EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Brian Daboll, the head coach of the New York Giants, is well aware of his extensive experience facing the Pittsburgh Steelers throughout his coaching career. As he prepares for his 18th encounter with the Steelers (5-2), this will mark his debut as a head coach against them. The Giants (2-5) are aiming to break a two-game losing streak during their matchup in Pittsburgh.
Daboll regards the Steelers as a benchmark of consistency within the league, attributing much of their stability to long-time coach Mike Tomlin, who is currently in his 18th season without experiencing a losing record. Tomlin succeeded previous legendary coaches, Chuck Noll and Bill Cowher.
“Different faces, but the same meeting relative to the toughness that that team plays with, the grit that they play with, how they control the line of scrimmage on both sides, run the football, use the action game,” Daboll remarked. He highlighted how the Steelers have a seamless ability to maintain their defensive strength, noting how “it’s just plug and play.”
This model of consistent success is something Daboll aspires to replicate with the Giants, especially after leading them to the playoffs during his inaugural season in 2022. However, the last two years have been challenging, with the team finishing 6-11 in 2023 and currently facing difficulties following a significant 28-3 defeat at home to the Philadelphia Eagles led by Saquon Barkley.
Such results have intensified speculation regarding Daboll’s job security alongside that of general manager Joe Schoen, who also joined the organization in 2022. However, co-owner John Mara dispelled these rumors during a recent event in New York, where a documentary titled “The Duke, The Giant Life of Wellington Mara” was screened, showcasing his father’s 81-year legacy before his passing in 2005.
“Obviously, we’re all very disappointed with where we are right now,” Mara explained. “But I’m going to say one thing, we are not making any changes this season, and I do not anticipate making any changes in the offseason, either.” He declined to comment on specific players or positions until the season concludes.
Daboll chose to remain reserved about Mara’s statement of assurance, emphasizing the importance of concentration on their immediate performance. “I think you focus on what you can control, and I’ve said this numerous times, we have a very good communication process, a good relationship,” he noted regarding his rapport with ownership. “Again, nobody’s happy about the results or the record, but the communication and the process and the people, I believe in them.”
Moreover, he expressed a desire for his team to emulate the Steelers, who have celebrated 14 winning seasons and three .500 seasons under Tomlin’s leadership. “Well coached, play tough, play physical, have a style that they play with, and then the atmosphere is one of the best when you go there and play at their stadium. Tough place to play and a very tough opponent,” he added.
Giants quarterback Daniel Jones echoed appreciation for Mara’s comments. “I think that’s important,” Jones stated after practice. “I think right now we’re focused on playing Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Steelers and winning this game. That’s the most important thing on all our minds. Obviously, Mr. Mara’s job and Dabs’ job, Joe’s job is very different than mine. My job is to get ready to win the game, so that’s what I’m focused on.”