Coughlin: Without Pierce, D has to play 'harder, faster, better'
Photo credit: David Pokress | Giants middle linebacker Antonio Pierce will be out indefinitely with a bulging disc injury.
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Antonio Pierce
The MRI and diagnosis that has sidelined linebacker Antonio Pierce “indefinitely” with a bulging disc in his neck happened so late and with so little warning, that no one had any statements from Tom Coughlin last night. This morning, the Giants issued a statement from the coach.
“Our concern is for AP, and we are here to support him,” Coughlin said. “He is, obviously, very disappointed, and our thoughts are about him and his well-being right now.”
Coughlin said Pierce will be on the sideline for Sunday’s game against the Falcons, but knows that it won’t be the same for him ... or the Giants.
“Imagine how he feels,” Coughlin said. “In addition to the shock he expressed last night, there is the disappointment. He has been waiting and working for two weeks to get back on the field to get the taste of the last game out of his mouth.”
Coughlin did not say who would take Pierce’s place on the field with the defense, but it will likely be Chase Blackburn, at least for Sunday. Blackburn is Pierce’s backup. After that the Giants have some choices, including second-year linebacker Jonathan Goff or even Danny Clark, who is playing strongside backer now but has played in the middle during his career. The development of Clint Sintim, who is now splitting time with Clark on the strong side, could wind up pushing Clark to the position.
“We have 52 other good players, and guys have to step forward to fill the void,” Coughlin said. “The other members of the defense have got to reach down and play harder, faster, better.”
