NFL Preview: New York Giants vs Washington Redskins
The New York Giants have a reputation of collapse later in the season. Giants consecutively lost two games in week 9 against Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles. The Giants were looking at a third straight loss against Jacksonville Jaguars, but they pulled
through in the end. In the first three quarters, Giants only barely held together but in the fourth, they cut down Jacksonville’s lead and won the game.
Washington started the season with Playoff aspirations but that looks like a lost cause at this point. They have a 5-6 records and are coming off a defeat at the hands of Minnesota Vikings. Washington could be a strong team but they have lacked consistency.
The tumultuous relationship between the coach and quarterback Donovan McNabb hasn’t been helping Washington’s cause either.
The division game is particularly important from a playoff standpoint. New York Giants are tied with Philadelphia Eagles atop the NFC East. If they beat rivals Washington, their own chances of making the playoffs improve. If Washington loses, that is it
for their chances of making the playoffs. Their season would end with the regular season. If they win then Eagles would have a better chance at the playoffs.
Giants are going to have problems this Sunday. Quarterback Eli Manning is going to be without two of his top receivers. Steve Smith and Haleem Nicks won’t play against Washington. New York’s rushing game is strong enough to support Manning. Washington are
one of the weakest teams in the league when it comes to stopping the rush and that could prove to be their Achilles Heel.
Even without Nicks and Smith, Redskins would have a tough time stopping Manning in the air. Their pass rush ranks 29th in the league. In terms of total yards, Washington is at the bottom of the league with an average of 400.9 yards per game. New
York could walk all over them.
Washington do not allow as many points per game in comparison to how many yards they allow. Their turnover ratio is far better than New York’s. Giants have a negative turnover ratio. When they face off against Redskins, the offence's greatest concern would
be holding on to the ball and not letting Washington get a hold of it. If they can do that and if the yards keep coming, New York would dominate Washington.
Redskins offensively have been weak. They are practically useless when it comes to rushing the ball. McNabb is an excellent quarterback but without protection by the offensive line and receivers to throw to, his performance this year has been questionable.
Wide receiver Santana Moss and Chris Cooley are the cornerstones of Washington’s offensive. Moss has 778 yards receiving and 3 touchdowns this season so far. Tight End Chris Cooley has supported the offense with an average of 11.2 yards per carry and two touchdowns.
Fred Davis also earns a mention but he could show significant improvement.
Washington would use its running backs, if for no other purpose then to wear out the Giants' defence. They have to retain possession of the ball. The Redskins have to give them everything they have to put pressure on New York. Their offensive line, which
has not had much success in the season must turnaround before Sunday. The Redskins cannot linger in the offense. McNabb must opt for the small passes and get the ball out of his hands before the Giants’ pass rush can act. Mix up plays to throw off the Giants.
It’s an important game for the Redskins. They need to have the best game they have had this season if they want to stay in the race for the playoffs. The Giants just need to avoid mistakes and show consistency. They are the favourites for the game.
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