The Giants (5-8) will travel to New Orleans riding a three-game win streak as they face off against the Saints (6-7) on Sunday.
It's a short week for Brian Daboll's squad, who picked up the victory over the Packers on Monday Night Football. Meanwhile, the Saints are coming off a divisional win over the Panthers, which snapped a three-game losing streak.
The Saints own the same record as the Packers, who currently hold the seventh seed in the NFC playoff picture, while the Giants sit one game behind. The Saints are one of five NFC teams that are 6-7 heading into Week 15.
Here are five storylines to follow in New Orleans.
1. Three-game win streak
After losing to the Cowboys in Week 10, the Giants fell to 2-8 on the season as their top two quarterbacks sat on injured reserve. Despite the outlook on the season, the Giants never gave up. Since then, they have won three consecutive games, which has catapulted the Giants back into the playoff race.
"One year has nothing to do with the next," coach Brian Daboll told the media Tuesday. "One game has nothing to do with the next. This is a tough league for everybody. You have to be able to handle the ups and you have to be able to handle the downs. You don't accept the downs, I'll tell you that. There's a lot of things that you have to do better to try to get yourself out of a rut. That's everybody, that starts with me. You don't get too high when things are going and you're winning a few games. Because this league is a humbling league. I've said it I don't know how many times, it's a very humbling league.
"But what I do appreciate is the players and the coaches sticking together, working through things, having a strong commitment to improve, being good teammates. Those are all important things for all of us, regardless of what position you're at, to be able to do those things. I've got a lot of appreciation for our team and for our people in our building. It's never going to be easy. As good as it is one week, it could be as bad the next week. So, got to keep the focus where it needs to be. The only thing you could do, which is what we try to do every week, is to improve and play our best game for that following Sunday or Monday or whatever it is. It doesn't always happen, that's for sure, but it doesn't mean you don't try to make sure it does."
The road to the playoffs will not be easy. All four remaining games are against NFC teams fighting for their own playoff hopes. The Saints are contending for both the NFC South title and a Wild Card spot, while the Rams are another one of the five teams currently sitting at 6-7. Then of course, the Eagles are still in contention for both the NFC East crown and the No. 1 seed in the conference. If the Giants want to make a serious playoff push, they will have to play their best football of the season in these final few weeks.
View rare photos from the all-time series between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints.
Jim Taylor of the New Orleans Saints reaches for the ball, thrown by quarterback Gary Cuozzo, as it falls incomplete in the third quarter of the Saints-Giants National Football League game in New York on Oct. 8, 1967. Defensive back Wendell Harris of the Giants, left, is set for the tackle. The Giants won 27-21. (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Dave Brown, left, running back Rodney Hampton, center, and center Brian Williams (59) celebrate Hampton's five-yard touchdown in the second quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sept. 24, 1995. Hampton scored four touchdowns in the Giants 5-29 win over the Saints. (AP Photo/Kevin Larkin)
New York Giants wide receiver Chris Calloway (30) scores the Giants' second touchdown with New Orleans safety Anthony Newman (30) in pursuit in the second quarter of their game Sunday, Sept. 28, 1997, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Saints 14-9 improving their record to 2-3.(AP Photo/John Dunn)
New York Giants quarterback Kent Graham scores a touchdown during the first quarter against the New Orleans Saints Sunday, Oct. 24, 1999, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/John Greilick)
New York Giants wide receiver Joe Jurevicius catches a pass for a 46-yard touchdown as New Orleans Saints safety Joe Bellamy looks on during the fourth quarter Sunday, Aug. 30, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 21-13. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants punt returner Tiki Barber (21) slips out of the grasp of New Orleans Saints linebacker Phil Clark, left, as he returns a punt for 20 yards during the first quarter Sunday, Aug. 30, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Barber pulled a hamstring while making a 14-yard touchdown run during the second quarter. The Giants won 21-13.(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Aaron Brooks (2) is stopped by New York Giants safety Sam Garnes, left, linebackers Brandon Short, top, Jessie Armstead, right, and Mike Barrow, bottom right, during the first quarter Sunday, Aug. 30, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Joe Jurevicius is congratulated by Greg Comella, left, and Amani Toomer after his touchdown run in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 21-13 win over the New Orleans Saints at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Sept. 30, 2001. (AP Photo/Jeff Zelevansky)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) gets away from New Orleans Saints defender Kenny Smith (90) as Giants Scott Peters (63) blocks in first half NFL action in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans Sunday Dec. 14, 2003. Barber had a short gain on the play. (AP Photo/Andrew Cohoon)
The New York Giants' Tiki Barber, left, gets past the New Orleans Saints' Jay Bellamy, top right, and Mike McKenzie at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. , Monday, Sept. 19, 2005. The Giants won 27-10. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
The New Orleans Saints kicker John Carney, right, is consoled by teamate Todd Bouman as the New York Giants' Reggie Torbor, left, runs by after Carney missed a kick in the fourth quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Monday, Sept 19, 2005. The Giants won 27-10. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
The New Orleans Saints' Deuce McAllister moves upfield as the New York Giants' Carlos Emmons brings him down in the second quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. , Monday, Sept. 19, 2005. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress picks up a first down against the New Orleans Saints Monday night, Sept. 19, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants take on the St. Louis Rams on Sunday. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
