3 Biggest X-Factors For Giants to Get Back on Track vs Texans

The New York Giants will be coming into this current week against the Houston Texans with a record of 3-2-1 on the year.

The Giants dropped a tough game to the New Orleans Saints last week, but the team's offense started to show more life after a quarterback change. New York benched Jameis Winston late in the game, replacing him with J.J. McCarthy, and the former first-round pick played very well.

McCarthy has now been named the starter for the game against the Texans, and the Giants have full confidence in his ability to lead the team. Houston will come into this game with a record of 2-4, with the team having won two straight.

Here are three of the biggest X-Factors for the Giants to take down the Texans this week:

1. J.J. McCarthy Magic Continues

After entering the game in the fourth quarter last week, McCarthy looked the part as the Giants starter, giving the offense real life. In the limited time on the field, McCarthy threw for 243 yards with one touchdown and one interception, almost leading New York on an epic comeback.

Against the Texans, McCarthy is going to have to get the ball out of his hands quickly, neutralizing the Houston pass rush early on. If McCarthy can keep this magic alive, the Giants may be able to come away with another win on the season.

2. Get the Ground Game Going

If the Giants want to help McCarthy out in his first start with the team, New York is going to have to get the running attack going. The Giants are averaging just 3.4 yards per carry, making them one of the worst attacks in the entire NFL.

This team needs to find some balance against a tough Texans defense, and one way to do that is to establish the run early on in the game. New York just released Najee Harris, opening the door for Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr., and Devin Singletary to get the majority of the touches against Houston.

3. Contain the Texans Playmakers

Despite the Texans losing record, quarterback C.J. Stroud has played well for the team this season. Stroud has shown a strong ability to get the ball to his playmakers, such as Nico Collins and others, and this will be an area for the Giants to figure out.

If New York can contain the offensive weapons of the Texans, it could allow its own offense to do its job. The Giants are dealing with some injuries in the secondary, making this a tougher challenge coming into the game.