, the offense was castrated.
Nonetheless, the unit still managed to produce an average of 110.5 yards per game, as reserve backs Wayne Gallman and Alfred Morris lead the rushing attack. Surprisingly, they both performed adequately in Barkley’s absence, but there was a lot left on the table given his explosive playmaking absence.
While the running game was improved, the passing game was lackluster and desperately needs upgrading this off-season. That poses the question, should the giants consider moving on from Jason Garrett and his offensive system?
The New York Giants could see their OC walk all on his own:
Reports have indicated that Garrett is being considered for the Los Angeles Chargers vacant head coaching position, and if he goes, it might actually be a blessing in disguise for the Giants. His route concepts and lack of ability attacking man coverage have become apparent. His receivers can’t get open in cover 1 and the running game can only take him so far.
During Wednesday’s press conference with general manager Dave Gettleman, he stated that the idea of Garrett leaving makes him “antsy.” It would mean that Jones has to learn another offensive system, his third in three years given the scenario. Keeping things the way they are and providing some sort of continuity would be beneficial for the young quarterback, but as long as this passing attack remains anemic, it is impossible to feel confident moving forward.
Based on the way Gettleman responded to the question of Garrett potentially leaving whether it be in a head-coaching position or a firing, it indicates that they want to keep things the same in 2021. Obviously, the offense was the weakest link on the Giants this season, and if they were just average the Giants would currently be in the postseason preparing to face off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Ranking second to last in the NFL in points per game says a lot about Jason and his inability to play to his player’s strengths. If it were my decision, I would move on in the blink of an eye, but it seems as if the Giants don’t feel the same way.