Devontae Booker will still be used frequently when Saquon Barkley returns.
John Schmeelk: Fiction – Now, we get to play the "can you please define frequently" game. Let's keep it simple. In the first week Saquon returns, maybe Booker will still get 30-50% of the snaps if Barkley isn't quite in game shape yet. Once Barkley is able to handle taking 75-90% of the running back snaps, he liekly will be given those on a regular basis. Booker has been an effective backup, but he lacks the Barkley's ability to consistently make explosive plays.
Dan Salomone: Fact – Joe Judge was asked about this specifically coming off the win before the bye week. "He's done a lot of things that give us the confidence to go ahead and put him in there, and you're always better off having two guys that can carry the ball and stay fresh out there and keep wearing down a defense," he said. "Those two-headed monster teams are tough to face."
Lance Medow: Fact - This really comes down to how you define and interpret frequently based on the volume of touches/snaps. Davontae Booker has proven he deserves a role in the offense moving forward, so it's unlikely they're going to hand Barkley a full workload right away. For example, in Week 1, when Saquon played for the first time since suffering a season-ending knee injury in Week 2 in 2020, he had only 11 touches. Barkley and Booker can also be utilized as receivers out of the backfield so you can have them both on the field simultaneously to keep the defense guessing. Several teams in the NFL showcase multiple running backs and with Booker compiling over 100 scrimmage yards in each of the last two games, it would make sense to keep him involved in the game plan.
Matt Citak: Fiction – Booker has played well in Barkley's absence, including a career-high 99 rushing yards on 21 carries (4.7 avg.) against the Raiders in Week 9. Including his 23 receiving yards, it was Booker's second consecutive game with 120+ yards from scrimmage. However, his touches will take a big hit once Barkley returns. In the three games that both backs were active, Booker had games of five, three and two touches while never topping 10 rushing yards. When healthy, Barkley is the most talented player on the offense and must be on the field as much as possible. Although Booker will likely still get a few carries each game, Barkley is the one that will shoulder most of the load out of the backfield.
Tampa Bay is the best team the Giants will face this year.
John Schmeelk: Fact - Since Brady is the Bucs quarterback and they are the defending champions, give them the nod over the Rams and Cowboys, though both of those teams (along with the Packers and Cardinals) are all part of the upper-echelon of a top-heavy NFC. When the season is over, the Chiefs might be in this conversation too, but they certainly were not playing their highest level of football when the Giant splayed them Nov. 1st.
Dan Salomone: Fact – Defending Super Bowl champion, check. Returned all their starters, check. Most accomplished player in the history of professional sports, check.
Lance Medow: Fiction - The Giants already faced the Cowboys, Rams and Chiefs, who are all formidable opponents and in the playoff mix. The Bucs are in the same category but unlike some of those other teams, Tampa Bay isn't fully healthy at this point. They're without two of their top corners in Carlton Davis and Sean Murphy-Bunting, defensive lineman Vita Vea was banged up in their last game and wide receiver Antonio Brown and tight end Rob Gronkowski have also been sidelined. While some of those individuals could play Monday night, that's still a notable group of players, who haven't been in the lineup consistently. The Cowboys and Rams have had most of their top players available since the start of the season and also have a better record than the Bucs.
Matt Citak: Fiction – This was a tough one, with Tampa Bay coming in a very close second on the list of the Giants' most talented opponents this season. However, since the Buccaneers fell to this team by double digits in Week 3, give the nod to the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams have lost two consecutive games to fall to 7-3 on the season, and quite frankly, looked quite bad in both defeats. But even with those two bad losses, the Rams still sport one of the best all-around teams in the NFL. The offense, after scoring 26 total points over the last two weeks, still ranks in the Top 7 in both yards and points. Meanwhile the defense, which has surrendered 59 points in the two recent losses, ranks Top 12 in both yards and points allowed. Oh yeah, they also just added Von Miller and Odell Beckham Jr…
Click through the history of the New York Giants facing legendary quarterback Tom Brady, a series that includes two meetings in the Super Bowl.
