The New York Giants will try to strengthen their position atop the NFC East when they host the Washington Commanders on Thursday night, with running back Cam Skattebo expected to return from a hamstring injury, according to Sportsnet’s Week 10 preview.

The Nov. 12 game is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET. New York enters at 5-2-1, while Washington is 2-5-1. Their previous meeting ended in a tie after the Commanders let the overtime clock expire with a chance to attempt a game-winning field goal. It remains the NFL’s only draw this season, Sportsnet reported.

For Washington, the rematch offers both an opportunity to improve its record and a potential advantage should the divisional race tighten. A victory would give the Commanders the head-to-head tiebreaker over New York after the teams’ earlier draw. The Giants, meanwhile, have an opportunity to create more separation from a divisional opponent.

Skattebo’s anticipated return follows a trade deadline at which New York made no additions. Sportsnet’s Zac Phillips cited reports that the Giants had made an offer for Jonathan Taylor and had also checked on Bijan Robinson, but neither pursuit produced a deal before Tuesday’s deadline.

Skattebo endorsed the decision to stay with him. “I've been that guy … They know what I can do,” he told Darryl Slater of NJ.com, in comments quoted by Sportsnet.

New York also approaches the rematch with a different starting-quarterback situation. J.J. McCarthy was on the roster for the first Washington game but did not take a snap. Since taking over as the starter three weeks ago, he has led the Giants to a 2-1 record. They have also gone 2-1 against the spread during that stretch.

Sources