Gaints vs. Patriots: Essentials That Must Happen for a New England Win

The task of facing the New York Giants is daunting. With a top-notch group of receivers and a running game that’s been clicking this January, the Patriots know that whatever road they take to reach Super Bowl paydirt, it won’t be easy. With so many factors at play the Patriots will need just the right mix to stop the G-Men.  

Protection

Brady can beat the Giants. In the regular season the Giants gave up an alarming 255 yards in the air every game, good for fourth worst in the league. Their secondary can be beat, but it will be up to the Patriots offensive line to stop the nasty pass rush of Jason Paul-Pierre and Justin Tuck.

With enough time the Patriots can utilize their two-tight end set and wreak havoc on a Giants defense that got torched by Vernon Davis on Sunday.

Still, if Brady finds himself pressured the way he did in Super Bowl 42, it’s going to be a long night for No. 12. 

Pressure

As much as the Patriots need to keep the rush off of Brady, they need to be that much more aggressive in apply that pressure to Eli Manning. This task is a little more daunting.

While Manning isn’t mobile like Alex Smith can be, he’s got a little more elusiveness in the pocket than Brady does. The Patriots can’t afford to give him time. Time always favors a receiver and with the Patriots allowing close to 300 yards a game in the air during the regular season, they’ll be eaten alive if they give Eli time. 

This game will be about pressure. Who brings it? Who handles it? With time the Patriots can do damage to a suspect secondary. But in order to win, they’ll need to keep Brady upright and Manning on his back.