The New York Giants (3-8) take on the New England Patriots (2-8) this week. Here are two matchups to watch that could determine the winner on Sunday at MetLife Stadium:
Saquon Barkley vs. Patriots rush defense
Despite their overall struggles, the Patriots' rush defense has been a strength this season. They are allowing only 3.4 rushing yards per play, which is the second-best mark in the NFL. They are also holding opponents to an average of under 100 rush yards per game (97.7, ninth-best in the NFL).
The success is reflected in the advanced numbers with the sixth-best EPA allowed per rush (.13) and a 62.7 percent rush success rate (second-best in the NFL). All those numbers are a big reason the Patriots are the second-best defensive team in the NFL on first down, allowing only 4.8 yards per play. They've allowed only 18 runs of 10 or more yards this year, which is tied for second-fewest in the NFL.
The Patriots have a very talented defensive tackle in Christian Barmore, an active middle linebacker in Jahlani Tavai, and two very good safeties in Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers.
It will be a challenge for Saquon Barkley, whose success is a key to the offense working. Last week, Barkley accounted for two of the Giants' three plays of 30 yards or more (both runs) and four of their eight plays of 20 yards or more (two receptions). Since Week 7, Barkley leads the NFL in carries, touches, rush yards, and is second in scrimmage yards to only CeeDee Lamb.
Barkley is the only NFL player who has received at least 50 percent of his team's touches since Week 7 (50.4) and his 38.6 percent share of Giants scrimmage yards also leads the NFL. He makes this Giants offense go, and if he isn't consistently successful it puts a lot on the shoulders of Tommey Devitto against a Bill Belichick-coached defense that historically has a lot of success against rookie quarterbacks.
Barkley has averaged more than five yards per carry in his last three games and has at least 100 scrimmage yards in four of his last five. The Patriots, meanwhile, have held opponents to under 100 rushing yards and four yards per carry in four of their last five games. It will be a classic battle between the strengths of two teams on Sunday afternoon.
Rare photos from the storied history between the New York Giants and New England Patriots.
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) reacts after sacking New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) in the third quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz.
New York Giants Ron Johnson, center, is stopped for a 12-yard gain by Boston Patriots Mel Witt (71) in the first quarter at Harvard Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 18, 1970, Boston, Mass. The rest of the players are unidentified. (AP Photo)
Boston Patriots quarterback Joe Kapp (11) is stopped by New York Giants Ken Parker (26), and Ralph Heck (55), as he tried to leap over Parker in first quarter at Harvard Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 18, 1970, Boston, Mass. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Charles Way (30) goes airborne after being tackled by New England Patriots Teddy Bruschi during the first quarter of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson, File)
New York Giants safety Curry Burns (29) breaks up a pass intended for New England Patriots wide receiver Bethel Johnson (81) during third quarter action of their pre-season game in Foxborough, Mass., Thursday night, Sept. 1, 2005. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) cuts through a hole in the line as he evades the grasp of New England Patriots corner back Randall Gay (21) during their pre-season game against in Foxborough, Mass., Thursday night, Sept. 1, 2005. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New England Patriots number two quarterback Doug Flutie calls signals during the pre-season game against the New York Giants at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass., Thursday, Sept. 1, 2005. The Giants defeated the Patriots 27-3. (AP Photo/Robert E. Klein)
New York Giants tight end Visanthe Shiancoe (82) goes head over heels after being tackled by New England Patriots Ty Law, left, second quarter at Gillette Stadium Sunday, Oct. 12, 2003 in Foxboro, Mass. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) at Gillette Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2003, in Foxboro, Mass. (AP Photo/Chitose Suzuki)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress pulls down a 52-yard pass from quarterback Eli Manning against New England Patriots cornerback Ellis Hobbs III (27) during the first quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress (17) celebrates his touchdown with teammate Amani Toomer on a 19-yard pass from quarterback Eli Manning during the third quarter of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) during an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) is congratulated by Jared Lorenzen after throwing a 3-yard touchdown pass to Kevin Boss during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New England Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi (54) attempts to stop New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs as he scores on a 7-yard pass from quarterback Eli Manning during the first quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates after throwing a 7-yard touchdown pass to running back Brandon Jacobs against the New England Patriots during the first quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Henny Ray Abrams)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick., right, is congratulated by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan after the Patriots 38-35 victory over the Giants in their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. The Patriots became the first team to go 16-0 in the regular season and the first since the 1972 Miami Dolphins to go through a full schedule without a loss. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Domenik Hixon points to fans after scoring on a 74-yard kick return against the New England Patriots during the second quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Henny Ray Abrams)
