GET THE FIRST "W"
The New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons will enter Sunday's matchup looking to avoid an 0-3 start after both team lost their first two games of the season. The Giants lost to the Washington Football Team, 30-29, on Thursday Night Football after Dustin Hopkins hit a game-winning 43-yard field goal with no time left on the clock. After coming within three points of tying the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Falcons gave up 20 unanswered points, including two interceptions returned for touchdowns by Buccaneers CB Mike Edwards, and Tom Brady finished with five touchdown passes as Tampa Bay emerged with the 48-25 victory.
ALL-TIME SERIES
The Falcons hold a slight advantage over the Giants in the all-time series, having won 13 of 25 meetings between the two clubs. Atlanta has won each of the last two matchups, with the last game occurring in 2018 when the Falcons won, 23-20. The Giants won the only postseason contest between the two franchises back during the 2011 postseason. Big Blue handled the Falcons easily in the NFC Wild Card Game, winning by a score of 24-2, which began the team's playoff run to a Super Bowl XLVI title.
INJURY REPORT
New York Giants:
- Out: LB Cam Brown (hamstring)
- Questionable: DB Nate Ebner (quad), TE Evan Engram (calf), WR Kenny Golladay (hip)
Atlanta Falcons:
- Out: CB A.J. Terrell (concussion), WR Russell Gage (ankle), WR Frank Darby (calf)
CHANGES ON THE O-LINE
We are only in Week 3, yet the starting offensive line has already gone through some significant changes. After putting starting left guard Shane Lemieux on injured reserve last week, Nick Gates shifted over from center to guard. During the first half at Washington, Gates fractured his leg and has since been placed on IR. Just a few days ago, the team announced that Lemieux likely would miss the remainder of the regular season after undergoing surgery.
When Gates moved over to fill in for Lemieux at guard, Billy Price took over at center and ended up playing every offensive snap last Thursday. Once Gates got hurt, Ben Bredeson stepped in and played 56 of 69 snaps at left guard. Price and Bredeson were acquired in trades at the end of August just days before the start of the regular season.
"I was actually really pleased with the way they came through the other night," Coach Joe Judge said earlier this week about Price and Bredeson. "There are some things we have to clean up and keep building forward at all positions – the offensive line is no exception. However, I'd say the way Billy and Ben have jumped in here in a short period of time and really made a lot of gains for us, jumping in and learning the vocabulary with one week of practice and then you have another week of a couple walk-throughs going in there… like the way both guys work and obviously we're trying to get to be the best unit we can be. I talk to guys all the time, it doesn't matter offensive line-wise how you are individually, it's we've got to be the best unit because everything works collectively with those guys."
ENGRAM'S DEBUT
After missing the first two games of the season, it appears as if tight end Evan Engram will make his 2021 debut against the Falcons. Engram suffered a calf injury during the final preseason game (Aug. 29).
Engram was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2020 after catching 63 passes for 654 yards and a touchdown, adding an additional score on the ground. The 27-year-old's return will be a welcomed addition to the offense after he led the team with 109 targets last year.
10 DAYS OF REST
After playing two games in five days to start the season, the Giants return to the field 10 days after their Week 2 loss in Washington. The extended rest between games should provide enough time for numerous key players, such as Engram, cornerback Adoree' Jackson and several others, to properly heal before taking on the Falcons. But perhaps the biggest beneficiary to the 10-day stretch between games is running back Saquon Barkley.
Barkley saw his snap count jump considerably from Weeks 1 to 2. After being on the field for 48 percent of the team's offensive snaps against the Broncos, he played 84 percent of snaps last Thursday. Barkley's productivity increased as well, gaining 69 yards on his 15 total touches (13 carries, two receptions). The running back has taken 23 carries for 83 yards this season, adding three receptions for 13 yards, and is still looking for his first touchdown.
View rare photos of the all-time series between the New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons.
