1. Spread the Wealth
In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, a team called the Redskins will be fighting for their (playoff) life. The Redskins defense will look to feast on Eli Manning, dialing up pressure and looking to force turnovers. But despite the addition of Jason Taylor, the Redskins have mustered up only 17 sacks this year. The Giants’ offensive line will be up to the task and Manning should be given enough time to find the open receiver. Because of the latest episode in the Plaxico Burress soap opera, Manning will again have to get guys such as Domenik Hixon and Sinorice Moss involved.
2. Overcome Redskins’ Emotion
The Redskins are only 3-3 at home this year and do not seem to be taking advantage of home field… advantage. But this game will be different. The late Sean Taylor will be inducted into the Redskins’ ring of fame before the game on Sunday, so expect the fans to be stirred and the players to be inspired. You can argue the effect of an emotional experience like this, but don’t forget that the Giants’ beat the Redskins 36-0 just days after owner Wellington Mara passed away. The Giants better be ready for a motivated team.
3. Stop Portis
Clinton Portis leads the league in rush yards and is a leading candidate for MVP. The Redskins are 6-1 when Portis reaches 90 yards and 1-3 when he does not. He averages almost 5 yards a carry and leads the league in multiple personalities. Establishing Portis will most likely be their #1 priority, so stopping him is of utmost importance. By stopping Portis, the Giants will force Jason Campbell to win the game with his arm.
4. Stop Jason Campbell From Winning the Game With His Arm
Since week 5, Campbell has thrown 4 touchdowns and 3 interceptions in 216 attempts. He is a very conservative quarter back and doesn’t try to do too much by himself. Campbell will usually take a sack before he throws an interception, but if enough pressure is put on him, he can be rattled. He has taken 28 sacks so far this year, so protection has been a problem. If the Giants can force the Redskins into 3rd and longs, he will have no choice but to take more chances with his throws. Whether the Giants can force an interception or two in these situations could be the difference in the game.
5. Don’t Shoot Yourself in the Foot
Literally or figuratively.
Happy Thanksgiving Weekend!
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It has been suggested by a few analysts that the Redskins’ best approach might be to blitz Eli Manning whenever possible. But the Redskins don’t rush the passer very productively (they only have 17 sacks this season), and the Giants’ offensive line is among the NFL’s best. In fact, Manning has only been sacked 13 times all season. When a defense “sells out” to blitz, it often gets burned by the run, and with Brandon Jacobs (if healthy) and Derrick Ward doing the running, blitzing could prove to be fatal for the Redskins./btw, saw some cool widgets at statbeast.com. Take a look!