Head coach Tom Coughlin was cautious about CB Aaron Ross' return to the lineup in Week 11 against the Falcons, but getting Ross back into the mix with the home stretch in sight is a crucial development. If he can contribute and perhaps get back into starter's form, Ross could aid a pass defense that has struggled in crucial situations the past four games, all losses. Coughlin said WLB Michael Boley was "rusty" for the Giants' last game, a loss to the Chargers. But working him back into the rotation will be key. Despite playing in only four of the Giants' nine games prior to the bye, Boley had shown signs of being the team's best linebacker and certainly its most active and athletic. The third defender who could make a difference is DT Chris Canty, who has been severely limited. Having Canty step up would aid a defensive line that has been uneven. DEs Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora have been alternately great and average, and the interior line has not provided sufficient push.

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