New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss (81), covered by New York Giants linebacker Gerris Wilkinson, misses a pass thrown in the end zone by quarterback Tom Brady during the second quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Henny Ray Abrams)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan celebrates after the Giants beat the New England Patriots 17-14 in the Super Bowl XLII football game on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz.(AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants receiver David Tyree (85) catches a 32 yard pass while in the clutches of New England Patriots safety Rodney Harrison (37) and James Sanders (36) during the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Gene Puskar)
New England Patriots players and the New York Giants players take the field during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan holds the Vince Lombardi trophy after the Giants beat the New England Patriots 17-14 to win the Super Bowl XLII football game in Glendale, Ariz, on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning celebrates after the Giants beat the New England Patriots 17-14 in the Super Bowl XLII football game on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants fans celebrate after the Giants beat the New England Patriots 17-14 during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
New York Giants' Plaxico Burress, left, catches the game-winning touchdown pass in front of New England Patriots' Ellis Hobbs III during the final minute of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin is doused by his player Madison Hedgecock after the Giants beat the New England Patriots 17-14 in the Super Bowl XLII football game on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy alongside Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, right, and Terry Bradshaw after the Giants defeated the New England Patriots 17-14 in the Super Bowl XLII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress, left, scores a touchdown in the fourth quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game against the New England Patriots at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
New England Patriots running back Kevin Faulk (33) runs for yardage as he is surrounded by New York Giants Antonio Pierce (58), Michael Johnson (43), and Gibril Wilson (28) during the third quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
New York Giants receiver David Tyree, front right, celebrates with his teammates after scoring a touchdown against the New England Patriots during the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) dives on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) in the second quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. Brady was sacked on the play. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New York Giants QB Eli Manning #10 escapes pressure from the New England Patriots during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. Manning completed a miracle 32-yard pass to David Tyree on the play to set up their winning td. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants receiver David Tyree (85) makes a 32-yard reception as New England Patriots safety Rodney Harrison (37) defends during the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants QB Eli Manning #10 escapes pressure and passes downfield against the New England Patriots during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. Manning completed a miracle 32-yard pass to David Tyree on the play to set up their winning td. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) strips the football from New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants QB Eli Manning #10 escapes pressure from the New England Patriots during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. Manning completed a miracle 32-yard pass to David Tyree on the play to set up their winning td. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, right, admires the Vince Lombardi Trophy with broadcaster Terry Bradshaw after the Giants beat the New England Patriots 17-14 in the Super Bowl XLII football game on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants receiver David Tyree (85) celebrates with quarterback Eli Manning after his 5-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter against the New England Patriots during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) reacts after fumbling the ball in the second quarter against the New York Giants during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) celebrates after the Giants beat the New England Patriots 17-14 in the Super Bowl XLII football game on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress (17) celebrates after scoring the winning touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 17-14 win over the New England Patriots during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants receiver David Tyree (85) celebrates his 5-yard touchdown catch with teammates, including Ahmad Bradshaw, left, during the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) reacts after throwing a 5-yard touchdown pass to receiver David Tyree in the fourth quarter against the New England Patriots during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. At left is the Patriots' Mike Vrabel. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress (17) jumps for the ball against New England Patriots cornerback Ellis Hobbs (27) and James Sanders during the first quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. The pass fell incomplete. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning and head coach Tom Coughlin celebrate after the Giants beat the New England Patriots 17-14 in the Super Bowl XLII football game on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, left, holds the Vince Lombardi Trophy as he celebrates with his coach Tom Coughlin after the Giants beat the New England Patriots 17-14 in the Super Bowl XLII football game on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) reacts after throwing a 5-yard touchdown pass to receiver David Tyree in the fourth quarter against the New England Patriots during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants defenders Osi Umenyiora (72) and Justin Tuck (91) force New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) to fumble in the second quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. The Giants recovered he bal. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs is alone as he runs into the end zone for a touchdown in the third quarter of an NFL football game against the New York Giants in Foxborough, Mass.. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New England Patriots' Wes Welker is sandwiched by New York Giants' Kenny Phillips, right, and New York Giants' Spencer Paysinger during the second half of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
