Super Bowl XLII - the Defensive Front Seven
Thursday, January 31st, 2008We can split the front seven into two categories, defensive line and linebackers. They’re 2 different stories. The Patriots feature a linebacking corps with surefire Hall of Famers in Junior Seau and Tedy Bruschi. They line up next to Mike Vrabel, and Adalius Thomas. In terms of experience and talent, the Patriots linebackers have it all.
The Giants linebackers have a less impressive pedigree. The unit is lead by MLB Antonio Pierce and Kevika Pittman. The Giants linebacks have range, and youth on their side. Besides that, they pale in comparison with the Patriots.
On the defensive line, the Giants measure up a little more favorably. The D-line is undoubtedly one of the strengths of the Giants defense. Defensive ends Michael Strahan, Osi Umenyiora and Justin Tuck all have motors that don’t quit. They love getting to the quarterback. When Michael Strahan is your 2nd or 3rd best pass rusher, you know you have a squad. The Giants definitely do. They also bring Fred Robbins and Brandon Coefield up the middle at defensive tackle. These guys take up space, and allow the ends to do their thing.
The Patriots D-line isn’t shabby by any means, Richard Seymour, Vince Wilfork, and Ty Warren can handle theirs, but they’re just not as disruptive as the Giants line.
Overall, I have to give the Giants Defensive front seven the edge against the Patriots. The dominant defensive line play of the Giants overshadows the leadership of the Patriots linebackers.





