WIN THE COACHING MATCHUP
Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski, offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey and defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz are a formidable trio. Giants coach and play caller Brian Daboll and defensive coordinator Shane Bowen will have their hands full to give their players a schematic advantage. That is what is expected and required for the Giants to be competitive and find their first win, though. They need a coaching advantage.
STOP THE RUN
The Giants’ defense allowed 215 yards rushing to the Washington Commanders in their Week 2 loss. The top running backs for their first two opponents, the Vikings’ Aaron Jones and the Commanders’ Brian Robinson Jr., have averaged 7.3 yards per carry (31 rushes, 227 yards). Daboll and Bowen said the biggest problems are tackling and execution of assignments. If the run defense doesn’t improve, though, it will limit the Giants offense’s opportunities — and it will be only a matter of time until Bowen’s red zone defense breaks.
RUN THE BALL
Daniel Jones had a better game against Washington, in large part because Devin Singletary gained 95 yards rushing and the offensive line controlled the line of scrimmage. Continuing to target rookie Malik Nabers obviously is important, too. The Giants hope to connect on some deep shots to their No. 6 overall pick. But this offense goes as the run game goes. It’s also the best way to protect the defense from getting exposed.