NEW YORK GIANTS (5-2) at NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (5-2)
Sunday, 4:15 P.M. ET, FOX, Direct TV (714), Sirius (NYG 86, NE 94)
Why Watch
The Giants and Patriots are two smart teams. The Patriots are smarting from their 25-17 loss to the Steelers. The Giants are smarting from a near-disaster against the lowly Dolphins. The Giants stay a game ahead of division rivals even if they lose. If the Pats win at home and the Jets beat the Bills, New England will be on top of the AFC Beast.
What To Watch
The Steelers beat the Patriots by clamping down on Tom Brady (5.7 yards per attempt) and selling out on the pass. Pittsburgh controlled the game clock (39 minutes) when QB Ben Roethlisberger threw the ball 50 times—without Hines Ward on the field. The Giants do not have safeties of the caliber of Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark, so Wes Welker could have a better day than against the Steelers, if he plays (neck). In all other respects, New York’s defense can do what the Steelers did. So can the Giants’ offense that has evolved to a passing threat. Once known for power running, New York averages 8.8 yards per pass attempt, competitive with New England’s 8.7 YPA. Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw will be OUT with a broken foot.
Who Will Win
The Giants and Patriots have been a great series. No one took Eli Manning seriously when he compared himself to Tom Brady. Unless Manning can find another receiver who can catch a pass against his helmet, as Kevin Boss did in Super Bowl XLII (42), this game will go New England’s way.
