The Giants hit the road for the final time this season when they travel to Chicago to take on the Bears at Soldier Field.
The Giants split the season series with the Eagles last week when they lost to ther division rivals, 34-10, at Lincoln Financial Field. The defense held Philadelphia's No. 1 rushing attack to just 130 yards, while Jalen Hurts was limited to under 200 passing yards. But the Big Blue offense struggled to move the ball, scoring just three points until the end of the fourth quarter.
After losing three consecutive games, the Bears were able to fly to Seattle and upset the Seahawks, 25-24. Seattle was winning for most of this contest, but veteran QB Nick Foles was able to lead the Bears down the field late in the fourth quarter and found Jimmy Graham in the end zone for a touchdown with just over a minute left. Bears head coach Matt Nagy decided to go for two for the win, which was successful, and Chicago emerged with the victory.
Here are five storylines to follow in this Week 17 matchup.
Quarterback situations
The Giants and Bears head into this weekend with questions at quarterback. For the Giants, neither Mike Glennon nor Jake Fromm stood out last week, so head coach Joe Judge told the media Wednesday that both players may get on the field against the Bears.
"We'll prepare both guys, similar to last week," said Judge. "We'll prepare both guys, both guys will have their share of the load this week in practice as far as sharing some reps. I would expect to see both guys play."
Bears rookie quarterback Justin Fields (ankle) missed last week's win and it is still too early to tell if he will suit up on Sunday. Andy Dalton has started four games for Chicago this season, going 2-2, but it was Nick Foles leading the offense to over the Seahawks. If Fields is unable to go, Foles is likely to get the start for the second consecutive week.
"They have three talented quarterbacks," Judge said about Chicago's QB room. "All three have played this year. All three can make plays in different ways, whether it's the young guy (Justin) Fields, who's obviously a guy who's got a strong arm, very athletic, very talented, has the ability to make a lot of big plays outside the pocket, does a good job keeping his eyes down the field and taking shots. You talk about (Nick) Foles getting in the other day. He's obviously a very experienced guy, can push the ball down the field, very good arm. And obviously, (Andy) Dalton is a very accomplished player in this league, really knows how to take the profit, move the ball down the field consistently."
"There are no meaningless games"
The loss in Philadelphia officially eliminated the Giants from playoff contention for the fifth straight season. Chicago is out of the race, too, but Judge talked about there being no such thing as a meaningless game in the NFL.
"We all lost John Madden last night," Judge said. "One thing John Madden was great about when you really sit back and you listen to some of the things that he said throughout his career, and he talked about the importance of every game and every opportunity in the National Football League, and the value of the opportunity that we have to coach or play in this league. None of that should be taken for granted. I hear people all the time say 'meaningless games.' What is a meaningless game? Everyone here has worked very hard to be in this position, to play or coach in this league. We're only guaranteed or promised so many games a year. It's a privilege to have the opportunity to go out here and compete. There's no such thing as a meaningless game. There's wasted effort, there's wasted preparation, but there are no meaningless games."
Meanwhile, there are draft implications. The Giants and Bears conducted a trade in the first round of this year's draft, with the Bears moving up to No. 11 in order to select Fields. The Giants emerged from draft weekend with Chicago's first and fourth-round picks in 2022.
As it stands now, the Giants' own first-round pick sits at No. 5, while the Bears are at No. 8. The Giants will conclude their season at home against Washington, while the Bears will finish up in Minnesota. The Giants could go into next year's draft with two Top-10 picks.
COVID/Injury news
The Giants welcomed several players back in the building Wednesday after being cleared from the COVID list. Defensive backs Adoree' Jackson and Keion Crossen, along with wide receiver John Ross, cleared COVID protocols and returned to practice, all as limited participants. Defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence was added to the list Wednesday morning, joining defensive tackle Danny Shelton, offensive tackle Nate Solder and defensive back Julian Love. While Lawrence's availability remains up in the air, Judge hopes to get the other three players back in time for Sunday's game.
"Dexter Lawrence just popped COVID for us," Judge told the media Wednesday. "Danny Shelton, Solder and Love have all been on the COVID list. Now, all three of those guys would have the ability under the new protocols or guidelines to play in the game if their symptoms improve and they're able to play physically. Timetable-wise, all three would be able to play."
The Giants had a long list of players sit out practice to start the week, including running backs Saquon Barkley (Ankle) and Gary Brightwell (Neck), wide receiver Kadarius Toney (Shoulder), tight end Kyle Rudolph (Ankle) and kicker Graham Gano (Illness). Overall, 14 players were listed on Wednesday's injury report, with nine of them not participating in practice.