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) gets pressure from New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) during a week 8 regular season Monday Night football game at MetLife Stadium on November 2nd, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 3: A view an Eli Manning and Tom Brady fan inside of University of Phoenix Stadium before the opening kickoff the the New York Giants against the New England Patriots Super Bowl XLII at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, AZ. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
New York Giants outside linebacker Michael Boley gets his hand on the wrist of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) to cause him to fumble in the third quarter of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. The Giants recovered the ball, setting up a subsequent touchdown. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Quarterback Tom Brady (12) of the New England Patriots releases a pass under pressure against the New York Giants at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won 20 - 17. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 29: Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots is sacked by Justin Tuck #91 of the New York Giants on December 29, 2007 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants led 21-16 at halftime. (AP Photo/Thomas E. Witte) Tom Brady; Justin Tuck
New York Giants defensive back Derrick Martin (22) celebrates as New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady leaves the field after the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/Pat Semansky)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws the ball during the Super Bowl XLII football game against the New York Giants on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady throws an interception as New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul pressures during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady throws a pass as New York Giants defensive tackle Linval Joseph rushes during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) tackles New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants defensive tackle Linval Joseph (97) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second half of their NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady reacts during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) works against the New York Giants during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 3: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots stands on the line against the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLII at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, AZ. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady watches as New York Giants Corey Webster (23), Aaron Ross (31) and Michael Clayton (83) celebrate a play during the first half of their NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 3: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots passes the ball against the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLII at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, AZ. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 3: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots stands on the field against the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLII at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, AZ. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady passes the ball as New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) and Jason Pierre-Paul defend during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 5: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots passes the football in the end zone and is called for a safety during the game against the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLVI at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Giants defeated the Patriots 21-17. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 3: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots passes the ball against the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLII at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, AZ. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 3: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots passes the ball against the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLII at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, AZ. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 3: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots passes the ball against the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLII at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, AZ. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 3: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots passes the ball against the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLII at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, AZ. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XLII against the New York Giants at the University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, Arizona. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Ben Liebenberg)
Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots is pressured by Gibril Wilson #28 of the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLII on February 3, 2008 at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. (AP Photo/Ben Liebenberg)
Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots after being sacked by the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLII at the University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, Arizona. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Ben Liebenberg)
Quarterback Tom Brady (12) of the New England Patriots directs play against the New York Giants in preseason action September 2, 2010 at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won 20 - 17. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants QB Eli Manning (10) & Patriots QB Tom Brady (12) during a preseason week 4 game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
Quarterback Tom Brady (12) of the New England Patriots directs play against the New York Giants in preseason action September 2, 2010 at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won 20 - 17. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 05: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots is sacked by Dave Tollefson #71 of the New York Giants during Super Bowl XLVI at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 5, 2012.(AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) sets up to pass in the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New York Giants on Sunday, February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis, IN. The Giants won the game 21-17. (AP Photo/Paul Jasienski)
GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 03: Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots passes the football as defensive end Osi Umenyiora #72 of the New York Giants dives for an attempted tackle during Super Bowl XLII at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 3, 2008 in Glendale, Arizona. The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New England Patriots QB Tom Brady #12 throws a pass against the New York Giants at Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday, February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis, IN. The Giants Jason Pierre-Paul #90 tries to defend. The Giants defeated the Patriots 21-17. (AP Photo/Gregory Payan)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) gets chased by New York Giants defensive tackle Linval Joseph (97) while trying to pass the ball near his own goal line during the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New York Giants on Sunday, February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Giants won the game 21-17. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants Linval Joseph (97) and Justin Tuck (91) apply pressure on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady during the fourth quarter of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI Football game on Sunday, February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) sets up to pass against the New York Giants during the first half of NFL football Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday, Feb.5, 2012, in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Giants defeated the Patriots 21-17. (AP Photo/Kevin Terrell)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) applies pressure to New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady on the last play of the game of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game on Sunday, February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady is hit by New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game on Sunday, February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants Justin Tuck sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game on Sunday, February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis, IN. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) walks off the field after the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady runs in the end zone before the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants defensive tackle Linval Joseph (97) grabs New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) passes against the New York Giants during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady for a safety during the first half of NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass in the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants in Foxborough, Mass. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) calls a play during the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New York Giants on Sunday, February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis, IN. The Giants won the game 21-17. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) hands off the running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis (42) in the first quarter of an NFL football game against the New York Giants in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) takes the snap in the first quarter of an NFL football game against the New York Giants in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
