New York Giants vs. Carolina Panthers, 1 p.m. at New Meadowlands Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

By Ben Kelly - InReeseWeTrust.com 9/11/10

What happened last time?

The Giants and Panthers faced off each of the past seasons, with both games played during week 16 at the Meadowlands. New York won in 2008 in a thrilling 34-28 overtime victory, featuring a strong running attack led by Derrick Ward’s 215 yards. Last season’s matchup told a different story. In their final home game in Giants Stadium, the Panthers pounded the Giants with a humiliating 41-9 loss and eliminated New York from the playoff race. Panthers’ quarterback Matt Moore impressed coaches in relief of injured veteran Jake Delhomme, and was named starter for the 2010 season in Carolina’s return to the Meadowlands. Carolina leads the head-to-head series 3-2.

What to expect from the Panthers:

For the first time in seven seasons, Carolina begins the year with a quarterback other than Jake Delhomme as its starter in Matt Moore. Moore is entering his fourth year with the Panthers after signing as an undrafted free agent in 2007. In five starts last year, Moore threw 8 touchdowns to 1 interception and posted a 4-1 record including wins over the Giants, Vikings and Saints.

Despite Moore’s success through the air, New York should expect a heavy dose of the run game through star running backs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Williams and Stewart are the only backfield teammates in history to each rush for 1000 yards in a season, accomplishing the feat last season. Carolina owned the 3rd best running attack in the NFL in 2009 compared with just the 27^th best passing game.

Carolina is replacing six new starters from 2009’s 8^th best defense, and must replace marquee end Julius Peppers and tackle Damione Lewis.

Head coach John Fox is entering the final year of contract and is widely rumored to be on the hot seat. Carolina finished 8-8 last season and third in the NFC South.

What to expect from the Giants:

The biggest battle of this game will be the Carolina run game against the Giants defensive line. New York’s defensive line is their greatest and deepest strength this season, featuring stars Osi Umenyiora, Justin Tuck, Mathias Kiwanuka, a healthy Chris Canty, and 1^st and 2^nd round rookie end Jason Pierre-Paul and tackle Linval Joseph. Barry Cofield also returns to anchor the middle of new coordinator Perry Fewell’s defense. If the Giants are looking to make a statement on defense, stuffing Carolina’s run game and testing Matt Moore’s ability to throw into tight windows will be key.

Prediction:

Eli Manning threw for over 4000 yards last season with a young corps of receivers, Additional practice and repetitions this offseason projects an explosive offense and sturdy ground game. Carolina’s inexperience at quarterback and defense will lead to big plays on both sides of the ball for the Giants. Look for the Giants to avenge last year’s heartbreaking finale with a 28-16 victory.