Dottino: 3 Things To Watch For In Giants-Jaguars Preseason Opener

By Paul Dottino
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Giants coach Tom Coughlin can't escape the oft-changing weather conditions that dotted training camp in Albany, N.Y.

The forecast for Friday night's preseason opener in Jacksonville calls for scattered thunderstorms, which have plagued the Giants there in the past. They've experienced lightning issues in Jacksonville at least twice in recent years.

Here are three things to watch, assuming the weather does not impact Coughlin's plans -- he wants 15 to 18 snaps for his starters and 20 to 25 for the second unit.

1. Offensive line. There has been little hitting at camp, thanks to the CBA, so the reconfigured line could use some game action to see where it stands. LT Will Beatty (back) has something to prove while LG Kevin Boothe is a new starter and RT David Diehl has switched positions -- again.

2. Receivers. The order of the depth chart is to be determined after starters Hakeem Nicks (out, foot) and Victor Cruz. Who steps up? Domenik Hixon is set to return tonight after his second ACL surgery and will likely start for Nicks. Ramses Barden needs to have a big preseason to save his roster spot.

3. Cornerbacks. Second-year pro Prince Amukamara and rookie Jayron Hosley have been impressive at camp, especially in recent days. But now it is game speed and they need to show they can be effective while Terrell Thomas (knee) is out.

What will you be watching for? Let us know in the comments below!