The New York Giants host the Los Angeles Rams at MetLife Stadium for the Week 17 clash of the National Football League on Sunday, December 31st, at 3pm.
New York Giants
The New York Giants, with a 5-10 record, face significant challenges. Coming off two consecutive losses, including a 33-25 loss to Philadelphia, the team is looking to reverse its fortunes.
Tommy DeVito, with 1,087 passing yards and 8 touchdowns, has been a bright spot, although the team as a whole has struggled in the aerial attack. Saquon Barkley, with his 877 rushing yards, remains one of the main offensive players, but the team has struggled to find consistency.
The Giants’ defense has been more effective, with Bobby Okereke leading the way with 132 total tackles and Kayvon Thibodeaux standing out with 11.5 sacks. However, the team has an unfavorable home record against NFC West opponents, losing the last seven games and failing to cover the spread in the last 12 home games against those opponents.
Additionally, the Giants rank last in the NFL in passing yards per game and first-quarter points, which indicates early game struggles.
Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams, with an 8-7 record, enter this decisive matchup against the New York Giants, bringing with them a mix of challenges and triumphs.
After a 30-22 victory over New Orleans, the team shows significant potential, especially on offense. Under the leadership of Matthew Stafford, who has thrown for 3,648 yards and 23 touchdowns, the Rams have shown a remarkable ability to get downfield.
Kyren Williams’ contributions have also been key, with his 1,057 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns establishing him as a constant threat to opposing defenses.
However, the Rams’ performance away from home has been a concern, having lost seven of their last eight games against teams with negative records. Despite this, the team has done well to cover the spread in the last six December games as favorites against NFC opponents, a sign that they can exceed expectations in crucial moments.
Defensively, the Rams have players like Ernest Jones, with 132 total tackles, and Kobie Turner and Aaron Donald, who have been effective in putting pressure on the opposing quarterback.
Thus, the Rams, with a more dynamic attack and solid defense, seem to have an advantage, especially considering the confidence gained from their recent victories. Stafford’s ability to connect decisive passes and Williams’ effectiveness in the ground game could be crucial in dismantling the Giants’ defense.
On the other hand, the Giants face an uphill challenge. While the team has talent, especially on defense, its offensive struggles and recent home record against NFC West teams are concerning. To have a chance at victory, the Giants will need an exceptional performance from DeVito and Barkley, as well as a defense that can contain the Rams’ varied attack.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the Los Angeles Rams appear to be in a better position to win this game. Their more consistent attack and the confidence gained in recent games should be enough to overcome the Giants, who, although they have potential, have struggled to find consistency. Thus, the prediction is for a Rams victory, covering the spread of -4.