4 under-the-radar players who must step up Sunday vs. the Vikings

Landon Collins, NY Giants. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
Landon Collins, NY Giants. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /
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Jan 1, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants safety Landon Collins (21) addresses social media on a smart phone after defeating the Indianapolis Colts at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants safety Landon Collins (21) addresses social media on a smart phone after defeating the Indianapolis Colts at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

2: LB Landon Collins

In similar fashion to Davis, Landon Collins has the potential to receive the majority of snaps at the linebacker position this week, at least he should. Collins has made a massive difference on the Giants defense in the handful of games he has played in.

Not only has Collins made some very nice stops against the run, but his ability in coverage has been borderline elite for a linebacker. In 102 coverage snaps, Collins has allowed just five receptions on 12 targets for 28 yards and zero TDs, while also snagging a pick-six, and breaking up one pass.

Both Collins and Davis have shown a lot in limited snaps this season, so it’s time for Wink Martindale to stop holding on to Jaylon Smith and move these two up on the depth chart. While we’re still holding out hope for Micah McFadden, especially after his performance against Philadelphia, it may be better to play veterans with experience over a rookie who has had a very shaky season.

The versatility both Collins and Davis have shown this year is something that the Giants need to help slow down the Vikings offense. They both have an ability to play in coverage, and also have the speed to hit the holes on runs and potentially attack the passer on a blitz.