The NFL week 8 wraps up with a compelling interconference showdown in Pittsburgh, where the New York Giants visit the Pittsburgh Steelers for Monday Night Football. The Giants faced a tough loss last Sunday, suffering a 28-3 defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles at home, failing to cover the spread as three-point underdogs. In contrast, the Steelers enjoyed a decisive 37-15 victory over the Jets, winning outright as 2.5-point underdogs. Historically, the Giants lead the regular-season series with a record of 44-31-3, but the Steelers have taken the last three encounters, including a 26-16 win on September 14, 2020.
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New York Giants Seeking Redemption
The Giants are struggling, having dropped their last two games, and their offense was notably absent in the contest against the Eagles. With a record of 2-5, they sit at the bottom of the NFC East, trailing Washington by three games. The game against Philadelphia started scoreless, but two quick touchdowns in the second quarter left them down 14-0. Although they narrowed the gap to 14-3 by halftime, they couldn’t mount a comeback. The Giants’ offense was outgained 339-119, and they recorded 10 first downs while allowing 20. They also lost the time of possession battle, 35:20 to 24:40, with no turnovers committed by either team.
On the season, New York averages 189.1 passing yards per game, ranking 23rd in the league. Their rushing game averages 101.6 yards, placing them 25th. In scoring, they sit at 30th overall, managing just 14.1 points per game. Defensively, they rank 12th, allowing 21.3 points. Quarterback Daniel Jones has completed 150 of 240 passes for 1,442 yards, with six touchdowns and four interceptions, while also being sacked 21 times. Running back Devin Singletary leads the ground game with 61 carries for 239 yards and two touchdowns, with Tyrone Tracy Jr. closely following. In the receiving corps, rookie Malik Nabers stands out with 39 receptions for 427 yards and three touchdowns. The kicking game has seen Graham Gano successfully convert two field goals, while Greg Joseph has been reliable with extra points and field goals this season.
In terms of injuries, cornerback Adoree’ Jackson (neck), punter Jamie Gillan (hamstring), and linebacker Ty Summers (ankle) did not practice on Thursday or Friday. Others, including Tre Hawkins III (ankle) and Dexter Lawrence (hip), were limited during Friday’s practice. Updates on their statuses will be crucial as game day approaches.
Pittsburgh Steelers Aiming to Keep Winning Streak Alive
The Steelers are on a roll, having secured their second consecutive win against the Jets, maintaining their position at the top of the AFC North with a 5-2 record, tied with the Ravens. In their last match, they initially trailed but scored quickly in the second half, ultimately dominating the fourth quarter. Pittsburgh outgained the Jets 409-323 and forced two turnovers while not committing any themselves.
On offense, the Steelers rank 26th in passing with an average of 180.1 yards per game but excel in rushing, ranking 9th with 134 yards per game. They are 16th in scoring offense, averaging 23 points, and have an impressive second-place ranking in scoring defense, allowing just 14.4 points. Justin Fields has been effective, completing 106 of 160 passes for 1,106 yards and five touchdowns, along with 231 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. Najee Harris leads the running game with 117 carries for 478 yards and two touchdowns. In the passing game, George Pickens is the top target with 31 catches for 474 yards and a touchdown. Kicker Chris Boswell has been perfect in extra points and has hit 19 of 20 field goal attempts this season.
On the injury front, defensive tackle Cam Heyward (rest), center Zach Frazier (ankle), and wide receiver Roman Wilson (hamstring) missed practice on Thursday and Friday. Others, like linebacker Tyler Matakevich and Cordarrelle Patterson, were limited in practice and may affect the team’s depth as they prepare for the Giants.
Betting Insights for Giants vs. Steelers
The Giants are facing significant challenges, particularly after Daniel Jones expressed frustration over being benched in favor of Tommy DeVito in the loss against the Eagles. The team’s offensive struggles are evident, as they managed just 119 total yards and three points last week. This matchup against a Pittsburgh squad known for its robust defense, ranking second in the league in scoring defense and against the run, poses a daunting task for New York. The Steelers, while not overwhelming on offense, rely heavily on their defensive prowess to secure victories. Expect Pittsburgh to maintain their winning momentum in this matchup.
