New York Giants Team Grades vs Pittsburgh Steelers

Passing Defense Grade: B

It was a mixed bag from the Giants passing defense. They had a good, not great, game overall. Ben Roethlisberger completed 24-of-36 for 289 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. We have seen Roethlisberger torch opponents before, so that isn’t a bad game for the pass defense.

Antonio Brown was held in check with six receptions for 54 yards and one touchdown. He made outstanding plays on his touchdown and a catch along the sideline, but Janoris Jenkins played him tough otherwise. It was the supporting cast the Giants struggled with.

Tight end Ladarius Green tortured the Giants all game. He had his Steelers’ coming out party against New York, catching six passes for 110 yards and a touchdown. He constantly beat the Giants in the middle of the field for huge, demoralizing gains. The Giants also saw first hand how dynamic a player Le’Veon Bell is.

Bell was a difference maker in the passing game as well. He ability to make people miss on screen passes helped the Steelers extend drives and score points. He caught six passes for 64 yards and a touchdown on the afternoon.

The pass rush was inconsistent, as the Giants gave Roethlisberger too much time too often and he picked them apart. Olivier Vernon was able to get to him twice, but once Jason Pierre-Paul injured his groin the Giants didn’t get much from a Vernon bookend.

Rookie Eli Apple had a strong game and was a bright spot. He recorded his first career interception along with two passes defended. He held his own against a very aggressive offense that looks to pick on young players.