It goes without saying, but the NY Giants are in must-win mode going up against the Washington Commanders, an NFC East rival who is also 7-5-1 on the year.
It’s been a rough go of late for the G-Men. Over their last four games, they have a 0-3-1 record. In recent weeks, this Commanders team has been among the hottest in the NFL – over their past four games, they are 3-0-1.
In Week 13, the last time these two teams faced off, the game ended in a 20-20 tie. Now as they take each other on once again, both sides will be desperate for a W. If the Giants hope to keep their playoff hopes alive, they must take down this division rival. Here’s four guys that will need to deliver for Brian Daboll and Co.
4. Safety Julian Love
Throughout this season, fourth-year safety Julian Love has emerged as a leader for this young defense. With injuries to several key players, including Xavier McKinney and Adoree’ Jackson, much of the pressure has fallen onto Love. He has responded in a big way.
In 13 games, Love has recorded 107 total tackles, six tackles for loss, one sack, one forced fumble, four defended passes and two interceptions. Love has been the definition of reliable for this Giants defense. Outside of a poor play in Week 14, he has been near-perfect at times. Now, as the Giants take on a Commanders team full of talented options, he will need to show up once again.
The Commanders offense is led by wide receivers Curtis Samuel and Terry McLaurin, and running backs Antonio Gibson and Brian Robinson. Slowing them down will be key to the Giants winning this matchup. It will take yet another big game from Love to do just this. His leadership not only in the secondary but along the entire defense will be necessary.
The last time that these two teams took the field together, Love put on arguably his biggest showing of the season. He finished the game with the second-most tackles of the year with 13. Now, in a must-win scenario, he may need to do this once again.