New York Giants players jump to intercept a pass from New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in the end zone during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, in Indianapolis. The Giants won 21-17. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) passes during the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game against the New York Giants on Sunday, February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis, IN. The Giants won the game 21-17. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New England Patriots' Tom Brady, left, passes as New England Patriots' Matt Light holds off New York Giants' Osi Umenyiora during the second half of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants outside linebacker Michael Boley (59) causes New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) to fumble in the third quarter of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. The Giants recovered the ball, setting up a subsequent touchdown. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) calls signals at the line of scrimmage in the first half against the New York Giants in an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady throws as New York Giants outside linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka (94) rushes during the fourth quarter of New York's 24-20 win in a NFL football game at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New York Giants' Eli Manning, right, is congratulated by New England Patriots' Tom Brady after the Giants' 24-20 win in an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) scrambles past New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson (71) after he received an errant snap in the first half of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New England Patriots' quarterback Tom Brady (12) and the offense line up against the New York Giants defense during the second quarter of a preseason NFL game at Gillette Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Stew Milne)
Fans in Tom Brady and Eli Manning jerseys sit in their seats before a NFL football game between the New England Patriots and the New York Giants at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and his teammates line up against the defense of the New York Giants in the first half of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants QB Eli Manning (10) & Patriots QB Tom Brady (12) during a preseason week 4 game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) runs with the ball as New England Patriots guard Dan Connolly (63) blocks New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) in the first half of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New England Patriots' Tom Brady, right, is hit by New York Giants' Michael Boley and Keith Bulluck during the first quarter of an NFL preseason football game at New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) warms up with the team before a a preseason NFL football game against the New York Giants in Foxborough, Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)
New England Patriots' Tom Brady, center, signals during the first quarter of the NFL preseason football game against the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010. (AP Photo/Tim Larsen)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and the offense line up against the New York Giant defense during the second quarter at Gillette Stadium Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Stew Milne)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) looks to hand off in front of New York Giants tackle James Brewer (73) during the second quarter of a preseason NFL game in Foxborough, Mass., Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) passes over New York Giants linebacker Phillip Dillard (55) during the second quarter of an NFL preseason football game in Foxborough, Mass., Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
New England Patriots' Tom Brady, center, lines up during the first quarter of the NFL preseason football game against the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) passes to running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis (42) during the first quarter against the New York Giants at Gillette Stadium Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Stew Milne)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) changes signals at the line in front of New York Giants linebackers Spencer Paysinger (49) and Phillip Dillard (55) during the second quarter of an NFL preseason football game in Foxborough, Mass., Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) passes during the Patriots 17-14 loss to the New York Giants during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) stands next to New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce (58) during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) gets pressure from New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass during the third quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game against the New York Giants at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass in front of New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) in the first quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) points during the third quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game against the New York Giants at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) hands the ball off during the Super Bowl XLII football game agasint the New York Giants at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) is knocked down by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) in the first quarter of the the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) calls a play against the New York Giants during the third quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) is pressured by New York Giants linebacker Kawika Mitchell during the third quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) watches as his teammate Kevin Faulk, foregournd, misses the pass during the first quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game against the New York Giants at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady walks off the field after the New York Giants beat the Patriots 17-14 during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in the third quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and coach Bill Belichick talk during the fourth quarter against the New York Giants at the Super Bowl XLII football game in University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) walks off the field as the New York Giants' Fred Robbins, left, and Michael Strahan celebrate after the Giants beat the Patriots 17-14 in the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the third quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) takes off his helmet as he walks off the field during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game against the New York Giants at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan, back, and his teammate Osi Umenyiora (72) celebrate after Strahan sacked New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) in the third quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan during the third quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan, right, sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) in the third quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) recovers the fumble by New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) pressures New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in the third quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass as he is pressured by New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) reaches for a fumble on top of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck, left, strips the ball from New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) strips the football from New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) is pressured as he throws the football by New York Giants' Barry Cofield, center, and Osi Umenyiora during the first quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) and Kawika Mitchell, center, move in before Mitchell sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, right, during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass as he is pressured by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the first quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) celebrates a touchdown by running back Laurence Maroney during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game against the New York Giants at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
New York Giants defensive tackle Jay Alford (93) falls over after his teammate Justin Tuck sacked New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, bottom left, during the second quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) dives on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) in the second quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. Brady was sacked on the play. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass against the New York Giants during first quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
