Versatility counts: a select few defensive ends--most notably Michael Strahan--have learned that there is more to the position than accumulating sacks.(DEFENSE RULES!)

Publication: Football Digest

Publication Date: 01-NOV-05

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THEY MAKE HEADLINES WITH their ability to manhandle quarterbacks. They tend to be measured by the number of times they trap a passer and make him eat the ball, and some turf. It's so unfair. Defensive ends who can't do much more than be a threat against an opponent's passing game often wind up watching too much action from the sideline.

It's the well-rounded defensive end, the guy who can hold his own (or more) against the run, be disruptive on all downs, and get better in the tightest situations who really deserves the accolades.

The New York Giants' Michael Strahan is a perfect example. The talking heads on radio and television who don't look past the stats chart always mention one thing about Strahan: He was the active leader in sacks heading into this season.

That's all well and good. Strahan himself enjoys hearing that.

But it irks him that they can't get past that one portion of his job description. In turn, the fans who tune in are misled into thinking No. 92 on the Giants is the equivalent of a home-run hitter or power-play specialist.

"Sacks are great, and they are important and momentum-changers in any game," Strahan says. "But if you can't stop the run, you won't get a sack. You might not even be on the field to have a chance to make any plays.

"You always want to be better at what you do, and you take pride...

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