The New York Giants will play their second prime-time game of the season on Thursday night against a very tough opponent in the San Francisco 49ers.
Following their big come-from-behind victory on Sunday, the Giants come in as heavy underdogs against one of the league’s best teams.
Buy Giants TicketsThe 49ers pose a significant challenge on both sides of the ball but the Giants have some newfound confidence after the way they played in the second half in Week 2.
Here are three reasons for optimism ahead of Thursday night’s game.
Momentum
After six quarters of absolutely putrid football, the Giants had a dramatic comeback on Sunday, scoring 31 points in the second half to come all the way back from a 28-7 third-quarter deficit.
The Giants’ offense was clicking on all cylinders in that second half and on defense, they really started to find their way.
If the Giants are able to continue the success they had on offense in the second half of Sunday’s game, they should be able to keep up with the 49ers.
New element to the Giants offense
It may have been just two catches on Sunday, but Jalin Hyatt’s performance in that small sample size was quite impressive.
Hyatt’s ability to stretch the field is something the Giants lacked last season and something they would like to increase as the weeks go on.
We could see Hyatt being a focus for Mike Kafka’s offense this week in particular. Opening up the play-calling downfield will create some underneath routes for Darren Waller & Co.
Likely without Saquon Barkley, it will be important to use Hyatt to keep the defense guessing.
Daniel Jones rushing threat
Daniel Jones has 102 rushing yards on the season to lead all quarterbacks.
His threat as a runner adds a dimension to the Giants’ offense that they may need to use a little more intensely this week with Barkley likely out.
Jones put together quite a second half against the Cardinals on Sunday, making history with his performance.
The Giants will likely use running back by committee on Thursday. If Jones is able to duplicate his performance from Sunday, it will go a long way for Big Blue’s chances in the game.
