Big Blue View - Giants vs. Steelers Preseason: Everything you need to knowYour place for year-round New York Giants discussion and informationhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47371/bigblueview_fave.png2013-08-11T00:03:54-04:00http://www.bigblueview.com/rss/stream/43692792013-08-11T00:03:54-04:002013-08-11T00:03:54-04:00Giants 18, Steelers 13: Recap, First Impression
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<figcaption>Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Giants managed to hold onto an early lead and win their first preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers 18-13 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh PA.</p> <p><span>Damontre Moore</span> made a great first impression as he blocked the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a>' first possession punt attempt to set the Giants up in prime scoring position. The Giants were unable to capitalize with a touchdown as the running game didn't look in sync to start the game, but came away with three points to jump out to an early lead.</p>
<p>The Steelers next possession looked reminiscent of the November game last year when the Steelers were able to run at will against the Giants' defense. The Steelers were able to block the Giants' defensive lineman and linebackers and create running room as they drove the field for an eventual field goal. The inability of the outside linebackers to keep leverage on the runners would become a problem for the rest of the first half.</p>
<p>The Giants second possession showcased the burgeoning talent of <span>Rueben Randle</span> and the magic of the <span>Eli Manning</span> to <span>Victor Cruz</span> connection. On a third and long Eli checked to quick pass to Rueben Randle on the outside to beat the Steelers blitz. Randle beat the first man at the line of scrimmage and then put a move on perennial ALL-Pro Troy Polumanu that would have had Dave Meggett smiling. Victor Cruz shook off the rust of his off-season hold out with a bang as he split the center of the Steeler's defensive backfield for a 57-yard touchdown from Eli Manning.</p>
<p>The only downside to the first few possessions from the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> was the lack of a consistent push in the running game. <span>David Wilson</span> was held in check and <span>Andre Brown</span> didn't run well until the second offensive line was in the game. Wilson also buried his head in the sand on a double A gap blitz pick up with 16 seconds to go in the first half. He needs to step up and get his face in front of the defender if he is going to be an everydown back. Andre Brown also made a mistake when he fumbled a pitch and failed to cover it up before the Steelers could take possession. The lack of a running game and the failure to stop the opponent's running game will have Tom Coughlin chomping at the bit to get back on the practice field this week.</p>
<p>The Giants running stats:</p>
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<td style="height: 15.75pt; width: 149pt;" class="xl65" height="21" width="198"></td>
<td style="width: 48pt;" class="xl65" width="64">CAR</td>
<td style="width: 48pt;" class="xl65" width="64">YDS</td>
<td style="width: 48pt;" class="xl65" width="64">AVG</td>
<td style="width: 48pt;" class="xl65" width="64">TD</td>
<td style="width: 48pt;" class="xl70" width="64">LG</td>
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<tr style="height: 15.75pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" height="21">
<td style="height: 15.75pt; width: 149pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl66" height="21" width="198"><a style="outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/player/_/id/15929/michael-cox">M. Cox</a></td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">9</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">33</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">3.7</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">0</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">12</td>
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<tr style="height: 15.75pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" height="21">
<td style="height: 15.75pt; width: 149pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl68" height="21" width="198"><a style="outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/player/_/id/12490/andre-brown">A. Brown</a></td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">4</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">23</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">5.8</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">0</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">8</td>
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<tr style="height: 15.75pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" height="21">
<td style="height: 15.75pt; width: 149pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl66" height="21" width="198"><a style="outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/player/_/id/14887/david-wilson">D. Wilson</a></td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">5</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">16</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">3.2</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">0</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl67" width="64">9</td>
