Landon Collins wouldn’t let New York fall to Philadelphia for a third straight year.
Despite Eagles’ quarterback Carson Wentz having a 300-yard game, Collins and the New York Giants defense made the necessary plays in the fourth quarter to earn a 28-23 victory at home.
Prior to the National Football League, Collins was a tackling machine during his junior season at Alabama in 2014. He posted 102 total tackles, en route to guiding the Crimson Tide to a Southeastern Conference title and the No. 1 overall seed in the College Football Playoff. The former All-American and first-team All-SEC member led the Giants in tackles with 12, including one for loss and a sack. He would also account for one of two interceptions off Wentz, while being sound in run support—limiting Philadelphia to 96 yards on 25 carries.
After leading New York in tackles (112) last season, Collins has emerged as the Giants’ anchor in multiple categories. He leads the team in tackles (57), sacks (two), interceptions (two) and defensive touchdowns (one).
The New Orleans (La.) native made Pro Football Writers Association’s All-Rookie Team in 2015, and now he intends to help this franchise return to the playoffs for the first time since 2011–its latest Super Bowl run.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
