New York Giants: Five Takeaways From Loss to Pittsburgh Steelers

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Dec 4, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (28) rushes the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

– Changing of the Guard?

In the past few weeks, the Giants have been much more committed to running the football. Since returning from injury, Rashad Jennings has been the workhorse for the Giants in the backfield. In the three previous games leading up to Sunday against Pittsburgh, Jennings totaled at least 15 carries in each game.

On Sunday, Jennings was involved early on, but the Giants shockingly went away from him quickly. In the loss, Jennings totaled just six carries for 19 rushing yards. Jennings was involved in the passing offense, as he totaled six receptions, 34 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown.

Instead of Jennings getting the majority of the carries against the Steelers, it was rookie Paul Perkins. In the loss, Perkins totaled 38 rushing yards on seven carries. The 38 rushing yards for Perkins was a career-high and could be a signal of change in the backfield.

Despite running often the past few weeks, Jennings hasn’t exactly wowed anyone. With a need for a more balanced offense, the Giants might be willing to give the rookie Perkins a chance to prove himself. There is a lot to like about Perkins, and with Shane Vereen getting close to returning, we might see the roles changing in the Giants backfield.

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