Justin Tuck Injury: Will New York Giants Secondary Struggle Without Tuck?

With Justin Tuck, easily the Giants best defensive player, on the inactive list against the Redskins, it will affect every level of the Giants defense, especially since the Giants rely on excellent defensive line play more than just about anyone else in the league.

Having already suffered several losses in the secondary to injury, including Terrell Thomas, losing their best pass rusher is already going to put more stress on a thin Giants secondary.  

Luckily for the Giants, however, they happen to be facing a passing attack that is captained by the likes of Rex Grossman. 

Although the Giants have lost some depth at the corner position, they still have quality starters to get the job done. The combination of Antrel Rolle and Kenny Phillips should be enough to contain the mediocre and slower Redskins receivers. Corey Webster is a quality player. Aaron Ross, the team's first-round selection a few years ago, will have to step up in the starting role.

However, when the Giants need to use their depth at corner in sub packages, they could get picked on when the Redskins bring out more receivers in obvious passing situations, which means the Giants could pay the price on third down and have a tough time getting off the field.  

While losing Tuck certainly does this defense no favors, the Giants have enough quality talent, at least in the base defense. I think the loss of Justin Tuck will create more problems in stopping Tim Hightower and the Redskins rushing attack than it will in the passing game.