Giants At Patriots: Things To Watch In Preseason Finale

Jobs will be on the line Thursday night when the New York Giants face the New England Patriots in their final preseason game. Let’s look at some of the things to watch during the game.

Who’s No. 2?

Geno Smith and Josh Johnson get their final opportunities to earn the Giants’ backup quarterback job. Speaking of backup QBs, this will be the last chance to see rookie Davis Webb ... unless something goes terribly wrong.

Offensive Line

• How long will the starters play, if they play at all? If they do, will they get anything constructive done?
• Can rookie offensive tackles Adam Bisnowaty and Chad Wheeler, who have both had their share of struggles this preseason, nail down roster spots? For that matter, are they competing against each other for one spot?
• Is veteran D.J. Fluker on the roster bubble? Playing well would solve that question.

Tight End Competition

Both Will Tye and Matt LaCosse likely need to do something to prove they belong on the roster. If the Giants keep only three tight ends, they might already be out of luck no matter what happens Thursday.

Placekicker Competition

Aldrick Rosas and Mike Nugent have engaged in a heavyweight slugfest the entire month of August. There has to be a winner and a loser. Will someone blink Thursday night?

How Many Defensive Ends?

Even with the injury to Evan Schwan and the release of Owamagbe Odighizuwa, the Giants probably have more defensive ends than they can keep. Will someone play himself on to, or off, the roster vs. the Patriots?

Backup Cornerbacks

Donte Deayon has probably done enough to make the roster, but it certainly wouldn’t hurt him to make another splash play or two.

J.T. Thomas

With Mark Herzlich (stinger) and Keenan Robinson (concussion) both perhaps headed to IR, Thomas is the only experienced reserve linebacker the Giants have. He can play the middle, which is important because someone has to be the backup for B.J. Goodson. Can he show that he is healthy enough to earn a roster spot, and be counted on if the Giants need him?