Atlanta Falcons matchup preview: New York Giants

Sep 14, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) is called for pass interference against New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) during the game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

We continue our series, taking a look at each opponent on the Atlanta Falcons’ schedule in 2015. We move onto the Falcons’ second game — the Week 2 clash with the New York Giants.

We previewed the Monday Night Football season opener with the Philadelphia Eagles in our last post, speaking with Inside The Iggles editor Anthony DiBona. You can check out the article here.

We are very fortunate on the FanSided network to be joined with great team sites for every other NFL franchise, which gives us the opportunity to speak with writers for each Falcons’ opponent. I spoke with Chris Schisler, editor of GMEN HQ. Schisler gives us great insight into the Giants’ offseason, as well as his take on the Week 2 matchup.

The New York Giants are a team to watch out for in 2015. While the focus in the NFC East is on the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles, the Giants could be a team poised to breakout.

Why?

There is no bigger reason than the potential they have on offense. Odell Beckham Jr. had a superstar rookie season and will look to get even better. Unfortunately for defenses, he won’t be alone. Victor Cruz is set to return from injury, and Shane Vereen is a nice addition to the backfield.

Eli Manning might not be the best quarterback in the NFL, but this guy has two Super Bowl rings, and he has all the firepower he needs to succeed. He’s also now had a year to adjust to Ben McAdoo’s offense.

This game falls in the middle of a trio of NFC East opponents to kickoff the season for Atlanta. The new-look pass defense under Dan Quinn will be severely tested in these opening weeks.

Next: Reviewing the offseason