Jets vs. Giants Preview

On Saturday the New York Jets take on the New York Giants in the “Battle for Bragging Rights” at Metlife Stadium (formerly New Meadowlands Stadium) at 2 p.m. EST – NOTE NEW TIME. This game will be the final dress rehearsal for both teams as the starting units will play into the third quarter and then will next be seen in week one of the regular season.

Offense

Ground and Pound- Brandon Moore is expected to return from injury this week which gives the starting offensive line a chance to work together in live action for the first time this preseason.  Look for the Jets to try and establish their running game in order to slow down the Giants pass rush in addition to getting some good work in.

Break out the Big 3- For the first time this preseason the Jets will have their “Big 3” wide receiver group on the field at the same time.   It will be very interesting to see how the Jets spread the field with Plaxico Burress, Santonio Holmes, and Derrick Mason.  There is a chance that quarterback Mark Sanchez could come out throwing the ball to open up the running game.

Defense

Get physical- The New York Giants like to play a physical style of offense by pounding the ball in the running game in order to open up the passing attack.  The Jets defense must match the Giants physical style and shut down the running game.  Once Gang Green accomplishes this they can pin their ears back and go after Eli.

Pressure Eli- The Giants passing attack is predicated on getting the ball down the field.  Big Blue has several receivers that can stretch the field and quarterback Eli Manning is not afraid to air it out.  The Jets must get pressure on the Giants quarterback in order to force him into bad decisions and poor throws.  Keep an eye on the Jets nickel and dime defensive backs (Kyle Wilson, Donald Strickland, Marquice Cole) as they could be targeted by Manning.

Overall

The Jets should have 3 goals: Play disciplined  and limit penalties, play physical, and leave the field relatively healthy.  If Gang Green is able to accomplish these goals they will not only win the game, but they will have survived the preseason without any major issues.

Tyson Rauch

See Full Bio