Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith (6) is tackled by New York Giants safety Tony Jefferson (36) after making ac a catch during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Giants and Eagles Set for Playoff Showdown

Lauren Halpern January 20, 2023 Football, NFL 975 Views

The New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles will face off in the NFC divisional round on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. in Philadelphia.

A Giant Shock

The Giants are coming off an impressive wild card win against the Minnesota Vikings on the road Sunday. After five consecutive losing seasons, first-year head coach Brian Daboll, Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley led the Giants to their first playoff win since 2011.

They look to knock out the one-seed in the NFC when they travel to Philadelphia. New York hasn’t beaten the Eagles in Philly since 2013.

The Giants’ main focus on Saturday should be avoiding mistakes. On Sunday, the team nearly lost to the Vikings due to Darius Slayton committing a fourth-quarter drop. Luckily, the New York defense stepped up and halted Minnesota’s final drive with a fourth down stop.

Additionally, the Giants have to take notice of a couple holes in their defense. Offensive tackle Evan Neal, a rookie, and left guard Nick Gates have a major challenge ahead. The Eagles had an impressive 70 sacks, this season. Andrew Thomas, one of the best left tackles in the league, Neal and Gates will have to bear the Eagles’ lasting pressure.

Flying High

As the No. 1 seed in the NFC, the Eagles have high hopes for a Super Bowl appearance. Quarterback Jalen Hurts is back to full health after being out for the Eagles’ Week 16 and 17 matchups with a sprained shoulder. Hurts will be key in gaining rushing yards for the Eagles and he said he’s expecting pressure from the Giants defensive line.

Haason Reddick, Josh Sweat, Javon Hargrave and Brandon Graham make the Eagles the first team in NFL history with four players with more than 10 sacks. In the Week 14 meeting, Daniel Jones was sacked seven times.

The curiosity stands on whether the Giants can continue to shock NFL fans around the country, or if Hurts can pull through for another Eagle win.

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About Lauren Halpern

I'm an undergraduate student in the College of Journalism and Communications working towards a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. With a specialization in sports and media, my involvement in ESPN Gainesville, Reptile Report, and The University Athletic Association has given me good introductory experience in the sports media industry. I'm seeking a sports broadcasting position as a reporter where my high energy personality and passion for athletics is communicated to the public. As an athlete myself, it's important to me to work on a supportive and hard-working team. I look forward to connecting with you!

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