Marshon Lattimore holds Malik Nabers under 50 receiving yards
This is a crossroads campaign for Marshon Lattimore. The fiery cornerback's trade to the Washington Commanders didn't go according to plan initially, but fans are willing to give him a pass due to the hamstring injury that he couldn't shake off.
That won't be the case this time. Lattimore had a full offseason to heal. He came back into the building looking sharp, explosive, and ready to silence his doubters. He's confident the worst is behind him, and the former Ohio State star is looking to reaffirm his status among the league's premier shutdown presences.
Fans will find out plenty about whether Lattimore can meet these lofty targets in Week 1. The New York Giants' passing attack wouldn't be classed as stellar. Even so, they have a future All-Pro wide receiver, Malik Nabers, in the team's crosshairs on opening weekend.
Nabers, a close friend of Jayden Daniels' from their time together at LSU, put together a phenomenal rookie campaign. He accumulated 109 receptions from 170 targets for 1,204 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in just 15 games. This included 19 catches for 186 yards and one score in two contests versus Washington.
Lattimore will be relishing the challenge. If he can hold Nabers under 50 receiving yards, that'll help enormously.
Commanders score 14 points in the first quarter
There are added expectations on the Commanders' shoulders this season. Nerves will be expected in Week 1, so settling down as quickly as possible needs to be the primary goal.
The best way to calm everyone down is by putting points on the board. Washington did a nice job of getting ahead early in games last year, which is a recipe Kliff Kingsbury hopes will continue with the spotlight burning brighter than ever. Although the New York Giants boast an outstanding defense at all three levels, the Commanders have the firepower to match them every step of the way.
They also have Jayden Daniels. The superstar quarterback took the NFL by storm in 2024, propelling himself to the elite tier through a unique blend of athleticism, poise, accuracy, and flawless composure in the biggest moments.
The Giants found that out to their cost on two occasions last season. Brian Daboll will be aiming for better fortunes, but the Commanders can catch the G-Men flat-footed en route to an impressive start.
If the Commanders can score 14 points in the first quarter, that should relax everybody. The job won't be finished, but the extra sense of freedom it could provide will be invaluable.