Redskins at Giants: Let's Play in Snow!

To get you ready for week 15, FanHouse is previewing all 16 NFL games. Here is the Washington Redskins/New York Giants preview.

2007 Records:

New York Giants: 9-4 (2nd in NFC East)
Washington Redskins: 6-7 (3rd in NFC East)

Last Game(s):

Giants 16 - Eagles 13
Redskins 24 - Bears 16

When the Giants have the ball: If the weather report proves accurate, New York may look to Brandon Jacobs for a big day on the ground. And only a week after losing two fumbles against the Philadelphia Eagles, Jacobs is ready. Earlier this week, he made a bold statement, claiming he would have the best game of his young NFL career this Sunday night against the Washington Redskins.

Don't think the Redskins haven't taken notice of that. Although Jacobs' statements haven't spread through the papers like wildfire, there is absolutely zero percent chance that went unnoticed in Washington's locker room. And if there is one team in the NFL that doesn't fear physicality, it's Washington.

When the Redskins have the ball: Like the Giants, Washington may turn to their running back, Clinton Portis, for a big day on the ground. And although Todd Collins was impressive last week against the Chicago Bears, the team probably won't lean on him with their playoff hopes on the line.

Defensively, the Giants will look to continue what they've been doing since week three -- playing tough, physical football. Whatever defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is doing, it's working. Even with the injuries piling up, the Giants defense has established themselves as one of the best in the league.

The Edge: Experts, analysts and fans are always looking for the "edge" and what team has it. So, who has it this week? It's really a coin flip. Playing at home doesn't really give the Giants much of an edge anymore, but the desire to lock-up a playoff spot could be enough to push them over the top. However, the Redskins are on life support, fighting for their playoff lives.

Keep an eye on:

Battle in the trenches - This is where the game is going to be won or lost. The precipitation and wind is likely to keep the action on the ground, so it will be up to the team's respective lines to take control of this one.

Special teams - A costly fumbles on special teams could mean the difference tonight, as could field position. Special teams will player a major role this evening.

Note: As if you couldn't tell by reading this preview, the weather is going to be a factor tonight. Although the snow is expected to die down by kickoff, the final round will come through at 9:00. Add that to 20+ mph winds and a "RealFeel" of around 15 degrees, and this could be a messy one.