New York Giants: Game Day Storylines

The New York Giants play the Washington Redskins tonight. Here are the biggest storylines about the Giants today.

Giants injury update: Ereck Flowers and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie look like longshots by Jordan Raanan (NJ.com)

"LT Ereck Flowers (ankle) ‐ His injury was termed an “ankle sprain,” which is positive considering he underwent tests again on Monday. Coach Tom Coughlin and the Giants are open to playing someone who didn’t practice in a short week, although it appears unlikely."

This isn’t good news for the Giants. The offensive line was already a big enough concern. To be fair Flowers was struggling but he still is the team’s best option at left tackle. If he cannot go the Redskins will surely bring the heat on Manning’s blind side.

Justin Pugh talks about filling in at left tackle this week by Fox Sports (Fox)

"Pugh played right tackle for the Giants for the first two years of his career in 2013 and 2014. In college, he played left tackle exclusively. Pugh joined True Jersey beat reporter Jordan Raanan to talk about the most difficult challenge ahead of him at left tackle heading into Thursday night’s game.“You’re going against top, top pass rushers. Obviusly their best guy is going to be over there so you have to handle business and it’s something I did for four years at Syracuse. So I’m up for the challenge. I told the Giants when they drafted me I was going to be able to play all five. I’ve played right tackle, left tackle and left guard so far.”"

This report answers the question about who will be playing at left tackle this evening. It is troubling to say the least to see Pugh out their protecting Manning’s blind side. Pugh struggles in pass protection and he is going to get a lot of pass rush. The Giants drafted Pugh in the first round for a reason. It’s time for us to see him step up for this team.

Victor Cruz runs on grass, is pain-free, not expected this week by Darin Gantt (Pro Football Talk)

"According to Kevin Armstrong of the New York Daily News, Cruz ran on the practice field grass for the first time since injuring his calf in training camp, and said afterward he was pain free. He said the swelling was down and he was getting close."

It is good to hear that Cruz could return in week four. He isn’t going to play tonight against the Redskins but things are looking up for Cruz getting back on the field. It should be a big thing getting him back if he does indeed play in week 4.

Jason Pierre-Paul continues social-media “I can play” campaign by Mike Florio (Pro Football Talk)

"With defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul and the Giants potentially headed for a grievance over whether the team is willing to clear him to play, JPP has gone back to (where else?) social media to prove that he can lift weights despite the graphic damage to his right hand."

This situation could get pretty ugly. Jason Pierre-Paul wants to get back on the field because he has a financial interest in doing so. But the Giants have no interest in paying for a sub-par performance from a player who doesn’t really seem ready to do battle in the trenches. But I have to ask, what is social media going to change? You can either pass the physical or not. If the Giants are going to pay you, you better be ready Mr. Pierre-Paul.

LB Jon Beason hoping for primetime debut by Michael Eisen

"If he does, Beason could enjoy a physical advantage. Thursday games are taxing for the players who performed on Sunday. Beason did little more than stand on the sideline, cheer for his team and help his defensive partners this past Sunday. He should be one of the more rested and pain-free players on the field.“I’m in a different situation,” Beason said. “I feel pretty good, I feel fresh. But I know my teammates are really sore, and Washington probably is as well.”"

The Giants could really use better linebacker play. Beason is a veteran leader who can change a lot for this defense. On those game winning drives for the Giants last two opponents you have to wonder if Beason could have made a difference. Leadership, sure tackling and great communication are what Beason brings to the table.

Next: New York Giants: 3 Reasons They Will Beat The Redskins

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