The New England Patriots and the New York Giants prepare for the snap at the line of scrimmage during the fourth quarter of New York's 24-20 win in a NFL football game at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz, right, and wide receiver Mario Manningham celebrates a touchdown in front of New England Patriots cornerback Kyle Arrington (24) during the fourth quarter of New York's 24-20 win in a NFL football game at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
The New England Patriots play against the New York Giants in the first quarter of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
New York Giants' Eli Manning passes at the line of scrimmage during the second half of an NFL football game against New England Patriots' Andre Carter in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New England Patriots' Julian Edelman flies through the air on a hit against the New York Giants during the second half of an NFL football in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants tight end Jake Ballard (85) catches and holds on to the winning touchdown against New England Patriots linebacker Tracy White, right, in the last minute of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. The Giants won 24-20. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New England Patriots' Zoltan Mesko, left, kicks the ball as he is pressured by New York Giants' Devin Thomas, right, during the second half of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants' Eli Manning reacts to a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football against the New England Patriots in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants tight end Jake Ballard (85) makes the reception in front of New England Patriots linebacker Tracy White (58) in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. Ballard had a touchdown reception later on the drive, as the Giants won 24-20. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
New England Patriots' Rob Gronkowski fails to make the catch against New York Giants' Deon Grant during the second half of an NFL football in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants outside linebacker Michael Boley gets his hand on the wrist of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) to cause him to fumble in the third quarter of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. The Giants recovered the ball, setting up a subsequent touchdown. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning celebrates his touchdown pass to tight end Jake Ballard in the last minute of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. The Giants defeated the New England Patriots 24-20. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes in the first quarter of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
New York Giants' Eli Manning, right, is congratulated by New England Patriots' Tom Brady after the Giants' 24-20 win in an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) is taken down by New England Patriots cornerback Devin McCourty (32)in the third quarter of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady reacts after New York Giants linebacker Chase Blackburn intercepted Brady's pass intended for tight end Rob Gronkowski during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, right, hands the the Vince Lombardi Trophy over to New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, left, after the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
El quarterback Eli Manning (10) de los Giants de Nueva York festeja tras enviar un pase de touchdown durante la primera mitad del Super Bowl XLVI frente a los Patriots de Nueva Inglaterra, el domingo 5 de febrero de 2012, en Indianápolis. (Foto AP/David Duprey)
New York Giants linebacker Chase Blackburn (93) intercepts a pass from New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady as Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) looks on NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) reacts after making a catch as New England Patriots middle linebacker Jerod Mayo (51) looks on during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz celebrates after catching a 2-yard touchdown pass during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New England Patriots Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
FILE- In this Feb. 5, 2012, file photo, New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after their 21-17 win against the new England Patrios in the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game in Indianapolis. When Giants players look at the first-ever AP Pro32 rankings released by The Associated Press this week, they will have more ammunition for their inferiority complex. For those of you wondering why the NFL champions would feel that way, simply checking out the poll, which has the Giants third behind Green Bay and New England. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) points out the defensive coverage against the New England Patriots during the first half of the NFL football Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday, Feb.5, 2012, in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Giants defeated the Patriots 21-17. (AP Photo/Kevin Terrell)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz scores a first quarter touchdown during NFL Super Bowl XLVI against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis (AP Photo/EvanPinkus)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 05: Victor Cruz #80 of the New York Giants dances the salsa during Super Bowl XLVI at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 5, 2012.(AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27), defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72), linebacker Michael Boley (59) and cornerback Corey Webster (23) take the field before playing the New England Patriots in the NFL football Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday, Feb.5, 2012, in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Giants defeated the Patriots 21-17. (AP Photo/Kevin Terrell)
