The New York Giants host the Washington Commanders on Sunday in a divisional matchup. The Giants seek to earn their first victory at home and their second on the season, while the Commanders look to prove they are relevant.
The Giants and Commanders aren’t too far off, statistically speaking, of each other this year. The biggest difference is the win-loss record, which should give Giants fans some hope. But only a little. It’s still the Giants, after all.
Six things, if done on Sunday, can help the Giants get that win.
Keep Taylor protected
Daniel Jones was sacked 28 times in five games, an average of over five sacks per game. The line played much better last week, allowing just three sacks on Tyrod Taylor.
While it’s an improvement, there’s still work to be done. The Commanders have the fourth-worst passing defense in the NFL, something the Giants need to exploit.
With Jones likely out a second week, the Giants can’t afford to lose Taylor as well.
Run the ball
Improvement along the offensive line allows the Giants to get more out of the run game. Saquon Barkley returned last week, and Matt Brieda is still a viable second option. The Commanders’ run defense is 26th in the NFL. Let Barkley do what he does and get them down the field.
Get tricky
Brian Daboll needs to change it up. There’s been a lot of focus on the fundamentals (rightfully so), especially along the line, but he’s going to have to loosen the reigns. Both Barkley and Parris Campbell are capable of throwing the football. Daboll has faked punts in the past. It’s time to bring out the bag of tricks because when those tricks work, momentum follows.
Defensive specialists need to lock down assignments
The Commanders have quiet weapons. They aren’t flashy, they don’t draw attention to themselves, but they manage to get the job done. Sam Howell spreads the love between a variety of receivers and running backs, so while none of them are on top of the statistical charts (save Terry McLaurin), they work as a unit to get the job done. The Giants’ defenders must know who their targets are and what their role is on each play to ensure the game doesn’t get out of hand.
Get off the field
The Commanders’ defense allows almost 400 yards per game while their offense hits around 337 yards per game. If the defense can get off the field, and hold the Commanders to short drives, they give the offense more chances to get down the field and score points.
Keep emotions in check
The Giants have dealt with a ton of adversity this season. It likely won’t change anytime soon, so the players have to take a deep breath and control their emotions. No one enjoys losing, especially people who dedicate their lives to winning. Remembering to control what they can and let the rest go is key to overcoming adversity.
