This game is becoming a bit of an NFL opening weekend tradition as this is the fifth time these two have met on the opening weekend out of the past six seasons. The games usually turn out to be fantastic games, and last season was no different with the Giants coming out on top 20-19. However, the other four games have all gone the way of the Cowboys and they certainly have the Giants’ number in recent seasons.
The big storyline in this game is going to be whether or not Odell Beckham Jr can play or whether he is ruled out through injury. Things look tough for him at the moment and if he does play he is unlikely to have the huge impact he normally does in games.
The good news for the Giants is that they have another two top quality receivers who can step in and pick up the balls that Beckham would have received. New signing Brandon Marshall has vast experience in the league and he is a ready-made replacement should Beckham not make it. The Giants also have youngster Sterling Shephard, who really impressed in his rookie season last year and will be looking to show even more this season, despite the arrival of Marshall.
We are still awaiting official confirmation from the NFL as to whether or not Ezekiel Elliott can play, although it is expected that he will suit up and begin his suspension in week two. Should he play then he really needs to help the Cowboys, who have struggled to develop any kind of run game against the Giants in the past. In two games against the Giants last season, they rushed for a combined total of just over 200 yards and that figure needs to be much better if they are to compete.
Like many games this weekend, I expect this to be very close but I am going to side with the Dallas Cowboys to win the game. Ezekiel Elliott will be important and he has to find a way to pick up yards for the Cowboys, he is the key to the game. Should Beckham play for the Giants he won’t be able to have his normal impact and I think that will take something away from their offensive options. That gives the Cowboys the upper hand and I believe they will have enough to win the game.
