30 sacks not impossible for Giants’ DE duo

By Connor Byrne  |   Wednesday, June 14, 2006  |  Comments( 0 )

New York Giants
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Last season, the New York Giants' defensive end tandem dominated their opponents on an almost weekly basis. The dynamic duo consisted of Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora, who combined for a whopping 26 sacks in 2005. Given their tremendous effort last year, one has to wonder if Strahan and Umenyiora have what it takes to go for 30 sacks this season. With their talent, it definitely shouldn't be ruled out.

Strahan has, of course, been one of the NFL's foremost pass rushing threats for years. The 13-year pro added 11 ½ sacks in '05, which gave him 129 ½ for his career. The 34-year-old has had the occasional off year in his lengthy and terrific career, but he's been outstanding for the most part. The 275-pounder is constantly in great shape, and that's why he's performed so well at what is considered an old age for football players.

Although he was and still is among the league's best pass rushers, Strahan's days of piling up double-digit sacks may be winding down. However, his production likely won't wane for another couple of years, meaning he could go for big things this season in the Meadowlands.

Meanwhile, Strahan's partner in crime, Umenyiora, had a breakout year in '05, accumulating an NFC-high 14 ½ sacks. The Giants' brain-trust, headed by GM Ernie Accorsi and ex-head coach Jim Fassel, spent a second-round pick on the 280-pounder in 2003 because they believed he had the potential to become a solid player. Umenyiora isn't just a solid performer; he's developing into a great one.

Thanks in large part to the tutelage of Strahan, the three-year veteran is now one of pro football's most-feared rushers. Undoubtedly, it's never a treat for opposing quarterbacks when Umenyiora invades the backfield.

For this incredible tandem, 26 was the number of times they tortured quarterbacks last season. They certainly have the talent and drive to better that number and go for 30, which would more than likely give them the league-lead in sacks for a pair of teammates. They accomplished the feat last year, but would unquestionably love nothing more than to do it again.

The success of Strahan and Umenyiora may very well be the difference between making and missing the playoffs for the New York Giants this season. If it comes to that, the "G-Men" will have a good chance to make the postseason for the second straight time, since this twosome is rarely denied by opposing offensive linemen.

--Connor J. Byrne can be reached at cbyrne@realfootball365.com

Get more on Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora at Realfootball365.com
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