A lot of talk this offseason has involved the preseason and if there should be fewer games. New York Giants coach Pat Shurmur gave his opinion and said he is happy with the current number.

Shurmur said he thinks there is a lot of good with players playing together before the regular season kicks off to gain some unity.

“You can’t fake football,” Shurmur said via SNY. “And it’s something that you’ve got to play together. I do think there’s benefit to all the players playing — or most all of the players playing — in preseason.”

Shurmur hasn't played running back Saquon Barkley yet this preseason but has Eli Manning, and he explains the difference of playing time because of the position the two guys play.

“They’re at two different positions,” Shurmur said. “So like anything, you think of the team and you think of the individual and how it affects them. The quarterback does a lot of directing. There’s a lot that he does that’s important for the whole team to function. There’s other position groups where they’re involved with the scheme, but it’s not always quite as integral as it is with other positions.”

Manning has played in each of the first two preseasons games and is expected to play in the third one too. Shurmur thinks that preseason is also important because players bring their game to the next level. During practice, players effort can drop, even if just subconsciously. Getting on the field against other teams brings out the best in guys.

As long as the Giants come out without many big injuries, Shurmur won't be questioned about his tactics during training camp.