New York Takes One Step Forward Against Cowboys , Two Steps Back Against Eagles

After a huge win last weekend, the New York Giants returned to their typical form Sunday night against NFC East rival Philadelphia.

With the exception of their 5-0 start, the Giants have struggled all season on the defensive front, and last night was no different, as they played one of their sloppiest defensive games all year.

The defensive line once again could not get any pressure on Donovan McNabb and left him with more than plenty of time to hook up with his receivers.

At one point, they allowed him close to five seconds to connect with DeSean Jackson on a 68-yard touchdown.

But that was not the only play Jackson made, as he burned the Giants D all game.

It was expected that Jackson would leave the Giants cornerbacks in the dust, but what was not expected was him being left wide open numerous times or Bill Sheridan sending safeties to cover him downfield.

The key for the Giants to win the game Sunday was to limit Jackson to as little damage as possible.

Instead, they let him run wild.

What happened to the defensive monster from last year?

The team has lost some key players to injuries, namely Kenny Phillips and Antonio Pierce, but injuries plague the Giants every year and have never seemed to stop them.

The problem lies deeper than injuries, as a defense that was once in perfect stride with each other now looks confused and spiritless to say the least.

Benching former Pro Bowler Osi Umenyiora and Fred Robbins was not even enough to slap some life into the defense.

It is unclear whether the blame should be solely placed on the shoulders of Sheridan, but one thing is for sure: Change must be made in the Giants defense before the start of next year’s season.