(Sports Network) – Assuming he’s available, dangerous dual threat Michael Vick will be at the controls of the NFL’s sixth-ranked offense (425.0 ypg) that contains a host of quality pass-catchers, with Maclin (14 receptions, 191 yards, 2 TD) fresh off a career-best output, Jackson (8 receptions, 1 TD) the big-play artist who’s averaged over 18 yards per reception for his career and slot receiver Jason Avant (4 receptions) and tight end Brent Celek (5 receptions) both sure-handed options underneath. The Eagles can run the ball as well, entering this week’s matchup second overall in rushing yards (184.5 ypg). That impressive total is boosted by Vick’s (122 rushing yards) uncanny ability to break containment out of the pocket, though top running back LeSean McCoy (217 rushing yards, 6 receptions) has more than done his part by averaging a robust 6.6 yards per carry and finding the end zone four times (3 rushing, 1 receiving) over the first two games.
Philadelphia’s potent passing game gets to face a battered New York defense that’s had its difficulties preventing enemy quarterbacks from airing it out, with both Washington’s Rex Grossman and St. Louis’ Sam Bradford eclipsing the 300-yard mark against the group in consecutive weeks. Injuries to starting cornerback Terrell Thomas and 2011 first-round pick Prince Amukamara have left the secondary with precious little depth, forcing free safety Antrel Rolle (16 tackles) to play out of position as a slot defender in nickel situations, while Thomas replacement Aaron Ross (6 tackles, 3 PD) was briefly benched after being burned for a few long-gainers in Monday’s win. Even without Umenyiora, who’s still on the mend from a preseason knee procedure, the Giants are well-stocked in the pass-rushing department, with All-Pro end Justin Tuck (5 tackles) returning from a neck stinger to post 1 1/2 sacks against the Rams and athletic second-year pro Jason Pierre-Paul (8 tackles) already registering 2 1/2 quarterback takedowns while subbing for Umenyiora. New York has been very tough in defending the run this year, with oversized linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka (8 tackles) and valued safety Kenny Phillips (13 tackles, 4 PD) heading up a crew that’s currently allowing only 66.5 rushing yards per game and a mere 3.0 yards per attempt.