The Giants begin a three-game road trip this weekend as they travel to Las Vegas to take on the Raiders.
Week 8 ended in heartbreaking fashion for the Giants as they fell to the Jets, 13-10, in overtime. The Giants will look to bounce back and win their third game of the season this week as they travel to Allegiant Stadium for the first time since it opened in 2020.
The Raiders traveled to Detroit to take on the Lions on Monday Night Football this past week. Despite the defense forcing three turnovers, including a pick-six, the unit allowed 487 total yards of offense along with 26 points. On the other side of the ball, the offense wasn't able to muster much with eight points and just 157 yards as the Lions won the game, 26-14. The loss led to some significant changes within the organization, but more on that later.
Here are five storylines to follow in the Week 9 matchup in Vegas.
1. DJ's return
Coach Brian Daboll announced late Monday morning that quarterback Daniel Jones has been cleared for contact, paving the way for the starting quarterback to return under center for this weekend's game. Jones received clearance during pregame warmups Sunday, with doctors giving the quarterback the full go-ahead to fully participate in practice beginning on Wednesday.
Jones has missed the last three games due to a neck injury suffered in the fourth quarter of the Week 5 game in Miami. Despite returning to practice as a limited participant the last two weeks, Jones was inactive while backup Tyrod Taylor started in his place. Jones was a full participant at practice Wednesday as the head coach said he is good to go.
"He's been out here throwing so he'll have his full workload this week," Daboll said. "Once he's cleared, he's cleared and ready to go."
Jones' return comes at a good time, as backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor was knocked out of Sunday's game in the second quarter. The veteran quarterback ended up spending the night at Hackensack University Medical Center for further examination and testing, where it was determined he suffered an injury to his rib cage. He was released from HUMC early Monday afternoon.
Due to Taylor's injury, Tommy DeVito made his NFL debut against the Jets.
With Taylor banged up, the Giants also added quarterback Matt Barkley to the practice squad Tuesday. Barkley was with the Bills from 2018-20 and played in eight regular-season games, including one start, while Daboll served as offensive coordinator. The veteran has played in 19 games in his career, but has not appeared in one in almost three years.
"Matt's had familiarity in what we do and understands our terminology," Daboll told the media. "Called a game, actually against the Jets I think, with Matt back in '18 or somewhere around there, pretty good result. But he's been around, he's been with us for a while, he knows our stuff."
View rare photos of the history between the Giants and Raiders ahead of their Week 9 matchup.
JIm Otto (00) of the Oakland Raiders is pictured in action during Sunday's game against the New York Giants in Oakland, Ca., on Nov. 5, 1973. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Lawrence Taylor (56) breaks a block during the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Los Angeles Raiders in Los Angeles, California on November 27, 1983. Raiders won the game 27-12. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants Lawrence Taylor (56) moves toward the play during the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Los Angeles Raiders in Los Angeles, California on November 27, 1983. The Raiders won the game 27-12. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Los Angeles Raiders running back Marcus Allen (32) runs upfield against the New York Giants in 1983. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Floyd Eddings (88) evades tacklers during the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Los Angeles Raiders in Los Angeles, California on November 27, 1983. The Raiders won the game 27-12. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Los Angeles Raiders Howie Long (75) wrestles with an opponent during the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Los Angeles Raiders in Los Angeles, California on November 27, 1983.The Raiders won the game 27-12. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Los Angeles Raiders' Jim Plunkett is dogged by New York Giants' George Martin, Sunday, Sept. 22, 1986 during NFL game at the Los Angeles Coliseum. (AP Photo/Lennox McLendon)
Los Angeles Raider Jim Plunkett (16), the oldest quarterback in the NFL, gets popped from behind by New York Giants' Andy Headen, forcing an early turnover during first-half action at the Coliseum in Los Angeles, Sept. 21, 1986. Also in on the play are Giants' Jerome Sally (78), and Raiders' Mickey Marvin. (AP Photo/Bob Galbraith)
Los Angeles Raiders quarterback Jim Plunkett (16) is dogged by New York Giants George Martin during their game at the Coliseum in Los Angeles, Sept. 22, 1986. (AP Photo/Lennox Mclendon)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) raises his arms and calls an audible during the NFL football game against the Los Angeles Raiders on December 24, 1989 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 34-17. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants running back Ottis "OJ" Anderson (24) runs the ball during the NFL football game against the Los Angeles Raiders on December 24, 1989 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 34-17. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) chases Los Angeles Raiders running back Bo Jackson (34) during the NFL football game against the Los Angeles Raiders on Dec. 24, 1989 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 34-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Los Angeles Raiders quarterback Steve Beuerlein (7) and New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (7) chat following a 34-17 Giants victory on December 24, 1989, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Los Angeles Raiders' quarterback Steve Beuerlein (7) is sacked for a nine yard loss by New York Giants' Johnie Cooks in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 24, 1989. (AP Photo/Tim Clary)
