New York Giants: 3 key players to overcome the 49ers in week 3

New York Giants, Evan Engram
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram catching a pass at the team's training camp on Sept. 1. (Photo credit: NY Giants)

After two tough matchups to open the season, the New York Giants are sitting at 0-2 and are looking to collect their first win against the San Francisco 49ers and week three. The 49ers are ravaged by injuries, giving the Giants a good chance of walking away with their first victory.

New head coach Joe Judge has instilled fight in his team, but moral victories are no longer acceptable for a Giants fan base waiting years for any semblance of success.

Despite featuring reserves at multiple positions, walking away with a comfortable win is not likely. San Francisco‘s coaching staff is one of the best in the NFL, and they will give the Giants a difficult time on both sides of the ball. Big Blue’s defense has been solid to open the year, but their offense has been lackluster.

Winning the turnover battle is a necessity, and quarterback Daniel Jones must be efficient in the passing game. In addition, with Saquon Barkley out for the season after tearing his ACL against the Chicago Bears, the running game will have to be a creative display.

Three players the New York Giants need to step up to overcome the 49ers in week three:

1.) Lorenzo Carter

For the Giants to win on Sunday, their pass rush must get after Nick Mullens. Through two weeks, one of their more promising players has been Lorenzo Carter. Zo looked phenomenal during training camp, dominating the Giants’ tackles regularly.

So far, through two games, he has earned 11 combined tackles and one sack. He’s played 98% of defensive snaps in both games and even participated on special teams.

I believe Carter is the difference-maker in this game, getting after Mullens regularly and displaying some of his potential. San Francisco has Mike McGlinchey and Trent Williams as their tackles, two quality players who will pose threats for the Giants’ pass rushers. Carter has shown that he can be a solid contributor, but this is the game he can finally explode onto the scene.