VIDEO: Giants’ defense controls Chiefs’ vertical attack

The New York Giants defense has now had two consecutive impressive performances. Harassing Sam Darnold and the Carolina Panthers’ offense is a small task relative to facing the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead in prime time.

New York’s defense took away Patrick Mahomes’ ability to hit vertical passes on Monday with sound deep coverage, forcing Mahomes to check the football down to the flat. The Giants predominate zone-based defense limited the Chiefs’ offensive firepower and mitigated their ability to connect on the deep ball.

I was concerned about the defensive unit’s regression after the first six weeks of the season. Graham’s scheme seemed figured out, the players were lacking confidence/communication, and the Giants consistently found ways to lose 1-on-1 matchups.

Through the last two games, the defense is reminiscent of the 2020 unit; only now, they have players like Adoree’ Jackson opposite of James Bradberry. Here are several plays from the game on Monday night, along with a BONUS review of a great Jason Garrett play call.