The Giants’ backfield gets a cupcake match up in Week 1. 

Despite being perhaps the most surprising team in the NFL in 2024, the Commanders couldn’t get any stops against the run last season. 

Only one run defense was worse than Washington a year ago – the lowly Carolina Panthers. 

The Commanders allowed 143.4 rushing yards per game and five yards per attempt, both of which were the second-most in the league. 

The franchise added defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw, Eddie Goldman and Deatrich Wise over the offseason to bolster their run-stopping attack, but none of those names inspire much confidence to completely turn things around. 

Giants starting running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. will have the most opportunity to take advantage of Washington’s biggest weakness. 

Tracy had a solid game in his only start against the Commanders during Week 9 last year, running for 66 yards on 16 attempts in the 27-22 home loss.

With Devin Singletary and Cam Skattebo in tow, oddsmakers are pegging Tracy’s rushing yards over/under at just 49.5.

He went over this number seven of his 12 starts last season, and there’s a chance he could be gearing up for a sophomore leap. 

With Russell Wilson behind center, the Giants’ offense overall should be improved as well, leading to more handoffs after playing from behind for most of last season. 

Look for Tracy to get off to a solid start in 2025 against a team the Giants played tough in both meetings last year.

The play: Tyrone Tracy Jr. Over 49.5 rushing yards (-120, BetMGM Sportsbook)

Dylan Svoboda is a versatile writer and analyst across many sports. He’s particularly knowledgeable about the big three — MLB, the NFL and the NBA.