With the calendar flipped to July, Giants.com asks 21 important questions heading into the team's 2021 training camp at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center.
For 21 days, a member of the Giants.com crew will answer one question about the roster, coaching staff, schedule, and much more.
No. 15: What can Giants fans expect in Year 2 of the Joe Judge era?
Dan Salomone: On Jan. 9, 2020, Joe Judge said at his introductory press conference that "you don't build the Empire State Building by washing the windows; you build it with the foundation and work it on up." While teams like the Buccaneers and Chiefs sat in their skyscrapers last season, the Giants started to build brick by brick. That's how you get back to the top – not only for a season, but for the long run.
Judge didn't promise to bring any magic wand to the organization or feed fans with the schematic flavor of the year. Rather, he set his sights on incremental improvement. Although it may not have looked like it on the outside when the Giants started 0-5 (and then 1-7), Judge said after the regular-season finale that he learned more about the team during that stretch than he did during the four-game winning streak – one that kept the NFC East race alive until the 256th and final game of an unprecedented NFL season.
So, what's Phase II of this construction project?
"I have kind of a vision internally that I know where we're going, and I have a process and steps," he said in his season-ending press conference. "Obviously, we have to improve on the field with some tangible results. We could look at that. We have to make sure we make progress across the board with personnel and schematics. But I have kind of measures in the rungs along the way that I kind of keep tabs on. I make sure the team is moving in the right direction. Not to be kind of evasive with that answer right there, but I'm not going to set out some identified goal for everyone to go ahead and measure us against on a yearly basis."
You'll know it when he takes out the Windex and squeegee.
Lance Medow: When Jason Garrett addressed the media during OTAs, he brought up an interesting point when he emphasized how turnovers in the first half of the season and the lack of explosive plays overall were two factors that defined the 2020 season. The offense had 15 of their 22 turnovers in the first eight games and recorded just 36 pass plays of 20+ yards (second-fewest in the NFL). Those are big reasons why the team is hoping the additions of Kenny Golladay and rookie Kadarius Toney will help improve a unit that averaged just 17.5 points per game (31st in NFL).
The simplistic answer to this question is the Giants need to score more points, but that's easier said than done. As Garrett pointed out, it's a matter of producing many more explosive plays and, most important, better ball security over the course of the season. Turnovers are killers because they're the equivalent to lost at-bats in baseball. The more opportunities you have in the box, the better your chances of getting on base. The same can be said in football where every possession carries a great deal of weight, especially when you're not scoring at a high rate, which is what happened last season.
John Schmeelk: In his first season, Daniel Jones was very productive in terms of yards (3,027 in 13 starts) and touchdowns (24), but his fumble (18) and interception numbers (12) were too high. Pro Football Focus tracks a quarterback's turnover-worthy plays each year (which account for tipped balls, dropped interceptions, etc.) and Jones finished with 31 in 2018, which was the fourth-most in the NFL.
In 2020, Jones became a more efficient quarterback. His turnover-worthy plays dropped to 17, which was tied for only the 16th-most in the NFL. His completion percentage ticked up to 62.5% and he was one of the more efficient deep passers in the NFL, even though he did not have a lot of attempts. His production also dropped, with 2,943 passing yards in 14 games and 11 touchdowns. He was more productive as part of the read-option run game with 423 rushing yards.
Jones needs to combine the strong points from his first two seasons in 2021 by mixing higher production with improved efficiency and be aggressive down the field while protecting the football. It's also important for him to stay healthy for all 17 games. A few good numerical goals would be to get his completion percentage above 63%, his passing yards above 3,500, and keep his TD-to-INT ratio at 2-1 while finishing the year with more than 25 touchdown passes.
Given the Giants' list of improved playmakers and a young and potentially improved offensive line, those type of numbers should be very realistic for Jones this season. From a team perspective, it would mean getting the offense into the top half of the league, and scoring more than 24 points per game. If he can do all that, the Giants should win enough games to make the playoffs.
View photos of Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throughout his NFL career.