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<tr style="height: 15.75pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" height="21">
<td style="height: 15.75pt; width: 149pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl68" height="21" width="198"><a style="outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/player/_/id/14087/da'rel-scott">D. Scott</a></td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">10</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">12</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">1.2</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">0</td>
<td style="width: 48pt; outline: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" class="xl69" width="64">5</td>
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<p> </p>
<p>Damontre Moore made a great first impression as he flew all over the field. If he wasn't pressuring the quarterback he was chasing down the runner from behind. The Giants might have hit the lottery getting a talent like this in the third round of this year's draft. He's still young, and there are reasons he slid in the draft, but if he can produce like he has at every other level he will be a star for the Giants' defense.</p>
<p><span>Ryan Nassib's</span> first appearance for the New York Giants is one he would probably soon like to forget. Penalties, turnovers, and sacks taken show just how far he has to go to be considered the heir to Eli's throne. Luckily for Nassib, <span>Landry Jones</span> debut started out just as bad, as the Giants were able to force a safety as the rookie from Oklahoma botched a handoff on his first snap of the game for the Steelers.</p>
<p>New placekicker <span>Josh Brown</span> showed plenty of leg by booming his kickoffs though the end zone or at least deep into it. He finished the game 3/4 on field goal attempts as he missed a very make-able 38 yarder wide left. The plus he provides in field position will only be appreciated if he can be as reliable as <span>Lawrence Tynes</span> was on field goals. <span>Steve Weatherford</span> and <span>Zak DeOssie</span> looked to be in mid-season form as they put on a show when called upon in the punting game.</p>
<p><span>Tyler Sash</span> had a tremendous special teams game and played well with the second defense. The writing is on the wall for Sash as this is a make or break preseason for him. <span>Marvin Austin</span> is another player that needs to show well in the preseason for the Giants to keep him. He played played extensively after the ones left the field as he was paired with <span>Mike Patterson</span> for a large part of the game and was hit and miss. When Austin stands up and uses poor technique he is easily driven down the field and that happened tonight against the better Steelers' offensive lineman.</p>
<p><span>Da'Rel Scott</span> had an opportunity to show he can run the ball and failed to do so tonight. He was too easily taken down and never looked to be an NFL caliber running back. He will have to show up big time on special teams to beat out rookie <span>Michael Cox</span> who looked like the better pure running back tonight. Cox looked like he was shot out of a cannon on a few plays, but also overran his blocking a bit. Patience may be the key with this young back.</p>
<p>In all, more questions were raised than answered tonight, but that's to be expected during the first preseason game. I expect to see a better running game and a more stout run defense when some of the injured stars come back.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/11/4610246/giants-18-steelers-13-recap-first-impressionsDennis M. Esser2013-08-10T18:00:06-04:002013-08-10T18:00:06-04:00Giants vs. Steelers Preseason: Open thread
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<figcaption>Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers meet Saturday night in an NFL preseason game.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> face the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> in their preseason opener Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. ET. Use this as your open thread.</p>
<p>The game will be televised in the New York area on WNBC-4, with Bob Papa, Carl Banks and Bruce Beck. If you happen to live in the Pittsburgh area, you can catch the game on KDKA, Channel 2. The Giants radio broadcast can be heard on WCBS-880 AM. The game will be shown nationally on NFL Network.</p>
<p>You can stream the game live with the <a target="_blank" href="https://preseason.nfl.com/nflpl/secure/packages?ttv=4">NFL Preseason Live</a>. If you are a betting man, you can find odds on the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/odds">SB Nation NFL Odds Page</a>.</p>
