Giants vs. Redskins Full Team Grades

Passing Defense Grade: B

Sep 24, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) passes against the New York Giants during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The Giants pass defense will catch some criticism because of the final stat line Kirk Cousins had, but there was a lot of garbage time stats in there. The Giants were in control of this game from the start, and a big reason was because of the clamps they put on Cousins and the Redskins passing game.

The Giants were very opportunistic in the passing game, as they picked off Cousins twice. The first was a nice read by Prince Amukamara to set up the first touchdown of the game, while the second came on a tip drill that Uani Unga caught diving to the ground.

The Giants were also able to get Cousins uncomfortable in the pocket, as they were able to get some pressure on him throughout the night. The Giants were only able to get one sack, but they hit Cousins six times. A couple of those hits and pressures were key, as they prevented Cousins from getting enough mustard on his pass to reach an open receiver. On two occasions Cousins under threw a wide open Jordan Reed because the Giants pressure did not enable Cousins to plant his feet and fire.

On the night, Cousins finished 30-of-49 for 315 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Cousins did have some bright spots, particularly when picking on rookie safety Landon Collins. But, they were far and few between as the Giants didn’t allow him to get comfortable all night.

It was a solid showing for an undermanned Giants secondary who was without Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie because of a concussion, and Prince Amukamara for a couple plays when he injured his ankle.

Next: Run Defense Grade