Saquon Barkley is Giants’ only hope against Saints

If the Giants have any hopes of slowing down the Saints, they’re going to need a massive effort from Saquon Barkley on the ground.

The Giants are riding high after last week’s decisive victory over the Texans, but they’re going to need a lot of things to go right to extend their winning streak to two games. Hanging with the Saints is going to require a lot of points out of Pat Shurmur’s offense. To make that happen, Saquon Barkley will need to live up to the status of being a No. 2 pick.

In fairness to the rookie running back, he’s been pretty good when he’s had a chance this season. The Giants’ offensive line isn’t very good, but Barkley’s made the most of his opportunities. Rushing for 216 yards on 4.7 yards per carry is pretty solid production given the line he’s forced to run behind.

The former Nittany Lion star will need to be even better on Sunday. The Giants don’t have the offensive firepower to go toe to toe with the Saints. If they try to outscore Drew Brees and company they’re going to be beaten soundly. That’s why the Giants’ offensive game plan needs to revolve around Barkley.

The good news for the Giants is that the Saints haven’t shown any real signs of defensive competence this season. They gave up 48 points to the Buccaneers in the opener and followed it up by giving up 37 in an overtime win over the Falcons last week. Sean Payton’s defense was great last season but they’ve been dismal in 2018.

If the Giants are going to experience that level of offensive success, Barkley needs to get a minimum of 20 carries. That number is separate from the five or so touches he should get in the passing game. The New York offense needs the run game established to set up potential big plays via play action. That’s Eli Manning’s best chances of putting up numbers anywhere near what Brees will produce.

With all due respect to Barkley, we don’t like his chances of doing enough to get his team a win in this game. Even if he can rush for over 100 yards, it likely won’t be enough to keep up with the Saints’ high octane offense. Keep a close eye on the numbers Barkley can produce in the first quarter of this game. He needs to be good early in the game to keep it competitive. Don’t be surprised if his final totals end up looking good because of contributions after the game is out of reach.

Giants fans should pin their hopes on Barkley this weekend, but they should prepare for disappointment. The Saints have too any weapons go be outscored by the Giants attack.