The New York Football Giants started this season 7-2 and shocked many with their surprise start. No one expected this from a team led by a first-year head coach and new management. But, things have changed since the November 13th win over the Houston Texans.
Big Blue’s downfall began with a shocking 31-18 loss to the Detroit Lions in week eleven, and it continued with a Thanksgiving loss against the Dallas Cowboys. There was hope against the Washington Commanders to bounce back and win, but the G-Men couldn’t even do that. Instead, they settled with a tie against their division rival.
Last week, the Giants were embarrassed at home by the NFC’s top team the Philadelphia Eagles. It wasn’t good from the start. After all, being down 21-0 early in the first half is a hard thing to come back from. The offense couldn’t get going, the defense broke down, and special teams weren’t any better.
Giants punter Jamie Gillian drops the football and proceeds to still kick it pic.twitter.com/KpQRqA9hnG
— Main Team (@MainTeamSports) December 11, 2022
Now, here we are today. The New York Giants are 7-5-1 and are on the cusp of having their playoff chances reduced to a minimum if they lose to the Commanders on Sunday night.
Giant Optimism To Start The Year
Forget the injuries, the excuses, or anything else for that matter. This year was supposed to be a rebuilding one for a team built despite cap room issues and unfit players drafted by the previous regime. But, coach Brian Daboll has rallied the Giants and instilled a mentality that has captured the hearts of his squad.
He has inspired a team led by quarterback Daniel Jones to enforce their will for 60 minutes, and push their opponent to the brink. A defense led by coordinator Wink Martindale has improved mightily compared to previous seasons, and these two components helped the Giants in their impressive start to the year.
But, We’re Not Here To Talk About The Giants And Their Past
What matters is what happens in Washington on Sunday night. This game feels like a playoff game for the New York Giants, as their odds to make the postseason increased to 89% with a win over their division rival. A loss brings the odds down to 39% and will push them to the bottom of the NFC East.
No more playing conservatively. This team is not here for moral victories. The New York Giants must step on the pedal out the gate, and enforce their will on a Commanders’ defense that is without Chase Young. How can they win this game?
Run the football. Trust Saquon Barkley and an offensive line that has had success when healthy. The return of Ben Bredeson helps out mightily.
Also, the Giants must trust Daniel Jones. Offensive coordinator Mike Kafka must give Jones chances to throw the ball down the field. Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins have stepped up to be the top two receivers on the depth chart and can make plays if given the chance.
Defensively, it’s time to bring the house. Get to Taylor Heinicke and his 21st-ranked offensive line and force him to make mistakes. Defensive end Azeez Ojulari has been phenomenal since his return from injury, and he should continue it on Sunday. Martindale is licking his chops, right now.
In all, it doesn’t matter what you think of the Giants. This is the biggest game of the week. Two division rivals on the biggest stage. Sunday Night Football. Hey Giants, what are you going to do? Will you fall and crumble and kiss your playoff dreams goodbye? Or, will you break out of this slump and control your own destiny?
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