The New York Giants' Eli Manning, right, talks with the New Orleans Saints' Deuce McAllister after the Giants beat the Saints 27-10 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. , Monday, Sept 19, 2005. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) scrambles for three yards before being tackled by New York Giants' Mathias Kiwanuka, right, and Fred Robbins during second quarter NFL football Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Saints won 30-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Tiki Barber sweeps around the right side against the New Orleans Saints in the fourth quarter during NFL football action Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006 in East Rutherford, N.J. Barber rushed for 71 yards in the game. The Saints won 30-7. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants cornerback Jason Bell and safety Will Demps celebrate after stopping the New Orleans Saints during their football Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, right, greets New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton after NFL football action Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006, in East Rutherford, N.J. Barber rushed for 71 yards in the game. The Saints won, 30-7. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) picks up yardage as Giants' Tim Carter blocks New Orleans Saints cornerback Mike McKenzie, left, during second quarter NFL football Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
The New Orleans Saint, left, huddle before a play against the New York Giants, right, during the first half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey (88) chats with New York Giants center Shaun O'Hara, left, and Giants Justin Tuck, right, at the end of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. Saints won 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) picks up good yardage on a pass play as New Orleans Saints cornerback Jabari Greer (32) gives chase in the second half of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. Saints won 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) directs running back Brandon Jacobs (27) in the first half against the New Orleans Saints in the first half of their NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. [(AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New Orleans Saints running back Mike Bell (21) is tackled by New York Giants linebackers Danny Clark (55) and Chase Blackburn (57) during the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls a play as center Shaun O'Hara (60) looks on in the second half of their NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. The Saints defeated the Giants 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
The New York Giants huddle before a play against the New Orleans Saints during the first half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) audibles at the line in the first half of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. The Saints won 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) slips into the end zone past New Orleans Saints safety Darren Sharper (42) in the first half of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. The Saints won 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants guard Chris Snee (76), tackle Kareem McKenzie (67) and corner Shaun O'Hara (60) line up against the New Orleans Saints during the first half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) runs with the ball against the New Orleans Saints during the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, October 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw, left, is hoisted up in celebration by teammate Shaun O'Hara as Madison Hedgecock (39) watches after Bradshaw scored a touchdown in the first half of an NFL game between the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. The Saints won 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) races with a pass in front of New Orleans Saints cornerback Jabari Greer (32) in the second half of their NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. The Saints defeated the Giants 48-27. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) makes a catch over New Orleans Saints corner back Tracy Porter (22) during the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct.18, 2009. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) shake hands after an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. The Saints beat the Giants 48-27. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) hands off to running back Brandon Jacobs (27) during the first quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New Orleans Saints guard Jahri Evans (73) scuffles with several New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) celebrates his touchdown during the third quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Jonathan Casillas (52) tries to block a field goal by New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes (9) during the second quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) is hit by New York Giants linebacker Mark Herzlich (58) after releasing a pass during the second quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls out a play at the line of scrimmage during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) tries to block the pass of New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants free safety Antrel Rolle (26) pats quarterback Eli Manning (10) on the head prior to an NFL football game between the New Orleans Saints and the New York Giants in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) looks over his shoulder at New Orleans Saints cornerback Tracy Porter (22) as he runs for a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talk after their NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. THe Saints won 49-24. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
New York Giants free safety Antrel Rolle (26) breaks up a pass intended for New Orleans Saints running back Darren Sproles (43)during the third quarter of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) dances in the end zone to celebrate his 10-yard touchdown catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. At left is Saints cornerback Johnny Patrick (32). (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back David Wilson (22) does a summersault after scoring on a six-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
