After picking up their second win of the season in Week 5, the New York Giants will head back to MetLife Stadium to host the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 6.
Despite the Bengals having just one win on the season and traveling as the away team, the Giants opened up as 3.5-point home underdogs earlier this week.
Both teams need a win in this game. However, you could argue the Bengals are a tad more desperate for a win given the fact that their expectations were much higher coming into the season.
With Sunday right around the corner, here are three reasons for optimism ahead of Sunday.
Next Man Up
The Giants were heavy underdogs this past Sunday on the road on the other side of the country and were without Malik Nabers and Devin Singletary.
In the absence of two important pieces, the Giants got big performances from their next men up — Darius Slayton and Tyrone Tracy Jr.
If Nabers is sidelined again, the Giants’ chances of winning Sunday night will take a big hit. However, clearly, the Giants proved they have confidence in their depth to step up.
The Giants will also be without Kayvon Thibodeaux on Sunday. After being rumored as a player to be traded before the season, the Giants will benefit from holding on to Azeez Ojulari who will be asked to step up in Thibodeaux’s absence.
Daniel Jones may have found the deep ball
Through the first four weeks of the season, quarterback Daniel Jones struggled with throws down the field. On Sunday in Seattle, Jones seemed more confident in the deep ball, hitting Darius Slayton on a few throws down the field, including an impressive touchdown in the second half.
Jones is coming into Sunday with confidence, playing well in his last four games. If they can unlock the deep ball, head coach Brian Daboll may take more shots down the field this week and open up even more holes in the run game. Opening up the downfield passing game will open up more possibilities for the offense.
An opportunity to put points on the board
The Giants put up a season-high 29 points this past Sunday. This Sunday night, the Giants will welcome a Bengals team that is giving up an average of 29 points per game, second-most in the league.
With the talent the Bengals have in their receiving corps, the Giants will need to put points on the board Sunday to keep the game close.
The Bengals’ defense also has the second-fewest sacks in the league (6.0). The Giants’ improved offensive line should be able to protect Daniel Jones Sunday to help the offense push the ball down the field.