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New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles Preview

The New York Giants (3-13) are set to face off against the Philadelphia Eagles (13-3) on Sunday at 1 p.m. EST, with the game broadcasted on CBS. The Eagles come into this matchup favored by 3.5 points, according to BetMGM NFL Odds. The Giants have struggled against the spread this season, recording a 4-11-1 record, while the Eagles stand at 10-6. Historically, the Eagles have a slight edge in the series, currently leading 91-86-2. In their most recent encounter on October 20, Saquon Barkley’s impressive 176 rushing yards propelled the Eagles to a decisive 28-3 victory over the Giants.

Last week, the Giants managed to pull off a thrilling 45-33 win against the Indianapolis Colts, breaking a long losing streak. Conversely, the Eagles dominated the Dallas Cowboys with a commanding 41-7 performance. Analyzing team statistics, the Giants rank low with a 29th place overall in offense, 22nd in rushing, 27th in passing, and 31st in scoring. Defensively, they sit at 24th overall, 31st against the run, and 10th against the pass while allowing 23 points per game. The Eagles, on the other hand, boast a strong offense, ranked 6th overall, leading the league in rushing, and scoring 7th. Their defense is equally impressive, ranking 1st overall, 10th against the rush, and 1st against the pass, while allowing only 6 points per game.

In this matchup, a player to keep an eye on for the Giants is wide receiver Malik Nabers. The 6th overall draft pick has made an impact with 104 receptions for 1,140 yards and 6 touchdowns, just four catches away from breaking Steve Smith’s franchise record of 107 receptions in a single season, established in 2009. For the Eagles, quarterback Tanner McKee is in the spotlight, as he may need to step up as the potential starter, given the injuries to both Jalen Hurts and backup Kenny Pickett. McKee showcased his capability by throwing two touchdown passes during last week’s game against Dallas.

Heading into the game, one essential matchup would have been New York’s rushing defense versus Barkley, but with his absence, the Giants will be tested against Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell. The Giants have struggled significantly in defending against the run, currently ranked near the bottom of the league by allowing an average of 141.6 rushing yards per game.

In terms of injuries, the Giants have faced several setbacks. Defensive lineman Armon Watts is out due to knee surgery, while center John Michael Schmitz (ankle) and linebacker Micah McFadden (neck) also missed out against the Colts and did not practice on Wednesday. Right tackle Evan Neal (rib/hip) also was sidelined during practice. For the Eagles, quarterback Jalen Hurts continues to recover from a concussion and is not expected to play, as he didn’t participate in last week’s game or in Wednesday’s walkthrough. Key players like tight end Dallas Goedert (knee) and linebacker Nakobe Dean (abdominal) would have been full participants but were limited due to the type of practice conducted.

In terms of standings, the Eagles have secured their position as NFC East champions for the second time in three seasons. Meanwhile, the Giants find themselves at the bottom of the division for the second time in four years. By winning last week against the Colts, the Giants inadvertently lost their grip on securing the top pick in the upcoming draft. Noteworthy stats from the Giants’ recent game include quarterback Drew Lock’s impressive performance, throwing for 309 yards and four touchdowns while also rushing for a score, marking the end of their ten-game losing streak. He showcased an outstanding offensive effort, including six plays of 30 or more yards.

Fantasy players should keep an eye on Nabers, as he is poised for another big performance to conclude his promising rookie season. The Eagles are positioned as the No. 2 seed in the NFC playoffs, preparing to host either Washington or Green Bay in a wild-card matchup. If Washington loses to Dallas and Green Bay secures a win against Chicago, the Commanders would travel to Philadelphia. However, if Washington wins, the Packers will advance as the No. 7 seed.

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