<p>Our <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-giants-training-camp/2013/8/9/4605238/new-yrok-giants-pittsburgh-steelers-nfl-preseason-game-time-tv-streaming-schedule-preview-news">complete StoryStream</a> includes all your viewing and listening details, injury information, a look at players to watch, some discussion of the Giants' revamped defense, a look at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-giants-training-camp/2013/8/8/4602456/new-york-giants-2013-training-camp-ryan-preseason-pittsburgh-steelers/in/4369279">the professional debut</a> of <span>Ryan Nassib</span>, a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/9/4602526/new-york-giants-vs-pittsburgh-steelers-preseason-rookies-justin-pugh-michael-cox-ryan-nassib/in/4369279">complete rookie breakdown</a> and more.</p>
<p>[<b>Related: </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/8/9/4606072/giants-steelers-preseason-week-1-features-news-updates-info">The Pittsburgh perspective from 'Behind The Steel Curtain'</a>]</p>
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https://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/10/4606692/new-york-giants-vs-pittsburgh-steelers-preseason-game-1-open-thread-game-time-tv-online-streamingEd Valentine2013-08-10T14:00:09-04:002013-08-10T14:00:09-04:00Giants defense preps for first test vs. Steelers
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<figcaption>Elsa</figcaption>
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<p>The revamped Giants defense prepares for its first real test in the form of the Steelers.</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/5/4590630/mmqb-new-york-giants-2013-overview-defense-offense-tom-coughlin-eli-manning">The first action</a> the newly revamped <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Giants</a> defense will see will come against the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Pittsburgh Steelers</a>, a team that is consistently competitive and seemingly always in the hunt for the postseason.</p>
<p>Last season, the Steelers ranked 21st in the league in offense, averaging more than 330 yards per game. Though they ranked near the middle of the pack, it should serve as a good first act for the Giants, whose defense allowed the second-highest yardage total in 2012, shy of only the historically awful <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New Orleans Saints</a>.</p>
<p>The 2013 Steelers are led by, of course, quarterback <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span>, who has a different-looking cast of weapons around him. Rookie Le'Veon Bell takes the place of <span>Rashard Mendenhall</span> at running back, while <span>Antonio Brown</span> and <span>Emmanuel Sanders</span> will get more looks with <span>Mike Wallace</span> fleeing via free agency. Tight end <span>Heath Miller</span> is injured for the preseason and the start of the regular season, as is longtime backup <span>Matt Spaeth</span>, so expect a host of youngsters to try and fill the role of red-zone go-to option for Big Ben.</p>
<p>The Steelers are known for pounding the rock, which should test the Giants fresh linebacking corps. And Big Ben's tendency to escape the pocket and make throws on the run should give the Giants pass defense -- which allowed the fifth-highest yards through the air in 2012 -- quite the workout.</p>
<p><span>"This will be a good barometer for where we’re at there. I think, just watching practice and being in the meetings and hearing the coaches’ feedback on everything, our defense looks amazing," punter <span>Steve Weatherford</span> said. "So, it will be interesting to see them actually go against somebody that they can be real physical with because we’re trying our best out here to try and take care of each other, as hard as that is because you’ve got guys competing for positions on this team."</span></p>
<p>Some of the players to watch will be <span>Dan Connor</span> and <span>Mark Herzlich</span>, who both will see the field as they <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-giants-training-camp/2013/7/30/4568998/dan-connor-new-york-giants-linebacker-training-camp-knife-arrest">vie for the starting middle linebacker spot</a>.</p>
<p>Herzlich has been the No. 1 contender for the job since OTAs, and through the early stages of camp the third-year pro has the strongest grasp on the job.</p>
<p>Connor, on the other hand, is the seasoned vet in this competition. His best chance to seize the job will be on the field.</p>
<p>Two players in the secondary to keep an eye on are <span>Prince Amukamara</span> and <span>Corey Webster</span>. Amukamara is <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013/7/5/4494968/new-york-giants-2013-prince-amukamara-fil-breakdown-darrelle-revis">expected to enjoy his breakout campaign</a> this year, and he'll be tasked with shadowing Brown early on.</p>
<p>Webster, the veteran who took a salary reduction to remain with the Giants after a shaky 2012, will have to cover a speedy up-and-comer in Sanders.</p>
<p>Along the defensive line, the rookies <span>Johnathan Hankins</span> and <span>Damontre Moore</span> will be two players to watch. They'll see extended time in their first preseason games, and both have <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/9/4602526/new-york-giants-vs-pittsburgh-steelers-preseason-rookies-justin-pugh-michael-cox-ryan-nassib">garnered positive reviews</a> thus far in camp.</p>
<p>Hankins, in all likelihood, will not beat out the veterans <span>Cullen Jenkins</span> or <span>Linval Joseph</span> for the starting gig, but he's certainly the heir to the throne. A strong outing could translate to a larger role in the defensive tackle rotation.</p>
