An overview of the upcoming Giants-Eagles NFL Week 8 matchup this Sunday in Philadelphia:
KEY MATCHUP
Eagles DT Jalen Carter vs. Giants interior offensive line
The Giants were fortunate two weeks ago when Carter was declared inactive due to a heel injury just before the game.
This time, however, they won’t be so lucky.
Carter has returned and is making a significant impact.
His pressure led to a pick-six against Carson Wentz last week. Right guard Greg Van Roten will face Carter often, and center John Michael Schmitz, who is back after a concussion protocol absence, will also deal with one of the league’s top interior defensive linemen.
FOUR DOWNS
Injury concerns: The Giants find themselves in a tough spot in their defensive backfield, missing their top cornerback, Paulson Adebo, and best safety, Jevon Holland.
Adebo participated in every defensive snap in the first six games, while Holland played in 408 of them.
Both players left the game against Denver with knee injuries, leading to a defensive collapse. Dane Belton, a special teams ace, steps in for Holland, while Deonte Banks, the 2023 first-round pick, has not yet lived up to expectations, causing uncertainty about his performance.
The Giants do catch a break with star Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (knee) being sidelined.
Looking ahead: Abdul Carter, a highly regarded talent, has yet to showcase his potential this season. Despite being the No. 3 pick in the 2025 draft, he has only recorded half a sack, 16 tackles, six quarterback knockdowns, and 11 pressures through seven games.
While he’s close to having a breakout game, it has not materialized. “Abdul is a great talent; the numbers aren’t there, but they will come,” said Brian Burns, tied for the NFL lead with nine sacks.
Barkley struggles: Saquon Barkley is coming off a disappointing performance against Minnesota, where he gained only 44 yards and averaged 2.9 yards per carry. This has been a pattern, as he is averaging just 3.3 yards per attempt this season, a sharp decline from his 2,005 rushing yards last year.
This year’s performance reflects the challenges the Giants’ offensive line has faced. “We’re working hard to improve, and we need to implement those ideas effectively,” stated Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni.
Decision-making issues: Last week, the decision to pass late in the fourth quarter rather than run could have cost the Giants. Offensive coordinator Mike Kafka opted for a pass, leading to an interception. Despite the turnover, Kafka expressed no regrets, emphasizing confidence in the rookie quarterback.
FINAL PREDICTION
The Eagles may be on the brink of a winning streak, and with the Giants’ weakened secondary, Jalen Hurts should thrive. At some point, Saquon Barkley is expected to make a significant impact. This matchup could be tough for the Giants as they face the hostile environment of Philadelphia.
Eagles 27, Giants 16