New York Giants players including wide receiver Victor Cruz, left, and wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, right, celebrate their team's 21-17 win over the New England Patriots in the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
ADVANCE FOR WEEKEND EDITIONS, MARCH 10-11 - FILE - In this Feb. 5, 2012, file photo, New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) catches a pass ahead of New England Patriots defensive back Sterling Moore, center, and safety Patrick Chung, left, during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game in Indianapolis. A week after a record 21 players were given franchise tags, the NFL's free agency free-for-all begins. As the the No. 3 receiver in the Meadowlands behind Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz, Manningham's contract situation is in a tenuous position despite his Super Bowl credentials. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) and kicker Lawrence Tynes (9) celebrate with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after the Giants' 21-17 win over the New England Patriots in NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
New York Giants long snapper Zak DeOssie (51) celebrates after his team's 21-17 win over the New England Patriots in the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning reacts with defensive end Justin Tuck, right, after their team's 21-17 win over the New England Patriots in the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning holds up the Vince Lombardi Trophy while celebrating his team's 21-17 win over the New England Patriots in the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz holds the the Vince Lombardi Trophy after the Giants' 21-17 win over the New England Patriots in the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, left, turns away after greeting New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin after the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a catch for a touchdown as New England Patriots safety James Ihedigbo (44) defends during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning reacts in the closing minutes of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) does a "ninja bow" after sacking New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second half of the NFL football Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday, Feb.5, 2012, in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Giants defeated the Patriots 21-17. (AP Photo/Kevin Terrell)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) takes part in a week 6 regular season game against the New England Patriots on Thursday October 10th, 2019 in Foxborough, Massachusetts
QB Daniel Jones (8)
The New England Patriots and the New York Giants line up for the snap at the line of scrimmage during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
The New England Patriots and the New York Giants line up for the snap at the line of scrimmage during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, center, throws a touchdown pass to Golden Tate in the first half of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) takes part a week 6 regular season game against the New England Patriots on Thursday October 10th, 2019 in Foxborough, Massachusetts
New York Giants linebacker Oshane Ximines (53) during a preseason game against the New England Patriots on Sunday August 29th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Evan Neal (73), Mark Glowinski (64)
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a preseason game against the New England Patriots on Sunday August 29th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) takes part in a week 6 regular season game against the New England Patriots on Thursday October 10th, 2019 in Foxborough, Massachusetts
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a preseason game against the New England Patriots on Sunday August 29th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Xavier McKinney (29)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
New York Giants cornerback Cor'Dale Flott (28) during a preseason NFL football game against New England Patriots on Thursday August 11, 2022 in Foxborough, MA
Darrian Beavers (41)
Dexter Lawrence vs. David Andrews
Dexter Lawrence continues to be the most dominant player on the Giants this season. Last week, his consistent pass pressure (along with Kayvon Thibodeaux), was the main factor in disrupting the Commanders' passing offense. When he has been dominant this season, the Giants' defense has played well. When other teams have managed to limit his impact, which has not been often, the defense has had some of its less impressive performances.
Lawrence has only four sacks, but his 59 pressures is 24 more than any other Giants player (Thibodeaux has 35). He has the fifth-most pressures in the league, and more than any other defensive tackle (including Aaron Donald, who has 52). His 20.7 pass rush win rate is the eighth-best mark in the NFL, which is unheard of for a player that spends most of his time at nose tackle.
This week he will go against the Patriots' longest-tenured offensive lineman, David Andrews. He has been starting at center for the Patriots since he joined them as an undrafted free agent in 2015. Andrews is as solid as they come, but he has had some trouble in pass protection this season. He has allowed three sacks, two quarterback hits, and 15 total pressures this season.
View photos of every move made by the Giants during the 2023 cycle.
