The Washington Commanders host the New York Giants on Sunday in a rematch from their ugly Week 7 meeting.
That game was won by the Giants and backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who passed for 279 yards, while Washington quarterback Sam Howell struggled. The Commanders couldn’t protect Howell, as he was sacked six times that day, losing 52 yards, and turned the ball over once.
Washington struggled to run the ball, too, finishing the day with 76 yards.
Now, the Giants are down both of their top two quarters. Taylor and Daniel Jones are on IR, with Jones lost for the season. That means undrafted rookie Tommy DeVito will get the start against the Commanders.
Here are six stats and/or facts to know ahead of the Week 11 rematch between the old NFC East rivals.
Who is Tommy DeVito?
Giants QB Tommy DeVito’s favorite food, 3 dinner guests and favorite movies are everything you’d hope they would be 🍝💵. Also, check out the original artwork! #NewJerseysFinest pic.twitter.com/Qg1hGdj6IQ
— Pat Leonard (@PLeonardNYDN) November 15, 2023
Tommy DeVito grew up near MetLife Stadium. Now, he’ll make his second career start on Sunday vs. Washington. DeVito has appeared in three games this season, making his first start in last week’s 49-17 loss to Dallas.
DeVito spent five seasons at Syracuse before transferring to Illinois for his final college season. He completed 70% of his passes for 2,650 yards, with 15 touchdowns and four interceptions for the Fighting Illini in 2022. After going undrafted in April’s 2023 NFL draft, he signed with the Giants as an undrafted free agent.
The Giants are dead last in scoring
Even before Jones was hurt the first time, the Giants struggled badly on offense. Whether it’s a combination of offensive line injuries or a lack of playmakers at wide receiver and tight end, New York is last in the NFL in scoring offense. The Giants average just 11.6 points per game. The next closest team is the Patriots, who average over 14 points per game.
Dexter Lawrence is dominating
Top 5 pass-rush win rate this season:
1. Myles Garrett 25.7%
2. Rashan Gary 25.6%
3. Nick Bosa 22.7%
4. Micah Parsons 22.4%
5. Trey Hendrickson 22.2%#6 is NOSE TACKLE Dexter Lawrence 21.1%
— Sam Monson (@PFF_Sam) November 13, 2023
If there is one player who isn’t struggling for the Giants, it is defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. The Commanders wish that Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen were producing at the same level as Lawrence in 2023.
Sam Howell vs. pressure
Sam Howell while under pressure vs. the Seahawks:
12/19
175 yards
2 TDs / 0 INTs
128.2 passer rating— PFF Commanders (@PFF_Washington) November 13, 2023
The maturation of Sam Howell continues. Over the last three games, the sacks are down for Howell, and the young quarterback is now making defenses pay.
Brian Robinson Jr. was on fire vs. Seahawks
Brian Robinson vs. the Seahawks
8 rushes
6 receptions
157 total yards
8 missed tackles forced
1 TD pic.twitter.com/jePAB95ntV— PFF Commanders (@PFF_Washington) November 13, 2023
Robinson was outstanding vs. Seattle, going over 100 yards receiving for the first time in his career. Robinson and Gibson have had an increased role in the passing game recently.
Terry McLaurin can make history with a touchdown catch
With his next touchdown reception, McLaurin will have 24 touchdown receptions, tying Jordan Reed and Michael Westbrook for 10th place in franchise history. While Howell has been outstanding, he’s been spreading the ball around, and McLaurin and Jahan Dotson are receiving fewer opportunities.
