Rams face Giants on Monday Night despite key injuries
Los Angeles enters Week 2 against New York with defensive end Myles Garrett and receiver Puka Nacua sidelined, while the Giants look to build on a win over the Cowboys.
The Los Angeles Rams will travel to New York for Monday Night Football after a 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Australia. Defensive end Myles Garrett underwent knee surgery and was placed on injured reserve, and rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua was ruled out with a hip issue. The Rams, who were early favorites to contend for the Super Bowl, now face a significant personnel shortage as they prepare to play a Giants team that defeated the Dallas Cowboys 28-20 in its season opener.
New York’s offense controlled the ball for more than 36 minutes in the win, and tight end Isaiah Likely, a former Baltimore player signed by head coach John Harbaugh, recorded eight catches for 78 yards and two touchdowns. The Giants also have quarterback Jaxson Dart, who posted a clean performance against Dallas, though he will face a Rams defense missing Garrett but still featuring other pass rushers.
Betting markets have narrowed the Rams’ advantage, shifting the spread from -7.5 in the offseason to -6.5, reflecting public perception of the Rams’ recent struggles and the Giants’ momentum. Analysts note that the Rams remain the highest-rated team by oddsmakers, but an early 0-2 record could increase pressure as they confront division rivals Seattle and San Francisco, both of which started 2-0.
Fantasy observers highlight the need for other Rams receivers such as Davante Adams and Terrance Ferguson to compensate for Nacua’s absence, while the Giants’ backfield and cornerback depth remain questions, with Paulson Adebo out and Deonte Banks listed as questionable.
"The Rams are still the Super Bowl betting favorite, but losing Garrett and Nacua makes this a tougher test," said a betting analyst.
Both teams will look to solidify their early-season trajectories as the NFL’s schedule intensifies.