NFL Data Consultants made the prediction that OT Justin Pugh would have to move inside within the first 3-5 years, and we don’t make predictions just for the fun of it but to emphasize that NFL Data Consultants provides fantastic football analysis (yes, Nick Foles made the Pro Bowl this year; and we have advice for any team needing QB help this offseason).
What was the impact of keeping OT Justin Pugh on the outside? He gave up 43 QB hurries, good for 3rd most in the league. As bad as that was, LT Beatty gave up “only” 39 QB hurries, tied for 8th most in the league with two other OTs. Eli Manning was hurried 82 times combined from his OTs.
As noted in a previous article, a QB pressure costs a Quarterback 25% or more on his QB Rating. With the New York Giants keeping the path of least resistance to pressure at OT, Manning was harassed, beaten, and threw a league high 27 interceptions. His Quarterback Rating in 2013 fell to 69.4 from 87.2 in 2012. This is a consequence of an emotional decision.
Media reports have indicated that GM Jerry Reese may move OT Justin Pugh to LT. Since he gave up just 4 more QB hurries while facing lesser talented DEs,that warrants an upgrade to LT, correct? New York, you have a Giant QB pressure problem on your hands.