The New York Giants desperately needed a victory over the Miami Dolphins in week 15, and by the good graces of Eli Manning and Co., the team secured their third of the season. In what was probably Manning’s final game as a Giant, ensuring he went out on the right note was essential.
The two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback can now sit back and relax as his legacy is finally rounded out with a victory, and luckily, it didn’t affect the Giants’ place in the 2020 NFL Draft.
However, a win against the Washington Redskins in week 17 would be devastating to the team’s chances of landing generational pass-rusher Chase Young next offseason. Still, it would subsequently elevate the rookies on the team who are dying for a taste of continued success.
There are changes on the horizon for Big Blue, as head coach Pat Shurmur could be on the chopping block, and GM Dave Gettleman is running out of time to prove his worth. Firing Shurmur would force the Giants to adapt to another offensive system, which might be a positive thing considering the underutilization of Saquon Barkley and the demise of the offensive line. The coaching staff will undoubtedly see changes moving forward, but I anticipate Gettleman receiving at least one more season to complete his rebuild. Generally, it takes three years for a rebuild to show progress, especially when it requires the entire overhaul of a given team and the search for a franchise quarterback.
The New York Giants need a top-notch pass-rusher:
Another vital piece to the puzzle is at the pass-rush position. While Markus Golden has been reliable this season, logging nine sacks, the defense needs another premium talent to impose problematic situations for opposing defensive coordinators. Chase Young is the perfect fit to make that wish a reality.
Ultimately, it all boils down to how the Giants finish the next two games. They are currently slotted in at the No. 2 spot behind the Cincinnati Bengals, and a win would push them down multiple places, likely out of Young range. However, it would help the mental development of the team’s youth. Pick your poison.