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John Harbaugh's Giants give Rams fans several things to watch on SNF

On to the next one.
ByBret Stuter
New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh.
New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

It may seem all too simple for the Los Angeles Rams to push their Week 1 loss behind them to focus on their Week 2 opponent, the New York Giants, but that's the nature of the NFL. After all, had they won big, they would be forced to do the same thing.

The only difference in the two scenarios is that LA is seeking to rebound: both dramatically and instantly. That, of course, and Myles Garrett's absence as he hits injured reserve with a knee injury.

Tuning in to see the G-Men host the Dallas Cowboys is worth it. This is John Harbaugh's debut as head coach. If you recall, Harbaugh spent 18 years at the helm with the Baltimore Ravens. But after struggling to meet expectations, he left this offseason.

And the Giants scooped him up instantly. Harbaugh will lead them against the Horns in Week 2.

Rams' upcoming schedule:

  • Week 1 - San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Rams | 27-7 LOSS
  • Week 2 - Monday Night Football, September 21 | New York Giants at Los Angeles Rams
  • Week 3 - Sunday Night Football, September 28 | Los Angeles Rams at Denver Broncos
  • Week 4 -Sunday, October 4 | Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles
  • Week 5 - Monday Night Football, October 12 | Buffalo Bills at Los Angeles Rams

Rather than focus on what the Rams must do to turn the corner, let's set the stage for what to watch or from the Giants in Week 1. Much like the San Francisco 49ers dismantling early projections for the Rams, New York is a division rival who can spoil Cowboys hype in the season opener.

Factors Rams fans should watch from Giants on SNF

The Giants are not walking blindly into Week 1. As a home underdog, they have practically nothing to lose, and that makes them quite dangerous. History may favor the Cowboys but Harbaugh has had their number, winning four of his past five games versus Dallas.

Harbaugh loves to match a strong running game with a stout defense to wear down opponents. And that will be something to look for. Much like the 49ers' dominant running, the Giants will try to get running backs Cam Skattebo and Najee Harris churning out yards early.

And of course, receiver Odell Beckham Jr. is back in New York. Former Rams seem to flourish against the Horns. So he's worth keeping an eye on.

Another key to the Giants' game plan is how effective the defense is. If they cannot withstand the Cowboys' offense, does that open the door for a Matthew Stafford rebound in Week 2? The run defense was not good last season. Harbaugh will insist on stuffing the run.

It's easy to root against the Dallas Cowboys. But the fact that the Giants are next up on the Rams' schedule makes this Sunday Night Football game worth watching.

As always, thanks for reading.

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