3 Keys to Victory for Giants and Commanders

The NFC East is home to some of the most timeless rivalries in all of sports, and this Sunday, we will witness a classic showdown between the Washington Commanders and the New York Giants. Both teams are coming off losses in their season openers and will be eager to right the ship in Week 2. For the Giants, their Week 1 loss confirmed many fans' worst fears: the offense was ineffective, and aside from Dexter Lawrence, the defensive line failed to make an impact. As for Washington, the offense performed better than New York’s, but their defense, especially the secondary, struggled mightily.

While the Giants may appear to have the edge on paper, this is a game that could go either way. Let’s break down the keys to victory for each team and what they need to do to come out on top.

New York Giants

1. Contain Jayden DanielsThe Giants have invested heavily in their defense, but outside of Dexter Lawrence, that investment didn’t show up in Week 1. Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux were both non-factors against the Vikings. For two highly paid and highly drafted players, it’s inexcusable that they combined for only one quarterback pressure and had no impact in the run or pass game. They need to step up against rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and play disciplined football to contain his scrambling ability. Linebacker Bobby Okereke will also play a crucial role in preparing the defense for Daniels' dual-threat capabilities.

2. Push the Ball DownfieldOne surprising takeaway from the Giants' Week 1 performance was how conservative the passing game was. Daniel Jones attempted only one pass of more than 20 yards. Given the offseason emphasis on creating big plays and Washington’s vulnerable secondary, Jones should be looking to stretch the field. Malik Nabers and Darius Slayton need to be targeted deep to keep the Commanders' defense honest.

3. Get PressureWith Washington starting a rookie quarterback, the Giants' defense needs to capitalize. Pressuring Jayden Daniels is key, and New York’s pass rush must be more aggressive and productive than it was in Week 1. If Burns and Thibodeaux can make an impact, it will force Daniels into mistakes and make life easier for the secondary.

Washington Commanders

1. Protect Jayden Daniels / Daniels Must Stay in the PocketOne of the biggest issues in Daniels' debut was his tendency to abandon the pocket at the slightest sign of pressure. While his athleticism is a huge asset, Daniels needs to show more patience and allow plays to develop. Washington must protect him better this week, so he doesn’t feel the need to scramble unnecessarily. If they can keep him upright, Daniels will be able to make the necessary reads and get the offense moving.

2. Get Terry McLaurin InvolvedMcLaurin is Washington’s top playmaker but was largely absent in Week 1, finishing with only two catches. He needs to be a focal point of the offense, especially against a young Giants secondary led by second-year corner Deonte Banks. Getting McLaurin involved early and often will open up the field for other weapons and provide Daniels with a reliable target.

3. Disrupt Daniel JonesWashington’s defensive line, led by Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne, must dominate the interior of the Giants’ offensive line, which is its weakest link. If they can shut down the run and make New York one-dimensional, they’ll also have opportunities to get after Jones, who held the ball too long in Week 1. Consistent pressure on Jones will be key to stifling the Giants' offense.