Ranking the 3 teams who could spoil Commanders’ playoff hopes

2. New York Giants (7-4-1)

The Giants are reeling, but their scalding hot start to the season has allowed them to tread water amidst their prolonged slump. New York isn’t far away from becoming a real problem in the NFC, but their extensive injury list (Saquon Barkley is suddenly dealing with a neck injury), and lack of firepower at receiver has come home to roost over the last month, during which they’ve managed just one win.

Despite their recent struggles, the Giants have a golden opportunity to bolster their playoff odds against Washington in Week 15. Coming off a likely defeat to Philly in Week 14, the G-Men will have everything to play for. And if we’re being honest, they were lucky not to beat the Commanders at MetLife in Week 14.

If not for a Jon Feliciano taunting penalty, the Giants likely kick a field goal to go up 10 late in the fourth quarter. The unsportsmanlike conduct foul set the stage for Taylor Heinicke’s game-tying drive before overtime. The G-Men win ugly, and they often force opponents into playing their style of football.

That’s a testament to good coaching, but they have a brutal schedule the rest of the way, including games against Philly, Washington, Minnesota, Indianapolis and Philly again in Week 18, though the Eagles could have nothing to play for in the season-finale if they have the top seed clinched.

Something to keep an eye on for sure.