Giants head coach Joe Judge enters his second season in charge looking to build on the foundation he’s building. For that to continue with success, quarterback Daniel Jones needs to deliver.
It’s week 1 around the NFL, the Giants host Von Miller and the Denver Broncos, Sunday afternoon at MetLife Stadium.
For Jones, it’s the critical third season in his development as an NFL starting quarterback. The Giants spent a ton of money in the offseason upgrading the offense with more playmakers to get more points on the scoreboard. It’s up to Jones to lead and show he can be trusted with taking care of the football.
Because if he can’t, it won’t matter who’s lining up at wide receiver, tight end, or running back. Jones is the key to this offense.
And that’s where the Giants have reason for concern.
The offensive line did not play well in the preseason. Second-year OT Andrew Thomas will have eyes on him early this season. The Giants need him to perform better on the field and protect Jones in pass protection.
The O-Line has been a sensitive topic within the team’s fan base for close to a decade. There’s no way around it, it’s been a poor unit.
If Jones is to improve this season, he also needs better play from the big boys blocking for him.
Trouble in the Red Zone
The Giants getting off to a fast start would be music to the ears of their fan base. There’s enough talent on the offense to move the ball downfield. What happens, however, in the red zone could be the difference in their season opener with the Broncos.
In past seasons, Denver’s defense has been strong when the ball gets inside their own 20. The offense for the Giants, has shown they stall when inside the red zone. Can offensive coordinator Jason Garrett get enough out of his unit to put the ball into the end zone?
Inactives
WR Collin Johnson, CB Josh Jackson, CB Sam Beal, LB Justin Hilliard, TE Evan Engram (calf), and LB Quincy Roche are all OUT for the Giants.
Guess who’s back — back again — Saquon’s back
Tell a friend. Because Saquon Barkley is active and ready to see action. The star running back Barkley will play for the first time on Sunday since suffering a major knee injury Week 2 of last season.
