Giants’ Strong Start Comes Against a Soft Schedule

The Giants’ 5-2-1 start through eight games has put them atop the NFC East, with a three-game lead over the division’s other teams in the loss column. Their record is a significant achievement, but the quality of their opposition offers a reason for caution as they weigh their trade-deadline plans.

Only one opponent they have faced had a winning record, and that was the Rams, who reached that mark during the current week. The teams the Giants have beaten, along with the team they tied, have a combined 15-27 record.

An easy schedule does not necessarily prevent a team from making a deep run. The Patriots took advantage of a favorable slate last season and went on to reach the Super Bowl. The Giants could also capitalize on their position in a weak NFC East and pursue a first-round home game, but their early results alone do not settle how strong they are.