Giants vs. Cowboys Full Team Grades

Run Defense: A-

Sep 13, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Joseph Randle (21) runs with the ball against New York Giants cornerback linebacker Uani Unga (47) in the first quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Last season, the run defense was arguably the weakest part of the Giants team. In 2015, at least through one week, it looked like a strength. The Giants made a concerted effort to slow down the Cowboys rushing attack, and it worked.

On the evening, the Cowboys were able to gain only 80 yards on 23 carries. That equals a poor 3.5 yards per carry, which is much improved on the 4.9 they allowed last season. Unlike last season though, they were not going up against anyone the caliber of DeMarco Murray, who the Cowboys let leave to the Philadelphia Eagles and will regret later on.

In his place, the Cowboys will be relying on Joseph Randle and Darren McFadden to fill the void Murray is leaving. Randle, who averaged 6.7 yards per carry as Murray’s backup last season, managed only 65 yards on 16 carries against the Giants for an average of 4.1 yards per carry. McFadden, who some thought would overtake Randle, ran for an anemic 16 yards on six carries for an average of 2.7 yards per carry.

The Giants defense stepped up big time in the run department, and should be an area they improve upon this season. Rookie safety Landon Collins will be a huge help in defending the run, and as long as Brandon Meriweather is around he will do the same as a hard hitter in the middle of the field.

This was definitely the strongest part of the Giants on Sunday night against the Cowboys, as it was encouraging to see them stop the run game so well.

Next: Special Teams Grade