New York Giants fullback Maurice Carthon (44) get tackled from behind by Los Angeles Raiders defensive end Mike Wise (90) during the NFL football game against the Los Angeles Raiders on Dec. 24, 1989 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 34-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants running back Ottis Anderson (24) runs the ball during the NFL game against the Oakland Raiders on December 24, 1989 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 34-17. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Los Angeles Raiders running back Eric Dickerson (29) is pursued by New YOrk Giants defensive back Mark Collins (25) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 4, 1992, in Los Angeles. The Raiders defeated the Giants 13-10. (Kirby Lee via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) runs in pursuit during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Raiders at the Los Angeles Coliseum on October 4, 1992. The Raiders defeated the Giants 13-10. (AP Photo/Kevin Terrell)
New York Giants Phil Simms (11) in action during a game against the Los Angeles Raiders on October 4, 1992 at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California. The Raiders beat the Giants 13-10.(AP Photo/David Durochik)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets up to pass during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Raiders, Oct. 4, 1992. The Raiders defeated the Giants 13-10 at the Los Angeles Coliseum. (AP Photo/NFL Photos/Kevin Terrell)
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum Sunday, September 13, 1998. Raiders beat Giants 20-17. Oakland Raiders wide receiver Terry Mickens (85) get away from New York Giants linebacker Ryan Phillips (91). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants quarterback Danny Kanell scrambles away from pressure against the Oakland Raiders during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants Tiki Barber runs for yardage against the Oakland Raiders during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan sacks Oakland Raiders quarterback Jeff George during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants defensive tackle Robert Harris runs through blockers as he rushes in against the Oakland Raiders during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants defensive end Jessie Armstead rushes in as he fights off a block by the Oakland Raiders during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants linebacker Marcus Buckley lunges to make a tackle against the Oakland Raiders during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants quarterback Danny Kanell drops back as he looks to pass against the Oakland Raiders during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum Sunday, September 13, 1998. Raiders beat Giants 20-17. New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) pulls way from Oakland Raiders linebacker Greg Biekert (54). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
Oakland Raiders center Barett Robbins prepares to snap the ball against the New York Giants during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Oakland Raiders quarterback Jeff George throws a pass against the New York Giants during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum Sunday, September 13, 1998. Raiders beat Giants 20-17. Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Chuck Osborne (98) rushes New York Giants quarterback Danny Kanell (13). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum Sunday, September 13, 1998. Raiders beat Giants 20-17. Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Grady Jackson (90) attempts to hold on to New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
Oakland Raiders tight end Rickey Dudley is tackled by New York Giants Tito Wooten (29) and Marcus Buckley (55) during an NFL football game on September 13, 1998 in Oakland. The Raiders won 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum Sunday, September 13, 1998. Raiders beat Giants 20-17. New York Giants wide receiver Ike Hilliard (88). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum Sunday, September 13, 1998. Raiders beat Giants 20-17. New York Giants full back Charles Way (30) gets away from Oakland Raiders linebacker Greg Biekert (54). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum Sunday, September 13, 1998. Raiders beat Giants 20-17. New York Giants guard Greg Bishop (78) and tackle Roman Oben (72) touch hand before play starts. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants wide receiver Ike Hilliard squeezes into the endzone for a touchdown in the first quarter against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday, Sept. 13, 1998 in Oakland, Calif.(AP Photo/John Todd)
New York Giants kicker Morten Andersen kicks a 47 yard field goal in the first quarter against the Oakland Raiders Sunday, Nov. 25, 2001 in East Rutherford, N.J. The holder is Jason Garrett. Defending for the Raiders are defensive end Tony Bryant (94) and linebacker William Thomas (59). (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants' cornerback Will Allen, left, breaks up a pass intended for the Oakland Raiders' Jerry Porter (84) in the first half of NFL football action on Saturday Dec. 31, 2005, in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
Wide receiver Plaxico Burress #17 of the New York Giants catches a pass while defended by Stanford Routt #26 of the Oakland Raiders at McAfee Coliseum on December 31, 2005 in Oakland, California. The Giants defeated the Raiders 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Brad Badger #70 of the Oakland Raiders blocks Nick Greisen #54 of the New York Giants at McAfee Coliseum on December 31, 2005 in Oakland, California. The Giants defeated the Raiders 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Visanthe Shiancoe #82 of the New York Giants on a pass catch and run against the Oakland Raiders at McAfee Coliseum on December 31, 2005 in Oakland, California. The Giants defeated the Raiders 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Running back Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball against the Oakland Raiders at McAfee Coliseum on December 31, 2005 in Oakland, California. The Giants defeated the Raiders 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants' running back Brandon Jacobs (27) gets into the end zone for a one-yard touchdown as quarterback Eli Manning, left, looks on against the Oakland Raiders in the second half of NFL football action on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2005 in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants' receiver Plaxico Burress, left, stiff-arms the Oakland Raiders' Renaldo Hill on his way to a 78-yard touchdown catch and run in the first half of NFL football action on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2005, in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
