SEARCHING FOR FIRST WIN
Big Blue will look to avoid starting 0-4 for the second consecutive season when they travel to New Orleans to take on the Saints.
"I think the DNA of our team is a team that comes back and goes to work," Joe Judge said this week. "Look, no one is going to be happy after a loss, that's the reality of what it is. The element of what we do as professionals (is) we've got to come back and go to work. We've got to watch the tape, we've got key on it and we've got to prepare for a tough opponent coming up next week. In terms of the morale of the team, I trust in the way the guys work, the way I've seen them work on a day in and day out basis and they stick together as a team. That's the biggest part I'm looking for is how they work."
ALL-TIME SERIES
The Giants lead the all-time series against the Saints, 16-14. In the most recent meeting between the two teams, New Orleans made the trip north and defeated the Giants, 33-18, in 2018. The last time the two clubs played in the Superdome was in 2015, when Eli Manning and Drew Brees put together one of the most jaw-dropping QB performances in NFL history. The two future Hall of Famers combined for an NFL-record 13 touchdown passes, to go with their 855 total passing yards, and the 101 combined points finished tied for the fourth-most in league history.
INJURY REPORT
New York Giants:
Out: OL Ben Bredeson (hand), WR Sterling Shepard (hamstring), WR Darius Slayton (hamstring)
Questionable: DB Keion Crossen (elbow), LB Tae Crowder (hamstring), DB Nate Ebner (quad), TE Kaden Smith (knee)
New Orleans Saints:
Out: C Erik McCoy, T Terron Armstead
MORE CHANGES ON O-LINE?
The Giants have used a different starting offensive line every game this season. One of the newcomers to the O-line, center Billy Price, put together his strongest performance as a Giant last week. Price earned a 76.2 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, including a 73.5 pass block grade and 76.4 run block grade, in just his second start with the team.
"I've just been really impressed with those guys," Offensive Coordinantor Jason Garrett said Thursday. "Billy Price comes in, he's the seasoned veteran, he's been here for about three weeks. Bredeson has come in here, he's played a lot of snaps. We'll have some new guys in there. Give (Offensive Line Coach) Rob Sale and the guys on the offensive line a lot of credit, but give those players credit. They've come in here, they've learned, they've spent a lot of extra time. They're working hard in practice and they're carrying that to the game. They're real professionals and we're excited to have them on our team."
Interior lineman Matt Skura is one option to fill in for injured left guard Ben Bredeson. Skura, who joined the team just a few weeks ago, played four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens and started 51 of 54 games from 2017-2020. He also was a teammate of Daniel Jones at Duke during the quarterback's redshirt freshman season.
STEPPING UP AT WR
The Giants' receiving corps took a hit last week as Sterling Shepard and Darius Slayton suffered hamstring injuries early in the game. So, the Giants will need production from some of the other receivers on the roster this weekend. Kenny Golladay ranks second on the team in receptions and receiving yards, but the 6-foot-4 veteran will likely be seeing a lot of coverage from three-time Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore.
Kadarius Toney could be one player in line for an uptick in touches in Week 4. After being on the field for a total of 24 offensive snaps in Weeks 1 and 2, the rookie saw 46 offensive snaps (66 percent) in Week 3. Another player who stepped up following last week's injuries was Collin Johnson. After joining the team right before the start of the season, Johnson was active for the first time against the Falcons, finishing the game with five receptions for 51 yards. Additionally, John Ross could make his Giants debut in Week 4 after starting the season on injured reserve.
"I was pleased with the progress I saw from (Wide Receiver Kadarius) Toney and (Wide Receiver) Collin Johnson yesterday at the receiver position," Judge said on Monday. "Obviously, (Wide Receiver) Kenny (Golladay) was making a lot of plays for us. (Wide Receiver) C.J. Board made some nice plays for us. At some point, we're hoping to get (Wide Receiver) John Ross (III) back off IR. We'll see where he's at health-wise in terms of if that's sooner or later. But that, combined with the tight ends and skill players, it's our job to make things work and function with who we have available.
"Obviously, we're without Shep or Slayton. Those are two key parts of our offense that we don't want to be without, two leaders on our team and hard workers, but we have confidence in guys in the locker room and guys on the roster to turn around and use these guys to keep going forward."
