Indianapolis Colts (7-8) will face off against the New York Giants (2-13) this Sunday at 1 p.m. EST, with the game broadcast on Fox. The Colts enter as favorites, currently holding a 7.5-point advantage according to BetMGM. When examining the betting trends, the Colts have a record of 9-6 against the spread, while the Giants sit at 4-11. In the historical matchup between the two teams, the Colts lead the series with a tally of 12-7, although the Giants prevailed in their last encounter, securing a 38-10 victory back on January 1, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J.
Last week, the Colts achieved a thrilling 38-30 win against the Titans, while the Giants suffered a disappointing 34-7 loss to the Falcons. Here’s a look at the statistics from both teams: the Colts rank 21st overall in performance, specializing in rushing at 8th, while struggling in passing with a rank of 28th and scoring at 21st. Conversely, the Colts’ defense is ranked 29th overall, with the rush defense at 28th, pass defense at 24th, and scoring defense at 23rd. The Giants’ offense is struggling significantly, sitting at 32nd overall, with similar low rankings in both rushing (22nd) and passing (29th), as well as scoring (32nd). Their defense is slightly better, though still below average at 22nd overall.
Highlighting the Colts’ roster, watch for defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, who has shown remarkable form with a string of impactful performances. He registered a tackle for loss in his fifth consecutive game and defended a pass last week against Tennessee. Buckner has accumulated sacks in three of the last four matchups, establishing his reputation as a consistent threat on the field. In stark contrast, the Giants have struggled with their offensive line, having allowed a staggering 18 sacks over their last five games.
On the Giants’ side, keep an eye on wide receiver Malik Nabers, who has achieved an impressive 97 receptions, breaking the team record previously held by Odell Beckham in 2014. With just three catches needed in the last two games, Nabers could make history as he aims to join the ranks of only five rookies in NFL history with 100 receptions. Puka Nacua from the Rams currently holds the rookie reception record with 105 in a previous season, while Raiders tight end Brock Bowers is also closing in with 101 catches this year.
Another key factor going into the matchup is the Colts’ remarkable performance on the ground, where they recently shattered a 68-year-old franchise record by amassing a stunning 335 rushing yards against the Titans. The Colts are likely to continue their ground game strategy, but the Giants’ recently improved run defense, featuring players like Elijah Chatman, Jordon Riley, and Elijah Garcia, could pose a challenge. The Giants displayed better defense in their last two games, restricting key players like Derrick Henry and Bijan Robinson to under 100 yards.
In terms of injuries, the Colts will be without quarterback Anthony Richardson, ruled out due to back and foot issues. Other players, including guard Quenton Nelson, linebacker E.J. Speed, and tight end Mo Alie-Cox are listed as questionable. The Giants, meanwhile, are also depleted, with linebacker Micah McFadden, center John Michael Schmitz, cornerback Greg Stroman, and safety Raheem Layne confirmed out. Despite missing some practice due to a toe injury, Nabers is expected to participate in the game despite his condition.
It’s worth mentioning how the historical context of this matchup enhances its intrigue, with the Colts leading four consecutive wins before the Giants halted their streak last season. The two franchises have faced each other twice in the playoffs, always with the Colts emerging victorious. The most significant encounter was the iconic 1958 championship game, known for being the first NFL title contest decided in overtime.
Statistically, the Colts have alternated their wins and losses over the past five games, making their road performance of 3-5 notable as they approach their final away game of the season. Jonathan Taylor stands out, with only three players surpassing his six games of 100 rushing yards so far this season. Meanwhile, for the Giants, their struggles are evident as they seek to end their painful franchise-record 10-game losing streak, having yet to win a single game at MetLife Stadium this season.
In the realm of fantasy football, Jonathan Taylor is positioned as a key player, coming off a superb performance last week against the Titans, where he rushed for 218 yards and three touchdowns, earning the AFC offensive player of the week accolade. His cumulative rushing yard total over the last three games, which stands at 421 yards from 76 carries, showcases his potential to shine once again against a Giants defense that has struggled to contain the run this season.
