New York Giants

Giants 'Throw Back' Defense Keys 10-7 Win Over Cowboys

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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It was not so much what the New York Giants defense did on Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. Rather it was more about how it was done. The G-Men utilized a defensive strategy that resembled the Big Blue Wrecking Crew of the 1980’s in dismantling the ‘Boys offense. If this “throw back” defense is here to stay, then the Giants could be a factor in the NFC playoffs.

Throw Back Strategy

Analysts point to the shutting down of Dez Bryant, Ezekiel Elliott and Dak Prescott as the key to the 10-7 victory. And they would not be wrong. But the real underpinnings of the defensive strategy were given to us by defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo earlier in the week.

“A little bit of [Elliott’s success] has to do with the offensive line,” Spagnuolo said according to Newsday on Dec. 10, 2016. “They have a good offensive line. A good offensive line with a talented running back is a tough duty.”

For as much as Bryant, Prescott and Elliott presented a challenge, the key to the Cowboys’ success continues to be their offensive line.

While others may have shied away from poking the tiger, Spagnuolo went right after the Cowboys’ o-line. The strategy of mixed blitzes was seemingly created to get the ‘Boys linemen to move their feet. And the “shoot the gap” pressure meant that running lanes were clogged for both Elliott and Prescott.

Oct 11, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Giants Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo looks on prior to the game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

This strategy could only work if the second level and defensive backs were stiff. The defensive backs and linebackers were diligent in their assignments.

For example, the Cowboys’ only points on Sunday were a result of a blown coverage by Andrew Adams. Everyone handling his responsibility was so critical, that Spagnuolo sat Adams down for his transgression. Those were the only points the Cowboys would score.

Throw Back Personnel

Back in their heyday under Bill Parcells, the Giants had a balanced roster. Most times, the G-Men could impose their will on their opposition. But Parcells and company were also not a one-trick pony, as the team made regular locker room adjustments.

The current Giants defense is far more complete than the offensive side of the ball. Thankfully in an era of specialists, Big Blue has it fair share of three down players in the front seven. These include: Jonathan Casillas, Olivier Vernon, Damon Harrison and Keenan Robinson.

This played to the Giants advantage because they were able to disguise their schemes against Dallas. Substitution packages can give away the defensive play call. But the most important aspect of the win was the 60-minute effort of the defense.

When we rewind back to the 1980’s, three adjectives come to mind: cold, blustery and relentless.

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Every important game that the Giants won seemed to be in the cold and blustery confines of Giants Stadium. And those teams were absolutely relentless. Those similarities were obvious on Sunday.

“You have to give them credit,” said Bryant, according to NJ.com on Dec. 12, 2016. “They played great defense. They played great defense for all four quarters.”

Adding to the stress of losing Jason Pierre-Paul this week, the Giants did not know what to make of their defensive line rotation. But undrafted free agent Romeo Okwara came through in a big way.

“We had confidence in him all week,” defensive end Olivier Vernon said. “We had confidence in the young guys all week to go out there and be able to perform. Those guys have been ready. All of the young guys have always been ready throughout the week preparation-wise and it showed out there today.”

The Giants have won four Super Bowl titles, and three of those wins were not decided until the game’s final play. Having a relentless defense playing a full 60-minutes becomes a distinct advantage in the playoffs.