Giants - Redskins Week 1 Preview

WHEN: Sunday September 13, 2009 @ 4:15pm on FOX

Keys to the Game:

• Defense - Running Game: If the Giants shut down Clinton Portis and the running game right from the start and make Campbell pass. If they are able to do this, it will be along game for the Skins.
• Defense - Passing Downs: The Giants should not have a problem getting to Jason Campbell. The Redskins line has talent but I don't see them having the ability to slow down this pass rush that is relentless and comes in waves.
• Rushing Offense: The Giants offensive line, which anchored the NFL's best rushing attack in 2008 will have the task of handling Albert Haynesworth I don't believe this will be a problem. I know that most of the time you may want to double Haynesworth, but in the end I don't believe that one great defensive lineman won't shut down the Giants running attack.
• Passing Offense: Eli Manning has established himself as one of the games best quarterbacks and now he needs the help of the wide receiving core to assist him. Unlike in the preseason, Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon and Mario Manningham need to catch the ball and make plays when they are needed. I believe the Giants need to start off with shorter passes to get Eli and his receivers into a rhythm. The Giants are a run first team, so the passing game isn't a concern of mine. I believe in the end the offense will make the plays to win this game.

As I break this game down I don't see how the Redskins are going to be able to contain the Giants pass rush. On the other side of the ball the Giants Offensive Line will do enough to get Brandon Jacobs running down hill and down the field. The Giants have the clear advantage in this game on offense and defense.

My Biggest concern is that Kevin Dockery has not practiced all week. I was thinking at the beginning of the week that him and Ross would play but now it looks like both will most likely sit this one out. Which leaves them down to three corners and three safeties.