NFL Monday Night Football 2014 Schedule & Predictions: New York Giants at Detroit Lions
The first week of the National Football League season is almost complete, and already we've seen blowouts, huge comeback victories and game-winning drives.
Week 1 of 2014 NFL season actions continues with the first game scheduled for Monday Night Football between the New York Giants at Detroit Lions.
Both the Giants and Lions are coming off losing seasons at 7-9. The NFC is a tough conference, and every win matters going forward.
Here we have a battle of two polar opposite teams. Latin Post takes a look at:
New York Giants
The Giants spent a lot of money this offseason on their secondary. Players such as Zack Bowman, Quintin Demps, Walter Thurmond and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie were all added. They know they're in for a tough season against a lot of great quarterbacks and notable wide receivers. This game, facing Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson, will be their first true test.
As for the offense, the preseason showed little promise. The offensive line is providing little to no time for Rashad Jennings to run or Eli Manning to throw. Even when Manning has had time to throw, he hasn't been connecting. New offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo will have to come up with some creative plays.
This team is still trying to find their future tight end, so expect a lot of deep throws. Running back Peyton Hillis may get more playing time than expected because of his great blocking abilities.
Detroit Lions
The Lions are one of the most pass-happy teams in the league. Although sometimes inconsistent, Stafford is known for putting up some the highest passing numbers in the NFL. Calvin Johnson is obviously an elite receiver, and he will get tested against this Giants secondary.
This is the first year for the Lions under new head coach Jim Caldwell. Although expectations are high in Detroit this year, the Lions have had a losing record 12 of the last 13 seasons. Ndamukong Suh will be the man to watch on the Lions' defense. Can the Giants' poor offensive line stop him?
Reggie Bush appears to be the x-factor player in this game. If Bush can dominate on the ground and be a threat through the air, the Lions can control the clock and win the game. Bush has had over 1,000 yard rushing in two of the last three seasons.
Where and When to Watch
The Lions and Giants will play each other at Ford Field. The game will be shown on ESPN beginning at 8:10 p.m.
Predictions
Both of these teams have big flaws, which is why they both missed the playoffs the last two consecutive seasons. The Lions have home-field advantage, but will their defense be enough? The Giants' improved defense could make a splash, but can the offense score enough points? We'll take the defensive team in a close game, with Tom Coughlin being the deciding factor.
Giants win 20-17.
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