For some reason, Sunday’s Giants-Eagles game hasn’t received the sort of attention you’d expect of such a big Week 15 matchup.
Perhaps it’s because there are three other huge 1PM games: Jags-Colts, Chiefs-Rams, and Ravens-Saints. Perhaps it’s because Mike Shanahan is sucking up all the NFC East oxygen.
Both teams are dealing with injury problems, but the news is looking up in Philadelphia. Cornerback Asante Samuel, wide receiver DeSean Jackson, and tackle Winston Justice are all questionable for the game. Justice’s status is a mystery, but Jackson looks sure to play and signs are pointing up for Samuel.
The rest of Philly’s defense needs to be at their best against a peaking Giants rushing attack. Jamar Chaney will make his first start for the Eagles at middle linebacker for Stewart Bradley and Philadelphia’s rush defense was already struggling.
For New York, tackle Shawn Andrews (back), linebacker Michael Boley (shoulder), center Shaun O’Hara (foot), and wideout Devin Thomas (hamstring) are all questionable after being limited in practice.
Michael Vick was slowed down by the Giants’ defense last time around, in part because of safety Antrel Rolle. Mike Garafolo of the Newark Star-Ledger takes a good look at how New York Rolle was deployed in the first matchup.
While there have been a couple of shaky moments, Rolle has been a big addition to the Giants defense. Coordinator Perry Fewell deserves a lot of credit for his creative use of the safety.
Rolle is one reason we’re looking forward to this game so much. The Eagles will almost surely win the NFC East if they can sweep New York. (It would be their sixth straight win over Big Blue.)
The Giants would have the edge in the division with a victory, but a difficult game against the Packers looms in Week 16.