New York Giants defensive tackle Barry Cofield (96) and defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) close in on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the first quarter of the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning meet on he field before the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) reacts after fumbling the ball in the second quarter against the New York Giants during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants defenders Osi Umenyiora (72) and Justin Tuck (91) force New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) to fumble in the second quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. The Giants recovered he bal. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants defenders Osi Umenyiora, left, and Justin Tuck force New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) to fumble in the second quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. The Giants recovered he bal. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 29: Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots is sacked by Justin Tuck #91 of the New York Giants on December 29, 2007 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants led 21-16 at halftime. (AP Photo/Thomas E. Witte) Tom Brady; Justin Tuck
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) reacts after sacking New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) in the third quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) reacts after sacking New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) in the third quarter during the Super Bowl XLII football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 29: Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots is sacked by Justin Tuck #91 of the New York Giants on December 29, 2007 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants led 21-16 at halftime. (AP Photo/Thomas E. Witte) Tom Brady; Justin Tuck
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady reaches back to throw before being tackled by New York Giants defensive tackle Barry Cofield during the first quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Henny Ray Abrams)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) is pressured by New York Giants linebacker Reggie Torbor (53) during the third quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, right, is congratulated by New York Giants safety Gibril Wilson following their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. The Patriots defeated the Giants 38-35 to become the first team to go 16-0 in the regular season and the first since the 1972 Miami Dolphins to go through a full schedule without a loss. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants offensive tackle Nate Solder (76) talks with New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) following a preseason week 4 game on Thursday August 29th, 2019 in Foxborough, Massachusetts
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) is brought down by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan after Brady released a pass, as Patriots' Ryan O'Callaghan looks on during the third quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, right, talks with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning after their NFL preseason football game, Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Patriots 16-13. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) hits Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) during an NFL game, Monday, Nov. 02, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers beat the Giants 25-23. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Tom Brady (12) ducks from NY Giants defender Darnay Holmes (30) during an NFL game against the New York Giants, Monday, Nov. 2, 2020 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Josh Lobel via NFL)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) hits Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) during an NFL game, Monday, Nov. 02, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers beat the Giants 25-23. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) tackles Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) during an NFL game, Monday, Nov. 02, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers beat the Giants 25-23. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady Monday Nov. 2, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady Monday Nov. 2, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady Monday Nov. 2, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Leonard Williams, right, celebrates after sacking Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 2, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Leonard Williams, right, sacks Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 2, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks with New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) following a NFL football game Thursday October 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass, (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, left, and New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady speak at midfield after an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, left, and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning speak at midfield after an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, left, and New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady speaks at midfield after an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
CORRECTS THAT THIS WAS NOT THE PASS THAT MOVED BRADY INTO SECOND PLACE FOR PASSING YARDS - New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady throws a pass against the New York Giants during the first half of an NFL football game Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. An earlier completion gave Brady the second most total passing yards in NFL history. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, left, and New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady speak at midfield after an NFL preseason football game, Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning speak at midfield after an NFL preseason football game, Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, left, greets a young fan prior to an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Thursday, Aug. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talk following an NFL preseason football game, Friday, Aug. 31, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants' Jasper Brinkley (53) grabs New England Patriots' Tom Brady (12) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday Nov. 15, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. Brady fumbled the ball on the play. (AP Photo/Gary Hershorn)
England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and New York Giants running back Shane Vereen (34) speak at midfield after an NFL preseason football game, Thursday, Aug. 31, 2017, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the New York Giants on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2015 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday Nov. 15, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants' Craig Dahl (43) sacks New England Patriots' Tom Brady (12) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday Nov. 15, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New England Patriots' Tom Brady (12) looks over the defense during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday Nov. 15, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) shakes hands with New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) following the NFL regular season game against the New England Patriots and the New York Giants on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2015 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Patriots won, 27-26. (Ric Tapia via AP)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) walks through the tunnel prior to an NFL football game against the New York Giants on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2015 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) loses the ball as he is sacked by New England Patriots' Eric Martin (53) and Robert Ayers (91) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday Nov. 15, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) walks on the field before an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday Nov. 15, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New England Patriots' Danny Amendola (80) and New York Giants' Jasper Brinkley (53) scramble for the ball fumbled by quarterback Tom Brady during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday Nov. 15, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Patriots recovered the ball. (AP Photo/Gary Hershorn)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) and New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) talk following a preseason football game on August 28, 2014 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
You would rather play Tom Brady when he's coming off a win.
John Schmeelk: Fiction - Tom Brady is a perfectionist. He gets mad when things do not go well. The Buccaneers have lost two straight. Tom Brady has not lost three straight games as a starting quarterback since 2002. When he and his team does not perform to standards, he tends to solve those problems quickly. As Joe Judge said earlier in the week, the expectation is that Brady and the Bucs will come out with their best possible effort.
