The New York Giants will travel for their second consecutive road game on Sunday when they play the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field.
The Giants enter Sunday’s game hoping to stop the bleeding and get their first win of the season. Meanwhile, the Browns are 1-1, hoping to pick up their second consecutive win coming off their Week 2 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars
The Giants have the odds stacked against them as they are currently a near-touchdown underdog ahead of Sunday’s game.
With the Giants desperate for their first win, here are three causes for concern.
Browns red zone offense
The Giants’ defense was a big reason the team was not able to come away with the win last week against the Commanders. Washington had their way all game long, getting to the red zone at will. Once they got to the red zone, however, the Giants made a stand — all seven times. Despite not allowing a touchdown all game, Big Blue also never forced a single punt or turnover from the Washington offense.
The Browns pose a much bigger threat to the Giants’ defense than the Commanders, especially in the red zone. Cleveland ranks first in the entire NFL in red zone efficiency, where they are 100 percent in their trips inside the 20-yard line this season.
Lack of forced turnovers
Last season, the Giants gave themselves extra possessions by forcing the most turnovers in the NFL. Through two games this year, the defense, now run by Shane Bowen, has forced just one turnover. If the Browns’ offensive efficiency in the red zone is going to continue, the Giants’ defense may need to force a few turnovers to keep the score tight.
Browns against the pass
The Giants’ offense was strides better last week than they were in Week 1 and a big credit belongs to the connection between Daniel Jones and Malik Nabers.
With the Browns presenting one of the best pass rushers in the league, the offensive line will certainly have their hands full with Myles Garrett as they try to give Jones time to throw.
The passing game will also have their hands full. Through two weeks, the Browns have allowed the lowest opponent completion percentage in the entire league. Brian Daboll may have to get creative for the offense to move the ball on Sunday.
