If you ignore the flaming pile of chaos that is the injury report, the New York Giants don't look so bad. They're 2-1, competent on both sides of the ball, and one win away from taking sole possession of the top spot in the NFC East.
Standing in Big Blue's way are the Arizona Cardinals. At 1-2, the Cardinals are far from the toughest opponents that the G-Men will play this season. Still, they're better than they were expected to be.
The Giants will only get their third win of the year if they can come out on top in these three key matchups.
3 matchups to watch as Giants take on Cardinals in Week 4
Giants EDGE Abdul Carter vs. Cardinals RT Elijah Wilkinson
The Giants' elite pass rush still only exists in theory. Even that theory is getting hard to believe without Brian Burns in the lineup. Big Blue has only one sack so far this year, ranking 31st in the NFL. Abdul Carter needs to prove that the unit is just as dangerous as it was expected to be this weekend.
Cardinals right tackle Elijah Wilkinson is the weak link in their offensive line. He allowed three pressures and a sack last week and offers Carter his best chance of reaching his breakout potential.
Giants CB Dru Phillips vs. Cardinals TE Trey McBride
Trey McBride is the focal point of Arizona's passing attack. Just last week, he logged nine catches for 95 yards and a touchdown. If he's allowed to take over again, New York might not have the offensive firepower to keep up.
Slot defender Dru Phillips will have plenty of one-on-one matchups with the dynamic tight end. Phillips has struggled in coverage so far this year and has committed multiple penalties. He can't let McBride take advantage of his rocky start.
Giants RB Cam Skattebo vs. Cardinals LB Mack Wilson Sr.
With Jameis Winston under center, the Giants have been unable to find any sort of consistency on offense. In Weeks 2 and 3 combined, they rank last in the league in EPA per play and 31st in success rate. That consistency will have to come from Cam Skattebo and the running game against the Cardinals.
Linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. will be meeting Skattebo between the tackles throughout the game. The more physical player will win. If Skattebo can establish an advantage, picking up yardage after contact, he'll help the Giants move the ball down the field more steadily.
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