QUARTERBACKS: The recent talk in camp has swirled around rookie quarterback Travis Webb. The tall, strong-armed rookie from California had looked good in camp, and he should see more playing time against Cleveland. He hit three of his first five passes and finished the game against Pittsburgh last week with eight completions out of 16 attempts for 67 yards.
Look for Josh Johnson and Gino Smith also to see some action. Johnson struggled most of his time in the first and half of the second quarter. Smith looked season early on, but he encountered some mishaps along the way. Head coach Ben McAdoo hasn’t ruled out the possibility of Webb capturing the No. 2 spot if Johnson and Smith flounder.
Eli Manning should make the start after sitting last week and could play into the second quarter. The race for the backup spots certainly will be interesting to watch. Remember, the talk around the Giants before the draft was finding an heir apparent to Manning..enter Webb.
OFFENSIVE LINE: Guard Justin Pugh, who has become the senior spokesman for the line, stated last week that progress across the line has been progressing well. He said the seven sacks by the Steelers last week may not have been entirely the line’s fault.
Well, Pugh and his mates will need to tighten the gaps and can’t have another debacle this week. The growth of the O-line will be the key to the Giants; continued stalled running game. It is a necessary element considering the expected potency of the Giant’s passing game. Tackle Ereck Flowers has received the majority of the criticism, but there is other blame to go around.
WIDE RECEIVERS: The Giants recently were hit with a rash of injuries at the position. Keon Johnson, who has been looking good, broke his foot. Others who have been sidelined are Kevin Snead, Darius Powe, and Dwayne Harris. Powe has been impressive in camp and is in a fight for a roster spot.
Look for Brandon Marshall and Sterling Shepard to be more involved in the offense. It is unsure whether Odell Beckham Jr. will see action.
DEFENSE: The Giants’ starting defense has a strong showing against Pittsburgh last week, and the reserves were just as sturdy.
Jason Pierre-Paul, who sat last week, should see action. Top pick tackle Dalvin Thompson’s stock continues to rise, and he also be pretty involved this week. Middle linebacker BJ Goodson also will look to further establish himself after a good game last week.
The first-team secondary should see more time, and they will look to show why they are considered to be on the best in the league.
WHAT’S HOT IN CLEVELAND? The Browns are in a starting quarterback search of their own. Veterans Brock Osweiler — listed No. 1 on their depth chart — and Cody Kessler have been unimpressive. Rookie DeShone Kizer has arguably has looked the best of the three, but the Browns reportedly don’t want to start him for the season.