QB Jacob Eason - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (January 6)
TE Tyree Jackson - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (January 6)
K Mason Crosby - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (January 6)
OT Yodny Cajuste - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (January 6)
S Jason Pinnock - Reserve/Injured (January 6)
QB Jacob Eason - Practice Squad Signing (January 4)
OT Tyre Phillips - Reserve/Injured (January 2)
OLB Jeremiah Martin - Practice Squad Signing (January 1)
K Mason Crosby - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (December 30)
WR Dennis Houston - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (December 30)
LB Darrian Beavers - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (December 30)
TE Lawrence Cager - Reserve/Injured (December 30)
K Mason Crosby - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (December 24)
OLB Tomon Fox - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (December 24)
OT Matt Peart - Activated, from Reserve (December 24)
OT Evan Neal - Reserve/Injured (December 24)
K Mason Crosby - Practice Squad Veteran (December 22)
K Cade York - Practice Squad; Injured (December 22)
K Randy Bullock - Reserve/Injured (December 21)
DL Timmy Horne - Free Agent Signing from ATL Practice Squad (December 21)
OT Matt Peart - Designated for Return / Returned to Practice (December 20)
RB Gary Brightwell - Designated for Return / Returned to Practice (December 20)
TE Darren Waller - Activated, from Reserve (December 16)
S Bobby McCain - Waived, No Recall (December 16)
TE Darren Waller - Designated for Return / Returned to Practice (December 14)
QB Tyrod Taylor - Activated, from Reserve (December 11)
QB Matt Barkley - Practice Squad Veteran Signing (December 5)
QB Jacob Eason - Terminated (by Club) from Practice Squad (December 4)
QB Matt Barkley - Waived, No Recall (December 4)
QB Tyrod Taylor - Designated for Return / Returned to Practice (December 4)
WR Dylan Drummond - Practice Squad Signing (November 30)
OLB Oshane Ximines - Terminated (by Club) from Practice Squad (November 30)
RB Eric Gray - Activated, from Reserve (November 25)
K Cade York - Practice Squad Exception Signing (November 24)
K Randy Bullock - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (November 24)
K Cade York - Waived, No Recall (November 22)
RB Eric Gray - Designated for Return / Returned to Practice (November 22)
OL Joshua Miles - Practice Squad Veteran Signing (November 21)
RB Deon Jackson - Practice Squad Exception Signing (November 21)
RB Hassan Hall - Terminated (by Club) from Practice Squad (November 21)
LB Benton Whitley - Free Agent Signing from MIN Practice Squad (November 21)
RB Deon Jackson - Waived, No Recall (November 20)
OL Joshua Miles - Waived, No Recall (November 20)
K Randy Bullock - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (November 18)
TE Tyree Jackson - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (November 18)
TE Chris Myarick - Waived, No Recall from Reserve/Injured (November 13)
OLB Azeez Ojulari - Activated, from Reserve (November 11)
TE Tyree Jackson - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (November 11)
K Randy Bullock - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (November 11)
OLB Azeez Ojulari - Designated for Return / Returned to Practice (November 8)
QB Matt Barkley - QB Matt Barkley - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (November 8)
QB Daniel Jones - Reserve/Injured (November 8)
QB Jacob Eason - Practice Squad Signing (November 7)
RB Hassan Hall - Practice Squad Signing (November 7)
OLB Justin Hollins - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (November 4)
K Randy Bullock - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (November 4)
TE Lawrence Cager - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (November 4)
TE Darren Waller - Reserve/Injured (November 4)
QB Tyrod Taylor - Reserve/Injured (November 4)
WR Gunner Olszewski - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (November 3)
K Cade York - Free Agent Signing from TEN Practice Squad (November 3)
K Randy Bullock - Practice Squad Veteran Signing (November 3)
K Graham Gano - Reserve/Injured (November 3)
QB Matt Barkley - Practice Squad Veteran Signing (October 31)