The Bears have three players on the COVID list: veteran defensive lineman Akiem Hicks, tight end Jesper Horsted and linebacker Joel Iyiegbuniwe.
View rare photos of the all-time history between the New York Giants and Chicago Bears.
Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) gets tackled by New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (53) during the NFL Divisional Playoff Game on January 5, 1986 in Chicago, Illinois. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
The Polo Grounds in New York were filled with 65,000 fans and 125 reporters to see the New York Giants take on the Chicago Bears, Dec. 6, 1925. (AP Photo/Pro Football Hall of Fame)
William Beattie "Big Chief" Feathers (48) of the Chicago Bears is off on an end run that resulted in no gain during a game against the New York Giants at the Polo Grounds in New York City Nov., 8, 1936. Number 3 of the Bears running interference is Bronislau "Bronko" Nagurski Bears won, 25-7. (AP Photo)
New York Giants and Chicago Bears in action during the National Football League Championship game on Dec. 17, 1933 at Wrigley Field in Chicago. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP)
An unidentified New York Giants player changes from cleats to athletic shoes during a 30 to 13 New York Giants victory over the Bears in the NFL Championship game played at the Polo Grounds on Dec. 9, 1934 in New York.(Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
Ward Cuff, New York Giants halfback, gets off a 42-yard goal against the Chicago Bears Oct. 31, 1937 at the Polo Grounds in New York City. The Bears and Giants played to a 3-3 tie. (AP Photo)
New York Giants halfback Tuffy Leemans (4) runs into some Chicago Bear tacklers as he returns a punt for 15 yards in a game before 50,000 at the Polo Grounds in New York City, Oct. 31, 1937. The Giants and Bears played to a 3-3 tie. (AP Photo)
Pro Football Hall of Fame Chicago Bears fullback Bronko Nagurski is tackled by fellow hall of famer Mel Hein of the Giants during a 30 to 13 New York Giants victory over the Bears in the NFL Championship game played at the Polo Grounds on Dec. 9, 1934 in New York. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
Chicago Bears back Beattie Feathers (48) is about to be tossed for loss by Giant Dale Burnett in game played on Oct. 31, 1937 at the Polo Grounds. Bears and Giants played to a 3-3 tie. (AP Photo)
Chicago Bears back Carl Brumbaugh pitches the football out to Pro Football Hall of Fame fullback Bronko Nagurski during a 30 to 13 New York Giants victory over the Bears in the NFL Championship game played at the Polo Grounds on Dec. 9, 1934 in New York. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
Coach Steve Owen, center, of the New York Giants, discusses the championship game with Chicago Bears quarterback Frank Filchock, left, and end Jim Poole during a workout at the Polo Grounds in New York, on December 11, 1946. (AP Photo)
Frank Filchock, Giants quarterback and passer, and Coach Steve Owen watch fourth quarter action in the Giants-Chicago Bears Championship playoff game in New York on Dec. 15, 1946. The Bears broke the 14-14 tie in the last period to win 24-14. (AP Photo)
Giants' Mel Triplett (33) picks up a block and then charges past Chicago Bears players and over umpire Sam Wilson for 17 yards and a touchdown - first of the game - at Yankee Stadium in New York City, Dec. 30, 1956. Giants routed Bears 4707 to take the NFL championship. Identifiable players are: Alex Webster (29), Stan Wallace (40). (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Giants' Mel Triplett (33) picks up a block and then charges past Chicago Bears players and over umpire Sam Wilson for 17 yards and a touchdown - first of the game - at Yankee Stadium in New York City, Dec. 30, 1956. Giants routed Bears 47-7 to take the NFL championship. Identifiable players are: Jack Stroud (66), Alex Webster (29), Stan Wallace (40), McNeil Moore (29), and J.C. Caroline. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Giants' Mel Triplett (33) picks up a block and then charges past Chicago Bears players and over umpire Sam Wilson for 17 yards and a touchdown - first of the game - at Yankee Stadium in New York City, Dec. 30, 1956. Giants routed Bears 4707 to take the NFL championship. Identifiable players are Ed Meadows (86), Roosevelt Brown (79), Jack Stroud (66), Alex Webster (29), Joe Fortunato (31), Wayne Hansen (51), Stan Wallace (40), McNeil Moore (29), Ray Smith (20) and J.C. Caroline. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Wide receiver Don Hermann (85) of the New York Giants is pulled down by linebacker Lee Roy Caffey (60) of the Chicago Bears in first quarter action in New York, Sept. 19, 1970. The Bears won, 24-13. (AP Photo/Ron Frehm)
Larry Csonka of the New York Giants finds an arm around his neck as he is stopped after a fourth quarter gain at Giants Stadium by Tom Hicks and Gary Fencik of the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Dec. 19, 1977 in East Rutherford. Csonka had his most productive day this season with 100 yards in 22 attempts. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Chicago Bears Walter Payton, center, pushes his way between New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 18, 1977 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo)
Chicago Bears middle-linebacker Mike Singletary (50) closes in on New York Giants George Adams (33) in an NFC playoff game in Chicago, Ill., on January 7, 1986. (AP Photo /John Swart)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall (70) pressures Chicago Bears quarterback Jim McMahon (9) during the 1985 NFC Divisional Playoff Game in Chicago, Jan. 5, 1986. The Bears shutout the Giants 21-0. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) carries the football as Bears linebacker Mike Singletary (50) gives chase during the Giants 21 - 0 loss to the Chicago Bears in the 1985 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on January 5, 1986 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Chicago Bears running back Matt Suhey (26) carries the football before a tackle by New York Giants safety Kenny Hill (48) and linebacker Harry Carson (53) during the Bears 21 - 0 victory over the New York Giants in the 1985 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on Jan. 5, 1986 at Soldier Field in Chicago. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) is stopped by Chicago Bears Richard Dent (95) and William Perry (72), as Chicago's defense held the Giants to 32 yards in the Bears 21-0 win during NFC playoff action, Sunday, Jan. 5, 1986 in Chicago, Ill. (AP Photo/Charlie Bennett)