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
The New York Giants take on the Baltimore Ravens at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on Sunday October 16, 2022. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs for a touchdown during a footballl game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday October 2, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8), Andrew Thomas (78)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball during week 1 football game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennesse (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday October 2, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 13 regular season game against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium on Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8), Billy Price (69)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts after a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to pass as he looks downfield for a receiver in an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. The Washington Football Team defeated the Giants 30-29. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate a touchdown during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs downfield with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles in the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Derick Hingle)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates after scoring a touchdown with wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls a play in the huddle during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones warms-up before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs 7-yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, second from left, runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) is congratulated after throwing a touchdown pass during an NFL game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday Dec.1 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Packers defeated the Giants 31-13. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) talks to his team mates before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks for a receiver during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones stands on the field before an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants offensive lineman Mike Remmers (74) celebrates with quarterback Daniel Jones (8) after a touchdown during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) warms up before an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 37-18. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates with quarterback Daniel Jones (8) after Shepard scored a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during the Nation Anthem before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, left, celebrates with Sterling Shepard after a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) talks with New York Giants wide receiver Golden Tate (15) during a Monday Night NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Monday November 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley takes a handoff from quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday Nov. 10, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Jets defeated the Giants 34-27. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball prior to an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and Eli Manning (10) before a Monday Night NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Monday November 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, right, celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Antwaun Woods (99) pursues New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, NJ. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 38-17. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates his touchdown run against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls an audible at the line of scrimmage during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Perry Knotts via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and quarterback Eli Manning (10) warm up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
QB Daniel Jones (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Dallas Cowboys during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) goes back to pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday Nov. 10, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Jets defeated the Giants 34-27. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) hands off ball to running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) goes to high five a teammate in the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) directs his team in the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts in the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles for yardage during an NFL game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday Dec.1 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Packers defeated the Giants 31-13. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, right, throws during the second half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones works out prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to pass during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steven Ryan)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) greets defensive back Sam Beal (23) and cornerback Antonio Hamilton (30) while taking the field for workouts prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles for yardage during an NFL game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday Dec.1 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Packers defeated the Giants 31-13. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones works out prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones rolls out to pass against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) makes a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out to pass during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, in Chicago. The Bear defeated the Giants 19-14. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) hands the ball off to New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) warms up before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes the football during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Giants 19-14. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones warms-up before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 37-18. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) prior to an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to throw against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019 in Detroit. The Lions defeated the Giants 31-26. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones plays against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates his touchdown throw to New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball prior to an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) walks thru the tunnel to the field before an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday October 27, 2019 in Detroit. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) in action against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Images/Rick Osentoski)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Images/Rick Osentoski)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday October 20, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks downfield during the first half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Rick Osentoski)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones rolls out to pass against the New England Patriots in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scores his first NFL touchdown during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. ( Tom DiPace via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out of the pocket against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones scrambles against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls out the play during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Oct 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants lost 28-10. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) stands in the tunnel before an NFL football game against the New England Patriots Thursday October 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass, (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls an audible at the line of scrimmage against the Minnesota Vikings during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) avoids a tackle by Minnesota Vikings middle linebacker Eric Kendricks (54) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out of the pocket against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. ( Tom DiPace via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. The Giants won 31-31. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones signals during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs for a game winning touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Perry Knotts via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones warms-up before an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates the game winning touchdown with wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio, File)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) shakes hands with offensive guard Kevin Zeitler (70) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Minnesota Vikings during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out of the pocket against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs onto the field for wampups before an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami, Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs against Virginia Tech during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones stands back to pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami, Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs against Virginia during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) passes against Virginia during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) passes against Temple during the first half of the Independence Bowl, an NCAA college football game in Shreveport, La., Thursday, Dec. 27, 2018. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the first half of NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rushes for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Nov. 15, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball in an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. The Washington Football Team defeated the Giants 30-29. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws over Washington Football Team defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis (98) during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks on against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks on during the national anthem against the Washington Football Team prior to an NFL Game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021 in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scoring a touchdown against the Washington Football Team during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass to Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass after breaking away from Atlanta Falcons defensive end Dante Fowler Jr. (6) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks for an open man during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington won 30 - 29. (AP Photo/Al Drago)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls out between plays in the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during a football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday September 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday October 2, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
The New York Giants take on the Baltimore Ravens at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on Sunday October 16, 2022. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8)gets introduced before a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants tight end Daniel Bellinger (82) celebrates a touchdown catch with New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday September 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
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The New York Giants take on the Baltimore Ravens at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on Sunday October 16, 2022. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
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New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
Lance Medow: Much like the start of the 2020 season, the Giants' offense will be tested right out of the gates against several defenses that are either returning a good portion of their units from last year or made some noticeable additions this offseason. The Rams, Washington, and Saints all ranked in the top five in scoring defense in 2020, and the Broncos have several weapons at all levels of their group. That accounts for four of New York's first six opponents. We'll learn a lot about the Giants offense following the first quarter of the season.
I like the fact that four of the team's six divisional games will take place in the final seven contests of the season. With those games carrying a great deal of weight for who will win the division, it makes much more sense to have them later in the season when all of those teams have a much better feel and comfort level with what they're running on both sides of the ball.
