The Giants may put out an offensive line with spit, baling wire and a lot of young guys Sunday in Kansas City against the Chiefs.
Just what you want when you are 0-3, going against a 3-0 team that happens to lead the league in sacks.
With center David Baas (neck) and guard Chris Snee (hip) both out, Jim Cordle and James Brewer might get their first career starts at center and tackle, respectively. However he goes, Coughlin, who has had a rookie, Justin Pugh, starting at tackle for David Diehl (thumb, doubtful), said he “probably” will start the youngest offensive line he has had with the Giants.
“We’re trying to advance some of these younger offensive linemen along, as far as guys that haven’t played much, as fast as we can,” Coughlin said Friday. “We’re just working the best we can and the players have a good attitude about it.”
Pugh, a grizzled veteran of three regular season NFL games, sounded like an old-timer when discussing the challenges facing the Giants.
“I don’t think there’s any intimidation,” Pugh said. “Brewer and Cordle were here when they won the Super Bowl, so they know what it takes to have a good offensive line. … Definitely it’s a big challenge. Every game you go into presents its own difficulties. This week having two new starters on the offensive line replacing Chris Snee and David Baas is going to be a big challenge, but we’re up for it. I’m excited to get out there and see what we’ve got.”
Baas said he will serve as a mentor to Cordle if that’s what the Giants decide gives them the best chance to win.
“I’m willing to do whatever they want me to do,” Baas said. “Guys have to step up and perform when they’re called upon. … Communication is going to be a big thing. It’s no fun when you have to shuffle guys around. … Basically all I can do is help [Cordle] with anything I’ve seen on film and give him some pointers, but he does his research and he’s focused in meetings.”
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In other medical news, TE Adrien Robinson and CB Corey Webster are out. [Aaron Ross started for Webster last week]. Diehl (thumb) is doubtful, S Cooper Taylor and LB Jacquian Williams are questionable. Listed as probable are LB Spencer Paysinger (hip), CB Terrell Thomas (knee) and DE Justin Trattou (ankle).
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Coughlin on playing in Arrowhead Stadium: “Fans are right on you but it’s a good environment. It’s a loud, boisterous NFL community and it will be a good experience for us. There will be some issues, obviously, with the goal line and that part of the field. Hopefully we won’t have issues hearing, but I’m sure we will.”
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Safety Ryan Mundy on Kansas City’s offense: “Jamaal Charles is a leading receiver as a running back. So that kind of gives you a window into what type of offense they’re operating with. They want to get the ball out quick and get the ball to the playmakers and let them make plays.”