New York Giants: With Osi Umenyiora Out, More Pressure Is Put on Justin Tuck

With reports surfacing that New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora will be out for at least two to four weeks with a badly sprained ankle, more pressure is put upon the team's defensive line.

The Giants' front four, who were leading the league in sacks during the first nine games of the season, have a mere three sacks in their past three games.

Umenyiora has been efficient this season, ranking second on the team in sacks with seven to his name. In addition, he has forced two fumbles.

With that being said, it's time for Justin Tuck to step up and get back to being the player we all know he's capable of being.

Tuck has played in only seven of New York's 11 games this season. However, when he has made it onto the field, he's been highly ineffective.

Tuck has recorded just 19 tackles and has yet to force a fumble, and his two sacks are way down for a guy who reached the quarterback 11.5 times last season and forced six fumbles.

Yes, Tuck has been injured. However, if he's not healthy enough to be on the field, he needs to stay on the sideline and let someone who is healthy help out on the D-line.

With all of Tuck's 2011 issues, New York still ranks No. 6 in terms of sacks with 31. Their high ranking is due in large part to sophomore star Jason Pierre-Paul, who is having a stellar 2011 campaign.

Pierre-Paul leads the G-Men with 10.5 sacks, which is good for third overall in the NFL. He also leads his fellow defensive lineman in total tackles.

If the Giants are going to have any shot at handing the Green Bay Packers their first loss of the season, their emotional leader and captain has to step up and start playing instead of preaching.