New York Giants' Tiki Barber (21) breaks through the Oakland Raiders' defense including cornerback Nnandi Asomugha, left, on his way to 95-yard rushing touchdown in the first half of NFL football on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2005 in Oakland, Calif. The touchdown gave Barber a team-record of 50 rushing touchdowns. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
New York Giants' Kendrick Clancy, right, reaches to sack Oakland Raiders' quarterback Kerry Collins in the fourth quarter of their in NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Saturday, Dec. 31, 2005. The Giants won, 30-21. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
Oakland Raiders' quarterback Kerry Collins, left, throws under pressure from the New York Giants' Michael Strahan, right, in the first half of NFL football action on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2005, in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants' Tiki Barber, top, dives over Oakland Raiders' Jarrod Cooper in the third quarter of their in NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Saturday, Dec. 31, 2005. The Giants won, 30-21. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
New York Giants' Chad Morton (29) returns a punt for 58 yards to the three-yard line against the Oakland Raiders in the second half of NFL football action on Sunday, Dec. 31, 2005 in Oakland, Calif. New York won, 30-21. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) runs the ball 19 yards for his 2nd first quarter first touchdown that gives the Giants a 14-0 lead during the NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders, Sunday, October 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 44-7. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) runs the ball 19 yards for his 2nd first quarter first touchdown that gives the Giants a 14-0 lead during the NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders, Sunday, October 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 44-7. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka (94) strips Oakland Raiders quaterback JaMarcus Russell (2) during a NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday October 11, 2009 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Oakland Raiders linebacker Thomas Howard (53) forces New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) outof bounds during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) makes a catch over Oakland Raiders defender Nnamdi Asomugha (21) during a NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday October 11, 2009 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith (12) makes a catch and gets tackled by defensive back Stanford Routt (26) against the Oakland Raiders during a NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday October 11, 2009 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw dodges a tackle by Oakland Raiders cornerback Chris Johnson during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks catches a pass with Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha defending in the third quarter during of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) reacts after Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell (2) fumbled the ball while being sacked during the second quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants recovered the ball, on the way to a 44-7 win. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith catches a pass for 43 yards as Oakland Raiders cornerback Hiram Eugene defends in the first quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 44-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Oakland Raiders defensive end Jay Richardson (98) tackles New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Oakland Raiders' Jonathan Holland (23) is tackled by New York Giants' Jonathan Goff (54), Travis Beckum and Clint Sintim (97) on a punt return during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 44-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks with Oakland Raiders' Bruce Gradkowski (5) after an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) is tackled by Oakland Raiders' Tyvon Branch (33) and Hiram Eugene (31) during the first quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 44-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell (2) is hit by New York Giants linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka (94) as he throws a pass during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell, left, is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson during the third quarter during of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 44-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants offensive tackle David Diehl, center, blocks Oakland Raiders defensive end Richard Seymour (92) as New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning passes the ball during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw runs for a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell (2) is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck, left, during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. Russell fumbled the ball on the play which was recovered by Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter of an NFL football game as Oakland Raiders Mike Mitchell (34) looks on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) reacts after catching a touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka (94) sacks and causes a fumble of Oakland Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor (2) during a week 10 football game on November 10, 2013 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Oakland Raiders in a week 10 football game on November 10, 2013 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle, left, catches a touchdown pass as Oakland Raiders cornerback Mike Jenkins (21) defends on the play during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka (94) forces a fumble on Oakland Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor (2) during the second half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle keeps his feet in bounds as he catches a touchdown pass as Oakland Raiders cornerback Mike Jenkins (21) defends on the play during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Andre Brown (35) bounces off Oakland Raiders middle linebacker Nick Roach (53) as guard David Diehl (66) defends on the play during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) is tackled by Oakland Raiders free safety Charles Woodson (24) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Oakland Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor (2) is hit by New York Giants outside linebacker Keith Rivers (55) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Oakland Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor (2) tries to avoid New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the first half of NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle, left, runs with the ball with Oakland Raiders cornerback Mike Jenkins (21) in pursuit during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants players follow safety Cooper Taylor (30) while celebrating after Taylor picked up a blocked punt for a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Andre Brown runs with the ball against the Oakland Raiders during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) is tackled by Oakland Raiders strong safety Brandian Ross (29) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Oakland Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor (2) is hit by New York Giants outside linebacker Keith Rivers (55) during the second half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) runs with the ball after making a catch as Oakland Raiders cornerback Phillip Adams (28) tugs on his jersey during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a catch during a week 10 football game against the Oakland Raiders on November 10, 2013 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) catches a pass as Oakland Raiders middle linebacker Nick Roach (53) defends during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka (94) sacks and causes a fumble of Oakland Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor (2) during a week 10 football game on November 10, 2013 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Orleans Darkwa (26) runs with the ball during a NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders, Sunday, December 3, 2017 in Oakland. The Raiders won the game 24-17. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
New York Giants' Shane Smith (43) tackles Oakland Raiders punter Marquette King (7) during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants running back Orleans Darkwa (26) runs against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants running back Orleans Darkwa (26) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 9 football game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday November 8th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) intercepts a pass during a week 9 football game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday November 8th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Xavier McKinney (29)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a week 9 football game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday November 8th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Dexter Lawrence (97)
2. Defense stepping up
The Giants defense held the Jets to 13 points, 251 total yards of offense, 58 rushing yards and just 12 first downs on Sunday. The unit limited Breece Hall to a mere 17 yards on 12 carries (1.4 avg.), although the second-year running back was a big contributor in the passing game. The defense's two takeaways marked the third time they've forced multiple turnovers in the last four games.
Wink Martindale's unit has undoubtedly turned a corner over the last few weeks. After allowing 24 or more points in four of the first five games of the season, the defense has allowed an average of 11.3 points over the last three contests while keeping each opponent to 14 points or less. They have also kept all three of those opponents, and four of the last five, to under 300 yards of total offense. Additionally, after registering zero turnovers in the first four weeks of the season, the defense has at least one in each of the last four and eight takeaways total.
The pass rush has also taken a big step up in recent weeks, led by the emergence of Kayvon Thibodeaux. The second-year outside linebacker had his best game of the season against the Jets with three sacks, three tackles for loss, a forced fumble and nine total tackles (six solo). Thibodeaux is now tied with Cleveland's Myles Garrett and Pittsburgh's T.J. Watt for the third-most sacks in the NFL this year with 8.5, just 1.5 shy of Minnesota's Danielle Hunter for the league-lead. All of Thibodeaux's sacks have come in the last six weeks.
Also coming off his best game of the season is Dexter Lawrence. The All-Pro defensive lineman recorded one sack and five quarterback hits in Week 8, but his dominance goes beyond the traditional box score. Lawrence spent a large portion of Sunday's game in the Jets' backfield as he totaled an impressive 15 pressures. This tied the record for the most pressures in a single game by an interior defensive lineman. After a slow start to the year that saw him register zero sacks, five quarterback hits and 21 total pressures through the first six weeks of the season, Lawrence has been on a roll over the last two games. During that span, the lineman has picked up three sacks, nine quarterback hits and 23 total pressures. His 44 pressures on the season is tied with San Francisco's Nick Bosa for the third-most in the NFL.
3. O-line growth
Rookie center John Michael Schmitz made his return to the field this past Sunday after missing the previous three games with a shoulder injury. With Schmitz back in the starting lineup, the Giants used their seventh different starting offensive line combination of the season. The Giants did not attempt to throw the ball that much against the Jets, but on 26 pass block snaps, Schmitz surrendered just one pressure, according to Pro Football Focus.
"Honestly, I just saw the growth," Schmitz said about the difference between the line from when he last played. "Especially the couple of weeks I've been out, I saw the growth of the O-line and kind of just the camaraderie coming together, guys being way more focused and locked in. I would just say the intent to detail each and every week, coming in with the mindset that we can do it."
After a tumultuous start to the season, the offensive line has shown some improvement in recent weeks. A big part of that has been influenced by the addition of Justin Pugh. The veteran lineman went "straight off the couch" to the starting lineup and has performed admirably. Pugh had his best game in pass protection this past weekend, as he allowed just two pressures on 26 pass block snaps.
"He's been a tremendous addition to the room," Schmitz said of Pugh. "Not only with just helping us out with being in the league for so long, just the way he goes through the week, his routines. If it's kind of just a little advice, it doesn't even have to be on the field, but off the field. I think he's been a tremendous addition to the room."