FILE - In this Dec. 9, 2012, file photo, New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) draws in the crowd after a short gain during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in East Rutherford, N.J. Cruz has signed his $2.879 million tender with the Giants. Two people familiar with the contract told The Associated Press on Friday, June 14, 2013, that the restricted free agent with three years in the NFL had signed the tender while he works on a long-term deal with the team. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) chats with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning following their NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Saints 52-27. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back David Wilson (22) is hoisted into the air by Martellus Bennett after scoring on a 52-yard touchdown run during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 52-27. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back David Wilson (22) flips after scoring on a 6-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back David Wilson (22) runs for a 52-yard touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
FILE - In this Dec. 9, 2012, file photo, New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) is tackled by New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Jonathan Vilma during an NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J. Vilma has been placed in injured reserve, possibly ending his season, three days after he returned to the lineup for his first game of the season Nov. 3, 2013. The 10th-year linebacker has struggled with recurring knee problems for the past two-plus seasons, casting doubt over whether he will play again. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File)
FILE - In this Dec. 9, 2012 file photo, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during the second half of an NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J. The Atlanta Falcons found a replacement for John Abraham on Wednesday, March 27, 2013, by reaching an agreement with free-agent defensive end Osi Umenyiora on a two-year, $8.5 million contract. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates with David Diehl after his 5-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Domenik Hixonduring the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks w New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) following a week 8 NFL football game on November 1, 2015 at the Mercedes- Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana (Evan Pinkus via AP)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the New Orleans Saints during a week 8 NFL football game on November 1, 2015 at the Mercedes- Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana ( Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Dwayne Harris (17) catches a touchdown pass during a week 8 NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints on November 1, 2015 at the Mercedes- Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) carries against New Orleans Saints cornerback Brandon Browner (39) in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) sets up to pass during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes Benz Superdome on November 1, 2015. The Saints defeated the Texans 52-49. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls a play in the huddle in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. (AP Photo/Jonathan Bachman)
New York Giants wide receiver Dwayne Harris (17) pulls in a touchdown reception in front of New Orleans Saints defensive back Kyle Wilson (24) in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. (AP Photo/Jonathan Bachman)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes in the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015.(AP Photo/Butch Dill)
New Orleans Saints safety Jarius Byrd (31) slams into New York Giants tight end Will Tye (45) during an NFL game at the Mercedes Benz Superdome on November 1, 2015. The Saints defeated the Texans 52-49. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) sets up to pass during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes Benz Superdome on November 1, 2015. Manning passed for 350 yards and six touchdowns. The Saints defeated the Texans 52-49. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Willie Snead (83) fumbles as he is hit by New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. The fumble resulted in a touchdown return for the Giants. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) sets up to pass during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes Benz Superdome on November 1, 2015. Manning passed for 350 yards and six touchdowns. The Saints defeated the Texans 52-49. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) stiff arms New Orleans Saints cornerback Brandon Browner (39) during a week 8 NFL football game on November 1, 2015 at the Mercedes- Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Dwayne Harris (17) pulls in a touchdown reception in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. (AP Photo/Jonathan Bachman)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) and New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) greet each other after an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015. The Saints won 52-49. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) celebrates after making a catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass as New Orleans Saints' Paul Kruger (99) rushes him during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) catches a pass in front of New Orleans Saints cornerback Ken Crawley (46) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 16-13. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) defends New Orleans Saints' Willie Snead (83) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Víctor Cruz, de los Giants de Nueva York, captura un pase frente a Ken Crawley, cornerback de los Saints de Nueva Orleáns, en el partido del domingo 18 de septiembre de 2016 (AP Foto/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Rhett Ellison, center, runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) fends off New Orleans Saints cornerback Ken Crawley (20) during an NFL game, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, East Rutherford, NJ. The Saints defeated the Giants 33-18. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants tackle Nate Solder (76) blocks during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, East Rutherford, NJ. The Saints defeated the Giants 33-18. (Al Tielemans via AP)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New Orleans Saints take on the New York Giants during a week 4 NFL football game on Sunday September 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, East Rutherford, NJ. The Saints defeated the Giants 33-18. