Stat predictions for Eagles star Josh Sweat, three NFC East rivals during NFL's fifth week of action
- The Eagles are on the road this weekend in Los Angeles.
- Two of their division rivals are also looking for wins on the road.
- Here are a few predictions for one player on each rival's team.
By Matt Grazel
Daniel Jones, quarterback, New York Giants
If the Giants are to recover from their dismal game against the Seattle Seahawks, quarterback Daniel Jones needs to lead New York against a high-octane Dolphins offense. Miami is coming off a blowout defeat of their own in Week 4 against the Bills.
The Giants have regressed significantly over the past two weeks without running back Saquon Barkley in the lineup. He has been dealing with a high ankle sprain.
Barkley was a limited participant in practice for New York leading up to their contest in Week 4 but was deemed inactive for Monday Night Football. He may or may not be available for the upcoming game versus the Dolphins depending upon the progression he makes in practices this week. We'll have to wait and see what happens.
Whether Barkley is available or not against the Dolphins, New York's offensive line needs to provide better protection for Jones as they were utterly overmatched versus the Seahawks. Big Blue's quarterback has reverted back to turning over the football. Two interceptions and one lost fumble were the result of his most recent effort. He is tied for the league lead with six interceptions in four contests.
Jones performs better with Barkley in the backfield but the quarterback may need to perform without the presence of the running back once again. If the Giants are to have any chance of remaining in the game for four quarters, the offensive line and the quarterback need to play as close to a perfect game as possible.
Considering the Dolphins' defense ranks 22nd in rushing yards with six rushing touchdowns permitted, look for the mobile Jones to extend drives with his legs. His 34 rushing attempts rank third among players at his position. His 173 rushing yards trail Lamar Jackson for the most rushing yards by a quarterback this year.
The NFL is a quarterback-driven league and Jones' performance will play a part in making or breaking the Giants' season. If the injury-plagued offensive line is able to give him sufficient time to make plays, the fifth-year player needs to take advantage and avoid turnovers. Barkley is New York's best playmaker but their quarterback will ultimately dictate how well they do on offense.
Prediction for Jones - 213 passing yards, one passing touchdown, 67 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns, zero interceptions, one fumble lost