The New York Giants need all hands on deck against a potent Philadelphia Eagles team that has already beaten them twice this season. The Giants are healthier than they were in the previous two contests, especially in the season finale when they rested the majority of their starters.
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However, one essential pass rusher, Azeez Ojulari, suffered a quad injury against the Minnesota Vikings in the Wild Card win. Ojulari was forced to leave the game prematurely, expressing his frustration this week during practice.
“It’s just so terrible,” Ojulari told the New York Post. “I can’t ever finish the game. I’m so frustrated. It’s just so tough. I’m happy we won, though. Gives me another opportunity.”
The New York Giants need Azeez Ojulari desperately:
Luckily, the second-year pass rusher will have another opportunity to tough it out and offer production. Ojulari has only played 238 defensive snaps this year, including five full games. He’s made an appearance in seven games this season, recording six sacks and 20 total pressures. When he’s on the field, the opposing team feels his impact and the Giants desperately need him to rise to the occasion despite the injured leg.
Luckily, it doesn’t seem as though the injury is bad enough to keep Ojulari off the field, but he will certainly be limited to some degree. Expect to see plenty of supplementary options filling in opposite Kayvon Thibodeaux.
With the Eagles boasting the top-ranked pass-blocking offensive line in football, the Giants need everybody to contribute and make plays in this one, which is why Ojulari will do his best to make things happen on what will likely be a controlled snap count.