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives into the end during a week 4 NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday September 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants tackle Nate Solder (76) blocks during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, East Rutherford, NJ. The Saints defeated the Giants 33-18. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants guard Will Fernandez (71) blocks during an NFL game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, East Rutherford, NJ. The Saints defeated the Giants 33-18. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Nate Solder (76) during a week 4 NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday September 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks to get in the end zone during a week 4 NFL football game against the.New Orleans Saints on Sunday September 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Kerry Wynn (72) during a week 4 NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday September 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, left, greets New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning after an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Saints defeated the Giants 33-18. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball while New Orleans Saints defensive back Vonn Bell (24) defends during an NFL football game on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) and New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) greet each other following an NFL football game on Monday, Sept. 1, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Saints defeated the Giants 33-18. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, front, runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, front, makes a catch in front of New Orleans Saints' Ken Crawley during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, front, makes a catch in front of New Orleans Saints' Ken Crawley during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, left, scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley jumps over defenders for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning passes during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks to throw during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, left, scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees looks to throw during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, left, looks to throw during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores the game winning touchdown 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) runs with the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
Saquon Barkley (26)
Adoree' Jackson (22)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Daniel Jones (8)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
2. DeVitomonium
Tommy DeVito has officially taken over the NFL landscape. What started out as sidebars about an NFL quarterback living at home with his parents has turned into a craze sweeping the country. While being thrust into the national spotlight might too much for some rookies to shoulder, it is clear that DeVito can handle the pressure.
Playing in primetime for the first time, DeVito put on a show for the country this past Monday. The rookie completed 81 percent of his passes for 158 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions for a passer rating of 113.9. He also added 71 yards on 10 carries (7.1 avg.) on the ground as he became the first starter in league history to complete at least 80% of his passes, rush for 70+ yards, commit no turnovers, and take no sacks in a game. DeVito completed 10 of 11 passes (91 percent) in the second half as the led the Giants to a comeback victory.
"He made good decisions, took care of the ball, used him in the run game," Daboll said after the game. "Just keep developing him. He's improving. Still got stuff to work on, but like I said two or three times last week, I think he's a young player that's doing the right things and making the most of his opportunity. He earned the right to play today, and he earned the right to play the next week. The kid's done a good job."
Since DeVito took over as the starting quarterback, the Giants have gone 3-1. The 25-year-old has thrown seven touchdowns to just one interception during that stretch, and has played especially well during the team's win streak. In those three games, DeVito has finished with a 100+ passer rating in every one. He became the first undrafted rookie quarterback since the 1970 merger to win three starts in a season, and the first Giants rookie quarterback to win three consecutive starts since Phil Simms in 1979.
"He's done everything we've asked him to do since he's been here whether it's OTAs, work, leading up to training camp, he knows what he's supposed to do," the head coach said about DeVito. "He knows he's got stuff to work on, but I think he sees the game pretty well, he sees coverages, he's usually one of those guys – not usually, he is one of those guys, for a young player, particularly at that position, which isn't always the case, but when he comes off to the sideline and you are asking him questions about why he did what he did, what he saw, you watch the tape the following day and it's like 'yep, that's exactly what happened.' So, he's continuing to improve and that's what we will try to do this week."
Sunday's matchup will be a tough one for DeVito, as the Saints enter this matchup with the league's seventh-best passing defense. New Orleans' defense has 14 interceptions on the year, the third-most in the NFL. They are averaging just 157.3 passing yards per game over their last three games against the Panthers, Lions and Falcons.
3. Defense forcing takeaways
DeVito has earned a ton of praise for his performance since taking over as the starting quarterback, and rightfully so. But the rookie's rise in popularity has seemingly overshadowed the play of the defense over the last few weeks. Make no mistake, the defense has been nothing short of dominant during the team's three-game win streak.
The defense is averaging 16.0 points and 337.7 yards allowed per game since Week 11. More importantly, the unit has racked up an impressive 12 turnovers during that span. The 12 turnovers over the last four weeks are the most in the NFL, despite the fact that the Giants had a bye in Week 13. Going back one week further, the Giants have totaled 14 turnovers in their last four games. The unit now has 22 takeaways on the season, tied for the fifth-most in the NFL, despite not having a single one in their first four games.
