The Washington Commanders (3-10) attempt to win their first game in over two months when they visit the New York Giants (2-11) at MetLife Stadium this Sunday afternoon.
The Giants are also seeking a win, coming in on a seven-game losing streak of their own. The game also features two of the worst defenses in the NFL this year, which should provide for some much-needed fireworks in an otherwise dismal late-season matchup.
Here are three matchups to watch in this contest.
Commanders RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. vs. Giants’ rushing defense
The Giants just can’t stop the run. Plain and simple. Come draft day next April, no one would be shocked if their first two picks were a nose tackle and a run-stopping linebacker. Big Blue is allowing an NFL-high 154.2 yards per game on the ground this year, nearly 40 yards over the league average. They could get some relief if inside linebacker Darius Muasau is activated off injured reserve (IR) this week, but his return window just opened on Tuesday.
Rodriguez has emerged as the Commanders’ back of choice this season, but is currently dealing with a groin issue that kept him out of Wednesday’s practice. Keep an eye on his status as the week unfolds. If he’s active, he’s a solid play here.
Giants QB Jaxson Dart vs. Commanders’ defense
Jaxson Dart has one game under his belt since returning from his concussion and is coming off a bye. He has been a steady performer this season and is facing a Washington defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to quarterbacks this year.
The one caveat here is the game plan. The Giants are trying to protect Dart from himself and may limit his designed running plays. If that happens, he’s not as valuable. But he has found a way around such things. If you have him year-long fantasy and it’s the playoffs, he might get you to the next round.
Commanders WR Terry McLaurin vs. Giants CB Paulson Adebo
These two are finally healthy, and it couldn’t have come at a better time for both teams. The Giants have been a horror when it comes to handling wideouts, allowing the fifth-most FPS to wide receivers this year. Terry McLaurin has a solid history against the Giants, too. Since his return two weeks ago, he’s been targeted 20 times with 10 receptions and a touchdown. He’s primed for this matchup.
Paulson Adebo returned to the lineup two weeks ago against the Patriots after a five-week absence due to a sprained knee and played 100 percent of the defensive snaps. The Giants will likely ask him to travel with McLaurin in this game. It should be an interesting watch.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants vs. Commanders: 3 matchups to watch in Week 15
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