EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — When opposing coaches look at the New York Giants defense, they aren't focusing on edge rushers Kayvon Thibodeaux or Brian Burns or inside linebacker Bobby Okereke.
Dallas coach Mike McCarthy knows the biggest challenge facing the Cowboys (1-2) on Thursday night when they meet the Giants (1-2). It starts with slowing down the big guy in the middle — defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. With the retirement of Aaron Donald, Lawrence could have a claim on being the best interior defensive lineman in the NFL.
“Dexter is a huge challenge regardless of who you line up with as far as youth, in particular with our young guys,” McCarthy said. “So yeah, a lot of respect for him. He’s played very well so far, you can see it.
He’s a presence in there. He demands double-teams.” Double-teams are the norm for the 26-year-old Lawrence, who is now in his sixth season.
“These first few games, there’s been a little more attention on me, a lot more attention on me,” Lawrence said Tuesday. "But, you know, I take it in and that gives room for everybody else to eat. And I think that’s what you saw last week, the defense eating.
I’m all for it. I’m not selfish and I’m far from it. And I just want to win.
” After getting a sack in the first game, the Giants have had 13 sacks in the past two, including eight against the Browns on Sunday. Lawrence led the way with two and he now has three on the season. He's tied with safety Jason Pinnock for the.