Key for Giants against Falcons

Keys for the Giants this week against the Falcons:

1) What I said earlier is the truth. The Giants pass rush needs to be tenacious and turn the intensity up to the next level. They have the ability to bring the heat and make Matt Ryan feel uncomfortable. If Turner doesn't play then Ryan should be running around the pocket all day if the Giants defensive line is up for the challenge.

Tuck has been through some nagging injuries and they now have Canty at full strength. With only 20 sacks on the season Tuck and the boys have been truly disappointing, but they are proud players and it really won't surprise me if they came out with fire in their eyes, aiming to bring down Ryan.

2) The offensive line has been just as disappointing as their buddies on the other side. Look for the offensive line to get back to form. Manning has had to run around the pocket way too much this season, and that just cannot happen. The offensive line lead by O'Hara are a proud group of guys who rarely miss a game together. The best cure for them is for the Giants to get back to running the ball. If they do that, the line can be aggressive again and show the league why they can be considered one of the best lines in football.

3) The line backing core has been atrocious. Pierce, who will not play due to injury has shown that he's slowing down and the Giants really need to address this issue during the off season. What they do have now though is a rested and healthy Michael Boley. He has impressed when on the field, and can be a game changer. He has the speed to chase running backs east to west, and is a great cover linebacker. His coverage skills will be important in shutting down veteran TE Tony Gonzalez. If Pierce's season is actually over like some published reports have speculated than Boley can become the leader of that defense.

If the both lines can step up and play they way they're capable of then the Giants should be fine. Eli Manning played well against the Chargers, and Brandon Jacobs yards per carry has improved as the season as gone on. Look for the Giants to get back to stuffing the ball down the opposing teams throat. Also, look for Jacobs to have at least 12 carries going into half time.