New York Giants vs Indianapolis Colts Picks and Predictions December 29th 2024

Colts Fight for Playoff Life, Giants Seek to Snap Historic Losing Streak

The Indianapolis Colts enter Sunday’s game against the New York Giants with slim playoff hopes, dependent on both their performance and results from other teams. Meanwhile, the Giants aim to end a franchise-record 10-game losing streak as they host the Colts in East Rutherford, N.J.

Playoff Stakes for the Colts

At 7-8, the Colts are on the playoff bubble but need help to stay alive. The Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos, both at 9-6, hold the upper hand in the AFC wild-card race. If both teams win their Saturday games, Indianapolis will be eliminated before taking the field Sunday.

Despite the uncertain stakes, Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is optimistic.

“We still have an opportunity, with some help from other people,” Richardson said. “But we’re focused on taking it one game at a time.”

Richardson, however, missed practice Thursday due to back and foot injuries, leaving his status uncertain. Veteran Joe Flacco could start if Richardson is unavailable.

• Richardson’s Season: 8 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, 47.7% completion rate
• Flacco’s Season: 9 touchdowns, 5 interceptions, 66.5% completion rate

Regardless of who starts at quarterback, the Colts’ offense will likely lean on running back Jonathan Taylor, who erupted for 218 yards and three touchdowns in last week’s 38-30 victory over the Tennessee Titans. Taylor’s performance marked his second-best career rushing effort.

Giants Turn to Drew Lock Again

For the Giants, the season has spiraled to a 2-13 record, with their last victory coming in Week 4. Quarterback Drew Lock will start for the fourth time in five weeks despite a shaky 2023 campaign.

• Lock’s Stats: 52.7% completion rate, 1 touchdown, 4 interceptions in 129 attempts

Lock suffered a shoulder injury during last week’s 34-7 loss to the Atlanta Falcons but was cleared after an MRI. Giants coach Brian Daboll decided to stick with Lock over backup Tommy DeVito, citing the need for continuity.

“It’s been a tough season for all of us,” Lock said. “But I’m focused on learning from mistakes and taking care of the ball.”

Key Injuries

• Colts:
  • QB Anthony Richardson (back/foot) – Questionable
  • TE Mo Alie-Cox (toe) – Questionable
  • LB E.J. Speed (knee) – Questionable
• Giants:
  • WR Malik Nabers (toe) – Game-time decision; leads team with 969 receiving yards
  • RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. (ankle) – Questionable
  • CBs Greg Stroman (shoulder/shin), Dee Williams (toe) – Questionable

What’s at Stake

• For the Colts: A playoff berth hinges on external results and a must-win performance. Even if eliminated before kickoff, Indianapolis aims to finish the season strong under head coach Shane Steichen.
• For the Giants: A win would halt their historic skid and provide a morale boost in a season to forget.

Don’t miss out—explore NFL Week 17 Odds & Predictions for expert picks and analysis!

Prediction

With injuries plaguing both teams and the uncertainty surrounding key players like Anthony Richardson and Malik Nabers, this game could hinge on turnovers and execution. The Colts’ ground game led by Taylor gives them an edge over the struggling Giants.

Final Score: Colts 24, Giants 17