<p>Moore, the third-rounder who was once thought to be a first-round talent, certainly has a chance to earn time in the defensive end rotation, with <span>Justin Tuck</span> a bit scuffed up and no sure bet on when <a href="#" class="sbn-auto-link">Jason Pierre-Paul</a> will return. Moore has been "off to an outstanding start," according to defensive line coach Robert Nunn, who expects the rookie to "contribute early." He'll have to show it in game-time action, though, first.</p>
<p><i>Follow Sam on Twitter </i><a target="_blank" href="http://twitter.com/samspiegs">@SamSpiegs</a></p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/10/4607308/new-york-giants-pittsburgh-steelers-defense-nfl-preseasonSam Spiegelman2013-08-10T12:00:08-04:002013-08-10T12:00:08-04:00Injury Update: Terrell Thomas, Chris Snee out
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<img alt="Terrell Thomas (right) won't play Thursday night" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3p7n7OzSf3E4A9VzDN_BSKkWF6s=/0x300:2667x2078/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17641201/20130807_ajl_ae5_022.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Terrell Thomas (right) won't play Thursday night | Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Terrell Thomas, Chris Snee, Justin Pugh and James Brewer are among the players who won't play Saturday night for the New York Giants.</p> <p>There are no official injury reports for NFL preseason games, but here is your summary of injured New York Giants heading into Saturday night's preseason opener vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers.</p>
<h5>PUP List</h5>
<p>Jason Pierre-Paul, Markus Kuhn and Henry Hynoski remain on PUP and will not be eligible to play.</p>
<h5>Out</h5>
<p>Cornerback Terrell Thomas (knee) and offensive lineman Chris snee (hip) returned to practice this week, but will not play Saturday. Offensive linemen Justin Pugh and James Brewer both have concussions and won't play. Rookie safety Cooper Taylor has a hamstring injury and will sit out.</p>
<h5>Uncertain</h5>
<p>Wide receiver Hakeem Nicks has practiced on a very limited basis all week as he works his way through a groin issue. He has not seemed to go full speed very often, if at all. If he plays, it will be only a few snaps.</p>
<p>Defensive end Justin Tuck missed practice Wednesday and Thursday with a tight back. Head coach Tom Coughlin did not rule him out, but it's hard to imagine the Giants playing Tuck in a preseason game after he missed the last two practices.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/10/4606770/new-york-giants-vs-pittsburgh-steelers-injury-report-justin-pugh-terrell-thomas-chris-sneeEd Valentine2013-08-10T10:00:06-04:002013-08-10T10:00:06-04:00Players to watch: Brandon Mosley tops list
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<img alt="Brandon Mosley" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/XPPMjvpDL_2ZLfdrycVzxueQfPs=/0x180:2851x2081/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17636515/20130727_kkt_sn3_702.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brandon Mosley | Jim O'Connor-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Brandon Mosley will be among the most interesting New York Giants' players to watch Saturday night in the teams' preseason opener vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers.</p> <p><span>Brandon Mosley</span> was swarmed by more media members on Wednesday and Thursday during <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> training camp at Quest Diagnostics Training Center than he had probably encountered total since being drafted by the Giants in the fourth round in 2012.</p>
<p>That's because with starting right guard <span>Chris Snee</span> not playing as he works his way back from hip surgery and fill-in <span>James Brewer</span> sidelined by a concussion, Mosley will start Saturday night in the Giants' preseason opener against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Pittsburgh Steelers</a>.</p>
<p>That means Mosley will be tasked with protecting quarterback <span>Eli Manning</span> on passing downs and trying to open holes for <span>David Wilson</span> and <span>Andre Brown</span> on running downs.</p>
<p>Mosley admitted this week that he didn't expect this to happen, but said "I’m anxious to do it. I’m ready to get out there."</p>
<p>Mosley didn't get out there much in 2012. He played a bit in the Giants' first two preseason games last season after being drafted 131st overall, then ended up on Injured Reserve with an ankle injury.</p>
<p>Head coach Tom Coughlin has liked what he has seen from Mosley during training camp.</p>
<p>"He’s had some very good practices," Coughlin said. "He occasionally suffers from a lack of experience when something new confronts him. He’s been impressive. He’s a tough kid. He’s battling."</p>
<p>Mosley is looking forward to his opportunity.</p>
<p>"Things just happen faster with the first group, because they have been doing it a lot more, along with the slants and blitzes and all kinds of things," Mosley said. "You have to be on your Ps and Qs a lot better than any other time."
