On Sunday, the New York Giants (3-3) will have flown across the pond to take on the Los Angeles Rams. New York is feeling much better about itself after snapping a three-game losing streak. Jeff Fisher has the Rams on the path to their perennial .500 season, as they sit at 3-3 and second place in the NFC West. Below, I preview the keys to this week’s battle in London.
London Bridges Falling Down on Special Teams
In light of Josh Brown’s admissions that he abused his wife, the Giants did not take Brown to London. According to ESPN’s Jordan Raanan on Twitter on Oct. 20, 2016, it will be former Chicago Bears’ kicker Robbie Gould handling that responsibility this week. The former All-Pro has a career field goal percentage of over 85 percent, which is 10th all-time.
Long snapper Zak DeOssie is banged up with an ankle injury and did not practice this week. It remains to be seen whether the Giants will make a roster move should DeOssie not be able to suit up in London. Linebacker Mark Herzlich was warming up on the sidelines as DeOssie’s backup last week.
London Calling Giants Receivers?
Odell Beckham had his best performance of the season last week, catching eight passes for 222 yards and two touchdowns. He also got engaged, according to CBS Sports. However, he suffered a hip injury and did not practice all week. While he is expected to play, the cameras will be keeping an eye on him to see how he is holding up.
The cameras will also be on Beckham of other reasons. In what has become a weekly story now, the Giants must keep Beckham focused at all costs. So far, that has been easier said than done. There was plenty of play after the whistle in the last matchup between these two squads in 2014. Beckham and Alec Ogletree were at the center of a fight that led to multiple fines and ejections. Ideally we would have one drama free week. Also look for Sterling Shepard to get back on track. In his last two games, he only has six catches for 44 yards.
Can Eli Handle the London Pressure?
The Rams defensive line is arguably the best in the league. It boasts the likes of All-Pros Aaron Donald and Robert Quinn, to go along with Michael Brockers and William Hayes. Although they only have 10 sacks on the year, this foursome is not to be taken lightly. It will be interesting to witness how Eli Manning fairs against this dynamic pass rush. Against Minnesota, another team with a strong defensive line, Manning rushed his throws and seemed focused on avoiding getting hit. This week is another test for the shaky offensive line we have seen so far.
The Giants have a bye after their trek over the Atlantic, so it is crucial to build some momentum before a matchup against the Eagles.
Prediction: Giants 26 Rams 20