4 NY Giants players we hope play well vs. the Lions on Friday

The first New York Giants preseason game is upon us. This will be the first opportunity for Big Blue fans to watch the Giants go up against an opposing team this year. The G-Men are scheduled to take on the Detroit Lions this Friday at 7 p.m. at Ford Field.

The last time both teams faced off was last year during the regular season in Week 11 at MetLife Stadium; the Lions were victorious 31-18. Former Lions running back Jamaal Williams had 17 carries and rushed for 64 yards and three touchdowns.

This time, each team will be looking to see which players stand out during game action against different matchups and schemes than they are not used to facing during routine drills and practices executed throughout training camp. With that said, here are four NY players we'll have our eyes on.

4. LB Azeez Ojulari

New York Giants outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari is entering his third season in the NFL with high expectations. The 2021 second-round pick is optimistic that this will be the year he breaks out. Last week, he told reporters about his new lifestyle and fitness changes this offseason and his plan to stay healthy in 2023.

After an impressive first year setting a franchise record of eight sacks as a rookie in 2021 with Big Blue, Ojulari was limited to seven games and five starts due to a calf injury last season. Despite the shortened season, he still posted 5.5 sacks and three forced fumbles.

Friday night's matchup with the Detroit Lions will be the first chance for Ojulari to prove the doubters wrong and show the Giants why he deserves playing time. We can expect him to perform well since he has been working hard to regain full strength and will be playing alongside talented pass-rushers Kayvon Thibodeaux.