3 Biggest X-Factors For Giants to Take Down Commanders on TNF

The New York Giants will be taking on the Washington Commanders this week, with the team trying to grab another win.

New York took down the Philadelphia Eagles last week, improving their record to 5-2-1 for the season. The Giants are currently in first place in the NFC East, giving them a shot of a potential playoff run this year.

As for the Commanders, they will enter this game with a record of 2-5-1 on the year, with them losing last week to the Los Angeles Rams. The 2026 season hasn't been kind to the Commanders, but the Giants can't overlook them.

The two teams tied earlier in the season in what ended up being a very odd ending to the game. But this time around, the two sides are looking to actually have a winner.

Here are three of the biggest X-Factors for the Giants to grab the win this week:

1. Can J.J. McCarthy Play?

After going out with an injury last week, McCarthy was able to return to the game against the Eagles. But as the team gets ready for the Commanders, the big question is what happens with McCarthy for the game.

McCarthy has given the Giants' offense new life this season, and if he is hampered at all, it could change the game plan for New York. The signal-caller has to be the biggest key in the game for the Giants, but New York has been hopeful that he will be able to take the field against Washington this week, even in short order.

2. Get Running Game Going

One way to help get a win this week is for the Giants to get the running game going against the Commanders. Back Cam Skattebo is expected to return to the lineup in the game, giving New York a better chance of this happening.

Skattebo is coming off a solid outing in the last game he played, rushing for 124 yards and a touchdown against the Houston Texans. If the Giants can get him going early, it could help open up the rest of the offense.

3. Keep Jayden Daniels in Pocket

Commanders star quarterback Jayden Daniels tends to give teams a lot of trouble, but the Giants will have to keep him in the pocket. When Daniels is able to extend plays with his legs, he becomes even more dangerous.

Daniels is a good passer as well, but his dual-threat ability makes him a problem. The Giants' defense will be tasked with trying to slow him down this week.