The Giants will continue the pursuit for their first win of the season when the Atlanta Falcons come to MetLife Stadium this Sunday.
The Falcons are also looking to win their first game of the season after falling to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2, 48-25. After trailing, 28-10, Atlanta was able to score two consecutive touchdowns to bring themselves within a field goal of tying the game. However, a Tom Brady touchdown pass followed by two straight interceptions returned for touchdowns sealed the Falcons' fate against the reigning Super Bowl champions.
The Giants will look to rebound from last Thursday's heartbreaking defeat against Washington on a day Big Blue will honor one of the franchise's greatest all-time players. Eli Manning is set to have his No. 10 jersey retired this Sunday and be inducted as the 43rd member of the franchise's Ring of Honor.
Limited Tickets Available for Eli Manning Ceremony
Limited tickets are available for Eli Manning's jersey retirement and Ring of Honor induction game
Here are five story lines to follow in Sunday's matchup:
Getting on the right track
For the fifth consecutive season (and second under Joe Judge), the Giants have begun the year 0-2. Although last week's game came down to the wire, with Washington kicking a game-winning field goal with no time on the clock, Coach Judge acknowledged the fans' frustration yet remained adamant that the focus remains the same.
"Look, our job is to go out there and give the fans entertainment and to give them something to cheer for," Judge said Friday. "That's our job and that's our responsibility. I say it all the time, we don't ask the fans for anything. We have to earn it and when they give it, it's been earned. I'm 100-percent onboard with the fans and what they want to see, and that's what we're working to give them is that product on the field. But when you want to get those results, it ain't about being frustrated to get results, it's about working to get results.
"We're going to come back to work like we do every week, keep putting them together and making sure we're improving as a team and at the end of the day keep putting a better product on the field. We took a step forward this week in a lot of ways and there's things we've got to correct and clean up going forward, but the point with our team is we've got to keep improving on a weekly basis to get where we want to go."
There were some positives to come out of last week's loss. The offense scored 29 points and registered 391 total yards, including 163 on the ground. This was a stark improvement from Week 1, when the unit finished with just 13 points and 60 rushing yards. Heading into Week 3 still looking for the first win of the season is not what anyone on the team was hoping for, but as Kenny Golladay noted on Monday, it's a long season and the calendar is only on September.
"There's a lot of football left," the wide receiver said. "We've got to put that behind us and just focus on Atlanta."
The O-line shuffle continues
We are only two games into the season, yet the offensive line has already gone through plenty of changes. Starting left guard Shane Lemieux was placed on injured reserve after the season opener. This caused Nick Gates to shift to guard while Billy Price took over at center. Unfortunately, Gates suffered a lower left leg fracture during the first half of the Washington game and has since been placed on IR, thus leading to more shuffling along the line.
How the unit looks on Sunday remains up in the air, as Judge has yet to announce who will be inserted into the starting lineup following Gates' injury. However, it is likely that Price will once again start at center, while Ben Bredeson gets the start at left guard, an impressive feat considering both players were acquired just a couple of weeks ago. Bredeson received all of the snaps at LG after Gates was injured, and while it wasn't a perfect game from the O-line, the offense put up a healthy amount of points against one of the league's toughest defenses.
"I was actually really pleased with the way they came through the other night," Judge said about the line's performance against Washington. "There are some things we have to clean up and keep building forward at all positions – the offensive line is no exception. However, I'd say the way Billy and Ben have jumped in here in a short period of time and really made a lot of gains for us, jumping in and learning the vocabulary with one week of practice and then you have another week of a couple walk-throughs going in there…
"I like when Ben got in. I think Ben competes his butt off. He's making a lot of gains for us right now. I like the way both guys work and obviously we're trying to get to be the best unit we can be. I talk to guys all the time, it doesn't matter offensive line-wise how you are individually, it's we've got to be the best unit because everything works collectively with those guys."