PROTECTING THE FOOTBALL
Ball security was one of Daniel Jones' biggest priorities this off-season, and through the first three games, the third-year quarterback has improved greatly in this area. Jones enters Week 4 with zero interceptions and just one fumble lost, and has gone two consecutive games without a turnover. However, Sunday's matchup against the Saints defense will serve as the young quarterback's toughest challenge yet.
The Saints are tied for the second-most turnovers in the NFL with seven through three weeks. Their six interceptions are tied for the league lead, as the unit has registered at least one in every game. So far this season, New Orleans has intercepted Packers QB Aaron Rodgers twice, Panthers QB Sam Darnold once and Patriots QB Mac Jones three times. While their turnover rate has been impressive, the Saints have only picked up five sacks this year.
"You talk about this defense, you start with the secondary on the backend," Judge said about the Saints. "The corners are very, very aggressive, they're very capable of man-matching you, they're very good in their match zones. The safeties are experienced and they have good versatility as blitzers or deep-field cover players. They don't make a lot of mistakes. They put you in a position you really have to execute."
View photos from the all-time series between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints.
New York Giants Fran Tarkenton (10) during a game agains the New Orleans Saints on October 6. 1968 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The New York Giants beat the New Orleans Saints 38-31. Fran Tarkenton played for 18 season with 2 different teams. He was a 9-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants Fran Tarkenton (10) during a game agains the New Orleans Saints on October 6. 1968 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The New York Giants beat the New Orleans Saints 38-31. Fran Tarkenton played for 18 season with 2 different teams. He was a 9-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986.(David Durochik via AP)
Jim Taylor of the New Orleans Saints reaches for the ball, thrown by quarterback Gary Cuozzo, as it falls incomplete in the third quarter of the Saints-Giants National Football League game in New York on Oct. 8, 1967. Defensive back Wendell Harris of the Giants, left, is set for the tackle. The Giants won 27-21. (AP Photo)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall (70) celebrates with defensive end George Martin (75) after recovering a fumble by New Orleans Saints running back Buford Jordan (23) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 28, 1986 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 20-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Dave Wilson (18) throws a pass despite pressure from leaping New York Giants defensive end George Martin (75) and Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall (70) during the NFL football game on September 28, 1986 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 20-17. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants Rob Carpenter (26) runs the ball during the NFL football game between the New Orleans Saints and the New York Giants on December 15, 1984 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants quarterback Dave Brown, left, running back Rodney Hampton, center, and center Brian Williams (59) celebrate Hampton's five-yard touchdown in the second quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sept. 24, 1995. Hampton scored four touchdowns in the Giants 5-29 win over the Saints. (AP Photo/Kevin Larkin)
New York Giants wide receiver Chris Calloway (30) scores the Giants' second touchdown with New Orleans safety Anthony Newman (30) in pursuit in the second quarter of their game Sunday, Sept. 28, 1997, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Saints 14-9 improving their record to 2-3.(AP Photo/John Dunn)
New York Giants wide receiver Joe Jurevicius catches a pass for a 46-yard touchdown as New Orleans Saints safety Joe Bellamy looks on during the fourth quarter Sunday, Aug. 30, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 21-13. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants punt returner Tiki Barber (21) slips out of the grasp of New Orleans Saints linebacker Phil Clark, left, as he returns a punt for 20 yards during the first quarter Sunday, Aug. 30, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Barber pulled a hamstring while making a 14-yard touchdown run during the second quarter. The Giants won 21-13.(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Aaron Brooks (2) is stopped by New York Giants safety Sam Garnes, left, linebackers Brandon Short, top, Jessie Armstead, right, and Mike Barrow, bottom right, during the first quarter Sunday, Aug. 30, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Joe Jurevicius is congratulated by Greg Comella, left, and Amani Toomer after his touchdown run in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 21-13 win over the New Orleans Saints at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Sept. 30, 2001. (AP Photo/Jeff Zelevansky)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) gets away from New Orleans Saints defender Kenny Smith (90) as Giants Scott Peters (63) blocks in first half NFL action in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans Sunday Dec. 14, 2003. Barber had a short gain on the play. (AP Photo/Andrew Cohoon)
The New York Giants' Tiki Barber, left, gets past the New Orleans Saints' Jay Bellamy, top right, and Mike McKenzie at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. , Monday, Sept. 19, 2005. The Giants won 27-10. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
The New Orleans Saints kicker John Carney, right, is consoled by teamate Todd Bouman as the New York Giants' Reggie Torbor, left, runs by after Carney missed a kick in the fourth quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Monday, Sept 19, 2005. The Giants won 27-10. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
The New Orleans Saints' Deuce McAllister moves upfield as the New York Giants' Carlos Emmons brings him down in the second quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. , Monday, Sept. 19, 2005. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress picks up a first down against the New Orleans Saints Monday night, Sept. 19, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants take on the St. Louis Rams on Sunday. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
