By Michael Stewart/@golferbad
Introduction: The 3-7 Giants are coming off their 2nd consecutive win of the season; which hasn’t happened since the 2016 season. Now the Giants travel to Philadelphia this Sunday to face an Eagle team that has struggled and are currently 4-6 on the season after an embarrassing defeat 48-7 to the hands of the New Orleans Saints. The defending Super Bowl champs seem to be suffering the Super Bowls blues that many teams encounter after winning the Super Bowl the previous year. Thus far, the Eagles offense is ranked 19th overall with 355.2 yards per game and defensively are ranked 23rd overall surrendering 377.9 yards per game. There are lots of reasons for a disappointing season so far such as: injuries and poor performances from key players. The Giants offensively are ranked 23rd overall with 346.2 yards per game and yielding 381.5 yards per game defensively ranking them 25th overall. Despite their respective records, both teams are still mathematically alive and have a chance to win the NFC east division as the leading Redskins lost starting quarterback Alex Smith for the season with a broken leg. The Giants have already lost to the Eagles early in the season, so this rematch should have a playoff atmosphere about it come game time.
Top 3 Matchups:
- 1. Giants offensive line-vs-Eagles defensive line: In their last matchup, the Eagles defensive line had four sacks, countless pressures and knock downs against Eli Manning. That should change in this game as center Spencer Pulley and guard Jamon Brown have been playing well and weren’t in the lineup in the first meeting. If the Giants offensive line can give Manning a little time, the Giants offense should be able to move the ball and have their two best players (Odell Beckham & Saquon Barkley) a chance to make big plays.
- Red Zone Efficiently: In the first meeting the Eagles were 4-6 in the Red Zone and the Giants were 0-3. This can’t happen again if the Giants have any chance of winning this game. This matchup was the main reason why the Giants lost so badly to the Eagles 34-13.
- Time of Possession: The Eagles offense had five more minutes offensively than the Giants and that also needs to change for the Giants. Narrowing the gap in this matchup and find a way to keep the ball out of the hands of Carlson Wentz and the Eagles offense would help the Giants immensely.
Summary: I expect both teams to move the ball, especially the Giants with each team having plenty of scoring chances. Both teams will utilize the passing and running game to their advantage and I do expect both teams to make big plays. If the Giants could win the match ups above and avoid the turnover bug, they could steal a win in Philly and inch closer to the top of the NFC east. However; got to believe that playing at home and in desperation mode, the Eagles will respond and put forth a solid effort against the Giants. Giants will not be able to overcome their red zone efficiencies; which will be their Achilles heal.
Final Score:
Eagles-27/Giants-20