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Crucial Giants' Starter Can't Afford Slow Start in Week 1

Many players on the Giants cannot afford a slow start, but one player is atop the list heading into the first game of the season.

By Colin Chatto

Oct 22, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants cornerback Deonte Banks (25) celebrates after an interception against the Washington Commanders during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants cornerback Deonte Banks (25) celebrates after an interception against the Washington Commanders during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports / vincent carchietta-usa today sports
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There is a long list of players on the Giants who cannot afford a slow start in week one, but the main point of emphasis given the landscape of the schedule is Deonte Banks. He will be tested early against one of the most talented wide receivers in the NFL heading into his second season with the organization, looking to improve upon his rookie season.

Everyone knows what Justin Jefferson can do to an opposing defense, but two years ago it was veteran cornerback Adoree' Jackson that was able to keep Jefferson in check. In the 2022 Wild Card game, Jackson and the Giants' defense limited Jefferson to only 47 receiving yards in New York's first playoff win since Super Bowl 46.

Even with the reunion of Jackson, Banks will be the guy in Week 1 covering Jefferson. Newly hired defensive coordinator Shane Bowen's impressive resume on stopping the run can be beneficial on passing downs for Banks, which will be even more important for him to get off to a quick start. If Banks gets himself into trouble, it'll be a long day for the Giants in Week 1.

Given the schedule this year, a great defensive effort from Banks in the first game of the season will boost his confidence. Looking ahead, they face some of the NFL's best receivers in Ceedee Lamb, D.K. Metcalf, Jamar Chase, Mike Evans, and AJ Brown.

Sure the defensive line will consistently put pressure on Sam Darnold in passing situations, but for a second-year guy like Banks to have that at his disposal he has to find a way to take advantage in the passing game. He has to make Darnold second guess throwing his way given that the Giants pass-rush will get to him quickly.

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