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons defenders to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Larry Csonka (39) settles to earth atop Atlanta Falcons Ray Easterling after a 12-yard first quarter gain at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium for a first down, Sunday, Oct. 2, 1977 in Atlanta. Helping overcome Csonka are Falcon defenders Frank Reed (28), Fulton Kuykendall (54) and Ralph Ortega. (AP Photo)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Steve Bartkowski (10) is sacked by New York Giants end Dee Hardison, in Atlanta, Sept. 11, 1983. The four-yard loss came in the first quarter at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) puts the winning 3 points on the scoreboard as quarterback Scott Brunner (12) holds the ball with a 30-yard field goal in overtime to beat the Atlanta Falcons, 16-13, Sept. 11, 1983. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)
New York Giants kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) leaps into the arms of quarterback Scott Brunner after kicking a 30-yard field goal to beat the Atlanta Falcons 16-13 at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium in sudden death overtime, Sept. 11, 1983. He kicked two other field goals and an extra point in their game. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)
New York Giants' kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) is congratulated by teammates Brad Van Pelt (10), Kevin Belcher (73) and Scott Brunner (12) after kicking a 30-yard field goal to beat the Atlanta Falcons 16-13 in sudden death overtime, Sept. 12, 1983. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Danny Kanell (13) is brought down by New York Giants Cornelius Griffin (97) in the 4th quarter at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. The Giants downed the Falcons 13-6. (AP Photo/Curtis Compton)
New York Giants' Ron Dayne (27) scores a first quarter touchdown with Atlanta Falcons Henri Crockett (94) in tow at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP PhotoCurtis Compton)
New York Giants' Ron Dayne (27) celebrates his first quarter touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP Photo/Curtis Compton)
New York Giants safety Lyle West (37) comes up with a punt return fumble in the first quarter as Atlanta Falcons' Winslow Oliver (26) comes up empty at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins (5) looks down field under pressure from Atlanta Falcons' Patrick Kerney (97) during first half play at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP Photo/Curtis Compton)
New York Giants cornerback Will Allen (25) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Warrick Dunn (28) by the foot in the second quarter of the Falcons 27-7 win, Sunday, Nov. 9, 2003, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N. J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks for a receiver during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' quarterback Eli Manning (10) rolls out of a pocket avoiding a tackle by Atlanta Falcons' Brady Smith (91 during the third quarter of play on Sunday, November, 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. The Falcons beat the Giants 14-10. (AP Photo/Michael Kim)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning calls an audible during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons running back Maurice Smith (43) is hit by New York Giants defender Dewayne Patmon as he rushes in the second half in Atlanta Saturday, Aug. 17, 2002. The Falcons won 36-24. (AP Photo/Alan Mothner)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey catches a touchdown pass during the third quarter as he is surrounded by Atlanta Falcons' Chris Draft (54), Eric Johnson (56) and Cory Hall, right rear, Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Falcons beat the Giants, 14-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterbacks Kurt Warner (13) and Eli Manning talk with quarterbacks coach John Hufnagel, right, during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning passes the ball as he is pressured by Atlanta Falcons defensive end Brady Smith (91) during the fourth quarter Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Manning completed 17 of 37 attempts for 162 yards as the Falcons beat the Giants, 14-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) scores in the second half ahead of Atlanta Falcons linebacker Ike Reese (98) during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) jumps up to the fans after scoring a second half touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick (7) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) pose for a photograph at the end of the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) scrambles in the first half against the Atlanta Falcons during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) runs in the second half under pressure from Atlanta Falcons end Paul Carrington (91) during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants' R.W. McQuarters celebrates as he leaves the field after the Giants defeated the Atlanta Falcons 31-10 in a football game Monday, Oct. 15, 2007 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
New York Giants cornerback Aaron Ross carries the ball during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington, right, is sacked by New York Giants' Aaron Ross during the fourth quarter of a football game in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. Atlanta lost 31-10 and went to 1-5 for the season. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington is sacked by New York Giants' Antonio Pierce in the second quarter of a football game Monday, Oct. 15, 2007 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) carries the ball against Atlanta Falcons linebacker Michael Boley (59) during an NFL football game, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Brandon Jacobs #27 of the New York Giants runs for yardage against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. New York defeated Atlanta 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Brandon Jacobs #27 of the New York Giants runs for yardage against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
The offense of the Atlanta Falcons prepares to snap the ball at the line of scrimmage against the defense of the New York Giants on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants attempts to rush in against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 15: Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants passes the football in the pocket against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 15: Defensive back Aaron Ross #31 of the New York Giants jumps in the air as he intercepts the football against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) carries the ball during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Shaun O'Hara #60 of the New York Giants calls out blocking assignments against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce (58), tackles Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington (13) and defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during an NFL football game, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Amani Toomer #81 of the New York Giants scores on a touchdown reception during 1st-quarter action against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Amani Toomer #81 of the New York Giants runs with a reception against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 15: Defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants runs in pursuit against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
Jeremy Shockey of the New York Giants runs with a reception against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Aaron Ross #31 and Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants sack Joey Harrington #13 of the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants celebrates after making a tackle against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89) moves past Atlanta Falcons safety Thomas DeCoud (28) for a touchdown during the second quarter of the NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10), right, looks around the field during the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates with center Shaun O'Hara (60) after throwing a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won in overtime, 34-31. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89) runs the ball during the second quarter of the NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Atlanta Falcons center Bryan Pittman (48) greets New York Giants linebacker Zak DeOssie (51) before the start of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) gets a first down past Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman (26) during overtime of the NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87), second from left, tries to outrun Atlanta Falcons linebacker Curtis Lofton, left, Atlanta Falcons safety Thomas DeCoud (28) and Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brent Grimes (20), right, during the first quarter of the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Michael Jenkins (12) can't hold on onto the ball over New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster (23) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89), second from left, celebrates his second touchdown with New York Giants running back Danny Ware (28), left, during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, center, fumbles the ball as he is hit by New York Giants defensive tackle Barry Cofield (96) and defensive end Justin Tuck (91) in the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants recovered the ball on the play. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scores a touchdown past Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman (26) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws under pressure from New York Giants defensive tackle Fred Robbins (98) and New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) picks up a first down while being tackled by Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman, bottom left, and cornerback Brent Grimes (20) in the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) signals first down against the Atlanta Falcons during a NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday November 22, 2009