The Falcons have registered four sacks this year, including three against the Buccaneers last week. Defensive tackle Grady Jarrett is one of the best in the league at his position, racking up 17.5 sacks and five forced fumbles from 2018-2020.
Get Saquon going
It's been great to see Saquon Barkley back on the field for the Giants this season after he tore his ACL in Week 2 of the 2020 campaign. Through the first two games, Barkley has rushed for 83 yards on 23 carries (3.6 avg.) with three receptions for 13 yards. Barkley is still shaking the rust off after not taking a real football hit in almost a full year, but he showed improvement in his second game back last week.
"I was pleased at how he moved around last night," Judge said on Friday. "He did some good things for us in the game. He played tough for us. He ran the ball hard. He had the explosive run for us and did some nice things in the passing game. Obviously, he's going to be a key part of our offense and our team. He's a key leader on our team. We'll keep finding ways to be creative and get it to him. Again, look, this guy getting out there, getting his feet wet the first couple of weeks and getting moving with it, I'm really encouraged with where he's at right now."
In his first two seasons, Barkley showed an ability to break out a long run on any given play. The 24-year-old back displayed that explosiveness against Washington, breaking loose for a 41-yard gain on his fourth carry of the game. After playing two games in a matter of days, including 58 snaps in Week 2, it was an encouraging sign that Barkley's body responded well to the increased playing time.
"I was able to get out there and play a full game," Barkley said after the Washington game. "My body and my knee responded well, so I kind of knocked that rust off…I've got to continue to trust the knee, trust the system and as the system keeps going, I'll continue to do better."
In their Week 1 loss to the Eagles, the Falcons allowed Miles Sanders to run for 74 yards on 15 carries (4.9 avg.) while Kenneth Gainwell gained 37 yards on nine carries (4.1 avg.) and scored a touchdown. Atlanta limited Buccaneers running backs Leonard Fournette and Ronald Jones to just 79 yards last week, but surrendered 4.6 yards per attempt. The Falcons defense enters this matchup ranked 24th in the league in rushing yards allowed.
View rare photos of the all-time series between the New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons.
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons defenders to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Larry Csonka (39) settles to earth atop Atlanta Falcons Ray Easterling after a 12-yard first quarter gain at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium for a first down, Sunday, Oct. 2, 1977 in Atlanta. Helping overcome Csonka are Falcon defenders Frank Reed (28), Fulton Kuykendall (54) and Ralph Ortega. (AP Photo)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Steve Bartkowski (10) is sacked by New York Giants end Dee Hardison, in Atlanta, Sept. 11, 1983. The four-yard loss came in the first quarter at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) puts the winning 3 points on the scoreboard as quarterback Scott Brunner (12) holds the ball with a 30-yard field goal in overtime to beat the Atlanta Falcons, 16-13, Sept. 11, 1983. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)
New York Giants kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) leaps into the arms of quarterback Scott Brunner after kicking a 30-yard field goal to beat the Atlanta Falcons 16-13 at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium in sudden death overtime, Sept. 11, 1983. He kicked two other field goals and an extra point in their game. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)
New York Giants' kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) is congratulated by teammates Brad Van Pelt (10), Kevin Belcher (73) and Scott Brunner (12) after kicking a 30-yard field goal to beat the Atlanta Falcons 16-13 in sudden death overtime, Sept. 12, 1983. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Danny Kanell (13) is brought down by New York Giants Cornelius Griffin (97) in the 4th quarter at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. The Giants downed the Falcons 13-6. (AP Photo/Curtis Compton)
New York Giants' Ron Dayne (27) scores a first quarter touchdown with Atlanta Falcons Henri Crockett (94) in tow at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP PhotoCurtis Compton)
New York Giants' Ron Dayne (27) celebrates his first quarter touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP Photo/Curtis Compton)
New York Giants safety Lyle West (37) comes up with a punt return fumble in the first quarter as Atlanta Falcons' Winslow Oliver (26) comes up empty at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins (5) looks down field under pressure from Atlanta Falcons' Patrick Kerney (97) during first half play at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP Photo/Curtis Compton)
New York Giants cornerback Will Allen (25) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Warrick Dunn (28) by the foot in the second quarter of the Falcons 27-7 win, Sunday, Nov. 9, 2003, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N. J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks for a receiver during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' quarterback Eli Manning (10) rolls out of a pocket avoiding a tackle by Atlanta Falcons' Brady Smith (91 during the third quarter of play on Sunday, November, 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. The Falcons beat the Giants 14-10. (AP Photo/Michael Kim)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning calls an audible during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons running back Maurice Smith (43) is hit by New York Giants defender Dewayne Patmon as he rushes in the second half in Atlanta Saturday, Aug. 17, 2002. The Falcons won 36-24. (AP Photo/Alan Mothner)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey catches a touchdown pass during the third quarter as he is surrounded by Atlanta Falcons' Chris Draft (54), Eric Johnson (56) and Cory Hall, right rear, Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Falcons beat the Giants, 14-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterbacks Kurt Warner (13) and Eli Manning talk with quarterbacks coach John Hufnagel, right, during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning passes the ball as he is pressured by Atlanta Falcons defensive end Brady Smith (91) during the fourth quarter Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Manning completed 17 of 37 attempts for 162 yards as the Falcons beat the Giants, 14-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) scores in the second half ahead of Atlanta Falcons linebacker Ike Reese (98) during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) jumps up to the fans after scoring a second half touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick (7) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) pose for a photograph at the end of the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) scrambles in the first half against the Atlanta Falcons during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) runs in the second half under pressure from Atlanta Falcons end Paul Carrington (91) during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants' R.W. McQuarters celebrates as he leaves the field after the Giants defeated the Atlanta Falcons 31-10 in a football game Monday, Oct. 15, 2007 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
