Defensive coordinator James Bettcher

The Giants are 27th in the NFL in total defense. They have yielded big plays in big spots and are a huge reason why the team has the worst record in the NFC.

Bettcher was asked if he thought his unit would be farther along at this point of the season.

“I’ve watched a lot of football just like everyone that is standing here. Sometimes plays you don’t what to happen, happen. Whether you have seasoned guys or young guys, it’s not an excuse, it’s part of the game,” Bettcher said. “Do I think we would be further along, I don’t really judge it that way. I judge each day, each rep, each period. That’s how we try to stack and get better. I think there’s certainly been some progress with our young guys, probably over the last seven weeks.

“Collectively, we’ve been a little bit better and a little bit better. We have not played a complete game, there’s no question about that. That’s what we are striving for on defense. To play a first quarter to fourth quarter complete game, not something that’s in spurts. That’s what we’re pushing to have happen here down the stretch.”