The New York Giants' Eli Manning, right, talks with the New Orleans Saints' Deuce McAllister after the Giants beat the Saints 27-10 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. , Monday, Sept 19, 2005. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) scrambles for three yards before being tackled by New York Giants' Mathias Kiwanuka, right, and Fred Robbins during second quarter NFL football Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Saints won 30-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Tiki Barber sweeps around the right side against the New Orleans Saints in the fourth quarter during NFL football action Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006 in East Rutherford, N.J. Barber rushed for 71 yards in the game. The Saints won 30-7. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants cornerback Jason Bell and safety Will Demps celebrate after stopping the New Orleans Saints during their football Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, right, greets New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton after NFL football action Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006, in East Rutherford, N.J. Barber rushed for 71 yards in the game. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) picks up yardage as Giants' Tim Carter blocks New Orleans Saints cornerback Mike McKenzie, left, during second quarter NFL football Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
The New Orleans Saint, left, huddle before a play against the New York Giants, right, during the first half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey (88) chats with New York Giants center Shaun O'Hara, left, and Giants Justin Tuck, right, at the end of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. Saints won 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) picks up good yardage on a pass play as New Orleans Saints cornerback Jabari Greer (32) gives chase in the second half of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. Saints won 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) directs running back Brandon Jacobs (27) in the first half against the New Orleans Saints in the first half of their NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. [(AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New Orleans Saints running back Mike Bell (21) is tackled by New York Giants linebackers Danny Clark (55) and Chase Blackburn (57) during the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls a play as center Shaun O'Hara (60) looks on in the second half of their NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
The New York Giants huddle before a play against the New Orleans Saints during the first half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) audibles at the line in the first half of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. The Saints won 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) slips into the end zone past New Orleans Saints safety Darren Sharper (42) in the first half of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. The Saints won 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants guard Chris Snee (76), tackle Kareem McKenzie (67) and corner Shaun O'Hara (60) line up against the New Orleans Saints during the first half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) runs with the ball against the New Orleans Saints during the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw, left, is hoisted up in celebration by teammate Shaun O'Hara as Madison Hedgecock (39) watches after Bradshaw scored a touchdown in the first half of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) races with a pass in front of New Orleans Saints cornerback Jabari Greer (32) in the second half of their NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) makes a catch over New Orleans Saints corner back Tracy Porter (22) during the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct.18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) shake hands after an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) hands off to running back Brandon Jacobs (27) during the first quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New Orleans Saints guard Jahri Evans (73) scuffles with several New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) celebrates his touchdown during the third quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Jonathan Casillas (52) tries to block a field goal by New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes (9) during the second quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) is hit by New York Giants linebacker Mark Herzlich (58) after releasing a pass during the second quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls out a play at the line of scrimmage during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) tries to block the pass of New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants free safety Antrel Rolle (26) pats quarterback Eli Manning (10) on the head prior to an NFL football game between the New Orleans Saints and the New York Giants in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) looks over his shoulder at New Orleans Saints cornerback Tracy Porter (22) as he runs for a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talk after their NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011.(AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants free safety Antrel Rolle (26) breaks up a pass intended for New Orleans Saints running back Darren Sproles (43)during the third quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) dances in the end zone to celebrate his 10-yard touchdown catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. At left is Saints cornerback Johnny Patrick (32). (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back David Wilson (22) does a summersault after scoring on a six-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
FILE - In this Dec. 9, 2012, file photo, New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) draws in the crowd after a short gain during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) chats with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning following their NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Saints 52-27. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back David Wilson (22) is hoisted into the air by Martellus Bennett after scoring on a 52-yard touchdown run during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 52-27. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back David Wilson (22) flips after scoring on a 6-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back David Wilson (22) runs for a 52-yard touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
FILE - In this Dec. 9, 2012, file photo, New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) is tackled by New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Jonathan Vilma during an NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File)
