The New York Giants rolled into the bye week with momentum after defeating the Washington Commanders and New England Patriots back-to-back.
The week off gave injured players some much-needed rest and a chance to rehab their bodies. They return to the field this week when they host the Green Bay Packers on Monday Night Football.
The Packers are having a better season than most anticipated, and it’s not just because of Jordan Love.
If the Giants want to keep their winning momentum this week, there are six things they must do to beat the Packers.
Ground it out
The Packers have the eighth-best passing defense in the league and the third-worst rushing defense. Saquon Barkley is a dynamic back with the capability to break off runs and create big gains, especially against a defense that allows 4.5 yards per carry. Barkley needs to anchor the offense on Monday.
Tommy DeVito needs to make smart decisions
Tommy DeVito has played in fewer games than Daniel Jones but has three times the touchdowns and half of the interceptions. He played well the last two games, and that has to continue on Monday. The Packers will put pressure on him, but as long as the line holds, he has to make good decisions and not take unnecessary sacks.
Special teams efficiency
The Packers’ special teams players hold opponents to 23-yard kick returns and 8.8-yard punt returns. That doesn’t give much leeway for the Giants’ return men to bring the ball back in the other direction. This makes it incredibly important for the players to secure the ball and ensure it stays with the Giants. No turnovers on special teams.
Attack Jordan Love
Jordan Love spent his first three years with the Packers watching and learning from Aaron Rodgers, but no one expected him to show up the way he has this season. He looks very similar to both Rodgers and Brett Favre in the way he plays, his technique, his decision-making, and the way he throws the ball.
But Love is still young and susceptible to making mistakes. He’s thrown 10 interceptions this season, and while he’s only been sacked 24 times, the Packers lose almost eight yards every time he is sacked. He also has three fumbles on the season. Put pressure on him, force him to make a mistake, and create a turnover.
Secondary be ready
Love spreads the ball around. He has two receivers with over 500 yards on the season, and three more over 300 yards apiece. The Giants’ secondary has to be ready for the receivers who line up on the field. They need to guard the Packers’ receivers tightly and watch for the ball to come their way.
Smother AJ Dillon
Forget about Aaron Jones, he’s nursing an MCL sprain so even if he plays, he won’t be a full speed. AJ Dillon, on the other hand, has been tearing up defenses all season and leads the Packers in rushing with 521 yards and zero fumbles. The defensive line better be ready for the strength of Dillon — they’ll need to take him down before his legs get going or it’s going to be a long night in East Rutherford.
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