Giants gain one, lose one on defense.
The New York Giants defense has suffered some big time injuries this season. They lost starting cornerback Aaron Ross and starting safety Kenny Phillips earlier in the year. Ross has been practicing and is ready to return tomorrow when the Giants host the Atlanta Falcons. As Ross returns, the Giants got some more bad news. Middle linebacker and team leader Antonio Pierce is out indefinitely with a bulging disk in his neck. Pierce suffered the injury during back on October 25th but hadn't felt any pain until this week. The bulging disk appeared in an MRI that Pierce underwent on Friday.
The loss of Pierce could be a major blow to a Giants defense that has already been struggling. Many believe Pierce had lost a step this season, but he was still the leader of the defense. Chase Blackburn will likely be the player to start in Pierce's spot. Jonathan Goff will probably see more action as well.
While Ross is returning, he will likely see limited action. He may also see some time at the safety position. Terrell Thomas took over when Ross was injured and has played well. Since the injury to Kenny Phillips, the Giants have not been able to find a good replacement at the safety position. CC Brown got the first chance and he was terrible. He had lots of trouble covering receivers. Aaron Rouse was picked up after the Green Bay Packers released him and he started the game against San Diego. If the Giants feel Ross is healthy enough and can help them as a safety, I expect him to be in that spot often.
The Giants defense may get a little bit of a break this week as Falcons running back Michael Turner is doubtful for Sundays game. Turner has not practiced all week. A big key to the game will be if the Giants can cover Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez. If the Giants are going to win this game, they will need to shut down Atlanta's running game and cover Gonzalez. Linebacker Micheal Boley may be key to doing that. Ross will certainly help if he is healthy.