The New York Giants are heading into a difficult matchup against the Baltimore Ravens in week 16, a must-win if Big Blue wants to increase their chances of making the postseason.
The Giants are struggling immensely on offense, averaging a measly 17.4 points per contest, just one spot ahead of the New York Jets. However, their competitors, the Ravens, are averaging 28.8 points per contest and are the best rushing team in football. While their passing game is quite limited, they have found ways to supplement their lack of yards in the category.
Stopping Lamar Jackson will be a primary task for defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, who will likely utilize more spies against him. Expect to see a heavy dosage of outside linebacker Carter Coughlin spying on Jackson, to go with a number of disguised coverages to force him to make mistakes.
The Giants will need all hands on deck for this contest, but they are still dealing with numerous injuries that will hurt their abilities on both sides of the ball.
Heading into the weekend, quarterback Daniel Jones is dealing with an ankle and hamstring injury and has a questionable designation for Sunday’s game. He was limited in practice all week, but Coach Joe Judge indicated that he was making motivating progress. The expectations are that Jones will suit up for the contest but could once again be limited with his running abilities.
Aside from DJ, the Giants are also skeptical when it comes to star linebacker Blake Martinez and cornerback Darnay Holmes. Martinez had a lower back injury a few weeks ago but pushed through and managed to clear that injury. He has since picked up an ankle injury that has made him a “questionable” for the game. Holmes missed last week’s loss to the Cleveland Browns with a knee injury and is also questionable for the contest.
Another hit on offense, wide receiver Golden Tate has been ruled out with a calf injury that he picked up during Wednesday’s practice. If this injury lingers, it could very well be the last snap Tate has taken as a Giant.
Nonetheless, with injuries scattered across the team, the Giants are vast underdogs in this week 16 matchup. It would be a miracle if they’re able to pull off a win, but nothing is impossible, and we can always count on Graham to dial-up a great defensive game plan against any opponent.