<iframe src="https://www.bigblueview.com/videos/iframe?id=31123" frameborder="0" seamless="true" marginwidth="0" mozallowfullscreen="true" webkitallowfullscreen="true" name="31123-chorus-video-iframe"></iframe></p>
<h5>Five Other Players To Watch</h5>
<p>We won't count the rookies here, since we've <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/9/4602526/new-york-giants-vs-pittsburgh-steelers-preseason-rookies-justin-pugh-michael-cox-ryan-nassib">already done a separate post on them</a>.</p>
<ol>
<li>David Wilson -- No worries about his running, but what about his pass-blocking? Giants' starters will only play 12-15 snaps, but you can bet Kevin Gilbride will call a couple of plays designed to test Wilson in pass-blocking situations. How will he do?</li>
<li>
<span>Rueben Randle</span> -- A very impressive first couple of weeks of training camp for the second-year wide receiver. Can he continue his solid showing in a real game?</li>
<li>Linebackers -- This is cheating, I know. It is impossible to single out one linebacker for the Giants to watch, however. You have to watch them all and judge for yourself who should get playing time, who shouldn't, and if any of them can actually do the job. Coughlin and Perry Fewell will certainly be paying attention.</li>
<li>
<span>Marvin Austin</span> -- Right now Austin might be on the outside looking in when it comes to making the 53-man roster. Defensive line coach Robert Nunn said of Austin that "<span>when he gets out there under the lights he’s got to produce." His chance comes Saturday night. If he doesn't produce the 2010 second-round pick is going to have a tough time sticking around.</span>
</li>
<li><span><span>Adrien Robinson</span> -- The second-year tight end has been impressive in training camp, and has been drawing positive reviews. Now we see if he can carry his impressive training camp play into live action.<br></span></li>
</ol>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/10/4606470/new-york-giants-vs-pittsburgh-steelers-preseason-brandon-mosley-david-wilson-marvin-austinEd Valentine2013-08-09T13:34:33-04:002013-08-09T13:34:33-04:00Rookie Watch: What to expect Saturday from rookies
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<img alt="Ryan Nassib with tom Coughlin watching closely" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/p9_15posdnIe4z2_UTchaeXe0Nk=/0x420:2667x2198/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17598467/20130807_krj_ae5_040.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Ryan Nassib with tom Coughlin watching closely | Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>New York Giants rookies get their first taste of NFL action against an opposing team on Saturday night. Here is an overview of what the rookies have looked like so far, and what to expect vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers.</p> <p>Saturday's <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> vs. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> preseason game will be the professional debut for many of the players on the Giants 90-man roster. Let's run down the list of the Giants' draft choices with some impressions of what we have seen thus far, and what we might be able to expect from each of them vs. the Steelers. <a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2776607/USATSI_7298711.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Usatsi_7298711_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2776607/USATSI_7298711_medium.jpg"></a> <br id="1376010307792"></p>
<h5>
<span>Justin Pugh</span>, OT (Round 1, 19th overall)</h5>
<p>Pugh will not play Saturday night due to a concussion he sustained about a week ago. Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Wednesday that he expects Pugh will be ready to return to practice next week when the Giants reconvene for practice Monday following the game against Pittsburgh.</p>
<p>Pugh had been competing with veteran <span>David Diehl</span> for the right tackle job throughout the early part of camp, and it appeared as if Diehl was winning. Early in camp, offensive line coach Pat Flaherty said "right tackle is David Diehl." Pugh received a few first-team reps and some work as a third tight end before suffering the concussion, but clearly has yet to do enough to unseat Diehl, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-giants-training-camp/2013/8/4/4587216/valentines-views-new-york-giants-david-diehl-justin-pugh">who has lost weight and is having an impressive camp</a> after playing through a knee injury in 2012.</p>
<p>Pugh struggled early in camp to handle rookie defensive end <span>Damontre Moore</span>, the Giants third-round pick.</p>
<h5>
<span>Johnathan Hankins</span>, DT (Round 2, 49th)</h5>
<p>The big man (6-foot-3, 320 pounds) from Ohio State was drafted to help the Giants shore up a defensive tackle position that was a weakness in 2012, when the Giants surrendered 4.6 yards per carry against the run. So far, Hankins appears to be working with the second unit -- meaning he could be in line for regular playing time once the regular season begins.</p>
<p>Defensive line coach Robert Nunn has been impressed by Hankins so far.</p>
<p>"He has really surprised me coming in. I thought he did an outstanding job between when he started until now with his body," Nunn said. "He’s worked, he’s trimmed up, he’s gotten stronger, if he continues to do that I think he’s another young player that’s going to contribute to us."</p>
<p>Nunn is anxious to see Hankins "when we start shooting real bullets." Which is what will happen Saturday night against Pittsburgh. Expect to see Hankins get a fair amount of snaps vs. the Steelers.</p>
