What Do PFF Grades Reveal About the Giants’ Loss to the 49ers?

The New York Giants suffered a disappointing defeat against the San Francisco 49ers, losing 34-24. Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades provide insights into individual performances, but coaching decisions also played a significant role in the team’s struggles.

Analysis of Offensive Performance

The Giants’ offense struggled to put points on the board, managing only 10 points with eight minutes left in the game. This performance came against a 49ers team missing several key players, including their All-Pro edge defender and linebacker. Despite this, five offensive players received high grades from PFF, while another seven performed at an average level, and merely five were rated below average.

Quarterback Insights

• Jaxson Dart completed 24 of 29 passes for 191 yards, achieving a grade of 81.0.
• He faced pressure on only 25.6% of his dropbacks, but struggled when blitzed, earning a low grade of 47.7.
• The game plan featured conservative routes, limiting long passes; only two attempts exceeded 15 yards.

Receiver Breakdown

Gunner Olszewski emerged as a standout receiver, scoring a touchdown on his only target. However, other receivers were less effective, with Theo Johnson showing potential but also dropping a pass. The overall passing strategy reflected a lack of confidence in the receiving corps.

Run Game Performance

The Giants achieved a respectable run game, posting 117 yards on 21 carries, averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Dart was credited with several explosive plays, particularly after contact, leading the way in yardage.

Offensive Line Play

• Pass protection was solid, allowing Dart to be pressured just five times.
• Marcus Mbow and Andrew Thomas both graded well, contributing to effective run blocking.
• Austin Schlottman filled in adequately after John Michael Schmitz’s injury.

Defensive Struggles

The Giants’ defense faced a depleted 49ers offense yet struggled significantly. Only Brian Burns stood out with an outstanding grade of 89.9, showing exceptional pass rush ability despite minimal statistics.

Defensive Players Performance

• Dexter Lawrence recorded a low overall grade of 55.4 despite some contributions.
• Many key defenders, including Korie Black and Deonte Banks, performed below average in coverage and run support.
• The run defense was particularly weak, continuing a troubling trend for the Giants.

In summary, despite some bright spots in individual performances, the Giants’ loss to the 49ers highlighted serious issues in both coaching strategy and player execution. Their inability to adapt and perform against a weakened opponent raises questions about the team’s direction moving forward.