Game Preview: New York Giants (1-3) at Seattle Seahawks (3-1)
Date: Sunday, October 6, 2024
Time: 4:25 p.m. ET
Venue: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA
Broadcast: CBS
The New York Giants (1-3) head to the Pacific Northwest to face the Seattle Seahawks (3-1) in a pivotal Week 5 matchup. The Giants are hoping to bounce back after a difficult start to the season, while the Seahawks aim to build on their strong form.
Recent Matchups
This will be the 22nd regular-season meeting between these two teams, and it’s the third consecutive season they’ve squared off. The most recent encounter came on Monday Night Football on October 2, 2023, where Seattle dominated the Giants 24-3 at MetLife Stadium. That game saw the Giants struggle offensively, something they must rectify if they are to compete in Seattle’s notoriously hostile Lumen Field.
The last time the Giants tasted victory against the Seahawks was in 2020, also in Seattle. That gritty 17-12 win was highlighted by then-running back Wayne Gallman rushing for 135 yards on 16 carries, and Alfred Morris scoring two touchdowns, one rushing and one receiving.
Giants’ Struggles: Can They Rebound?
Sitting at 1-3, the Giants are in desperate need of a win. Injuries and inconsistency have been major factors, with the loss of running back Saquon Barkley being particularly significant. Barkley’s departure, documented by Hard Knocks, has left a huge void in the Giants’ offense, and the running game hasn’t found its footing with Matt Breida also no longer on the team.
Quarterback Daniel Jones will need to step up and get this offense going, especially against a Seahawks defense that has been solid but not unbeatable. The Giants will also need a more consistent performance from their offensive line, which has struggled mightily in pass protection and run-blocking in recent weeks.
Seahawks: Riding High at 3-1
The Seahawks, led by head coach Pete Carroll, are off to a strong 3-1 start and look like a playoff-caliber team early on. Quarterback Geno Smith has continued to manage the offense efficiently, while running back Kenneth Walker III has been a consistent force on the ground. Seattle’s defense, anchored by standout rookies from last season, continues to be formidable, and the atmosphere at Lumen Field is sure to provide the Seahawks with a significant home-field advantage.
Seattle’s key to victory lies in controlling the tempo with their running game and applying constant pressure on Daniel Jones, forcing him into mistakes.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Daniel Jones vs. Seahawks Secondary
Jones will need to improve on his accuracy and decision-making against a Seattle secondary that thrives on turnovers. Without a reliable running game, the Giants’ passing attack will need to step up in a big way. - Giants’ Run Defense vs. Kenneth Walker III
The Giants’ defense will need to contain Kenneth Walker III, who has been explosive to start the season. If they can’t stop him, it could be a long day for Big Blue. - Giants’ Offensive Line vs. Seahawks Pass Rush
The Giants’ offensive line has been an issue all season, and they’ll face a tough test against Seattle’s pass rush. If Jones can’t get time to throw, it will be difficult to sustain drives.
Prediction
With Seattle riding high and playing at home, the Giants face an uphill battle. The Seahawks’ defense should be able to control the Giants’ offense, and their balanced attack on offense could wear down the Giants’ defense. Unless the Giants’ offensive line can step up and Jones has a near-flawless game, Seattle looks poised to take this one.
Prediction: Seahawks 27, Giants 17