NFL Thursday Night Football preview: Commanders try to put previous nightmare vs. Giants behind them

Key Points:

• The Washington Commanders missed a crucial opportunity for a game-winning field goal against the New York Giants earlier this season, resulting in a tie and contributing to their disappointing 2-5-1 record, while the Giants lead the NFC East at 5-2-1.
• The Giants, bolstered by rookie QB J.J. McCarthy, are in a strong position to win the division and host a playoff game, despite McCarthy dealing with a hip injury and sharing playing time with Jameis Winston.
• The upcoming game is critical for the Commanders, as a loss would likely end their playoff hopes and put head coach Dan Quinn's job in jeopardy, while a win would keep them competitive in the division race.
• Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers, who had 11 catches for 121 yards and a touchdown against Washington in their first meeting, poses a significant challenge for the Commanders' weak secondary, which ranks near the bottom in passing defense.
• Betting markets favor the Giants by 2.5 points, reflecting their strong season and the Commanders' ongoing struggles, though the spread is narrower than expected given Washington's recent performance and late-game errors.