Fact or Fiction: Rookie to watch after the bye week

John Schmeelk: Fiction – I know a lot of people are going to roll their eyes, but I am still going with Malik Nabers. Since returning from his concussion on October 20, Nabers has not had more than 71 receiving yards nor had a catch for more than 20 yards. I want to see some of the explosiveness from his first four games show up more frequently with more big plays over the top and runs after the catch.

Dan Salomone: Fiction – Going back to the first statement about takeaways, safety Tyler Nubin came to the Giants after he set the University of Minnesota record for career interceptions. Perhaps he gets hot down the stretch?

Matt Citak: Fact – Malik Nabers and Tyrone Tracy Jr. have garnered most of the attention when it comes to the team’s offensive rookies, and rightfully so. Meanwhile, Theo Johnson has quietly seen his role increase over the last six games. During that span, the rookie tight end has three games with five or more targets, including six targets in each of the last two before the bye. We’ve already seen what Nabers and Tracy can do, but if Johnson can continue to develop in these final seven games, it would go a long way in helping to shore up the tight end position heading into 2025.

John Schmeelk: Fact – Baker Mayfield tries to make plays down the field and will hold the ball to do it. Tristan Wirfs was back on the practice field this week, but from talking to people that cover the Bucs, it seems unlikely he will play this week. Brian Burns going against a backup outside and rookie Graham Barton blocking Dexter Lawrence should give the defense opportunities to get home.

Dan Salomone: Fact – The Giants lead the NFL with 3.6 sacks per game. Possibly getting Kayvon Thibodeaux back this Sunday should only help them stay on that pace.

Matt Citak: Fiction – Mayfield has been sacked three or more times in only three of 10 games, two of which came in the first three weeks of the season. Over their last seven outings, the Buccaneers’ offensive line has surrendered a total of 11 sacks. While offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs left the Bucs’ Week 10 game with a knee injury, the three-time Pro Bowler was back at practice on Wednesday, albeit a limited participant. If Wirfs is able to suit up Sunday, even at less than 100 percent, it might be tough for the Giants to get to Mayfield often, even with the likely return of outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux.