Quick Take: Eagles/Giants

Published: Dec 08, 2009 at 12:07 PM

In Brief

» Last meeting: The Eagles jumped out to a 30-7 halftime lead and cruised past the Giants, 40-17.
» Streaks: The teams have split their last 12 meetings, and the Giants have an 81-69-2 overall advantage, including the playoffs.
» Last week: New York dominated on special teams in a 31-24 victory over Dallas. ... Philadelphia trounced host Atlanta, leaving the Georgia Dome with a 34-7 win.

Keep your eye on ...Brandon Jacobs' athleticism: At times this year, Jacobs has appeared to lack some of the dexterity that has made him an elite back, but in last week's win over Dallas he showed that second gear, rumbling down the sideline for a 74-yard touchdown. The Giants will need him to flash that explosion some more against a tough Eagles defense.

Bill Sheridan's defensive game plan: The Giants were completely overwhelmed by the Eagles' big-play offense in the teams' first meeting, and the responsibility falls on Sheridan, the Giants' defensive coordinator, to make sure that does not happen again. He has to devise a scheme that will minimize Philadelphia's big plays, because the Eagles have struggled some this year when they are forced to remain patient and sustain long drives.

Asante Samuel's gambling: While it costs him at times, Samuel's ability to jump routes and come up with interceptions is what makes him one of the league's elite cornerbacks. He has had some success against Eli Manning in the past, and if he picks him off for the third straight game, it could spell trouble for the Giants.

Did you know?

Manning needs 75 yards for his fifth consecutive 3,000-yard season. ... Eagles QB Donovan McNabb has won 10 of the past 14 starts vs. the Giants, including playoffs. ... Giants WR Steve Smith needs 21 yards for his first career 1,000-yard season. ... Eagles TE Brent Celek aims to score a TD against the Giants for the third meeting in a row, including playoffs. ... If the playoffs started today, the Eagles would be in and the Giants would be on the outside looking in. Get an updated look at the postseason picture.

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