Giants' Deonte Banks Benched in Game vs. Steelers
What Happened?
New York Giants cornerback Deonte Banks was benched in the second half of Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers after allowing several big plays. Banks was replaced by veteran cornerback Aaron Robinson.
Why Was Banks Benched?
Banks has struggled mightily this season, allowing a league-high seven touchdowns in coverage. He was particularly poor in the first half against the Steelers, allowing two touchdowns to wide receiver Diontae Johnson.
Giants head coach Brian Daboll said after the game that he benched Banks because he was "not playing well enough." Daboll said he hopes that Robinson can provide a spark to the Giants' struggling secondary.
What Does This Mean for the Giants?
The benching of Banks is a sign of just how desperate the Giants are for help in their secondary. The Giants have allowed the most passing yards in the NFL this season, and they have also given up the most touchdowns through the air.
The Giants are hoping that Robinson can help to turn things around, but he is a 31-year-old journeyman who has never been a full-time starter in the NFL. It is unclear if he can be the long-term answer for the Giants at cornerback.