The NFC Championship is set to showcase the surprising matchup between the Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles, two fierce rivals in the NFC East. Just months ago, doubts surrounded Philadelphia's head coach Nick Sirianni after a mediocre 2-2 start. However, the team rallied behind quarterback Jalen Hurts and star running back Saquon Barkley, propelling the Eagles to a remarkable 12-1 record in their last 13 games, with their only loss being a stunning defeat at the hands of the Commanders in Week 16.

Under new ownership, Washington has reinvented itself following a disappointing 4-13 season. The hiring of general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, along with the selection of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, has laid the foundation for a successful campaign, culminating in a 12-5 season and a shocking playoff win over the top-seeded Detroit Lions. Daniels has the potential to become the first rookie quarterback to start in a Super Bowl, while Hurts is aiming for a second appearance at the season's pinnacle event.

New York Giants General Manager Joe Schoen is focused on revitalizing the team's offensive line, which struggled significantly in recent seasons. In 2024, the Giants used ten different offensive line combinations, a direct response to injury woes that plagued the team the previous year, leading to a staggering total of 85 sacks allowed. To address these issues, Schoen added experienced players like Greg Van Roten and Jermaine Eluemunor, alongside returning talents such as Andrew Thomas, who, despite injury setbacks, is regarded as a cornerstone of the line.

During the past season, the offensive line ranked poorly in various metrics, and injuries highlighted a lack of depth. The organization attempted various configurations when Thomas was sidelined, but none proved effective. Schoen remains optimistic about the players returning next season, emphasizing the importance of having a robust pool of talent in the trenches. Additionally, the hiring of Chris Snee as a talent scout is seen as a strategic move to improve the team's future draft choices for offensive linemen.

New York Giants offensive tackle Evan Neal is sidelined for the third consecutive practice due to rib and hip injuries, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming regular-season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles. Head coach Brian Daboll indicated that Neal is one of several players potentially missing the game, including center John Michael Schmitz, who is dealing with an ankle injury, and linebacker Micah McFadden, who has a neck issue.

In addition, defensive tackle Armon Watts is expected to be placed on injured reserve after undergoing knee surgery earlier this week. While Daboll has not confirmed specific roster moves, there is speculation that the Giants may utilize their practice squad to fill any gaps following the end of the season, as teams typically start signing players to reserve/futures contracts during this time.

With Neal likely out, either Chris Hubbard or Tyre Phillips will step in as the starting right tackle. Daboll clarified that Joshua Ezeudu is not in contention for the position, emphasizing the readiness of Hubbard and Phillips. In other injury updates, wide receiver Malik Nabers, who has been dealing with a toe issue, is expected to be fine for the game.

In a nail-biting finish, the New Orleans Saints edged the New York Giants 14-11, thanks to Bryan Bresee's crucial block on a potential tying field goal attempt. The victory came despite the Saints losing quarterback Derek Carr to injury late in the game.

With this defeat, the Giants have now lost eight consecutive games, nearing their franchise record. The frustration among fans is palpable, as calls for a team overhaul grow louder.

The New York Giants are facing uncertainty regarding their leading receiver, Malik Nabers, who suffered a hip flexor injury during practice. Initially reported with a groin issue, his status for the upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints remains unclear after an MRI.

With a record of 2-10 and a seven-game losing streak, the Giants are also dealing with multiple injuries to key players, including Bobby Okereke and Dexter Lawrence, further complicating their game plan.