National Football League

Giants, Manning will easily beat 'Skins

Published Sep. 8, 2011 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Everything is seemingly stacked against the Giants this weekend in Washington.

If it wasn't for bad luck, the Giants would have none at all. On Tuesday, they learned that starting middle linebacker Jonathan Goff would be placed on season-ending injured reserve. As a result, they will start rookie Greg Jones. This comes on the heels of a horrible month of August, where the Giants were ruined by injuries. Budding star corner Terrell Thomas is out for the year. Osi Umenyiora will miss the game this week. The Giants are still reeling from losing Kevin Boss and Steve Smith via free agency. Eli Manning's preseason sadly mirrored the end of his 2010 campaign, littered with bad throws and interceptions.

But have no fear, Giants fans.

Washington is starting Rex Grossman at quarterback.

Finally, the break the Giants needed.

Hey, Peter Schrager, it doesn't matter how you try to spin Washington winning the game. It doesn't matter that Eli is coming off of an interception-prone season and preseason. He's clearly the best quarterback on the field.

Let me try again, my friend.

Washington is starting Rex Grossman!

How is it possible that Rex is running a team once again? Did Mike Shanahan watch the Bears? I know Kyle Shanahan worked with Rex as his backup in Houston, but this is insane!

Choosing between Grossman and John Beck wasn't exactly Montana vs. Young for Mike Shanahan. Congrats to the 'Skins on having the single worst quarterback situation in the NFL. And shame on Washington for being in this position in the first place.

The Giants will take advantage. That's the lock of the week.

Justin Tuck and Jason Pierre-Paul will abuse the Washington offensive line and force Grossman into interceptions. I think the Giants will sack Grossman several times in the game. Perry Fewell will bring the heat. The Redskins receivers are not trustworthy. And let's slow down on putting Tim Hightower in the Hall of Fame. There's a reason Arizona traded him in the first place. It won't be easy to run against the Giants' stout defensive line.

Washington's defense is a work in progress. Hakeem Nicks is a matchup nightmare. Plus, I anticipate that offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride will run the ball more than he has in the past. Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs will slice and dice the Skins' defense. The Giants' offensive line is better than last year with David Baas replacing Shaun O'Hara at center.

While I am not picking the Giants to go to the playoffs, Tom Coughlin-coached teams thrive when dealing with adversity. They love being the perceived underdog.

Giants 20, Washington 10.

Schrager, we are talking about Rex Grossman!