The New York Giants will host the Washington Commanders at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, as New York returns from its bye week.
Both teams enter the matchup on extended losing streaks, with the Giants opening as a rare favorite earlier this week — the second time all season they have done so.
The teams met in Week 1, when the Commanders secured a 21-6 victory.
As this NFC East clash approaches in Week 15, here are three reasons for optimism.
Coming off the bye week
The Giants have endured significant upheaval over the past month and could have benefited from an earlier break. Following Brian Daboll’s departure, Mike Kafka assumed the role of interim head coach, affording the staff scant time to adapt. Just weeks later, the Giants relieved Shane Bowen of his duties as defensive coordinator, with Charlie Bullen stepping in.
The bye will also provide valuable rest for key players sidelined in recent weeks. Needless to say, the time off in Week 14 offers the Giants a much-needed respite and additional preparation for this contest.
Commanders are short-handed
The Commanders will be without quarterback Jayden Daniels and tight end Zach Ertz. They still possess a formidable running game and two elite receivers to support backup quarterback Marcus Mariota on Sunday. While a narrative persists that the Giants have struggled against backup quarterbacks in recent memory, there is no question that Washington is a stronger team with Daniels at the helm.
An opportunity for points
The Commanders’ defense has labored all season to contain opposing offenses, surrendering more than 31 points per game during its eight-game skid. The unit ranks 28th in opponents’ points per game, 30th in total yards allowed per game, 29th in rushing yards per game, and 30th in passing yards per game. Unlike their Week 1 encounter, the Giants should find success moving the ball and scoring, particularly with Jaxson Dart under center — a starter who was not yet in the role when the teams last met.