The New York Giants (3-8) play host to the New England Patriots (2-8) at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey this Sunday afternoon.
Here are five storylines we’re following in Week 12.
The 'Tank Bowl'
The Patriots currently hold the third overall selection in next year’s NFL draft, while the Giants are fifth.
The head-to-head clash between these two on Sunday could determine who drafts ahead of who come next April.
With both teams possible looking for a quarterback, draft position could mean everything.
Neither team is trying to ‘tank’, but to say there isn’t a silver lining in losing this game would be a lie.
The Tommy DeVito Tour rolls on
Tommy DeVito was named Pepsi Rookie of the Week for his three-touchdown performance against Washington last week.
He has five combined touchdowns in the last two games. The Pats are usually tough on rookie signal callers, so he is up against history this week.
With the local hero’s family and friends out in force this week at MetLife, things could get interesting if DeVito’s legend grows.
Belichick's last ride?
The rumors are flying that Pats legendary head coach Bill Belichick is coaching his last season in Foxborough.
With the Pats 2-8 for the first time in two decades and no long-term quarterback solution in view, the greatest coach of this millennium could take his hoodie elsewhere in 2024. Some have connected him with the Washington Commanders.
Pro Bowl rumblings for several Giants defenders
The Giants have three defensive players on a Pro Bowl trajectory this year.
Dexter Lawrence just might be the best interior defensive lineman in the game right now. Lawrence is unlikely to play this week as he is hobbled by a hamstring strain.
Inside linebacker Bobby Okereke leads the Giants in tackles and is among the league leaders in solo and total tackles.
Outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux is tied for fifth in the NFL in sacks with 10.5 and has really come on in his second season.
Pats quarterback carousel
The Patriots have benched former first-round pick Mac Jones after he failed once again to perform up to his draft status.
That still doesn’t mean we won’t see him on Sunday. Belichick said he could go with any of his quarterbacks in this game.
“I’ve told all the players the same thing, be ready to go. So, hopefully, they will be,” Belichick said.
The Pats could start Bailey Zappe or Will Grier in this game and/or bring Jones in if he doesn’t start.
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