The New York Giants are 1-0 for the first time since the Ben McAdoo era in 2016. Vibes are great in the Giants locker room, but let’s not forget that it was only one game, with 16 more to be played. Luck, resiliency, and gutsy play calling all helped get a win in Week 1.
Next up for Big Blue are the Carolina Panthers, who lost a close game to the Cleveland Browns last week. Carolina and New York met in 2021, where the Giants routed the Panthers in a 25-3 victory.
When the teams faced off last season, Carolina was led by QB Sam Darnold. He’s injured to start the season and the Giants defense will be going up against Baker Mayfield. The Giants were led by Saquon Barkley’s dominant performance last Sunday afternoon that earned him NFC Offensive Player of the Week.
With that being said there’s still some worry for head coach Brian Daboll about the availability of some stars for the home opener. Will Kadarius Toney be able to play? Toney is one of four injury concerns this team has leading up to the matchup with the Panthers.
4. Wan’Dale Robinson- WR (knee)
Rookie WR Wan’Dale Robinson left the game on Sunday with a knee injury and hasn’t been practicing since. He’s got a brace on his right knee and has been working with the trainer. Not the start Robinson or Giants fans were looking for. He had a strong training camp and preseason and was going to be a dynamic threat in the Giants offense.
New York drafted Robinson with the No. 43 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft from the University of Kentucky. He was targeted by Daniel Jones once and caught that pass for five yards and a first down in Week 1. Other receivers will have to step up in Robinson’s absence. That’s why someone like Sterling Shepard saw more playing time with Robinson out.
Unfortunately for everyone hoping to see Robinson back on the field vs. Carolina, the Giants have already ruled him out for Week 2. Hopefully he can get back on the field for the Monday Night Football showdown with the Cowboys later this month.