Patriots vs. Giants: 3 Key Matchups

Aug 29, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) meet on the field after the game Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Giants 28-20. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

The undefeated Patriots visit the first-place Giants in Week 10 just before New York enters its bye week. Tom Brady and the Pats’ offense have been dynamic as ever, and their defense has been a quietly productive unit, placing eighth in yards per game entering Week 10. And the Giants have had some fine moments this season in their own right.

The matchups in this game lean heavily in New England’s favor. Given the Giants’ defensive struggles and considering how Drew Brees and the Saints carved up New York’s secondary just a couple weeks ago, I think fans understandably would expect some of the same if not more from Tom Brady and co.

However, this is the NFL, and teams know how to come up with a good game plan. And make adjustments. Then, sometimes, unexpected things happen.

I don’t expect the Patriots to score three points this week. But I think 52 points is a stretch as well. The Giants’ defense vs. the Patriots offense? Quite the fantasy matchup on paper, and some may see this as a blowout victory for New England. But playing in the Meadowlands on a late Sunday afternoon, I do expect the Giants to show up. Win… maybe. But win or lose, I do anticipate this being a close game.

How can the Giants’ keep this one close, or even pull off a big regular season upset? Well, there are a few key matchups they’ll need to win. And I have them here:

Next: Tom Brady Vs. Giants Offense