NFL / Andy Richmond / 22 October 2009 / Leave a comment

The Giants got a fearful beating last week while the Cards aren't much good on the road, yet both are challenging for NFC dominance. So who will come out on top?

"The last two NFC champions meet on Sunday night at Giants Stadium, with the Cardinals seeking a third straight victory and the Giants still smarting from their first loss of the season."

Despite conceding 48 point last week, the New York Giants somehow still own the top-ranked defence in the NFL. While that may be the case, Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald and the Arizona Cardinals are probably excited by what they saw from New York's beleaguered defensive unit at New Orleans.

The last two NFC champions meet on Sunday night at Giants Stadium, with the Cardinals seeking a third straight victory and the Giants still smarting from their first loss of the season.

If New York's pass rush which had proved so effective until last week doesn't fire again then Kurt Warner who has been better protected by his offensive line of late will produce a similar result to that which Drew Brees did last week for the New Orleans Saints. The Giants gave up 34 points in the first half and 493 yards for the game - their highest total allowed since the Cardinals gained 495 on Nov. 11, 1988. Pressure is the key for the Giants this week and they must generate some to protect a much banged up secondary.

If they don't, Larry Fitzgerald, who is gradually finding his stride, will take advantage. A surprisingly slow start to the season has given way to typical Fitzgerald numbers. In the last two weeks, the Pro Bowl receiver has 18 catches for 179 yards and three touchdowns. After seeing what the Saints receivers did to New York last Sunday, Fitzgerald will no doubt be itching to attack the Giants' secondary.

This could be a high-scoring game. Eli Manning against Kurt Warner should be fun. It will be close, although both teams have doubts, what has that heavy defeat done to the Giants confidence and the Cardinals are not the greatest of road teams.

RECOMMENDATION: Over 46.5 match points 1 point at [2.0] or better.

Tags: Arizona Cardinals, Larry Fitzgerald, New York Giants