THE STORYLINE:
We have reached the all-too-frequent portion of the New York Giants late-season schedule where fans debate whether it is better to win (because that is the point of all competition and to create a winning culture) or lose (for draft position). I’m not going to spend much time addressing this issue other than to say it is yet another indication of how low this franchise has fallen.
As I’ve said many times before during these NYG collapses, I also don’t see much of a point in addressing personnel, match-ups, and coaching strategy. This game will most likely be decided by none of that. It also won’t be decided by which losing franchise, the 2-11 New York Giants or 3-10 Washington Commanders, wants it more. It will likely be decided by which team hasn’t given up the most. In other words, which team has less quit in them? You might make the argument the Giants have more talent (especially with QB Jayden Daniels out), but Washington’s front office and coaching staff are returning. There is a very good chance that New York’s might not. And the players on both sides know this.
One of the very few bright spots for the Giants during their last decade of futility was beating up on Washington. But keep in mind that the Commanders have now won three in a row over the Giants.
I am not going to write offensive, defensive, and special teams breakdowns this week. It’s not out of laziness. I just don’t see the point. Don’t lose sight of the big picture. The Giants may have a new owner very shortly. We addressed this and the latest rumors in this week’s Inside BBI Podcast (not just a shameless plug, but important information… watch the first 20 minutes or so). There may be a new owner (or committee of new owners) soon. That person will decide the fate of the general manager and head coach. In turn, those people will decide the fate of the entire roster. Don’t even assume the last two draft classes are safe. Nothing is safe. The New York Giants will be starting all over on their endless rebuild. Again.
THE INJURY REPORT:
- RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. (Hip – probable)
- WR Gunner Olszewski (Concussion – questionable)
- WR Beaux Collins (Neck – out)
- TE Theo Johnson (Toe – probable)
- OG Greg Van Roten (Shoulder – probable)
- OL Joshua Ezeudu (Calf – questionable)
- DL Dexter Lawrence (Hamstring – questionable)
- DL Rakeem Nuñez-Roches (Ankle – out)
- DL D.J. Davidson (Illness – questionable)
- OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (Shoulder – out)
- OLB Victor Dimukeje (Knee – out)
- ILB Darius Muasau (Ankle – questionable)
- ILB Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (Illness/Neck/Knee – questionable)
- CB Art Green (Hamstring – questionable)
- CB Nic Jones (Shoulder – out)
- CB Korie Black (Biceps – probable)
- S Tyler Nubin (Quad – probable)
- P Jamie Gillan (Left Knee – doubtful)
THE FINAL WORD:
Four more games.