QB Tommy DeVito - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (October 31)
WR Gunner Olszewski - Practice Squad Veteran Signing (October 31)
OL Jaylon Thomas - Terminated (by Club) from Practice Squad (October 31)
DL Leonard Williams - Traded to Seahawks for 2024 2nd Round Pick & 2025 5th Round Pick (October 30)
CB Stantley Thomas-Oliver III - Practice Squad Veteran Signing (October 30)
WR Gunner Olszewski - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (October 30)
WR Gunner Olszewski - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (October 28)
RB Gary Brightwell - Reserve/Injured (October 28)
QB Tommy DeVito - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (October 28)
OLB Oshane Ximines - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (October 28)
RB Jashaun Corbin - Free Agent Signing from CAR Practice Squad
OLB Justin Hollins - Practice Squad Veteran Signing
RB Eric Gray, OT Matt Peart - Reserve/Injured
RB Deon Jackson - Claimed off Waivers from CLV
(October 24)
WR Gunner Olszewski - Practice Squad Veteran Signing (October 23)
QB Tommy DeVito - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (October 21)
OL Jalen Mayfield - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (October 21)
TE Lawrence Cager - Practice Squad Signing
OL Sean Harlow - Free Agent Signing from DAL Practice Squad (October 19)
OL Shane Lemieux - Reserve/Injured (October 19)
OL Justin Pugh - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (October 18)
TE Lawrence Cager - Waived, No Recall (October 18)
OL Tyre Phillips - Free Agent Signing from PHI Practice Squad
OL Joshua Miles - Free Agent Signing from ATL Practice Squad
OL Joshua Ezeudu - Reserve/Injured
OL Jalen Mayfield - Practice Squad Exception Signing
DB Alex Cook - Free Agent Signing to CAR Active Roster
(October 17)
OLB Azeez Ojulari - Reserve/Injured (October 14)
OL Jalen Mayfield - Free Agent Signing from NYG Practice Squad (October 14)
QB Tommy DeVito - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (October 14)
OL Justin Pugh - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (October 14)
OT Yodny Cajuste - Practice Squad Veteran (October 11)
WR Cole Beasley - Designated for Return / Restored to Practice Squad (October 10)
WR Cam Sims - - Terminated (by Club) from Practice Squad (October 10)
CB Amani Oruwariye - Terminated (by Club) from Practice Squad (October 10)
OL Jaylon Thomas, OL Jalen Mayfield - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (October 7)
OL Justin Pugh - Practice Squad Veteran (October 3)
RB Taiwan Jones - Terminated (by Club) from Practice Squad (October 3)
OLB Oshane Ximines - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (September 21)
OL Jaylon Thomas - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (September 21)
RB Taiwan Jones - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (September 16)
OLB Oshane Ximines - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (September 16)
RB Taiwan Jones - Activated, from Practice Squad (Standard Elevation) (September 9)
K Graham Gano - Signed 3-year contract extension (September 8)
WR Cam Sims - Practice Squad Veteran Signing (September 4)
WR Cole Beasley - Practice Squad; Injured (September 4)
G Jack Anderson - Waived, Injury Settlement
DB Kaleb Hayes, WR Dennis Houston, T Jaylon Thomas - Practice Squad Signing (August 31)
RB Taiwan Jones - Practice Squad Veteran Signing (August 31)
TE Tyree Jackson, G Jalen Mayfield - Practice Squad Exception Signing (August 31)
DB Gemon Green, T Tyre Phillips - Terminated (by Club) from Practice Squad (August 31)
CB Zyon Gilbert - Waived, Injury Settlement
DT Ryder Anderson, ILB Darrian Beavers, DB Alex Cook, QB Tommy DeVito, CB Gemon Green, ILB Dyontae Johnson, TE Ryan Jones - Practice Squad (August 30)
WR Cole Beasley, CB Amani Oruwariye, T Tyre Phillips, OLB Oshane Ximines - Practice Squad Veteran (August 30)
OLB Tomon Fox - Practice Squad Exception (August 30)
DE Boogie Basham - Acquired via Trade (via BUF) with 2025 7th Round Pick for 2025 6th Round Pick (August 30)
DT Ryder Anderson - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
DE Habakkuk Baldonado - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
LB Darrian Beavers - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
DB Alex Cook - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