New York Giants cornerback Aaron Ross carries the ball during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington, right, is sacked by New York Giants' Aaron Ross during the fourth quarter of a football game in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. Atlanta lost 31-10 and went to 1-5 for the season. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington is sacked by New York Giants' Antonio Pierce in the second quarter of a football game Monday, Oct. 15, 2007 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) carries the ball against Atlanta Falcons linebacker Michael Boley (59) during an NFL football game, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Brandon Jacobs #27 of the New York Giants runs for yardage against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. New York defeated Atlanta 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Brandon Jacobs #27 of the New York Giants runs for yardage against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
The offense of the Atlanta Falcons prepares to snap the ball at the line of scrimmage against the defense of the New York Giants on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants attempts to rush in against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 15: Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants passes the football in the pocket against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 15: Defensive back Aaron Ross #31 of the New York Giants jumps in the air as he intercepts the football against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) carries the ball during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Shaun O'Hara #60 of the New York Giants calls out blocking assignments against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce (58), tackles Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington (13) and defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during an NFL football game, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Amani Toomer #81 of the New York Giants scores on a touchdown reception during 1st-quarter action against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Amani Toomer #81 of the New York Giants runs with a reception against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 15: Defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants runs in pursuit against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
Jeremy Shockey of the New York Giants runs with a reception against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Aaron Ross #31 and Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants sack Joey Harrington #13 of the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants celebrates after making a tackle against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89) moves past Atlanta Falcons safety Thomas DeCoud (28) for a touchdown during the second quarter of the NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10), right, looks around the field during the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates with center Shaun O'Hara (60) after throwing a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won in overtime, 34-31. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89) runs the ball during the second quarter of the NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Atlanta Falcons center Bryan Pittman (48) greets New York Giants linebacker Zak DeOssie (51) before the start of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) gets a first down past Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman (26) during overtime of the NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87), second from left, tries to outrun Atlanta Falcons linebacker Curtis Lofton, left, Atlanta Falcons safety Thomas DeCoud (28) and Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brent Grimes (20), right, during the first quarter of the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Michael Jenkins (12) can't hold on onto the ball over New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster (23) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89), second from left, celebrates his second touchdown with New York Giants running back Danny Ware (28), left, during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, center, fumbles the ball as he is hit by New York Giants defensive tackle Barry Cofield (96) and defensive end Justin Tuck (91) in the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants recovered the ball on the play. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scores a touchdown past Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman (26) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws under pressure from New York Giants defensive tackle Fred Robbins (98) and New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) picks up a first down while being tackled by Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman, bottom left, and cornerback Brent Grimes (20) in the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) signals first down against the Atlanta Falcons during a NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday November 22, 2009
