For the New York Giants to stand a chance against the Pittsburgh Steelers, their passing game has to seize the moment against a battered Steelers secondary.
With cornerbacks Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson alongside nickel back Beanie Bishop Jr., the Giants must strike early. Bishop has already proven dangerous, snagging two picks from Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers last week.
The Steelers boast two elite safeties in Minkah Fitzpatrick and DeShon Elliott. Last week, Rodgers torched the Steelers for 276 yards, but he also threw two interceptions. For Giants quarterback Daniel Jones to have a similar impact, he must step up significantly after a lackluster performance against the Eagles.
The biggest hurdle for the Giants lies with Jones. He has the talent around him—rookie standout Nabers is living up to expectations after being a top-six draft pick. But Jones’s arm strength and deep ball accuracy have been questionable, limiting the Giants’ scoring potential and frustrating fans.
Jones needs to dodge the Steelers’ knack for picking off passes. He’s struggled against weaker defenses; facing Bishop and his crew will be a serious test. Fitzpatrick, though lacking interceptions this season, is no stranger to capitalizing on mistakes from quarterbacks with limited range. He tallied six picks last year and earned Pro Bowl honors. Elliott, who joined from Miami, has also made his mark with an interception and three pass breakups, bringing physicality that disrupts receivers.
The Giants have a tough challenge ahead, but it’s not impossible. Nabers must take charge from the start. If he can create separation, it will open up opportunities for Darius Slayton and Robinson as the corners back off. Notably, Jones has performed better on the road, which bodes well.
Both Elliott (back) and Jackson (shoulder) were on the injury list but are set to play—possibly a step slow. The Giants should test their limits early and see just how much they can exploit this weakened defense.