<h5>Damontre Moore, DE (Round 3, 81st)</h5>
<p>'DaMonster' has <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-giants-training-camp/2013/8/7/4597150/damontre-moore-new-york-giants-defensive-end">had a good training camp</a>. He has shown pass-rush skills and willingness to learn. The 20-year-old also got the better of Pugh the majority of the time before Pugh suffered a concussion.</p>
<p>Defensive line coach Robert Nunn has been impressed enough to say that Moore is "off to an outstanding start" and should "contribute early" to the defense.</p>
<p>Moore has been working with the second unit, and should see a significant amount of playing time Saturday night.</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3032425/USATSI_7370638.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Usatsi_7370638_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3032425/USATSI_7370638_medium.jpg"></a> <br><span>Ryan Nassib</span> with Kevin Gilbride [<span>Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports]</span></p>
<h5>Ryan Nassib, QB (Round 4, 110th)</h5>
<p>Nassib has had an up-and-down camp, with some beautiful throws and some that have been, well, less than beautiful. Quarterbacks coach <span>Sean Ryan</span> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-giants-training-camp/2013/8/7/4596192/new-york-giants-quarterbacks-eli-manning-ryan-nassib-sean-ryan">isn't worried about the inconsistency</a>.</p>
<p>"He’s got a strong arm. We knew that going in. Him getting more comfortable with the concepts, that’s going to start showing in terms of his accuracy," Ryan said.</p>
<p>Best guess here is that Nassib opens the season as the Giants' No. 3 quarterback, with <span>David Carr</span> at No. 2. Right now he just doesn't look ready to be trusted when it matters.</p>
<p>As for Saturday night, Nassib should receiver a significant amount of playing time. He might play more than any of the Giants' other three quarterbacks.</p>
<h5>
<span>Cooper Taylor</span>, S (Round 5, 152nd)</h5>
<p>Taylor has had a relatively quiet camp, although it is obvious that the 6-43/4, 229-pound safety from Richmond has athleticism. Unfortunately, he won't get to showcase it on Saturday as he suffered a hamstring injury earlier this week during practice and will be sidelined vs. the Steelers.</p>
<p>When the Giants drafted Taylor there was a lot of speculation about him being used in the third safety role, using his size to play in the box as a linebacker. The Giants, though, seem to be using him more as a traditional safety during training camp.</p>
<h5>
<span>Eric Herman</span>, OG (Round 7, 225th)</h5>
<p>Herman came to the Giants with a reputation as a strong, physical, bruising run blocker. With the constraints of training camp practices, those are difficult qualities to judge.</p>
<p>Herman's path to the roster seems to be a difficult one, with <span>Chris Snee</span> and <span>Kevin Boothe</span> starting at guard, and <span>Brandon Mosley</span>, <span>James Brewer</span>, <span>Jim Cordle</span> and Selvish Capers all possibly standing in his way. Perhaps Saturday night, when neither Snee nor Brewer will play, will be Herman's best chance to impress the Giants. Herman figures to play a lot in the second half vs. Pittsburgh.</p>
<p>"It doesn't matter how many snaps you get or don't get," Herman told me on Thursday. "Having the opportunity to be on the field and showcase your ability is huge. If I get more reps then I get more reps. I'm just going to play to the best of my ability."</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3032517/USATSI_7370663.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Usatsi_7370663_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3032517/USATSI_7370663_medium.jpg"></a> <br><span>Michael Cox</span> [<span>Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports]</span></p>
<h5>Michael Cox, RB (Round 7, 253rd)</h5>
<p>There is an opening right now for a third running back with the Giants behind <span>David Wilson</span> and Andre Brown, and right now the rookie from UMass has as good a shot at the job as veterans Ryan Torain and <span>Da'Rel Scott</span>. Cox has shown some speed, nimble feet and the ability to return kickoffs.</p>
<p>Cox figures to see a considerable amount of action Saturday as Wilson and Brown are likely to only get a coule of carries each.</p>
<h5>Undrafted Free Agents</h5>
<p>Here are a couple of names to be aware of:</p>
<ul>
<li> <span>Charles James</span> is a 5-foot-9, 179-pound cornerback from Charleston Souther. Asked about his young free agents, James was the first player secondary coach Peter Giunta mentioned.</li>
<li> <span>Kevin Hardy</span>, rookie wide receiver from Citadel. Hardy has taken a few kickoff return reps recently, and with the Giants that's a sign that they want to see more of a player.</li>
</ul>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/9/4602526/new-york-giants-vs-pittsburgh-steelers-preseason-rookies-justin-pugh-michael-cox-ryan-nassibEd Valentine2013-08-09T12:40:34-04:002013-08-09T12:40:34-04:00David Carr competing with, mentoring Ryan Nassib
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sO628cr97dPszZb75hkuNBOiEz0=/0x225:4000x2892/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17601157/20130728_pjc_an3_897.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jim O'Connor-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Long-time Giants backup QB David Carr discusses playing teacher to Ryan Nassib, as well as vying for the No. 2 job</p> <p>Longtime <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> backup quarterback <span>David Carr</span> finds himself in one of the more peculiar situations a veteran can be in.</p>