New York Giants players try to block a kick in this general view of the action on the field at Soldier Field stadium during the NFL Divisional Playoff Game against the Chicago Bears on January 5, 1986 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears won the game in a 21-0 shutout. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets up to throw a pass during the Giants 21-0 loss to the Chicago Bears in the 1985 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on January 5, 1986 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) makes short gain during NFC playoff, first half action against the Chicago Bears in Chicago, Ill., Sunday, Jan. 5, 1986. Bears defensive end Richard Dent (95) and line backer Otis Wilson (55) attempt to catch him as Giant guard Bill Ard (61) blocks. (AP Photo)
Everson Walls of the New York Giants breaks up a pass to Ron Morris of the Chicago Bears in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Jan. 13, 1991. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) scrambles for yardage against the Chicago Bears during the third quarter in Chicago, Ill., Sept. 22, 1992. (AP Photo/Fred Jewell)
New York Giants wide receiver Joey Smith (88) is upended by Chicago Bears Dent Jones (53) in first quarter in Chicago, Sept. 21, 1992. Also on the tackle are Bears John Mangum and Maurice Douglas, right. (AP Photo/David Boe)
New York Giants wide receiver Ed McCaffrey is tackled after an eight-yard gain by Chicago Bears defenders Chris Zorich, rear, and Anthony Blaylock, right, during the second quarter at Soldier Field in Chicago, Sept. 5, 1993. (AP Photo/Fred Jewell)
Running back Rodney Hampton (27) of the New York Giants is grabbed around the waist by linebacker Dante Jones (53) of the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field in Chicago, Ill., Sept. 5, 1993. Hampton lost six yards on the play. (AP Photo/John Swart)
New York Giants quarterback Jeff Hostetler does a little scrambling to avoid Chicago Bears Steve McMichael (rear) and Trace Armstrong (93) during third quarter action in NFL playoff game, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1991 at Giants Stadium, Rutherford. The giants won 31-3 behind Hostetler. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants' quarterback Jeff Hostetler celebrates after throwing a first quarter touchdown pass to wide receiver Stephen Baker. Hostetler later ran for a touchdown in the third quarter against the Chicago Bears at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Jan. 13, 1991. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
Chicago Bears Brad Muster (25) is stopped for a loss on fourth down by New York Giants John Washington (73) during a goal-line stand in the second quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Jan. 13, 1991. The Bears failure to score was the beginning of a string of frustrations for Chicago. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants running back Ottis "O.J." Anderson (24) is stopped by Chicago Bears' William "The Refrigerator" Perry in the third quarter of the NFC playoff game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Jan. 14, 1991. The Giants won 31-3. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants head coach Bill Parcells receives a cooler full of Gatorade over his head by Giants players Everson Walls (28) and Carl Banks (58) as time runs out in the Giants 31-3 victory over the Chicago Bears at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Jan. 13, 1991. To right of Parcells are Giants Pepper Johnson (52) and Lawrence Taylor (56). (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
Quarterbacks Mike Tomczak of the Chicago Bears, left, and Jeff Hostetler of the New York Giants chat together as they leave the field after NFL playoff game, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1991 at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford. The Giants won 31-3 behind Hostetler, who started for the injured Phil Simms. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants linebacker Mike Barrow tackles Chicago Bears receiver Marcus Robinson (88) after a reception in the second quarter on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2000, at Soldier Field in Chicago. (AP Photo/Stephen J. Carrera)
Chicago Bears quarterback Cade McNown is caught by New York Giants linebacker Jessie Armstead and sacked for a nine-yard loss during the third quarter on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2000, at Soldier Field in Chicago. (AP Photo/Fred Jewell)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants prepares to hand the ball off against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 2: New York Giants and Chicago Bears players line up at the line of scrimmage prior to the snap during the game between the New York Giants against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants defeated the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants drops back to pass against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants throws a pass against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
Running back Derrick Ward #34 of the New York Giants carries the ball against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 2: Wide receiver Plaxico Burress #17 of the New York Giants runs with the football after a pass reception against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants defeated the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants' Amani Toomer (81) holds up the football after making a touchdown reception, as Chicago Bears' Brandon McGowan (36) and Brian Urlacher (54) argue that the ball hit the ground during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. The play was reviewed and the call on the field was upheld for a touchdown. The Giants won 21-16. (AP Photo/Jerry Lai)
New York Giants, Michael Strahan (92) during a game against the Chicago Bears on September 17, 2000 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 14-7. Michael Strahan played for 15 years all with the Giants. He was a 7-time Pro Bowler and was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014.(AP Photo/David Durochik)