(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) fumbles the ball while being pressured by New York Giants defensive tackle Barry Cofield (96), top, and New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) is pushed out of bounds by Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman (26) after gaining a first down in overtime of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) pulls down a four yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants guard David Diehl (66) hugs Eli Manning after his 27-yard touchdown pass to Mario Manningham during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Fans cheer as New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) runs into the end zone to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. right is Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28) tries to stop New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw on a 30-yard run during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) celebrates his 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons with teammate Hakeem Nicks during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) pulls in a 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons strong safety James Sanders (36) and Dunta Robinson during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks as he takes the ball on a running play against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks indicates a first down after a 19-yard reception against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) pass against defender Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann (71) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning scrambles to pass during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons defenders to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, right, breaks away from Atlanta Falcons safety William Moore during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) evades a tackle by Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) is chased by Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Sean Weatherspoon (56) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, chats with Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan after their NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning runs off the field after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) and teammate Justin Tuck run off the field after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) catches the ball as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson defends during the first half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) speaks to Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning runs off the field after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 30-20 in an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins (95) sacks Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, left, and Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith talk at the end of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (21) deflects a pass intended for Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Andre Williams (44) celebrates after scoring on a touchdown run against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, bottom, lays on the grass after being sacked by New York Giants defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins (95), partially obscured, during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, left, talks to New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka at the end of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) avoids a tackle by Atlanta Falcons defensive back Kemal Ishmael during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a catch during a week 5 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on October 5, 2014 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) avoids the tackle of Atlanta Falcons defensive end Malliciah Goodman (93) while throwing a pass during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) during a week 5 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on October 5, 2014 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) talks to New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning at the end of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Shane Vereen (34) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons safety Ricardo Allen (37) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell, left, makes a touchdown catch on a pass from quarterback Eli Manning, not pictured, as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford defends during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Atlanta Falcons during a week 2 NFL football game on September 20, 2015 at Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey ( Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks to his line during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) runs against Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Joplo Bartu (59) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) jumps in the air to catch the football as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford (23) defends during an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the football as he jumps in the air while Atlanta Falcons strong safety Damontae Kazee (27) dives to tackle during an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) makes a reception against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford (23) during an NFL football game, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter (59) during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) carries the ball after making a reception during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants offensive guard Will Hernandez (71) and offensive tackle Nate Solder (76) block during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
The Atlanta Falcons offensive line lines up across the New York Giants defensive line during a week 7 NFL football game on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) carries the ball after making a reception during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs after the catch during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) blocks Atlanta Falcons defensive end Takkarist McKinley (98) during a week 7 NFL football game on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) runs out of the pocket against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) speaks with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) after an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons won 23-20. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) works against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants offensive tackle Nate Solder (76) and tight end Evan Engram (88) line up on the line of scrimmage during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) gets by Atlanta Falcons strong safety Damontae Kazee (27) during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) works against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter, left, prepares to sack Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
DJ'S HOT START
Heading into training camp, Daniel Jones acknowledged that this was a big season for him as the quarterback of the Giants. Through the first two games, the third-year quarterback has thrown for 516 yards on a 63.8 completion percentage, with another 122 rushing yards on 15 carries (8.1 avg.). He's accounted for four total touchdowns, two passing and two rushing, while registering just one turnover. Jones' overall PFF grade of 83.8 ranks sixth among quarterbacks, while his 85.4 passing grade is second in the NFL (behind Tom Brady, 91.8). He is third in the league in QB rushing yards, while his 8.1 ypc is second among all players with at least 15 carries. Jones was named PFF's Offensive Player of the Week for Week 2 after earning an overall grade of 91.3 (with an elite 90.7 passing grade).
