The New York Giants defeated the New York Jets in week 3 of the preseason, 21-20. The game known as the “Snoopy Bowl” didn’t provide much excitement. The Giants finished the preseason 2-2 and the Jets were 1-3. Despite their records, both fan bases are optimistic and excited about their teams’ chances. By beating the Jets, Giants fans have bragging rights. But will they last the whole year? Below is a breakdown of which team has the advantage at each position.
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Quarterbacks:
In 2015, Giants quarterback Eli Manning threw for 4,436 yards and 35 touchdowns. Last season, Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick had his best season as a pro. Fitz tossed 31 touchdowns and threw for 3,905 yards. Manning has won two Super Bowls and will likely eventually be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. On a good day, Fitzpatrick is a slightly above-average quarterback. Advantage: Giants
Offensive line:
Both teams have huge question marks on their O-line. After never missing a game in 10 years with the Jets, D’Brickashaw Ferguson retired in April. The three-time Pro-Bowl player will be hard to replace at offensive tackle, but the Jets signed Ryan Clady to man the left tackle spot. The Giants’ line has had a slew of problems over the years. Their right side of John Jerry at guard and Marshall Newhouse at tackle will have to outplay expectations for the team to contend in the NFC East. Advantage: Jets
Running Back:
In March, the Jets signed former Bears back Matt Forte. In 13 games last year, Forte averaged 69.1 rushing yards per game. The 30-year-old is looking to get back to his Pro Bowl form. In 2014, he rushed for more than 1,000 yards and caught 102 passes. Bilal Powell provides a great spark off the bench for Gang Green. Meanwhile, Rashad Jennings became the featured back late in 2015 for Big Blue. Over the last three weeks of the season, Jennings averaged 19 carries and rushed for 351 yards. Backup Shane Vereen caught 59 balls out of the backfield last year. Advantage: Even
Wide Receivers:
Odell Beckham Jr. had 187 receptions in his first two years. The big question for the Giants is who will be the team’s second option? Victor Cruz continues to suffer from injuries, so look for rookie Sterling Shepard to catch at least 50 passes. The Jets have one of the best receiving duos in the NFL in Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker. Marshall led the team in receptions (109), yards (1,502), average yards per catch (13.8) and touchdowns (14), while Decker had 80 receptions, 1,027 yards and 12 touchdowns. Advantage: Jets
Tight Ends: The Jets released 2014 second-round pick Jace Amaro, who missed most of last season with a shoulder injury. Kellen Davis, a blocking tight end, is currently listed as the Jets’ starter on its depth chart. Larry Donnell, who caught two touchdowns in eight games in 2015, is in position to start for the Giants at tight end. Advantage: Even
Defense:
The Jets have one of the best fronts in the NFL. Darrelle Revis is no longer an elite defensive back, but is still very good. The Giants spent over $200 million in free agency this year to revamp their defense. Both should be improved. Advantage: Jets
Special Teams: Josh Brown is facing a one-game suspension due to a domestic violence arrest, but he is one of the best kickers in the NFL. Advantage: Giants
Coach: Todd Bowles and Ben McAdoo are both young coaches on the rise. Slight Advantage: Jets
The Jets have a more talented roster but there are two things that favor the Giants: Manning and their division. With Dallas quarterback Tony Romo getting injured and the Eagles trading starting quarterback Sam Bradford, the Giants should win the NFC East and have a better season than the Jets.
For more from Monte Perez, follow The Sports Whisperer on Twitter @Montetjwitter11.
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