Giants Experiment with New Pieces in Victory over Bills

GIANTS 17 / BILLS 13

Ok, it was only the first preseason game, but the Giants did get a good look at some brand new pieces in blue on Sunday, in a 17-13 victory over the Bills in the Hall of Fame Game.

After some early struggles, the Giants starting offense pounded the Buffalo defense with the ground attack combo of Rashad Jennings and rookie Andre Williams.

The duo combined for 35 yards on the drive, with Williams having the biggest impact. The rookie showed great speed and power, something Big Blue didn't have at all in 2013. Williams busted through the line for a 21 yard sprint down the sideline to set up the Giants inside the five yard line. Two plays later, Williams plowed through for six to give the Giants a 7-3 lead.

As for Eli Manning, he had an underwhelming night. He spent much of his day checking down to dump off passes, and was strip sacked for a fumble. Get used to the check downs, because that will be a big part of new offensive coordinator, Ben McAdoo's plan. McAdoo comes from the Packers, where Aaron Rodgers excelled on quick slants and screen passes. If Manning can manage that kind of offense, he should be in line for a better season.

Meanwhile it looked like Ryan Nassib put an early stranglehold on the back-up quarterback spot. He was very good on Sunday, completing 7-of-12 passes for 139 yards and a touchdown. The Giants want Nassib to get the job over incumbent journeyman, Curtis Painter.

Nassib's biggest pass of the night came in the fourth quarter, when he connected with Corey Washington for a 73-yard touchdown to put Big Blue in front for good, 17-13.

The Giants (1-0) will host the Steelers in their next preseason test on Saturday.