Despite the fact that the New York Giants exceeded expectations in 2022, the team lacked big-play threats on offense.
After entering the season with a ton of depth at receiver, the Giants spent most of the season thin at the position.
In 2022, the Giants ranked dead last in the NFL in plays of 20 yards or more.
offensive plays that gained 20+ yards last year:
83 – KC*
82
81
80 – PHI*
79
78
77
76
75 – SF*
74
73
72 – MIA*
71 – BUF*
70 – JAX*
69 – DET
68 – SEA*
67 – LV, NE, DAL*
66
65 – GB, CLE
64 – CAR
63
62 – HOU, DEN
61 – CIN*
60
59
58 – NYJ, CHI
57
56 – LAC*
55 – MIN*
54 – WAS, TEN,…— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) July 10, 2023
Of course, Big Blue not only made the playoffs but advanced past the wild-card round with their win against the Minnesota Vikings.
However, their inability to stretch the field as well as other teams could be a big reason why there remains a large gap between the division rival Philadelphia Eagles and the Giants.
Naturally, with the moves made in the offseason, Big Blue should be able to improve upon that stat going into 2023.
The Giants added speed by signing Parris Campbell and drafting Jalin Hyatt. Between Campbell and Hyatt along with newly acquired tight end Darren Waller, the offense should be much more balanced which may open up the field a bit more than in 2022. The added weapons will prevent opposing defenses from being able to focus strictly on Saquon Barkley.
With the enhanced passing game and the offensive line hopefully improving, as well, the Giants should be able to increase their total of 20-plus yard plays this season.
