The New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings are set to battle at MetLife Stadium to kick off the 2024 season.
A rematch of the NFC wild-card game during the 2022 playoffs, both teams enter the new season with massive question marks but for mostly different reasons. The Giants are looking to see if Daniel Jones is the future of the franchise as he enters his second of a four-year deal.
Meanwhile, the Vikings are rolling with Sam Darnold under center after rookie J.J. McCarthy underwent season-ending surgery to repair a knee injury during the preseason.
This isn't expected to be a very lively affair. Both offenses have issues to work through, but each sideline boasts some star power at the wide receiver position as Justin Jefferson and Malik Nabers lead their respective units.
Ahead of this matchup on Sunday afternoon, we're taking a look at how the experts around the league feel about the outcome. Surprisingly, the Giants may have some life.
Giants vs. Vikings picks, predictions Week 1
Sporting News
Vinnie Iyer: Giants, 17-14
"Sam Darnold is Minnesota's starting quarterback with rookie J.J. McCarthy (knee) out for the season. Darnold returns to his original home as a former Jet, but the Giants' defense won't be kind, getting good pressure on him with its improved front. Daniel Jones hasn't inspired much as New York's QB in his return from major knee injury, but he can make enough plays with his legs to steal an ugly one, as he will have his share of passing woes vs. Brian Flores' pass rush."
Bill Bender: Giants, 21-18
"The Vikings will start veteran Sam Darnold on the road. Minnesota was 5-4 S/U on the road last season. Much of the focus on the Giants is on quarterback Daniel Jones and first-round pick Malik Nabers, but the defense under new coordinator Shane Bowen could be the key here in a pick-em matchup. Darnold has a 75.7 career passer rating on the road."
ESPN
Matt Bowen: Vikings
Kimberley A. Martin: Giants
Jason Reid: Vikings
Dan Graziano: Vikings
Lindsey Thiry: Vikings
Seth Wickersham: Giants
CBS Sports
Pete Prisco: Giants, 23-21
"Sam Darnold is the quarterback for the Vikings, playing in the stadium where he began his career with the Jets. The Giants will have Daniel Jones back as he's recovered from a torn ACL. The Giants defense will be better this season with the addition of Brian Burns. They will force Darnold into a few turnovers, which will lead to points. Giants take it."
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