FILE - In this Dec. 9, 2012 file photo, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during the second half of an NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates with David Diehl after his 5-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Domenik Hixonduring the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks w New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) following a week 8 NFL football game on November 1, 2015 at the Mercedes- Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana (Evan Pinkus via AP)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the New Orleans Saints during a week 8 NFL football game on November 1, 2015 at the Mercedes- Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana ( Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Dwayne Harris (17) catches a touchdown pass during a week 8 NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints on November 1, 2015 at the Mercedes- Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) carries against New Orleans Saints cornerback Brandon Browner (39) in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) sets up to pass during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes Benz Superdome on November 1, 2015. The Saints defeated the Texans 52-49. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls a play in the huddle in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. (AP Photo/Jonathan Bachman)
New York Giants wide receiver Dwayne Harris (17) pulls in a touchdown reception in front of New Orleans Saints defensive back Kyle Wilson (24) in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. (AP Photo/Jonathan Bachman)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes in the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015.(AP Photo/Butch Dill)
New Orleans Saints safety Jarius Byrd (31) slams into New York Giants tight end Will Tye (45) during an NFL game at the Mercedes Benz Superdome on November 1, 2015. The Saints defeated the Texans 52-49. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) sets up to pass during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes Benz Superdome on November 1, 2015. Manning passed for 350 yards and six touchdowns. The Saints defeated the Texans 52-49. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Willie Snead (83) fumbles as he is hit by New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. The fumble resulted in a touchdown return for the Giants. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) sets up to pass during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes Benz Superdome on November 1, 2015. Manning passed for 350 yards and six touchdowns. The Saints defeated the Texans 52-49. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) stiff arms New Orleans Saints cornerback Brandon Browner (39) during a week 8 NFL football game on November 1, 2015 at the Mercedes- Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Dwayne Harris (17) pulls in a touchdown reception in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. (AP Photo/Jonathan Bachman)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) and New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) greet each other after an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. The Saints won 52-49. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) celebrates after making a catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass as New Orleans Saints' Paul Kruger (99) rushes him during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) catches a pass in front of New Orleans Saints cornerback Ken Crawley (46) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 16-13. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) defends New Orleans Saints' Willie Snead (83) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Víctor Cruz, de los Giants de Nueva York, captura un pase frente a Ken Crawley, cornerback de los Saints de Nueva Orleáns, en el partido del domingo 18 de septiembre de 2016 (AP Foto/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Rhett Ellison, center, runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) fends off New Orleans Saints cornerback Ken Crawley (20) during an NFL game, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Tielemans via AP)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New Orleans Saints take on the New York Giants during a week 4 NFL football game on Sunday September 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives into the end during a week 4 NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday September 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks to get in the end zone during a week 4 NFL football game against the.New Orleans Saints on Sunday September 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, left, greets New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning after an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball while New Orleans Saints defensive back Vonn Bell (24) defends during an NFL football game on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) and New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) greet each other following an NFL football game on Monday, Sept. 1, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Saints defeated the Giants 33-18. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, front, runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, front, makes a catch in front of New Orleans Saints' Ken Crawley during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley jumps over defenders for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks to throw during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, left, scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, left, looks to throw during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores the game winning touchdown during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Daniel Jones (8)
QB Tommy DeVito (15)
C John Michael Schmitz Jr. (61)
New York Giants cornerback Deonte Banks (25) during a week 15 NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, December 17, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants quarterback Tyrod Taylor (2) during a week 15 NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, December 17, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58), OLB Azeez Ojulari (51)
AZEEZ'S HOT START
Azeez Ojulari has already entered the franchise record books with the start to his NFL career. The rookie out of Georgia is the first player in Giants history with a sack in each of his first three career games. He is also the first NFL player with at least 1.0 sack in each of his first three career games since Cleveland's Myles Garrett in 2017. His 77.5 pass rush grade ranks 23rd among all edge defenders, tops among edge defenders from the 2021 draft and third among all rookies, while his three sacks leads the rookie class.