(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) fumbles the ball while being pressured by New York Giants defensive tackle Barry Cofield (96), top, and New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) is pushed out of bounds by Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman (26) after gaining a first down in overtime of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) pulls down a four yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants guard David Diehl (66) hugs Eli Manning after his 27-yard touchdown pass to Mario Manningham during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Fans cheer as New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) runs into the end zone to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. right is Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28) tries to stop New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw on a 30-yard run during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) celebrates his 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons with teammate Hakeem Nicks during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) pulls in a 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons strong safety James Sanders (36) and Dunta Robinson during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks as he takes the ball on a running play against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks indicates a first down after a 19-yard reception against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) pass against defender Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann (71) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning scrambles to pass during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons defenders to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, right, breaks away from Atlanta Falcons safety William Moore during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) evades a tackle by Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) is chased by Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Sean Weatherspoon (56) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, chats with Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan after their NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning runs off the field after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) and teammate Justin Tuck run off the field after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) catches the ball as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson defends during the first half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) speaks to Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning runs off the field after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 30-20 in an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins (95) sacks Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, left, and Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith talk at the end of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (21) deflects a pass intended for Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Andre Williams (44) celebrates after scoring on a touchdown run against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, bottom, lays on the grass after being sacked by New York Giants defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins (95), partially obscured, during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, left, talks to New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka at the end of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) avoids a tackle by Atlanta Falcons defensive back Kemal Ishmael during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a catch during a week 5 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on October 5, 2014 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) avoids the tackle of Atlanta Falcons defensive end Malliciah Goodman (93) while throwing a pass during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) during a week 5 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on October 5, 2014 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) talks to New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning at the end of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Shane Vereen (34) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons safety Ricardo Allen (37) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell, left, makes a touchdown catch on a pass from quarterback Eli Manning, not pictured, as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford defends during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Atlanta Falcons during a week 2 NFL football game on September 20, 2015 at Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey ( Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks to his line during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) runs against Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Joplo Bartu (59) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) jumps in the air to catch the football as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford (23) defends during an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the football as he jumps in the air while Atlanta Falcons strong safety Damontae Kazee (27) dives to tackle during an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) makes a reception against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford (23) during an NFL football game, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter (59) during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) carries the ball after making a reception during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants offensive guard Will Hernandez (71) and offensive tackle Nate Solder (76) block during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
The Atlanta Falcons offensive line lines up across the New York Giants defensive line during a week 7 NFL football game on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) carries the ball after making a reception during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs after the catch during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) blocks Atlanta Falcons defensive end Takkarist McKinley (98) during a week 7 NFL football game on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) runs out of the pocket against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) speaks with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) after an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons won 23-20. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) works against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants offensive tackle Nate Solder (76) and tight end Evan Engram (88) line up on the line of scrimmage during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) gets by Atlanta Falcons strong safety Damontae Kazee (27) during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) works against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter, left, prepares to sack Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Daniel Jones' strong start
Despite the 0-2 start, Daniel Jones' play has been a bright spot for the Giants' offense this season. Going up against one of the league's toughest defenses last week, Jones completed 22 of 32 passes (68.8 percent) for 249 yards and a touchdown, finishing with a passer rating of 102.2. He also made a significant impact on the ground, rushing for a game-high 95 yards on nine carries (10.6 avg.) and an additional touchdown. The 95 rushing yards also set a career-high.