RB Jashaun Corbin - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
QB Tommy DeVito - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
LB Tomon Fox - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
DB Gemon Green - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
LB Dyontae Johnson - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
TE Ryan Jones - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
LS Cameron Lyons - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
T Tyre Phillips - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
WR Kalil Pimpleton - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
DT Kobe Smith - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
LB Ray Wilborn - Waived, No Recall (August 29)
WR Cole Beasley - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 29)
WR Jamison Crowder - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 29)
C Sean Harlow - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 29)
DB Amani Oruwariye - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 29)
WR David Sills V - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 29)
LB Oshane Ximines - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 29)
TE Tommy Sweeney - Reserve/Non-Football Illness (August 29)
WR Wan'Dale Robinson - Passed Physical (August 29)
CB Aaron Robinson - Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform (August 29)
TE Chris Myarick - Reserve/Injured (August 28)
DB Zyon Gilbert - Waived, Injured (August 28)
G Jack Anderson - Waived, Injured (August 28)
G Wyatt Davis - Waived, Injured (August 28)
WR Bryce Ford-Wheaton - Reserve/Injured (August 27)
WR Jaydon Mickens - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 27)
OT Korey Cunningham - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 27)
OT Julién Davenport - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 27)
DT Brandin Bryant - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 27)
DE Tashawn Bower - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (August 27)
DT Kevin Atkins - Waived, No Recall (August 27)
WR Collin Johnson - Waived, No Recall (August 27)
DB Darren Evans - Waived, No Recall (August 27)
NT Donovan Jeter - Waived, No Recall (August 27)
RB James Robinson - Waived, No Recall (August 27)
S/ILB Isaiah Simmons - Acquired via Trade (via ARZ) for 2024 7th Round Pick (August 25)
OT Devery Hamilton - Waived, Injury Settlement (August 24)
LB Troy Brown - Waived, Injury Settlement
CB Rodarius Williams - Waived, No Recall (August 19)
OT Julién Davenport - Free Agent Signing (August 16)
LB Troy Brown - Waived, Injured (August 16)
LB Ray Wilborn - Claimed off Waivers from DEN (August 15)
OT Devery Hamilton - Waived/Injured (August 15)
DL D.J. Davidson - Passed Physical (August 14)
WR Jeff Smith - Terminated, Vested Veteran, Injury Settlement (August 11)
DT A'Shawn Robinson - Passed Physical (August 7)
OL Marcus McKethan - Passed Physical (August 7)
NT Donovan Jeter - Free Agent Signing (August 4)
WR Jeff Smith - Waived/Injured (August 4)
C Sean Harlow - Free Agent Signing (August 1)
OL J.C. Hassenauer - Reserve/Injured (August 1)
WR Sterling Shepard - Passed Physical (July 30)
WR Jamison Crowder - Passed Physical (July 30)
DT Vernon Butler - Reserve/Injured (July 29)
LB Elerson Smith - Waived, Injury Settlement (July 29)
DT Kevin Atkins - Free Agent Signing (July 27)
T Andrew Thomas - Signed, Renegotiated Contract (July 26)
DT D.J. Davidson - Declared Physically Unable to Perform (July 25)
G Marcus McKethan - Declared Physically Unable to Perform (July 25)
CB Aaron Robinson - Declared Physically Unable to Perform (July 25)
DT A'Shawn Robinson - Declared Physically Unable to Perform (July 25)
WR Wan'Dale Robinson - Declared Physically Unable to Perform (July 25)
WR Sterling Shepard - Declared Physically Unable to Perform (July 25)
WR Jamison Crowder - Declared Non-Football Injury (July 25)
DT Vernon Butler - Reserve/Did Not Report (July 25)
RB Saquon Barkley - Franchise Player Signing (July 25)
OLB Tashawn Bower - Free Agent Signing (July 25)
OLB Elerson Smith - Waived, Injured (July 25)
DB Trenton Thompson - Waived, No Recall (July 25)
DT Brandin Bryant - Free Agent Signing (July 24)
WR Makai Polk - Waived, No Recall (July 24)
WR Dre Miller - Waived, No Recall (July 24)
RB James Robinson - Free Agent Signing (July 21)
