The Giants (5-7) look to make it six wins in their past seven as they visit the Chargers (5-7) in San Diego on Sunday. Here are three keys to the matchup.
Pressure Rivers
Justin Tuck (4.0 sacks) and the Giants pass rush finally put it all together last week against the Redskins. But Robert Griffin III has been more prone to sacks this season than Chargers QB Philip Rivers.
Rivers has taken 22 sacks this season, which ranks 23rd in the NFL. The job will be harder without Jason Pierre-Paul (out) drawing attention from blockers.
Give it to Brown
Andre Brown continues to run well since his return four games ago. Even last week when he averaged just 2.5 yards per carry, he scored two touchdowns and caught three passes for 23 yards. He’s a workhorse-type running back who should make mincemeat out of the Chargers’ 22nd-ranked run defense.
Take a Cruz
Victor Cruz quietly has put together a solid season with 66 receptions, 931 yards and four touchdowns — maybe the relative lack of scores and salsa dances has kept him under the radar. With Hakeem Nicks not producing and Rueben Randle still very hit or miss, a matchup against San Diego’s 28th-ranked pass defense could mean it’s his week to shine.
