Giants vs. Falcons Full Team Grades

Run Defense Grade: A-

Sep 20, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) scores the game winning touchdown during the second half at MetLife Stadium. The Falcons defeated the Giants 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

Coming into the season, the run defense was one of the things the Giants keyed in on having to improve upon from last season. Through two games, they look to have done that, as the run defense was again a strong point for the Giants team.

After allowing 80 yards on 23 carries last week to the Cowboys, for 3.5 yards per carry, the Giants were even better in Week 2 against the Falcons. Granted, the Falcons offensive line is not on par with the Giants, but it is still encouraging to see the Giants run defense step up. Against the Falcons, the Giants allowed only 56 yards on 22 carries for an average of 2.5 yards per carry.

The normally explosive Tevin Coleman was held in check, as he gained only 32 yards on nine carries for an average of 3.2 yards per carry. Devonta Freeman wasn’t any better, as he gained only 25 yards on 12 carries, as most of his work came only after Coleman got injured and had to leave the game.

The only negative for the run defense was that they allowed two scores on the ground, as Coleman and Freeman each got one.

Ayers and Jenkins were both strong in run defense as well as getting to the quarterback, as they combined for all three of the Giants tackles for loss on the afternoon. Kennard led the way with 10 tackles, and if he can use his athleticism for more than just rushing the quarterback, the Giants may be onto something with him. Meriweather was strong with eight tackles as well, and Jayron Hosley filled in admirably for the injured Rodgers-Cromartie, getting eight tackles of his own as well.

Next: Special Teams Grades