While continuity on the O-line is important, the Giants hope to use their eighth different starter combination this Sunday in Las Vegas, with the possible return of starting left tackle Andrew Thomas. The All-Pro tackle hasn't played since Week 1 because of a hamstring injury, but was able to practice every day last week, albeit as a limited participant. Thomas was back on the practice field Wednesday, as was starting right tackle Evan Neal. Neal has missed the last two games with an ankle injury, but was listed as a limited participant in practice every day last week. The head coach said both tackles have a shot to play this weekend.
"I think both of them have an opportunity to play," Daboll said about Thomas and Neal. "Again, we'll take that day by day and see where they are on Friday."
4. Latest on offensive playmakers
In addition to Taylor, the other Giant to go down with an injury on Sunday was tight end Darren Waller. The 31-year-old was on the injury report with a hamstring injury throughout the week, but was active for the Week 8 matchup. Waller caught one pass for four yards before leaving the game due to the hamstring injury.
The veteran tight end has started every game for the Giants so far this season and leads the team with 36 receptions for 384 yards. He put together his best game of the year against the Commanders in Week 7, catching seven passes for 98 yards and his first touchdown of the season. Daboll told the media it's too early to tell if Waller will be able to suit up for this weekend's game in Las Vegas.
"Waller's got a hamstring; we'll see where he's at," the head coach said. "He's not going to go today; we'll take him day by day, but you never know how hamstrings are, so we'll see where he's at by the end of the week."
Speaking of playmakers, Saquon Barkley is coming off his highest yardage total of the season. The sixth-year running back ran for 128 yards on a career-high 36 rush attempts. It was his first time topping the 100-yard rushing mark since Week 10 last year when he ran for 152 yards on 35 carries, which at the time was the highest carry total of his career.
Barkley's performance earned him a nomination for the FedEx Ground Player of the Week, and he now gets an opportunity for another strong outing this Sunday. The Raiders enter this matchup ranking 30th in rushing yards, 26th in yards per attempt and 28th in rushing touchdowns allowed this season. The Lions ran for 222 yards against the Raiders on Monday, marking the second consecutive week in which the defense allowed over 170 yards on the ground.
5. Scouting the Raiders
The Raiders made a big change this week, relieving head coach Josh McDaniels and general manager David Ziegler of their duties as head coach and general manager, respectively. While Champ Kelly was named the interim general manager, someone very familiar to Giants fans was named the team's interim head coach - former linebacker and team captain Antonio Pierce. The former Giants linebacker and team captain will lead the team for the remainder of the season before the Raiders undergo "a comprehensive search for a head coach once the season is complete."
The Raiders offense has struggled this season, topping the 20-point mark just once in eight games (21 points vs. Patriots in Week 6). Coming off their 14-point, 157-yard performance against the Lions on Monday Night Football, the Raiders now rank 30th in points and 31st in yards this season. Additionally, Las Vegas' 16 turnovers are tied for the second-most in the league.
The changes carried over to the field, as well. Pierce announced Wednesday afternoon that rookie quarterback Aidan O'Connell is the team's starting quarterback moving forward. In his only start this season, O'Connell completed 61.5 percent of his passes (24 of 39) for 238 yards, no touchdowns and one interception. He did add a touchdown on the ground.
The top target in the passing game is Davante Adams, who leads the team with 47 receptions for 539 yards while scoring three touchdowns. However, the elite wide receiver has topped the 50-yard mark just once in his last four games. Adams' running mate, Jakobi Meyers, is not far behind him with 38 receptions for 404 yards and a team-high five touchdowns.
Running back Josh Jacobs led the NFL with 1,653 rushing yards and 2,053 yards from scrimmage last season. While off to a slow start this year, Jacobs is coming off his most efficient outing of the season. The 25-year-old averaged more than 4.0 yards per carry for the first time in 2023, carrying the ball 15 times for 61 yards and a touchdown and adding two receptions for 27 yards.
The Raiders defense starts on the edge with the talented Maxx Crosby. The fifth-year defensive end leads the team with 6.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss and 10 quarterback hits, all of which are significantly more than anyone else on the Raiders defense. Crosby had 12.5 sacks and a league-high 22 tackles for loss in 2022 on his way to his second consecutive Pro Bowl selection.
Linebacker Robert Spillane has a team-high 65 tackles (34 solo) on the season along with two interceptions. Safety Tre'von Moehrig is tied with Spillane for the team-lead with two interceptions himself. Moehrig is also tied for the most passes defensed on the team with four, tying cornerback Marcus Peters. The veteran cornerback had the play of the game for the Raiders in Week 8 with his pick-six against the Lions.
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