<p>Right now, he's competing with a highly-touted draft pick for the right be <span>Eli Manning's</span> No. 2. But as the same time, as a long-time professional in the league, he's tasked to play the role of mentor.</p>
<p>Thus far, Carr is doing his best with the balancing act he's inherited. And while he and rookie <span>Ryan Nassib</span> <a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013/7/11/4502262/new-york-giants-roster-breakdown-ryan-nassib" target="_blank">battle it out for the backup job</a>, the 12-year vet is comfortable with whatever what the result is.</p>
<p>"When you're out there coaching and you help, you're doing what you're supposed to be doing," Carr said. "You're going to do the right thing, for the most part. But how plays shake out, how guys run their routes, how the defense plays -- it's out of your hands. All you can do is just go through what you know and just use your experience to your advantage. Whatever happens is in God's hands."</p>
<p>Both Carr and Nassib will get a chance to impress the coaching staff when the Giants play the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> Saturday night in their preseason opener. With Manning not expected to play much at all, the two contenders -- along with <span>Curtis Painter</span> -- will likely see the majority of the snaps.</p>
<p>Carr said he is comfortable with whatever amount of playing time he gets Saturday night, which makes sense as the Giants <a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013/7/12/4518306/new-york-giants-david-carrno-21-ranked-backup-quarterback-nfl-com" target="_blank">have seen the backup in action</a> four of the last five years. And according to Carr, he hopes all four signal-callers play well.</p>
<p>"I'll try and help whoever's in there," he said. "Those guys are in there, those guys are trying to make the team, they're trying to get a job. They're trying to do something I've been blessed to do for the last 12 years. I'm going to do everything in my power to make sure that they know what they're doing and that there's no confusion." </p>
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<h2><a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-giants-training-camp/2013/8/8/4602456/new-york-giants-2013-training-camp-ryan-preseason-pittsburgh-steelers">Nassib Preps For NFL Debut</a></h2>
<a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1746179/20130807_jla_ae5_373.0_standard_352.0.jpg"><img alt="20130807_jla_ae5_373" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1746179/20130807_jla_ae5_373.0_standard_352.0_medium.jpg"></a> <span>Ryan Nassib has had an up-and-down training camp to this point. How will he fare Saturday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers?</span>
</div>
<p>While Carr gears up for his 12th preseason, <a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-giants-training-camp/2013/8/8/4602456/new-york-giants-2013-training-camp-ryan-preseason-pittsburgh-steelers" target="_blank">this will be the first for the rookie</a> quarterback out of Syracuse. Carr recalled his first preseason game -- the surprising speed of the game and forgetting the plays you've recently learned.</p>
<p>Carr said he expects Nassib to revert to what he feels comfortable doing and what he has enjoyed success doing in the past, and hopes the young quarterback can ease his mind and perform as well as he's capable of doing.</p>
<p>"A football game is a football game; he's going to go out there and make calls and go to his reads and he'll learn," Carr said. "Whether it's good or bad, he's going to learn. If you stop learning, that's where you stop getting better. He's got a long way to go, but he's got the right attitude."</p>
<p><i>Follow Sam on Twitter </i><a href="http://twitter.com/samspiegs" target="_blank">@SamSpiegs</a></p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/9/4604176/new-york-giants-david-carr-ryan-nassib-nfl-preseasonSam Spiegelman2013-08-09T11:00:15-04:002013-08-09T11:00:15-04:00Five questions with 'Behind The Steel Curtain'
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<img alt="Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MTWzure3ymIiVynwJ0m9oN_xhvc=/0x70:4000x2737/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17617523/20130727_kkt_al8_1000.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin | Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sport</figcaption>
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<p>The Giants face the Pittsburgh Steelers Saturday night. Let's get to know the Steelers a little better.</p> <p>The NFL preseason is upon, and the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> join the party Saturday night at Heinz Field. With that in mind Neal Coolong of SB Nation's Steelers web site, '<a target="_blank" href="http://behindthesteelcurtain.com">Behind The Steel Curtain</a>,' and I are breaking out the old standby -- the 'Five Questions' post.</p>
<p>Here are Neal's answers to my questions about the Steelers.</p>
<p><b>Ed: How much are the Pittsburgh starters expected to play Saturday?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Neal:</b> I would imagine a series or two. Offensively, they're going to want to get a good, long look at rookie <span>Landry Jones</span> and <span>John Parker Wilson</span> under center.</p>
<p>As you know, the problem of teams with franchise quarterbacks is having to highlight the battle for their third string spot.</p>
