The New York Giants have taken the first steps to re-assume their position among the elite teams of the NFL. The nice thing about being a Giants fan is you know where the organization stands, and that they are not satisfied with losing. They have the resources, and the will to be winners. From the owners down to the clubhouse guys, they want to be winners, and will not settle for less. To this end they dismissed both the defensive coordinator and the defensive line coach last week. The underachieving defensive line, once the strength of the team, was the root of the many problems the defense had this past year.

The GIANTS have hired Perry Fewell to lead their defense. Recently the interim head coach of the Buffalo Bills, formerly the defensive coordinator there and the defensive backs coach in Chicago and Jacksonville. Although there were reports to the contrary, Fewell was the first and only interview the Giants conducted. They got their man!

I like the hire on many levels. First, he is a younger guy at 47, and has worked for Tom Coughlin before. Second, he is a “players coach” which will reopen the lines of communication shattered by Bill Sheridan. The former D.C. didn’t even want to be on the sidelines during games, opting to communicate through assistants, in lieu of speaking to the players first hand. Thirdly and finally, Fewell has a system, but is not afraid to adjust during the week or in game. The stubbornness of some coordinators is legendary. In this day of the NFL, when every play is on tape and available to everyone, flexibility is key. Fewell is known as a cover 2 guy, but is not afraid to play a bear front, play man under, or even send the bonzai blitz when it is warranted and most decidedly unexpected. He demands accountability on every play, and his motto is “If you don’t play within the scheme of the defense….You Don’t Play. He has the necessary attention to detail, and is young enough to still have the drive to succeed and improve.

He will still need to find a defensive line coach, but that will most likely come after the playoffs have finished, opening up the opportunity to speak with all available coaches.

There also was a crazy rumor out last week that Bill Cowher wants the GIANTS job. If he wants it WHEN it is available, that would be welcome. The Mara’s and Rooney’s are old friends and operate much in the same mold. Cowher would be successful, and a welcome addition to any Giants team. The problem is the job is taken. Tom Coughlin,62, is under contract for 2 more years. He either gets this team back to the top next year and gets an extension, or he retires and the GIANTS get the to be in the enviable position of picking between Cowher, Gruden,and most likely John Fox. A win, win for all parties involved.
GIANTS draft #15 this year. A great spot to move up from, or to get your guy.

I will preview the draft in April.

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Enjoy the playoffs and Super Bowl…..see you in April

Joe Tufaro / Giants Contributor to ProFootballinsight.net

http://nygblogjt.blogspot.com

Photo Credit-Associated Press