The New York Giants hit the road this week to face the Atlanta Falcons. Drew Lock returns as Big Blue's starting quarterback, aiming to secure the Giants' first win since Week 5 in what has been a disastrous season. The team sits at 2-12 following last week’s 35-14 loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Rookie Malik Nabers has been a bright spot with 90 receptions this season, ranking among the top-performing rookies. This week, the Giants' first-round pick has the chance to make history, potentially becoming the fourth rookie wide receiver with 100+ catches. Nabers needs just one more catch to tie Odell Beckham Jr. and Saquon Barkley for the Giants' rookie receptions record and two more to break it. He is also chasing the NFL's all-time rookie record of 105 receptions, held by Rams wideout Puka Nacua.
The main storyline of this game, however, centers on the Falcons. Rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will make his NFL debut on Sunday. Atlanta raised eyebrows when general manager Terry Fontenot drafted the Washington quarterback in the first round, just weeks after signing veteran Kirk Cousins in free agency.
These narratives are even more intriguing given that Giants GM Joe Schoen passed on Penix Jr. in favor of Nabers in last year’s draft.
At least there won’t be any planes flying over Mercedes-Benz Stadium this week with banners like, "MR. MARA ENOUGH—PLZ FIX THIS DUMPSTER FIRE." Giants fans have voiced their frustration with ownership in creative ways all season, but the recent flyovers may be the most memorable.
For now, the Giants must focus on restoring pride in their centennial season. A win in Atlanta would go a long way toward salvaging some dignity. The team hopes Lock can ignite an injury-riddled offense and end the nine-game losing streak.
Announcers for Giants vs. Falcons
- Network: FOX
- Play-by-play: Kevin Kugler
- Color commentary: Daryl Johnston
- Sideline reporter: Laura Okmin
FOX's broadcast team features Kevin Kugler on play-by-play duties, with former Dallas Cowboys running back and three-time Super Bowl Champion Daryl Johnston offering analysis as the color commentator. Laura Okmin will deliver pieces, conduct live interviews on the sidelines, and provide insight into the game.
Referee crew for Giants vs. Falcons
- Referee: Tra Blake
- Umpire: Carl Paganelli
- Down Judge: Patrick Turner
- Line Judge: Tom Eaton
- Field Judge: Mearl Robinson
- Side Judge: Don Willard
- Back Judge: Grantis Bell
The last time Tra Blake and his officiating crew called a Giants game was on October 20, when the Eagles defeated Big Blue 28-3 at MetLife Stadium. Blake and his crew called 11 total penalties and 70 yards in penalties committed by both teams.
This game was notable for Saquon Barkley's return to New York, where he rushed for 176 yards on 17 attempts and had a touchdown. Jalen Hurts threw for 114 yards and a touchdown, and the Giants offense couldn't generate anything as Daniel Jones was sacked seven times by the Eagles' defense.
Time & channel for Giants vs. Falcons
- Home: Atlanta Falcons (7-7)
- Away: New York Giants (2-12)
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium — Atlanta, GA
- Date: Sunday, December 22, 2024
- Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
The last meeting between the Giants and Falcons occurred in Week 3 of the 2021 season, with Atlanta securing a 17-14 win in New York. This marked former head coach Arthur Smith's first NFL victory.
Sunday’s matchup will be the 25th meeting between the two teams, with the Falcons holding a 14-11 series lead. However, the Giants have won three of their last five road games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Injury updates
- Giants: Brian Burns (questionable), Patrick Johnson (out), Bobby Okereke (out), Aaron Stinnie (out), Greg Stroman (out), Deonte Banks (questionable), Tyrone Tracy (questionable), Dyontae Johnson (questionable), Austin Schlottmann (questionable)
- Falcons: Lorenzo Carter (questionable), Casey Washington (out), KhaDarel Hodge (questionable)
As the Giants aim to break their nine-game losing streak (or secure the first overall pick) and the Falcons look to secure a spot in this year's playoff bracket as they hope to lock up the NFC South, this Week 16 matchup could have its moments.
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