The New York Giants will face off against the Washington Commanders in their second divisional game of the season on Sunday.
After starting the year 1-5, due in part to a tough schedule that included four of their first six games in prime time, the Giants will see a familiar opponent in Week 7 with a chance to pick up a victory.
The Giants are underdogs of about a field goal depending on where you look. Injuries are likely to thank for that.
Big Blue showed signs of life last Sunday against the Bills and will hope to carry that over to this week.
Here are three reasons for optimism heading into Sunday.
Saquon Barkley's second game back
Saquon Barkley’s presence was felt during his Week 6 return as the Buffalo Bills were forced to adjust their gameplan to account for him.
Washington’s defense averages 129 yards given up on the ground through six games this season so Barkley and the Giants should have a similar opportunity at success via the ground attack this week.
As Barkley continues to get healthier, the Giants will likely lean on him a bit more as the weeks go on.
Washington giveaways
Last week against the Buffalo Bills, the Giants’ defense showed a lot of fight. They (Bobby Okereke) forced two turnovers which was a big reason the game was as close as it was.
The Giants will have another opportunity this week to force a few turnovers. The Commanders are one of eight teams with double-digit turnovers headed into Week 7.
Opportunities for sacks
The Giants have been one of the worst teams in the league at protecting their quarterback this year. The only team to surrender more sacks than Big Blue is the Washington Commanders.
The Commanders have surrendered a league-high 34 sacks so far this year.
Wink Martindale should look for opportune times to send pressure on Sunday. Look for Kayvon Thibodeaux and Isaiah Simmons to get pressure on Sam Howell on Sunday.
