Grading the 2009 Giants: D-line

By now you know that the Giants turned in one of the worst defensive seasons in franchise history in 2009.  Immediately following the seaon’s final game, defensive coordinator Bill Sheridan and defensive line coach Mike Waufle were let go.  A once-proud (as in the year before) defense was suddenly a shell of its former self.

And it began with the defensive line, which registered only 32 sacks in 2009, down from 42 in 2008, and a league-best 53 in 2007.  Osi Umenyiora had 7 to lead the team, which is significant because a few years back Osi had 6 sacks in one game against the Eagles.  Of course, he was returning from an injured knee that kept him out of the entire 2008 campaign, so we didn’t expect Umenyiora to immediately return to form.

So why, then, did the D-line perform so woefully?  Keep in mind this was supposed to be a team strength, based on past performance and based on the fact that GM Jerry Reese made some free agent acquisitions in Rocky Bernard and Chris Canty.  Those guys, when they started, did not perform nearly as expected.  Jay Alford missed the entire season with an injury.  Justin Tuck hurt his shoulder thanks to a dirty play by Cowboys’ OT Flozell Adams in Week 2.  And Mathias Kiwanuka played well, but not exactly dominant. 

The result?  A weak pass rush, but also a run defense that gave up 110.8 yards per game, up from 95.8 in 200. 

And now Umenyiora has been running his mouth since the season ended, saying he will not accept anything less than a starting role on the D-line, or he will ask to be traded or released.  Awesome.  And the problem there is, Osi thinks he played well in 2009, when we all know better.

So with that, we will give the Giants’ defensive line a C-minus for 2009 –and we feel we’re being generous based on some of the injuries. 

What do you all think?  At least those of you not named Osi Umenyiora?

Tags: 2009 Giants, Bill Sheridan, Chris Canty, D-line, defense, defensive line, Eagles, Flozell Adams, Giants, grading defensive line, Jay Alford, Jerry Reese, Justin Tuck, Mathias Kiwanuka, Mike Waufle, New York Giants, Osi Umenyiora, Rocky Bernard, sacks