Giants’ daunting schedule will reveal if they’re legitimate playoff contenders

The Giants’ 24-21 defeat by Washington left them top of the NFC East but cost them a chance to build a cushion. Their coming run of six games against tougher opposition will test whether their 5-3-1 start makes them genuine playoff contenders or reflects a soft schedule and weak division.

Those opponents have a combined winning percentage of .607, compared with .317 for the teams the Giants have beaten so far. The schedule includes the 6-2 Jaguars, the 7-1 49ers and a trip to the defending champion Seahawks, as well as the Colts, Browns and Lions. The loss cut their estimated playoff chances from a possible 78 per cent to 50 per cent; a Week 17 meeting with Dallas could decide the division.