New York Giants Full Team Grades vs. New England Patriots

Nov 15, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount (29) runs against the New York Giants in the first half during the game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Run Defense Grade: A

The Giants run defense looked like it would be in for a long afternoon at the start. LeGarrette Blount was running hard, gaining 29 yards on six carries, four of which went for at least four yards. He also added a 10-yard reception, as Blount looked like he would have his way with a Giants rush defense that has been steadily dropping in the rankings.

But for some reason, the Patriots went away from Blount and the run game after that a little bit, and when they tried to get it going again they were unable to. Blount ran for only 66 yards on 19 carries in the game, meaning he ran for 37 yards on 13 carries after that strong start. That is a solid bounce back for the Giants, who had been becoming easier and easier to run on in recent weeks.

Tom Brady was the next best rusher for the team, gaining nine yards on two scrambles as the Patriots run game doesn’t have the same kick without Dion Lewis in the fold. His replacements, James White and Brandon Bolden, combined for only three touches; White gained 11 on his one rush and reception, while Bolden gained -3 on his lone rush.

Like the Giants, the Patriots were relying heavily on the arm of Brady, not the legs of their rushing game. Blount was able to pound one in for a touchdown, as that was the only real positive for the team in the game on the ground. They finished with 77 yards on 23 carries for an underwhelming yards per carry of 3.3 yards.

Next: Special Teams Grade