5 NFL teams that must win in Week 2

2. New York Giants

Last Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys proved just how valuable wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. is to the New York Giants. Missing their best player because of an ankle injury, the Giants had no answer to the Dallas Cowboys. Aside from a field goal, they were shutout on the offensive side of the ball in a 19-3 loss. Their Week 2 matchup doesn’t get any easier, as they are playing in prime time once again against the Detroit Lions.

Even with Odell Beckham presumably back, the Giants can’t be a one-dimensional offense. There has to be some kind of run game established. Paul Perkins led the way with just 16 measly yards and the Cowboys had no problem focusing on just the passing game. Against the Lions, that has to be different.

I like the Giants in this matchup. The Lions are prone to making mistakes early on in games and have been known to dig themselves into holes. Unlike the Cardinals, the Giants defense can take advantage of this. If the Giants front-seven can get pressure of Matthew Stafford, the secondary is going to make things life miserable for the Lions offense. Janoris Jenkins and Landon Collins are itching to come up with some turnovers this week. They’ve got the perfect opportunity to do it on Monday night.

As I’ve said before, the Giants cannot afford to drop 0-2 early on this season. With the way the NFC East could shape out to be this year, two or three teams from the division could be vying for a playoff spot. A convincing Week 2 win puts the Giants right back into the mix of things in the NFC.