Isaiah Likely is coming off a standout debut with New York. In Week 1 against Dallas, the veteran tight end snagged all eight of his targets for 78 yards and two touchdowns. Likely has quickly built rapport with quarterback Jaxson Dart, and the combination is expected to be a focal point again on Monday night. With a full week of preparation under his belt, Likely is anticipated to deliver another multi-score performance, potentially reaching two trips to the end zone once more.
On the other side, the Giants’ defense is tasked with slowing down the Rams’ aerial attack. After facing a stiff test against the Cowboys, New York’s secondary—manned by Deonte Banks and Greg Newsome II—will try to replicate that shutdown effort against a high-powered Rams receiving corps. Puka Nacua, who finished second in the league in receiving yards last season, and Davante Adams, who led the league in touchdown receptions with 14, headline the challenge for the Giants’ cover units. The challenge for defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson is clear: slow down an explosive passing attack while maintaining discipline up front.
New York’s front seven has been a talking point entering the season, with new pieces added to bolster the rush. The plan remains to bring pressure and disrupt rhythm, apply consistent pressure on the quarterback, and limit big-play opportunities for Rams receivers. If the Giants can replicate the disciplined performance they showed early in the season, they’ll have a chance to turn this game into another defensive-heavy, ball-control affair.
In the trenches, the Giants’ ground game has been a strength whenever they need it. Against Dallas, the Giants ran the ball 37 times for 165 yards, led by Cam Skattebo’s 18 carries for 81 yards and a touchdown. Their time-of-possession approach was evident, as New York controlled the clock, holding the ball for 36 minutes and 40 seconds and limiting Dallas to just two possessions in the second half. If the Giants can sustain that style against Los Angeles, they’ll continue to wear down opponents and keep the game within reach into the fourth quarter.
Kansas City’s and Philadelphia’s heavy passing attacks aside, this game could hinge on possession and balance. The Rams will need to protect against a Giants front seven that has shown flashes of ability to disrupt opposing offenses. For the Giants, maintaining a steady ground game while executing in the red zone will be essential to keeping pace and creating scoring opportunities through efficient drives.
Prediction: The game is expected to be competitive throughout, with the Giants leaning on their ground attack to control clock and keep pace with a potent Rams air game. If Likely can replicate Week 1 magic and New York’s defense can pressure the quarterback while limiting big plays, New York has a realistic path to another upset on the national stage. Expect a tightly contested contest that could come down to late-game execution and ball-control efficiency.
