The Giants Look To Slow Down RG3 and The Confident Redskins

The New York Giants head into Washington to take on the Redskins at FedEx Field on Monday Night Football. The Giants know this is a big game for them as it gives them a chance to create more breathing room between them and the rest of the NFC east division. However, the Redskins are coming into tonight’s matchup with a great deal of momentum that has them in position for a playoff push if they can knock off the defending Super Bowl champs.

Last week against the Green Bay Packers the Giants (7-4) appeared to get back on track on offense with an impressive performance put in by quarterback Eli Manning. The result was a 38-10 commanding victory at MetLife Stadium on Sunday Night Football. Manning will look to keep things going tonight against the Redskins (5-6).

The last time these two teams met was back in week 7 and it took for a 77-yard touchdown pass from Manning to Victor Cruz and a fumble by Redskins wide receiver Santana Moss in the final minutes to secure a 27-23 Giants win. It was in that game the Giants defense struggled to contain Redskins quarterback and rookie sensation Robert Griffin III a.k.a. RGIII.

How the Giants gameplan for RG3 tonight will be at the top of the list for things to watch for. RG3 can defeat a team with his legs and his arm, what is making him even more dangerous is his poise that is improving by the week.

The pass rush must be a factor for the Giants tonight. They have concerns on the defensive line concerning the health of defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (back) and in the secondary with safety Kenny Phillips (knee). Phillips made the trip to Washington, however is listed as “doubtful” to play. Pierre-Paul is currently listed as “questionable” and the Giants have to remain optimistic that he’ll be able to play effectiviely to help the defense offset the unpredictability of RG3.

RG3 isn’t the only Redskins rookie the Giants will have to worry about tonight. Running back Alfred Morris rushed for 120 yards against the Giants in their first matchup, between Morris and RG3 the Giants have their hands full trying to contain the Washington ground game.

On offense, this could be the game that talented rookie running back David Wilson finally gets his chance to show what he can do. The Giants lost running back Andre Brown last week against Green Bay to a broken fibula and he’ll miss the remainder of the season. Brown complimented starter Ahmad Bradshaw well this season and will be missed. The Giants went out and added free agents Ryan Torain and Kregg Lumpkin for added depth, however if there is anytime to see if Wilson is ready for an increased workload it’s now.

What type of statement the Giants make tonight will be interesting. This isn’t exactly a must-win game for them, however it’s still a big divisional matchup on the road against a very confident team.

Check back here online at GMEN HQ for continued coverage of tonight’s big game.