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The New York Giants dramatic win (20-12) against Washington has put them in the driver’s seat in the playoff picture, but they still have some work to do to secure a spot in the playoffs. Can they continue their winning ways against Minnesota or will they run into a buzz saw with an offense that features the likes of WR Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen, TE TJ Hockenson and RB Dalvin Cook.  Here are my top 3 ways the Giants could win:

  1. Time of Possession: The Giants offense hasn’t been winning the time of possession category over the last 5 games and their record reflects that with a 1-3-1 record during that span. This is a must for the Giants to win this week against a Minnesota offense that can put a lot of points on the board as evident to the 39 point outburst in the 2nd half against the Colts in their comeback win. There are other facets that the Giants need to do to secure a win against the Vikings, but this category is a must.
  2. Giants Run Defense: The Giants ranked 3rd worst in the NFL against the run in yards per game and although Minnesota has an explosive air attack, it’s there running attack featuring Dalvin Cook that the Giants must contain and minimize. Limiting the Vikings rushing attack will put more pressure on them being successful and less predictable in the passing game.
  3. Giants Pass Rush Keeps Rolling: Since the return to the lineup of Azeez Ojulari, the Giants pass rush and sacks have totaled 12 over the last 3 games. Against a potent Vikings aireal attack, the Giants must put as much pressure on QB Kirk Cousins and force him into mistakes, which he often does under extreme direst. Kayvon Thibodeaux seems to have turned the corner after his performance against Washington and must build on it and continue his dominance against a Vikings OL that has weak links in it.

Final Thoughts:  The Giants should keep the momentum going against the Vikings and I expect to see them start out strong and give the Vikings more than they bargained for in the 1st half. This game will be decided in the 2nd half in my opinion and the team that can make those key 3rd down conversions or even a few 4th downs will walk away with the victory. Early in the season, this game looked like an automatic loss for the Giants on paper, however; as we all know games aren’t played on paper and I see the Giants giving the Viking more than they can handle, but in the end I think the Vikings edge out the Giants in a close one.

Final Score: Vikings-27/Giants-23