Giants Vs. Jets 2017 Preseason: Eight Things To Watch

The New York Giants host the New York Jets on Saturday in their third preseason game, and the second of three games the Giants are playing in a span of just 11 days. Let’s look at things to watch Saturday from a Giants perspective.

Geno vs. Josh

This is a crossroads game for Geno Smith and Josh Johnson. One of the two backup quarterback hopefuls could well win the No. 2 job on Saturday. The other could see his career come to a screeching halt.

Placekickers

Aldrick Rosas and Mike Nugent will continue their mano-a-mano slugfest for the kicking job. Honestly, this could be a better fight than Mayweather-McGregor.

Young Cornerbacks

Valentino Blake is dealing with personal issues. Michael Hunter has a concussion. This is the big chance for Donte Deayon, DeShaun Amos and Nigel Tribune to make an impression and earn a roster spot.

Can The Giants Score A Touchdown?

They haven’t yet. Odell Beckham Jr. and Brandon Marshall are unlikely to play, but quarterback Eli Manning will probably work into the third quarter. It would be comforting to see the offense function well, and for Manning and whoever he is playing with to put a touchdown or two on the board.

Offensive Line Performance

The biggest reason the Giants’ offense has looked inept through two preseason games is that the offensive line has not been good. Surprisingly, the tackle spots have not been the problem. Left tackle Ereck Flowers has not been great, but he’s been OK. Right tackle Bobby Hart has been the fine.

The problem has been in the middle of the line. Left guard Justin Pugh and center Weston Richburg are supposed to be the Giants’ best two offensive linemen, and they haven’t played like it. Right guard John Jerry has been awful, and now he might be facing a challenge for his job from Brett Jones and D.J. Fluker.

The Giants loaded up on play-making weapons during the offseason. That, however, won’t make any difference if the offensive line isn’t better than it’s been the first couple of weeks.

Paul Perkins

It really isn’t his fault, but the Giants’ starting running back (11 carries, 13 yards, 1.2 yards per carry) really hasn’t had any success yet. It would be nice to see him have a good game.

All Those Defensive Ends

The Giants have a whole bunch of ‘em. They can’t all make the roster. Who will impress on Saturday?

Are The Jets Really That Bad?

ESPN opined recently that Gang Green is the worst team in the NFL. Giants’ fans get a chance to judge for themselves.