"We are doing a good job of running to the ball, make opportunities when they have opportunities to be made," Daboll said about the defense's recent surge. "It's tied in -- front and coverage -- it's tied in well on the interceptions but rallying to the ball, population, and getting hands on the ball, that's important. So, effort is a lot of it. Again, coverage and front tie together, looks. We need to try to keep doing this."
The Saints' offense has been middle of the pack this year, ranking 15th in points and 13th in yards. New Orleans did not need to do much in last week's win over Carolina, totaling just 207 yards of offense and 21 points in the victory (they also scored a touchdown on a blocked punt). In the two games prior to Week 14, the Saints averaged 21.5 points and 403 yards of offense. Their 17 turnovers are tied for the 17th-most in the league.
4. Playmakers stepping up
The Giants saw several different playmakers step up in Monday's win over the Packers, starting with running back Saquon Barkley. The talented back carried the ball 20 times for 86 yards (4.3 avg.) and two touchdowns, adding three receptions for 15 yards. It was his fifth time reaching 100 yards from scrimmage in his last seven games, while the 23 total touches were his most since Week 8. It wasn't a perfect outing for Barkley, as he did lose a key fumble late in the game which opened the door for the Packers. But the offense got the ball back and stormed down the field to set up Randy Bullock's game-winning field goal as time expired.
"I mean, the emotions were definitely high, and the vibes were great," Barkley said about the feeling on the sideline in the last few minutes of the game. "I wouldn't really say the emotions were low at all after I fumbled. It was more myself, getting in my head, but still at the same time, knowing that an NFL football game and if our defense doesn't get the stop, we've still got to find a way to win the game. So, that happened quick. My teammates came up to me and told me that they've got my back, and we're going to find a way to win this game, and we did that."
Barkley finished second on the team in yards from scrimmage as wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson had his best game of the season. The second-year receiver led the way with 79 yards on six receptions along with 36 yards on two rush attempts, finishing with a career-best 115 total yards of offense. Robinson made numerous key catches, including the big 32-yard catch and run on the final drive to set up the game-winning field goal.
"We talked last week a little bit about Wan'Dale and still coming back from a tougher injury for a perimeter receiver and a player that uses his quickness and speed as his strength," Daboll told reporters Tuesday. "But he's steadily gotten better, I'd say physically, which improves your confidence. In the last few weeks, you can really see explosive quickness, he ran some really good routes again, was open quite a bit. Had the big play in the run, played with toughness, I'd say played competitively. For a smaller guy, too, he was mixing it up pretty good."
Isaiah Hodgins, Darius Slayton, Jalin Hyatt and Daniel Bellinger caught two passes apiece against the Packers, including Hodgins' impressive eight-yard touchdown catch in the third quarter. Additionally, the Giants finished with a season-high 209 yards on the ground, with Barkley (86), DeVito (71), Robinson (36) and Matt Breida (16) each contributing to the total.
5. Injury updates; Waller 'making progress'
The Giants enter this weekend's matchup relatively healthy, all things considered. One of the biggest names nearing a return to action is tight end Darren Waller, who has been on injured reserve since suffering a hamstring injury against the Jets in Week 8. Waller has yet to be designated to return to practice, but Daboll said the veteran tight end is getting healthier.
"We'll see where we're at here, making progress. Getting closer..." Daboll said about Waller on Wednesday. "We'll see. Go through the week and determine it at the end of the week."
"You don't know when could be your last game, you know what I'm saying?" Waller told reporters about his motivation to return this season. "How many opportunities you're going to get. I've been in a position where I didn't think I was going to get any more opportunities so every game I plan on attacking if I'm available."
With the Giants coming off a game on Monday, Wednesday's practice was more of a walkthrough than a normal Wednesday practice. Nevertheless, the head coach announced that every player on the active roster would participate in the walkthrough, an encouraging sign as the team enters the final stretch of the season.
One player returning to practice for the first time in weeks is right tackle Evan Neal. The second-year tackle has been sidelined since going down with an ankle injury in Week 9, his first game back after missing the previous two contests with another ankle injury. The Giants hope to get the right tackle back on the field in New Orleans, but will have to wait and see how his ankle responds to practicing throughout the week.
Neal was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday's walkthrough practice, as was cornerback Cor'Dale Flott, defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence (hamstring), outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari (shoulder), and defensive lineman A'Shawn Robinson (hamstring). Wide receiver Parris Campbell (knee) was listed as a full participant.
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