Giants’ Umenyiora challenges Browns rookie Richardson

East Rutherford, NJ, United States (4E Sports) – Two days before they meet, New York Giants veteran defensive end Osi Umenyiora challenged Cleveland Browns rookie running back Trent Richardson to back up his earlier boast with action.

“If Trent looks on tape and he thinks he sees some candy, come try and get it,” said Umenyiora, who made the statement in response to comments Richardson made earlier in the week.

“I think that if we cover the edges and run hard, no doing all this juking and that, one move and go, I think we can have success in the running game,” Richardson said, referring to the Giants’ weak rushing defense.

Giants’ linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka echoed Umenyiora’s statement, saying to Richardson that “in this game, talking doesn’t mean anything”.

“If he proves it, I’ll shake his hand and tap him on the butt,” Kiwanuka said. “If he doesn’t, I expect never to hear from him again.”

The Giants are in 22nd place in rushing defense, allowing 118.3 yards per game. Recently, the Giants surrendered 123 rushing yards on 23 carries to Philadelphia’s running back LeSean McCoy while the Eagles ran for 191 yards on 36 attempts.

The 21-year-old Richardson, Cleveland’s first-round pick out of Alabama, has rushed for 222 yards on 64 carries with three touchdowns in four games.

He missed Friday’s practice to be with his girlfriend as she gave birth to his third child but Browns coach Pat Shurmur expects him to travel with the team and play.

“I’ve seen guys go through family situations, personal situations and come out and play outstanding games,” Shurmur said. “What’s important is that he tidies up on the preparation that he missed, which I know he will.”

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