2 min read • September 21, 2023
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The season's third Thursday Night Football game commences with a notable injury disparity between the New York Giants and the San Francisco 49ers.
The Giants are grappling with offensive line challenges in addition to the absence of Saquon Barkley. Meanwhile, the 49ers are expected to play Brandon Aiyuk, although an injury may hamper him.
The New York Giants maintain a concerning -37 point differential, having suffered a 40-point loss to the Dallas Cowboys and needing a comeback from a 17-point deficit against the Arizona Cardinals.
In a bright spot for the Giants, wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson is set to return after recovering from an ACL injury suffered last season.
However, the Giants' fortunes are downturned as star running back Saquon Barkley will be sidelined due to a high ankle sprain and is expected to miss 2-to-3 weeks.
On the offensive line, both left tackle Andrew Thomas and left guard Ben Bredeson are unlikely to play in Thursday's game due to injuries. Thomas is dealing with a hamstring issue, while Bredeson is in concussion protocol.
Tight end Darren Waller's hamstring problem is expected to show steady improvement.
The San Francisco 49ers are known for their physical style of play, which often takes a toll on key players. However, as the season begins, they find themselves relatively healthy, with only a few injuries.
The most significant injury concern is wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, whose availability for the next game is uncertain. Aiyuk appeared to suffer a left AC joint sprain during his first catch last week and has been limited in practice this week. While there's a possibility of him playing, it's expected that he may not have a prominent role in the 49ers' game plan.
Cornerback Ambry Thomas is nursing a knee injury but is anticipated to be on the field for Thursday's game.
Linebacker Dre Greenlaw has been dealing with a groin issue since Week 2. He is expected to play on Thursday, although his effectiveness could be somewhat compromised due to the lingering injury.
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