New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys: Week 1 Analysis and Prediction

Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Matchup X-Factor: Giants Offensive Line

The Giants offensive line is brand new. The team renovated the line protection, moving Justin Pugh from tackle to guard and Weston Richburg from guard to center.

General manager Jerry Reese selected offensive lineman Ereck Flowers as the ninth overall pick in the draft to protect quarterback Eli Manning’s blindside. Marshall Newhouse comes over from the Cincinnati Bengals to fill the other tackle position in his fifth year.

In 2014, Geoff Schwartz started two games at tackle and transitioned to guard in the offseason.

It’s unrealistic to believe that all five players immediately excel at new positions, which could hurt the rushing attack and Manning’s timing in the pocket.

In Wednesday’s press conference head coach Tom Coughlin didn’t describe the offensive line as a well-oiled machine, but a work in progress. It’s imperative that Manning get enough time to spread the ball against a weak Cowboys secondary.

Next: Game Prediction