Redskins vs. Giants: Bold Predictions for NFC East Matchup

The Washington Redskins and New York Giants renew their rivalry this Sunday in what may be the start of a new chapter in their history.

The Redskins have found their quarterback in Robert Griffin III and the Giants will get their first taste of the celebrated rookie. Meanwhile, the Giants are riding high coming off a 26-3 romp over San Francisco.

This game may have more at stake, though, than the Giants thought a Week 7 game would, as ESPN's Trey Wingo reports:

"

Why is Sunday's game more critical for Giants than Redskins? NYG already 0-2 inside division including a home loss. #tiebreakers

— trey wingo (@wingoz) October 18, 2012"

The Redskins can get a share of the NFC East lead with a win. Will they have enough firepower to do it?

Check out some bold predictions for today’s game.

Hakeem Nicks Will Have a 150-Yard Day

Nicks has been hobbled recently by injuries, but he comes back to health just in time to feast on the Redskins’ 32nd-ranked secondary.

While Victor Cruz has been in form this season, Nicks’ big frame will provide Eli Manning with another reliable target. Manning will get reacquainted with his star receiver for some long gains early and often.

The Giants' Pass Rush Will Be Neutralized

RG3 is no Alex Smith. The Giants' defensive line will have more trouble keeping up with the speed and elusiveness of the Redskins’ QB.

Save for two weeks ago against Atlanta when he suffered a concussion, Griffin has run the ball at least seven times each game. He is not afraid to run when needed.

Alfred Morris Will Score Two Touchdowns

Redskins coach Mike Shanahan has not shied away from giving carries to Morris, who should see a ton of work to help keep Eli Manning off the field.

The Redskins will need to set up the play-action by keeping the Giants honest with the ground game. The pass play-calls won’t be necessary, though. Morris will have success in the red zone just as he’s had all season.

The Giants Will Win, But the Redskins Will Cover the Spread

The Giants will escape with a home win, but they’ll have to claw out of a deficit in the final minutes to do it.

Washington will hang tight as it can take away the Giants' run game and make New York one-dimensional. On offense, RG3 will play like a savvy veteran and keep up with New York.

In the end, though, the Giants' signal-caller will put on a clinic to school the Redskins’ QB on two-minute drives.

Mike Shiekman is a Breaking News Writer for Bleacher Report. Follow his NFL musings on Twitter @TheRealShiek