New York Giants news, 10/8: DRC says he is “going to play”

Good morning, New York Giants fans! Let’s start your weekend by checking on a few of the story lines surrounding the Giants as they prep for Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers.

DRC expects to play

Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, who dressed but did not play Monday against the Minnesota Vikings due to a groin injury, expects to play Sunday night.

“I’m going to play,” he said. “I’m going to give it a go.”

Rodgers-Cromartie added that he feels “night and day” better than he did on Monday.

“Not full, but I’m close. I’m just looking forward to Sunday. I felt good all week at practice running around,” he said

Will Rashad Jennings play?

Jennings, who has missed the last two weeks with a thumb injury, is officially listed as questionable for Sunday’s game.

“He has to demonstrate that he can protect himself, protect the ball and protect the quarterback,” coach Ben McAdoo said.

Cruz: Offense “on the brink”

Add wide receiver Victor Cruz to those who think the Giants’ offense is close to a breakout performance.

“I do believe that’s the case. You can feel it each and every week out there on the game field. Just being able to execute is how we accomplish it,” he said. “Just being where we’re supposed to be, and how we’re supposed to be, in a timely manner so Eli can depend on us. He has to depend on us to be in that spot and hit us with a timely pass to get things going. I think we’re right on the brink of it. We just have to be diligent in our approach and continue going that way.”

Devon Kennard’s snaps may increase

Linebacker Devon Kennard has played only 35.8 percent of the team’s defensive snaps thus far. Linebackers coach Bill McGovern wants to see that increase.

“I think in a situation where we're starting to use him more and more in things that really suit him best. In terms of rushing the passer or helping us in the run game. I think DK really has a skill set that we could use and try to take advantage of,” McGovern said Friday.

The linebackers coach said that Kennard’s snaps have been limited because of the way opposing offenses have approached the Giants.

“You don't know what the numbers are going to be but after seeing it for the first four games, you're obviously seeing that teams are trying to spread us out, maybe a little bit because of some of the guys we have upfront, trying to get away from them,” McGovern said.