Let’s break down the Giants’ schedule to see how they can make the playoffs. I will explain this by breaking it down into four-game stints.
First Four Games (3-1)
Game 1. The Giants need to start 3-1. Their home opener is against Minnesota. Even though Minnesota has a decent roster, they are likely facing a rookie QB. The defense needs to take advantage of this to get their first win of the season. Win
Game 2. The Giants have had success against Washington, and it needs to continue early in the season. It’s their first road game, but like the first game, they will face another rookie QB playing in his second game and his first divisional game ever. Win
Game 3. Might be tough, and they might take a loss. They will be on the road for the second game in a row. Despite the QB situation with the Browns not being the best, their defense is still top-notch. While winning here would help with week 4, it will be a tough challenge. Loss
Game 4. Needs to be a win. The Giants haven’t beaten the Cowboys since 2020, but this article is about how they can make the playoffs. Winning a game at home on Thursday night, especially when the Cowboys are playing the Ravens the week before, is an opportunity to take advantage of. Win
Next Four Games (1-3)
Game 5. Is a game they need to win. Although they are traveling to Seattle, and teams traveling cross-country often struggle, the Giants have extra time to rest and prepare coming off a Thursday night game. On the flip side, Seattle will be playing Monday night the week before. Advantage Giants, despite the travel. Win
Games 6 and 7. Is against Cincinnati and the Eagles at home. Even though they are home games, it’s hard to see the Giants winning both. Winning one out of the two would be a huge bonus, but I see an 0-2 outcome. Loss, Loss
Game 8. Against the Steelers will be close. Both teams will rely on their defenses. This game will be on Monday night for some extra hype, but I predict the Giants will lose here. Loss
Next Four Games (3-1)
At 4-4, the Giants need to win again in the next set of four games, going 3-1.
Game 9. Against Washington will be tough. They are at home, which helps, but it’s a shortened week following a Monday night game, and beating a team twice in a season is always challenging. However, it’s a must-win. Win
Game 10. is in Germany, which complicates travel, but they are playing Carolina. This is a must-win game. Win
Game 11. can’t waste the bye week. The Giants are playing at home after a bye week against Tampa Bay. They must win, especially since they don’t have to travel. However, Tampa Bay is also coming off a bye week, so both teams will be rested. This game will be tough, but the Giants need to capitalize on their bye week. Win
Game 12. will likely be a loss. Traveling to play Thursday night against the Cowboys is not ideal. While there might be extra hype being a Thanksgiving game, it’s hard to see a win here. Loss
Final Four Games (2-2)
This means the Giants are 7-5 going into the home stretch. They need three wins, maybe two, from the last five games, aiming for a 9-7 record going into the last game.
Game 13. Is a must-win. The Giants play at home against New Orleans with plenty of rest after the Thursday night game. It’s a must-win game. Win
Game 14. Is also at home, but against Baltimore, who are coming off their bye and will be well rested when its needed at this point in the season. This game will be tough, and I don’t see it as a win. Loss
Game 15. is one of the few away games they need to win. The Falcons are coming off a Monday night game on the West Coast, giving the Giants an advantage despite being away. This is a must-win for the Giants. Win
Game 16. against the Colts is unpredictable. The Colts have a good roster, but the QB situation is still uncertain. Maybe Okereke has a standout game against his old team, but it might not be enough. I predict a loss here. Loss
Final Game (Enjoy the Ride)
This leaves the Giants at 9-7 going into the final game against the Eagles in Philly. By this point, 9-7 could be enough for a playoff spot. If the Giants are in this position, just enjoy the game and hope they make it in.