Its the classic trap game. The Washington Redskins coming off a huge week and looking ahead to a week off facing the New York Giants who have looked pitiful this year. Will the Redskins respond and keep their momentum going or will they fall into the trap? Here’s what to look for:
When the Redskins Have the Ball:
Anyway you look at it, the Giants defense has been bad. Giving up 40 points per game isn’t just bad, its awful. They currently ranked 29th in the NFL allowing 423 yards per game (for comparison the Redskins are 16th allowing 305 yards per game). On the plus side for the Giants they do rank only below average against the rush (23rd) versus a pitiful 32nd against the pass. The Redskins are obviously built to run more so than either the Packers and the Cowboys, but they do take shots down the field and should be able to expose the Giants secondary. The Redskins probably won’t put up 40 points, but they should be able to reach a season’s high in points on Sunday.
When the Giants Have the Ball:
Offensively the Giants have been pretty solid. Eli Manning has 5 TD versus only 2 INTs and is at a career best 62.9% completion percentage. Running back Derrick Ward has been surprising in relief of injured Brandon Jacobs. His stats are a bit misleading (6.4 ypc) due to a couple of long runs and the Redskins have been solid against the run. I don’t anticipate Ward having a big game on Sunday. The passing attack is also hindered by injuries as number one receiver Plaxico Burress is listed as questionable for the game. If the Giants are going to win, Manning is going to need to have a big week.
Special Teams:
Lawrence Tynes came over from Kansas City replace Jay Feely and has been solid this year. Jeff Feagles has been around the block more than a few times and is still an effective punter. The return guys are R.W. McQuarters on punt returns and Ahmad Bradshaw handles kicks. Both guys have the potential to do damage.
Outlook:
The Redskins are better than the Giants. They have the momentum and home field advantage; everything points to a victory. Part of me worries that the Giants aren’t as bad as they’ve shown, but the Redskins should win either way. The Redskins should be able to score points and the defense should be able to hold the Giants in check, particularly without Plaxico Burress. The tough season for the Giants continues on Sunday.
Redskins 27 Giants 13