New York Giants' Kevin Dockery breaks up a pass from Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman to Muhsin Muhammad in the end zone during the final seconds of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. The Giants defeated the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/M. Spencer Green)
New York Giants' Derrick Ward runs during a football game against the Chicago Bears Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007 in Chicago. (AP Photo/MJerry Lai)
New York Giants running back Derrick Ward runs against Chicago Bears' Anthony Adams (95) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. The Giants defeated the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/M. Spencer Green)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scores a touchdown during first quarter NFL football against the Chicago Bears Sunday, Nov. 12, 2006 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Sam Madison, left, sacks Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman, center, with the help of Osi Umenyiora (72) and Michael Strahan during the second quarter of a football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jerry Lia)
New York Giants' Sam Madison, right, sacks Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman during the second quarter of a football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jerry Lia)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) breaks free of a tackle by Chicago Bears defenders in the first quarter of their football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday,Nov. 12, 2006.(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman (8) scrambles with the ball as New York Giants defensive tackle William Joseph (94) approaches him in the second quarter of their football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Sunday, Nov. 12, 2006.(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) gets tackled by Chicago Bears corner back Jerry Azumah (23) in the first quarter of play on Sunday, November, 7, 2004, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. (AP Photo/Michael Kim)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora, hits Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, right, to break up a pass attempt during the first quarter of an NFL football game at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) applies pressure against the Chicago Bears in a week 4 NFL football game at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday October 3, 2010 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) knocks the ball away from Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler during the second quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants' Eli Manning, center, gets ready for the snap during the third quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive lineman Barry Cofield (96) sacks Chicago Bears quaterback Jay Cutler (6) in the 1st half in a week 4 NFL football game at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday October 3, 2010 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants' Hakeem Nicks (44) runs the ball during the first quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Eli Manning, center, during the first quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Hanie is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 17-3. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs runs the ball during the first quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89) avoids Chicago Bears' Tim Jennings (26) during the second quarter of an NFL football game at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) makes a touchdown reception in front of Chicago Bears cornerback Tim Jennings (26) in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls a play against the Chicago Bears in the first half of an NFL football game on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) is tackled by Chicago Bears safety Chris Conte (47) and linebacker James Anderson (50) in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (34) rolls into the end zone for a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants wide receivers Victor Cruz and Reuben Randle (82) celebrate a touch down catch during a week 6 Thursday night football game against the Chicago Bears on October 10, 2013 in Chicago,IL (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Chicago Bears in a week 6 Thursday night football game on October 10, 2013 in Chicago,IL (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Chicago Bears in a week 6 Thursday night football game against the Chicago Bears on October 10, 2013 in Chicago,IL (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Chicago Bears safety Chris Conte (47) tries to bring down New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) In the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
Players gather on the field for the coin toss before an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) hands off the ball to running back Brandon Jacobs (34) in the second half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (34) breaks a tackle during an NFL week 6 football game against the Chicago Bears Thursday, October 10, 2013, in Chicago. The Bears won 27-21. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) congratulates Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) after an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. The Bears won 27-21. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) looks to pass against the Chicago Bears during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Chicago Bears in action against the New York Giants Sunday November 20, 2016 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) during a week 11 NFL football game against the Chicago Bears on November 20, 2016 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) catches a pass for a touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes against the Chicago Bears during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the Chicago Bears take on the New York Giants during a week 13 NFL football game on Sunday December 2, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) stiff arms Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) stiff arms Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball as Chicago Bears inside linebacker Danny Trevathan (59) makes the tackle during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) stiff arms Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball as Chicago Bears free safety Eddie Jackson (39) moves in to make the tackle during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) pushes off Chicago Bears strong safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (21) after a catch during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) flips over Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Chicago Bears quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) throws a pass while being pressured by New York Giants defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence (97) during an NFL game, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, in Chicago. The Bear defeated the Giants 19-14. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Chicago Bears offense lines up against the New York Giants defense during an NFL game, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, in Chicago. The Bear defeated the Giants 19-14. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes a handoff from quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, in Chicago. The Bear defeated the Giants 19-14. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) stands ready as he awaits the snap of the football during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Giants 19-14. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants offensive guard Nick Gates (65) blocks on a field goal attempt during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Giants 19-14. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears Sunday November 24, 2019 in Chicago (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants offensive players wait to square off at the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears defense, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
Chicago Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (10) greets New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) following an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. The Bears defeated the Giants 19-14. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) runs in front of Chicago Bears cornerback Prince Amukamara (20) after a catch during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants cornerback Julian Love (24) intercepts a pass intended for Chicago Bears wide receiver Javon Wims (83) during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls a plays at the line of scrimmage against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Sterling Shepard (87)
Julian Love (20)
Daniel Jones (8)
Julian Love (20)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Sterling Shepard (87)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 17 football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday January 2, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois
Tae Crowder (48)
Chris Myarick (41)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Aaron Robinson (33)
A look down the line of scrimmage during a week 17 football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday January 2, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois
Saquon Barkley (26)
Tae Crowder (48)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 17 football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday January 2, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois
Slowing down Montgomery and Mooney
Chicago should have their top two offensive playmakers on the field, starting with running back David Montgomery this weekend. Montgomery leads the team with 183 rush attempts for 713 yards and five touchdowns, adding 38 receptions for 277 yards in 11 games. The young running back has shown tremendous ball protection this season, fumbling the ball just once.
Montgomery's 38 receptions rank third on the team. However, the top target in Chicago's aerial attack is second-year wide receiver Darnell Mooney. In 15 games (13 starts) this season, Mooney has registered 63 receptions for 680 yards, both of which lead the team, while his three receiving touchdowns are tied with Jimmy Graham for the most on the Bears.
Second-year tight end Cole Kmet ranks second on the team with 53 receptions for 539 yards, but has yet to find the end zone. Veteran wide receiver Allen Robinson should also suit up after being activated from the COVID list on Monday.
"That's something this team really does as a strength is they have a lot of extended drives," Judge said on Wednesday. "One of the top teams in the league in having drives over 10 plays long, so they can stay on the field, they can capitalize, they have good schemes, they have good systems, they have good coaching. They're a team offensively that likes to stay balanced and make plays."
Familiar foes
Despite playing in different divisions, the Giants and Bears have seen each other quite a lot in recent years. Sunday's meeting between two of the league's storied franchises will mark the fourth consecutive season they face off, and the fifth time in six years. Oddly enough, each of the last four meetings have been decided by one score. The Bears have won the previous two meetings by a combined nine points, while the Giants emerged victorious in 2018 and 2016 by a total of nine combined points. Both of the Bears' wins came at Soldier Field, while the Giants' victories occurred at MetLife Stadium.
During last year's Week 2 matchup between the clubs, Montgomery registered a game-high 127 yards from scrimmage (82 rushing, 45 receiving) and a touchdown. Mooney also caught a touchdown pass, finishing with three receptions for 36 yards and the score, while the Bears defense recoded four sacks and one interception of Daniel Jones.
"You talk about this team, you start offensively with (Head Coach) Matt (Nagy) being an offensive-minded head coach," Judge said about the Bears. "When you talk about his team, one thing is they're balanced. They do a very good job being run and pass balanced. They're very committed to the run. You see a lot of effectiveness in how they can go ahead and stay with it and set up other aspects of their game."
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