New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Top 5 matchups to watch
By Henry Buggy
No. 1 – Eli Manning vs. Philadelphia’s Secondary
The Giants have the upper hand in the matchup between New York’s wide receivers and Philadelphia’s cornerbacks, but it will be up to Eli Manning to get his playmakers the ball in space.
Manning has had his ups and downs this season, but he is still one of Big Blue’s best offensive players through five games, according to Pro Football Focus.
#Giants top 5 graded offensive players so far this season (min. 100 snaps):
— PFF NY Giants (@PFF_Giants) October 11, 2018
1. Odell Beckham Jr.- 86.0
2. Will Hernandez- 76.1
3. Saquon Barkley- 75.9
4. Sterling Shepard- 74.0
5. Eli Manning- 73.1 #GiantsPride
He struggled early against the Carolina Panthers in Week 5 but was able to bounce-back, leading New York to a 31-30 score with just over a minute left in regulation. The Giants veteran quarterback must take care of the football against Philadelphia’s defense on Thursday, but he also can’t be afraid to take shots downfield.
The Giants offensive line has to give Manning time in the pocket to make throws downfield and establishing a ground game early will only open up New York’s passing attack. The Eagles currently have the NFL’s 22nd ranked pass defense in terms of yards allowed, but they do have a playmaker at the back end of their defense in Malcolm Jenkins.
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If Odell Beckham Jr. and Sterling Shepard can consistently win their matchups with cornerbacks Ronald Darby and Jalen Mills, it’s up to Manning to connect with his talented receivers.
Thursday’s weather will likely have a significant impact on this divisional matchup, however, Manning and the Giants must take advantage of the opportunities presented against Philadelphia’s secondary.