WR Cole Beasley - Free Agent Signing (July 21)
DB Darren Evans - Free Agent Signing (July 18)
LB Jarrad Davis - Reserve/Injured (July 18)
DB Leonard Johnson - Waived/Injured (July 18)
DL Kobe Smith - Free Agent Signing (June 15)
DL Dexter Lawrence - Signed, Renegotiated Contract (May 5)
OLB Oshane Ximines - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
OLB Habakkuk Baldonado - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
LB Troy Brown - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
DB Alex Cook - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
QB Tommy DeVito - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
WR Bryce Ford-Wheaton - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
DB Gemon Green - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
LB Dyontae Johnson - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
TE Ryan Jones - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
LS Cameron Lyons - Free Agent Signing (May 5)
CB Deonte Banks - Selected in Round 1 (Pick No. 24) of 2023 NFL Draft
CB Deonte Banks - Selection List Signing (May 18)
OL John Michael Schmitz - Selected in Round 2 (Pick No. 57) of 2023 NFL Draft
C John Michael Schmitz - Selection List Signing (May 23)
WR Jalin Hyatt - Selected in Round 3 (Pick No. 73) of 2023 NFL Draft
WR Jalin Hyatt - Selection List Signing (May 15)
RB Eric Gray - Selection List Signing (May 5)
CB Tre Hawkins III - Selected in Round 6 (Pick No. 209) of 2023 NFL Draft
CB Tre Hawkins III - Selection List Signing (May 5)
DL Jordon Riley - Selected in Round 7 (Pick No. 243) of 2023 NFL Draft
RB Eric Gray - Selected in Round 5 (Pick No. 172) of 2023 NFL Draft
DL Jordan Riley - Selection List Signing (May 6)
DB Gervarrius Owens - Selected in Round 7 (Pick No. 254) of 2023 NFL Draft
DB Gervarrius Owens - Selection List Signing (May 5)
DT A'Shawn Robinson - Unrestricted Free Agent Signing (April 24)
C J.C. Hassenauer - Free Agent Signing (April 7)
OLB Jihad Ward - Unrestricted Free Agent Signing (March 29)
TE Tommy Sweeney - Unrestricted Free Agent Signing (March 23)
CB Amani Oruwariye - Unrestricted Free Agent Signing (March 23)
WR Jamison Crowder - Unrestricted Free Agent Signing (March 23)
S Bobby McCain - Free Agent Signing (March 23)
WR Darius Slayton - Free Agent Signing (March 20)
DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches - Free Agent Signing (March 17)
WR Parris Campbell - Free Agent Signing (March 17)
WR Jeff Smith - Free Agent Signing (March 17)
LB Bobby Okereke - Free Agent Signing (March 16)
WR Sterling Shepard - Free Agent Signing (March 15)
TE Darren Waller - Acquired via trade with Las Vegas Raiders (March 15)
RB Matt Breida - Signed, Renegotiated Contract (March 14)
P Jamie Gillan - Signed, Renegotiated Contract (March 13)
LS Casey Kreiter - Signed, Renegotiated Contract (March 13)
G Wyatt Davis - Signed, Renegotiated Contract (March 13)
QB Daniel Jones - Signed, Renegotiated Contract (March 7)
RB Saquon Barkley - Designated Franchise Player (March 7)
LB Jarrad Davis - Signed, Renegotiated Contract (March 7)
WR Isaiah Hodgins - Signed, Exclusive Rights (February 16)
G Jack Anderson - Signed, Exclusive Rights (February 14)
TE Lawrence Cager - Signed, Exclusive Rights (February 13)
WR David Sills V - Reserve/Future Signing (January 26)
DB Terrell Burgess - Reserve/Future Signing (January 26)
TE Chris Myarick - Reserve/Future Signing (January 23)
T Devery Hamilton - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
WR Dre Miller - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
DB Zyon Gilbert - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
DT Vernon Butler - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
WR Makai Polk - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
T Korey Cunningham - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
WR Jaydon Mickens - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
WR Kalil Pimpleton - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
RB Jashaun Corbin - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
DB Trenton Thompson - Reserve/Future Signing (January 22)
DB Terrell Burgess - Waived/Injured (May 5)
G Solomon Kindley - Waived
WR Kenny Golladay - Terminated, Vested Veteran, all contracts (March 15)
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