Eagles-Giants: 3 matchups to watch in divisional clash

The Eagles (1-4-1) return to Lincoln Financial Field to take on the Giants (1-5) in a prime-time matchup.

Both teams are decimated offensively, but the Eagles have enough at the skill positions to sustain drives and score points. The vaunted Eagles' pass-rush will be the great equalizer here, as the Giants currently field among the league's worst offensive lines.

Without further ado, let's get on with the matchups.

WR Travis Fulgham vs. CB James Bradberry

Bradberry, the Giants' prized free-agent addition, is expected to shadow the ascending Travis Fulgham.

Fulgham, who reeled in 16 of 23 targets for 227 yards and two touchdowns over the past two weeks, will look to continue his hot streak against a leaky secondary. Despite sticky coverage from Bradberry, I expect Wentz to look Fulgham's way early and often. The 6-foot-2, 215-pound receiver has proven he can elevate, high-point the football, win in contested-catch situations, and work all three levels of the field.

Bradberry, a lengthy, physical boundary cornerback, has performed well for the Giants through six weeks. Another challenging matchup will test Fulgham, but the second-year receiver continues to produce.

DE Josh Sweat vs. LT Andrew Thomas

The Giants selected Thomas with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, but early returns have been troubling. The blue-chip lineman was benched last week, giving way to fellow rookie Matt Peart. Thomas, who was widely regarded as the most pro-ready tackle in a deep class, will return to the Giants' starting lineup.

Thomas, who has struggled against speedy edge rushers, will square off against Derek Barnett and Josh Sweat on Thursday night. Sweat, in particular, does a fantastic job using his length and bend to give opposing tackles fits. Keep an eye on Genard Avery, who should see snaps as a standup rusher.

Expect the Eagles to get to Daniel Jones early in a nightmare matchup.

LB Nathan Gerry vs. TE Evan Engram

If Giants' offensive coordinator Jason Garrett properly utilized Engram, one of the game's more diverse tight ends, this game would likely be a bit closer than some anticipate. Garrett, who leaned heavily on tight ends throughout his time in Dallas, has yet to turn Engram loose.

Engram, who is best used as a move tight end, runs routes with a wide receiver's decisiveness and is explosive after the catch. If the Giants can scheme ways to isolate Engram in space against the struggling Gerry, they could have success moving the football.