Dan Salomone: Fact – You certainly don't want to play him coming off back-to-back losses. The last five times he has done that in the same regular season, his teams have won by 12, 21, 12, 31, and 21 points.
Lance Medow: Fact – Let's not buy the whole mindset of a quarterback/team entering a game having a great deal of influence on the outcome. Every contest is important in the NFL. You only have 17 opportunities and given the parity of the league, especially what we're seeing this season, no one is in any position to take an opponent for granted, regardless of the previous game's result. If the Bucs beat Washington, do you really think Tampa Bay is in that much more of a comfortable spot. The Saints and Panthers are still very much in the mix for the NFC South title and the Bucs had lost their previous game to New Orleans before the bye. If forced to choose, of course I'd say Tom Brady coming off a win but, in the end, it really doesn't make much of a difference. Following last season's bye in Week 13, Tampa Bay won eight straight games en route to winning the Super Bowl. Do you really think the Bucs' opponents were thinking things will be a bit easier because Brady and company are over confident? By the way, a team with Brady at quarterback hasn't lost three straight games since Weeks 4-6, 2002. It's now 2021.
Matt Citak: Fact – There are not many things scarier in the sport of football than facing Tom Brady after a loss. In fact, the all-time great is one of the best ever coming off a loss. Now in his 22nd season, Brady has a record of 50-15 in the regular season after a loss. His winning percentage is one of the best marks ever among quarterbacks with at least 23 starts following a loss, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN.com. As if this wasn't bad enough, the Buccaneers have actually lost two consecutive games, with Brady registering five total turnovers in the two losses. The 44-year-old quarterback has lost three straight games only once in his long career, and it came in 2002. It's safe to say the Giants would have preferred the Buccaneers to beat Washington last week for a multitude of reasons.
The Buccaneers' defense poses a bigger problem than their offense.
John Schmeelk: Fiction - The Bucs' defense ranks Top 10 in most categories and is anchored by their strong rush defense, which could be adversely impacted by the potential absence of enormous nose tackle Vita Vea. They have injuries at cornerback and Jason Pierre-Paul has been playing through a shoulder injury that has impacted his play. Their offense could get Rob Gronkowski back (more likely than Antonio Brown as of writing) and it is hard to find something they are truly poor at offensively. Brady is still an elite quarterback, their offensive line blocks well, and they have excellent skill-position players. The Giants' defense will be put to the test.
Dan Salomone: Fiction – The Buccaneers are stout against the run and in the red zone, but the offense is a handful, especially at home. They average 40.5 points per game this season at Raymond James Stadium, where Brady has thrown at least four touchdowns in five consecutive games.
Lance Medow: Fiction – The Bucs are down two of their top corners in Carlton Davis and Sean Murphy-Bunting - that's resulted in several players seeing action in the secondary, including Richard Sherman, who is now also sidelined with a calf injury. Tampa Bay still has a very strong front seven highlighted by a handful of game-changing players but in comparison to the offense, the defense comes in second. The Bucs lead the NFL in passing yards per game and are third in total offense and points per game. They're averaging 31 points per contest and have scored 38 or more three times in their first nine games. Tom Brady loves to spread the wealth and Tampa Bay is certainly not lacking the weapons. This is a challenge across the board for the Giants but given New York's struggles in putting points on the board itself, this matchup puts even more pressure on the Giants' defense.
Matt Citak: Fiction – The Buccaneers' defense is certainly a talented unit, but it's unfair to compare it to the Tampa Bay offense. Despite the offense averaging 23 points and 347 yards per game over the two recent losses, the unit still ranks third in both points and yards. Tom Brady leads the league with 318.9 passing yards per game and 27 total passing touchdowns, thanks in part to their star-studded group of playmakers. Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Antonio Brown make up the most talented wide receiver trio in the league, while Rob Gronkowski, O.J. Howard and Cameron Brate are likely the best tight end group. Leonard Fournette is also having a big bounce-back season out of the backfield. The Bucs rank third in the league in third-down conversion percentage and ninth in red zone conversion percentage. Tampa Bay will also be without star defensive tackle Vita Vea and cornerback Richard Sherman, which is a tough blow to the defense. Even if Gronkowski and Brown are unable to return for Monday's game, the Bucs still have enough playmakers to cause a lot of trouble for the Giants' defense.
Tickets for Michael Strahan Ceremony
Limited tickets are available for Michael Strahan's jersey retirement game on November 28th
