The New York Giants defensive line is viewed as their greatest strength. However, they’ve struggled to stop the run early in 2025. The New Orleans Saints have had an effective rushing attack and should exploit this in their week five matchup.
The Giants defense ranks 29th in the NFL allowing 153 yards per game. To compare, a notoriously weak Saints run defense allows 118.8 yards per game. New Orleans has a golden opportunity to control the pace of the game and pound the ball down the Giants throat. They ran well against the Bills a week ago, and executing the same success this week should result in a different result.
The Giants defensive line is stacked. Abdul Carter, Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Dexter Lawrence form one of the top groups in the league. They will consistently provide pressure against Spencer Rattler if they can focus on rushing the quarterback. It’s imperative that the Saints develop a consistent run game to slow these defenders down and take advantage of their biggest struggles.
The Saints have the personnel to run the ball
Sunday should be a field day for Alvin Kamara and Kendre Miller. They both have been efficient in their carries. Kamara is averaging 3.9 yards and Miller is at 4.4. Kamara is defying age and looks as explosive as ever at 30 years old. Miller is finally putting together a healthy season and has already broken 12 tackles on his 28 attempts. These two backs are set for huge days.
An underrated aspect of the Saints offense has been Rattler running the ball. He’s not thought of as extremely mobile but has racked up 102 yards on 16 attempts this season. The Saints have called a few designed carries but most are off the scramble. When he does pass, it’s crucial he evades pressure and gains all the yards he can if no one is open.
The Saints could be getting back a few impactful players in their running game. Taysom Hill and Foster Moreau were activated off the PUP list and have been limited participants in practice. The odds of them returning are slim, but seeing them practice is huge.
Hill is a powerful back who thrives in short yardage situations. Moreau is the Saints best run blocking tight end and would create more lanes for the running backs. They both have yet to be a full participant at practice, their participation on Friday will be telling for their availability.
Regardless of who's available, it’s key that the Saints exploit a weak Giants run defense. They can’t allow their impressive defensive line to focus on pressuring their quarterback. Establishing a consistent run game will be the difference between a win and a loss.