"Saw him do a lot of good things," Judge said about Jones' performance against Washington. "Get the ball out on time. Throw some good accurate passes. Throw some good balls into tight coverage. Obviously, push the ball down the field. On [WR Darius] Slayton's touchdown, he made a heck of a head's up check. That was Daniel on the line right there communicating with Slay. He saw something he liked, took advantage of it, and obviously scored some points for us. These are the things I've talked about Daniel growing, progressing throughout his career.
"There are a lot of things that show up right there. I love the way he ran the ball. Very effective run force tonight. That's a part of our offense. I thought he did a good job with the ball security, getting down when he needed to protect it, getting out of bounds at times, sliding at other times. So, there are a lot of positive things right there."
Jones was named Pro Football Focus' Offensive Player of the Week for Week 2 after his strong outing. Through the first two games of the season, Jones ranks sixth among QBs with an 83.8 overall grade. Even more impressive is his 85.4 passing grade, which ranks second in the NFL behind only Tom Brady (91.8). He also ranks third in the NFL in QB rushing yards with 122, while his 8.1 yards per attempt ranks second among all players with at least 15 carries. The 24-year-old has thrown just one interception over his last eight games.
"I think he played a great game," wide receiver Darius Slayton said on Friday. "I think he made all the throws he needed to make to win the game… That's who we believe he is. We believe that he is that guy that's going to go out there, make the throws, make the plays to win the games and that's what he showed last night."
Atlanta has struggled to slow down opposing quarterbacks this year. Jalen Hurts registered 264 passing yards and three touchdowns in Week 1 while adding 62 rushing yards on seven attempts (8.9 avg.). Tom Brady had even more success last week, throwing for five touchdowns and 276 yards. A.J. Terrell, Atlanta's top corner and 2020 first-round pick, suffered a head injury in Week 2 and his status for Sunday's game is unclear.
Matching up against Matt Ryan & Falcons playmakers
Falcons QB Matt Ryan has had an up-and-down start to his 2021 season. Although he has completed 69.1 percent of his passes for 464 yards through the first two games, Ryan has thrown just two touchdowns compared to three interceptions. In fact, with Atlanta down 10 in the fourth quarter, the veteran threw two interceptions which were both returned for touchdowns in a span of four minutes, putting the game out of hand for the Falcons.
Atlanta has some very talented playmakers, starting with tight end Kyle Pitts. Pitts was the fourth overall selection in this year's draft and has caught nine passes for 104 yards in his first two NFL games. At 6-foot-6 with the athleticism of a wide receiver, Pitts is a tough matchup for any defense.
In addition to Pitts, Calvin Ridley is one of the league's top wide receivers. The fourth-year receiver caught 90 passes for 1,374 yards and nine touchdowns last season, and has caught 12 passes for 114 yards and a touchdown this year. Out of the backfield, Mike Davis leads the team with 24 carries for 87 yards (3.6 avg.) and is second on Atlanta with 10 receptions, leading to 48 receiving yards.
Perhaps the most intriguing player in the Falcons' offense is Cordarrelle Patterson. Patterson has made a big impact in both the run and pass game through the first two weeks of the season. The veteran has registered 14 rush attempts for 65 yards (4.6 avg.) and a touchdown while catching seven passes for 71 yards and another touchdown. He has also returned a few kicks for Atlanta, averaging 26.0 yards on two returns.
The Falcons enter this matchup ranked 30th in points scored and 25th in yards gained. Despite the low rankings, Atlanta has playmakers all over their offense. After averaging 28.5 points and 413.5 yards allowed in the first two games, the Giants' defense will look to get back on track.
Limited Tickets Available for Eli Manning Ceremony
Limited tickets are available for Eli Manning's jersey retirement and Ring of Honor induction game