<p>Defensively, though, there are a lot of younger guys who need to get some reps, so I would imagine a starting 11 group being quickly subbed out and the second and third string guys mixing in and out the rest of the game.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Ed: Tell us about some of the young players you are looking forward to seeing, and who Giants fans should watch for?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Neal:</b> Second round RB Le'Veon Bell has probably been earning the most headlines as far as the younger group goes, but he'll probably have roughly the same amount of carries as either <span>Jonathan Dwyer</span> or <span>Isaac Redman</span> - you remember Redman, I would imagine.</p>
<p><span>Markus Wheaton</span>, a third-round wide receiver out of Oregon State is an intriguing player this season. Lot of talent, a bit behind on the learning curve due to that stupid NCAA rule that doesn't allow players to participate in team practices until their graduating class is out for the year. Not sure what kind of impact he'll make right away, but I think he's a special player. Great all-around tools, needs some work on his hands, but he'll be an outstanding player at some point in his career.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Ed: What is <span>Plaxico Burress</span> showing so far? Does he have anything left and can he be useful for the Steelers?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Neal:</b> He's showing that he's tall, he's old (36 next week) and apparently players are referring to him as "grandpa."</p>
<p>Ouch.</p>
<p>I've heard he's in great shape, and with a veteran minimum contract and still maintaining an able-body, I think he'll make the team. We'll see how much he contributes, but 40 catches, 500 yards and three touchdowns is seen as a success for a guy making $900k a year.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>[<b>NOTE:</b> This question is now moot, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/9/4605124/plaxico-burress-injury-torn-rotator-cuff-new-york-giants-pittsburgh-steelers">since Burress is out for the season.</a> Neal's answer is still an interesting one.]</p>
<p><b>Ed: An 8-8 finish in 2012 was disappointing for Pittsburgh. Are you confident this season will be better for the Steelers?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Neal: </b>Yeah, it was pretty disappointing. I wouldn't be surprised the reason the Giants drafted <span>Ryan Nassib</span> this past year was because of what happened to the Steelers after Roethlisberger was injured. <span>Byron Leftwich</span> managed to tear up his shoulder on a running play against Baltimore in one of the first plays of the game, and <span>Charlie Batch</span> looked abysmal at times. He looked serviceable other times, but plain and simple, in this league, you can't have a big drop-off at the quarterback position and expect to win.</p>
<p>Making it worse, I'd argue Roethlisberger's more skittish, dumber and more careless twin brother replaced him in the season's last four games. He played terribly down the stretch, and the season ended the way it did on the heels of one of the poorest clutch performances in Roethlisberger's career (an overtime interception against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Cowboys</a> and a late-game pick against Cincinnati).</p>
<p>Last year was just weird all around, and I don't mean just because the Steelers finished at .500. The team never seemed to get a real sense of itself and wasn't consistent from game-to-game. I think Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is making a physical camp specifically to train their mental strength, and challenge them to remain sharp from game-to-game. I don't think we saw that often last year.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Ed: Is there a player the Steelers lost from last season's team that you aren't sure they can adequately replace?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Neal:</b> I think it's <span>James Harrison</span> - and yes, I'm aware how fast <span>Mike Wallace</span> is. Harrison was and probably still is better at his position than Wallace ever was at his. He's more versatile, and while Wallace can change a game on just two catches, Harrison can with two blown plays. He never made those mistakes; or at least he never made them often.</p>
<p>I think the team had a very tough decision to make in offering him a pay cut to stay, and I don't blame him for turning them down (even if he accepted a little less to play for Cincinnati). Harrison is one of the more underrated pure football players of the last 10 years. No outside linebacker set the edge better than Harrison did against the run. No one. I don't see anyone on the Steelers roster, and very few around the league able to do what Harrison did from 2007-2011 for the Steelers.</p>
<p>Lots of guys run deep and catch the ball with their chest. Harrison owned the defensive right edge for five years. It's not a coincidence the Steelers are the top defensive team in the league over that time period.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Thanks to Neal for taking the time. Head over to <a target="_blank" href="http://behindthesteelcurtain.com">Behind The Steel Curtain</a> for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/8/9/4605228/steelers-vs-giants-2013-5-questions-with-big-blue-view">my answers to Neal's questions</a>. As always, remember to play nice.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2013/8/9/4605318/new-york-giants-vs-pittsburgh-steelers-five-questions-behind-the-steel-curtainEd Valentine