Giants Underdogs Against Raiders in Draft-Critical Week 17 Showdown

The New York Giants head to Las Vegas as slight underdogs in Week 17. They face the Raiders this Sunday at Allegiant Stadium. Both teams hold identical, dismal 2-13 records this season.

The game carries major implications for the top of the NFL Draft order. According to FanDuel, the opening line shifted from the Giants being favorites to 1.5-point underdogs.

Betting Line Reflects Season-Long Struggles for Both Sides

The initial move saw New York listed as 2.5-point favorites. That number quickly flipped. Oddsmakers now give a slight edge to the home Raiders.

The total points over/under is set at just 41.5. This low number indicates expectations for a low-scoring affair. Both offenses rank among the league’s worst this year.

For the Giants, a loss nearly locks up the number one draft pick. The Raiders have been outscored by 169 points this season. Their offense is the NFL’s lowest-ranked.

Crosby Presents Major Challenge for Banged-Up Giants Line

Las Vegas does feature one elite defensive weapon. All-Pro end Maxx Crosby has over 10 sacks this season. He ranks 14th in pass rush win rate among edge defenders.

Crosby was dominant the last time these teams met. He recorded three sacks in a 2023 Raiders victory. The Giants’ injured offensive line will be tested.

One Raiders’ relative strength is run defense. They allow just 3.8 yards per carry. However, they have been gashed for big rushing totals in recent weeks.

The Week 17 clash is less about playoff hopes and more about future positioning. The Giants underdogs status highlights a battle of two teams looking to end miserable seasons on any positive note. The draft implications are enormous for both franchises.

Info at your fingertips

What is the point spread for Giants vs. Raiders?

The New York Giants are currently 1.5-point underdogs on the road. The line moved after initially listing the Giants as favorites.

Why does this game matter for the NFL Draft?

The Giants currently have the best odds for the No. 1 overall pick. A loss would significantly solidify their position at the top of April’s draft order.

Who is the key Raiders player to watch?

Defensive end Maxx Crosby is the Raiders’ best player. He has double-digit sacks and will challenge the Giants’ injured offensive line all game.

What is the over/under for total points?

The total is set at 41.5 points. This low figure reflects the poor offensive performance of both teams throughout the 2024 season.

How have the Raiders’ offense performed this year?

It has been historically bad. The Raiders own the NFL’s worst-ranked offense and average only 173.1 passing yards per game.

Are both teams on losing streaks?

Yes. Both the Giants and Raiders have lost multiple consecutive games. Each is searching for its first win in nearly two months.