The New York Giants went into the 2019 season blindfolded. They weren’t convinced veteran quarterback Eli Manning could find a way to tap into his Super Bowl-caliber self and not resort back to his check-down tendencies. Ultimately, it was the latter, and head coach Pat Shurmur wasted no time benching him in favor of rookie, Daniel Jones.
Jones has shown signs of greatness in just six starts, but he has also endured his fair share of struggles. He currently leads the league in turnovers with 15, but all of them were essential learning experiences. Also, it’s important to note that he journeyed into dangerous territory with less than adequate talent.
The Giants face off against the top-rated New England Patriots defense with practice squad running back, Jon Hilliman, starting, and a majority of their wide receivers missing. Both Sterling Shepard and Evan Engram were not available for the matchup.
However, the Giants and Jones will enjoy something special on Monday night — a full arsenal of players. Shepard is returning from the concussion protocol and will offer the rookie passer another security blanket in the passing game. The Giants have an opportunity to cripple the Dallas Cowboys and put themselves in a position to develop. There’s no better motivator than winning, and beating a reliable Cowboys team would be significant for the organization.
The New York Giants need to help themselves:
It all boils down to Jones and the offensive line, though. Dallas has had the Giants’ number in recent years, especially on defense, as they tend to draw up confusing game-plans that exploit severe weaknesses on the Big Blue front five. This time around, they will be more prepared for the flurry of stunts and linebacker blitzes the Cowboys featured in week one.
Dak Prescott has been a confident gun-slinger for Dallas, similar to when he tore the Giants apart in the opener for 405-yards and four scores through the air. He led a 37-point performance against the Philidelphia Eagles last week. Stopping him will be a priority, and the trading for Leonard Williams will undoubtedly help in that facet.
The Giants will need a cohesive performance to overcome the Cowboys, but it would be an atmosphere shifting victory id they can pull it off at home.