Interestingly, the Giants will have three sets of consecutive road games this season in Weeks 4-5, 13-14, and 16-17. The last two are worth highlighting because that includes trips to Philadelphia and Chicago in late December and early January, when weather could very well factor into the game plan. There's only so much you can take away from the schedule because we don't know how opponents will look later in the season, the impact injuries will have on opponents, etc. With that being said, the Giants will face two teams with new coaching staffs and schemes -- the Eagles (Weeks 12, 16) and Chargers (Week14) -- later in the season when you could argue there will be more film to study. A the same time, those teams will have a bit more comfort with what they're running at that point. On the flip side, they play the Falcons in Week 3 when there will be a bit more of the unknown surrounding that opponent.
Dan Salomone: Fans, fans, fans. They're back. The boos from Eagles supporters will never have sounded so sweet to the Giants after the coronavirus pandemic upended 2020. In late May, it was announced MetLife Stadium could operate at full capacity, meaning the home crowd will see the team for the first time in the Joe Judge era.
"I can't wait to walk in a stadium and hear it at a deafening level," Judge said shortly after the decision was made. "That's something I'm really looking forward to and feeling the energy of the fans. It's something we've missed, and I've expressed before how much we value and thrive on as a team, going out playing in front of your home crowd and the animosity playing on the road against a visiting crowd."
John Schmeelk: It's either the Dallas Cowboys or the Washington Football Team. Washington has what could be a Top 5 defense, but they have a journeyman at quarterback in Ryan Fitzpatrick and young players at their skill positions. When in doubt, go with the team with the best quarterback and that's Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys.
The Cowboys ranked 14th in the NFL in yards per game last year (371.8) without Dak Prescott for 11 games, their starting left (Tyron Smith) and right tackle (La'el Collins) missing a combined 30 games, All-Pro guard Zack Martin missing six games, and starting tight end Blake Jarwin missing 15 games. With Ceedee Lamb entering his second season and joining forces with Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup outside, the Cowboys' offense should be a Top 5 unit this year.
On defense, Dallas allowed the fifth-most points in the NFL (29.6 points). In eight of their 16 games last season, Dallas allowed 33 or more points. They drafted exclusively on the defensive side of the ball and hired a new defensive coordinator in Dan Quinn. Despite the poor defense and injuries on offense last season, Dallas still finished tied with the Giants at six wins.
If Dallas can keep Dak Prescott on the field, keep their offensive tackles healthy and approach mediocrity on defense, they should be able to win somewhere around 10 games. If that's the case, they will be the Giants' biggest competition in the NFC East.
Lance Medow: The Giants were very aggressive this offseason, adding several players through free agency and the draft at various positions. That's why it's very easy to overlook former Vikings edge rusher Ifeadi Odenigbo, who proved to be a nice complement to Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffin in Minnesota over the last two seasons.
The Giants need someone to assume a similar role opposite pass rusher Leonard Williams. They also lost Kyler Fackrell to the Chargers after he finished tied for second on the team with four sacks in 2020. Odenigbo had seven sacks in 2019 and although his total dipped to 3.5 last season, he also recorded 15 quarterback hits, three tackles for loss and a safety. He's capable of being a disruptive player. It's all about opportunity within the Giants' scheme.
Dan Salomone: For starters, they're getting a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award (which goes annually to the nation's top defensive player in college football) and the 2020 SEC leader in sacks and tackles for loss. The Giants' familiarity with the linebacker, however, went deeper than the numbers. Kevin Sherrer, who will be his position coach in the NFL, originally recruited Ojulari at the University of Georgia. Additionally, the Giants have a host of former college coaches on staff who also coached against Ojulari and "he's always a guy that stood out to them on the field as someone they had to account for," coach Joe Judge pointed out after the draft.
After trading back from No. 42 overall to No. 50, the Giants had a "bunch of guys" they liked in that range, but director of college scouting Chris Pettit said what set Ojulari apart was his pro-ready hands, instincts, and the "ability to make big plays in big spots." The Giants' top offseason priority was adding offensive playmakers for Daniel Jones, but pass rush help was not far below it.
John Schmeelk: You could look at this receiving corps like a basketball team – they have different players with complimentary skill sets. Toney is electric with the ball in his hands and can turn a 3-yard pass into a 50-yard gain because of his elusiveness, strength, speed, quickness and creativity.
Toney was not the most polished route runner in college, but there's no reason to think he cannot become more adept running the route tree with more reps in the NFL. He will probably open primarily in the slot with plays designed for him to take advantage of his freakish abilities. Expect a lot of screen passes, slants, end-arounds, shovel passes and jet sweeps to start the season. And don't forget about his return abilities, either.