Zac’s notes: This preview comes a day early as I will be out of town this weekend. Also, this piece was first published on my Examiner page
The New York Giants play host to the New York Jets in the annual preseason game between the two New York football teams. Kickoff is at 8pm on Saturday and the game can be seen locally on NBC.
As with my other two preseason previews, I will not be breaking down the game as the outcome of a preseason game is as important as the next word out of the mouth of Kate Gosselin. Instead, here’s a brief look at what you should be watching for as the Giants take on the Jets.
Offense: The Giants have shown in two preseason games that the rushing attack is going to be just fine after losing Derrick Ward to Tampa Bay. There’s still plenty of questions about New York’s passing game. Expect quarterback Eli Manning to play at least the first two quarters against the Jets. It’d be nice to see the offensive line give Manning some more time in the pocket than what he got against the Bears. Giants fans would also like to see rookies Hakeem Nicks and Ramses Barden at least on the field at the same time as Manning. No word if that will actually happen.
Manning and company aren’t the only story when it comes to the Giants passing game. After the Bears game, backup quarterback David Carr was called out for his performance both on the field and in practice. Carr has something to prove to his coaching staff and two games left to do it.
Defense: The Giants defense is the biggest story of the Giants-Jets contest for two reasons. Big Blue will be without names such as Canty, Alford, Pierce and Ross. The defense is dealing with injuries at every position. Don’t expect the Jets to show any mercy, especially after the team named rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez as the starter earlier this week. The Baltimore Ravens did a good job of rattling the young QB with a strong pass rush. Look for the Giants defensive line to attempt to do the same. We’ll also get to see if Sanchez has benefited from Eli Manning’s advice.
Special Teams: Rumor has it running back Danny Ware will try returning punts when the Giants take on the Jets this week. Why not?
One final note: I will be in Baltimore tomorrow night watching the Cleveland Indians most likely lose. Thanks to the wonders of technology, though, I’ll be following the game via Twitter and other websites so updates from my loyal readers will be appreciated.
Let’s stay healthy this weekend, Giants.