"I think Daniel has really improved in playing winning football at the quarterback position and that's line one," Offensive Coordinator Jason Garrett said this week. "That's where it starts. You have to be able to take care of the ball. You have it in your hand every play and I think if you go back to probably the middle of the year last year, you see the strides he's made in that area and that's line one. That's where it has to start. But then you have to have an ability to make plays, too. I think he demonstrated that with his arm and with his feet. From the pocket, throwing the ball quickly, throwing the ball down the field. He made some plays. He handled pressure. He threw it well against man and zone. It wasn't perfect by any means, but he's certainly making a lot of strides and going about it the right way."
AZEEZ GOES FOR THREE STRAIGHT
Second-round pick Azeez Ojulari has gotten his NFL career off to a hot start, recording a sack in each of his first two games. Ojulari became the first Giants player since the stat became official to accomplish this feat, while playing just 58 percent of the team's defensive snaps. The rookie has also caught the eye of Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham in the run game.
"I've seen a young player who's made a few plays, and he wants more," said Graham. "The thing that's encouraging (to) me with Azeez for these young edge guys, is his ability to play the run. He's playing stout in the run game. You think about a young edge player, they're thinking about, 'Okay, I've got to get sacks. Everybody wants to know how many sacks I'm going to have.' He's playing stout in the run game, that's what's encouraging for me."
MATT RYAN VS. NYG
Sunday will mark Falcons QB Matt Ryan's sixth game going up against the Giants. Through the first five, the veteran has gone 3-2 with 1,596 yards, eight passing touchdowns and just one interception. He has also completed 68.1 percent of his passes to earn a passer rating of 102.5. So far this season, Ryan has thrown for 464 yards and just two touchdowns to go with three interceptions for a passer rating of 76.4. Despite some of Ryan's early-season struggles, the Giants know they cannot underestimate the veteran quarterback.
"I think he was an MVP quarterback for a reason," linebacker Blake Martinez said this week. "(He has) a lot of experience. I think getting out there you don't want to get him in to that MVP groove. That's kind of the game plan – make sure he doesn't get comfortable and we're able to kind of dictate the game."
MATCHING UP WITH KYLE PITTS
Kyle Pitts was taken with the fourth overall selection in this year's draft. He has caught nine passes for 104 yards, including an impressive performance against the Buccaneers last week in which he had five receptions for 73 yards. The 6-foot-6, highly-athletic tight end is a tough matchup for any defender, and the Big Blue defense knows they will have to lock the rookie down Sunday.
"I think Pitts, the young guy, stands out," Judge said. "There's a reason they took this guy so high in the draft, a reason why people liked him coming out. You can talk about this guy being a big receiver, but this is a guy who's very capable of blocking and running their offense as a tight end. You see him in the last couple of games as the packages start to unfold and really develop with this guy, he's definitely a threat down the field. You saw against Tampa him taking a slant and extending that thing and getting vertical with it, some of those pop passes over the seam. This guy is really a threat with the ball in his hands, he's definitely a weapon. They can line him up out wide matched up on corners and run all the receiver routes as well, so this guy is a versatile piece."
"He's big, he's fast, he can catch the ball," Graham added. "Because it's only a two-game sample size and some of the preseason, if you go back and watch his college tape it becomes really scary, because all those corners that get drafted in the first round, that's who those guys had covering him. All those teams in the SEC had guys covering him. He's a pretty dynamic player. The combination of speed, size, catch radius and all those catchy terms like that makes him a dangerous player."
First 25,000 fans will receive an Eli Manning bobblehead
The first 25,000 fans in attendance at Sunday's game against Atlanta will receive an Eli Manning bobblehead.