"I'm just doing whatever they want me to do," Ojulari told reporters Monday. "Playing my heart (out), playing my best, playing my heart out (out) there. Just whatever comes to me, make the plays that come my way. I'm just trying to do what I've got to do and do my part...
"Everyone in this league is good and athletic. The tackles are bigger, stronger, faster. Everyone is athletic in this league and they can adjust to different things. You basically, really (have) to bring your A-game every single time. Every rep you get, every rush you get, you've got to bring your best out there."
JAMEIS WINSTON HISTORY VS. NYG
Jameis Winston is off to a strong start this season. While he has only thrown for 387 yards in three games, his seven touchdown passes are tied for fifth in the league. Winston is no stranger to the Giants, as Sunday's contest will be the fifth time he faces Big Blue in just seven seasons. The former No. 1 overall pick has gone 1-3 in his first three meetings against the Giants, but has put up some impressive stats. Winston has 1,158 yards, eight touchdowns and two interceptions in those four games, good for a passer rating of 104.4, while adding another touchdown on the ground.
"He's a big man that is looking to push the ball down the field," Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham said this week. "I think he does a good job of doing that. I think he's making better decisions as of late in terms of the last time I went against him. The thing is, when he's hot, he's hot. He can really torch you. So, we've got to be mindful of that. This guy has a big arm. He's athletic in the pocket. He's not the most – like, he's elusive in the pocket and he can make plays with his feet. I think he's making good decisions in their check-with-me game. You see him make checks into runs. I think he's grown as a player."
SLOWING DOWN ALVIN KAMARA
There is no denying who the focal point of the Saints' offense is - to two-time All-Pro running back Alvin Kamara. Through three weeks, Kamara has already registered 62 touches (52 rush attempts, 10 receptions), including 23+ touches in two of three games. Kamara is explosive with the ball in his hands, evidenced by his over 1,300 total yards from scrimmage in each of his first four seasons and his career average of 4.9 yards per carry. He led the NFL with a whopping 21 touchdowns last season, and presents a difficult challenge for any opposing defense.
"Kamara is a guy you've got to account for," Judge said Wednesday. "This guy is one of the top players in the league. He's a guy that jumps out at you all the time – receiver, runner, screens, whatever it may be. This guy with the ball in his hands is an absolute weapon. We've got to make sure we account for him in everything that we do because of everything that they do with him."
"This guy is pretty good," Graham added. "I've been in the league for 13 years now and he has a unique skill set. He's challenging to prepare for because of the pass game and the run game because even when you think you've got him bottled up, he gets the leaky yards… He's the guy we've got to try to stop. We've got to try to stop him."
Stopping Kamara will be a little tougher this week now that Blake Martinez, a defensive captain and last year's leading tackler, is lost for the season. The Giants will need Tae Crowder, Reggie Ragland and the rest of the linebacker group to step up.
FIRST GAME BACK AT SUPERDOME
Playing at the Superdome is never an easy feat, but this weekend's game will likely be even louder than normal. Sunday will represent the first time the Saints are playing in the Superdome in front of a full home crowd since the 2019 playoffs. Due to Hurricane Ida, the team was forced to play their first home game down in Jacksonville, but recently received approval to return home for Week 4. Coach Judge acknowledged the crowd noise the Giants are going to have to deal with this weekend, and admitted it will present them with a big challenge.
"We expect one of the greatest atmospheres we've ever been in," said the head coach. "For those of us who are kind of historians of the game, you look back on that Katrina game, the first game back in the dome. I would expect this to be very, very similar. That town takes a lot of pride in New Orleans, a lot of pride in their team and the team takes a lot of pride in representing their city, so this is going to be a tough game for us."
Single Game Tickets
A limited number of Giants 2021 single game tickets are on sale now
