Giants prepare for Joe Milton as they seek first Philadelphia win in 13 years

The New York Giants will bring an NFC East-leading 4-2-1 record to Philadelphia on Sunday, seeking their first victory at Lincoln Financial Field in 13 years. The Eagles enter the 1 p.m. game, airing on Fox29, with six consecutive losses and a quarterback change as they prepare for their third straight matchup against a division opponent.

Philadelphia is turning to Joe Milton after losing back-to-back games with Tanner McKee at quarterback. The Eagles’ latest setbacks included double-digit defeats against the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys. New York, meanwhile, returns from a bye, making it the second straight Philadelphia opponent to have the previous week off. The Giants will again start J.J. McCarthy, acquired from the Minnesota Vikings at the end of September.

Giants coach John Harbaugh learned of Philadelphia’s quarterback decision before Wednesday’s practice. He said New York would examine Milton’s college footage, preseason appearances and limited regular-season action to assess how the Eagles might use him. Harbaugh compared the preparation to the uncertainty opponents faced when McCarthy took over for New York, while emphasizing that Philadelphia’s broader offensive structure would remain familiar.

Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson expects Milton’s athletic ability to allow Philadelphia to use plays resembling those it called with Jalen Hurts at quarterback. Wilson highlighted Milton’s size, mobility, ability to escape pressure and throwing strength. “He’s going to bring a different dynamic to the offense,” Wilson said. Still, he said the Giants would maintain the attacking defensive approach they consider central to their identity.

New York’s last win at the Linc came during Chip Kelly’s first season coaching the Eagles. Harbaugh, now in his first year leading the Giants, said he had not known about the streak before being asked. He jokingly compared inheriting that history to receiving a deceased relative’s possessions along with a large debt. His response to the drought itself was direct: “We don’t care about it.”

Tight end Isaiah Likely also dismissed the relevance of past results, saying each week should be approached with the goal of winning that game. Whether the Giants had lost in Philadelphia for years or already beaten an opponent earlier in a season, he said, the immediate objective remained the same.

The Giants will also face former New York running back Saquon Barkley, who has played against them three times since joining Philadelphia in 2024. His average of 128 yards against the Giants is his highest against any opponent. Sunday would be his first meeting with New York under Harbaugh. Although Harbaugh said he barely knows Barkley personally, he praised the 2024 Offensive Player of the Year’s ability and reputation.