Carter and Parsons Set for NFL Showdown This Sunday

East Rutherford, New Jersey — This Sunday marks an exciting moment for rookie Abdul Carter and Micah Parsons, as they will face off as NFL players for the first time.

Carter has displayed his potential with the New York Giants, accumulating a half-sack and eight quarterback hits in his first ten games. However, his impact pales in comparison to Parsons, who has made a significant splash with 13 sacks this season for the Dallas Cowboys.

“We’re going to compete. That’s one thing I know about Micah,” Carter said. “He took me under his wing. The No. 11 tradition, learning from him, that’s my brother.” Carter has shown promise this season with explosive plays during training camp, but he has struggled to finish plays, despite registering 35 pressures, including a team-high 21 quick pressures.

“I don’t think he’s lacking confidence,” defensive coordinator Shane Bowen said. “I think he’s probably discouraged with where we’re at right now both as a unit and individually.” Two of Carter’s sacks were lost due to teammates’ penalties, including 1.5 last week against the Chicago Bears.

With Kayvon Thibodeaux sidelined with a shoulder injury, Carter will make his second career start on Sunday, likely focusing on the edge opposite Brian Burns, who has also been a prolific sack artist.

“Just continue to find ways to utilize him best,” Bowen said about Carter’s role. “Where we can put him where he can be most productive.” Parsons, known for his versatility, has contributed to elevating the Cowboys defense beyond just his 6.5 sacks, having recorded at least 12 sacks in each of his four seasons.

“Their front, in general, is talented without Micah, so adding him makes them one of the top in the league,” left tackle Andrew Thomas noted.

Carter still has a chance to be considered for Rookie of the Year if he can finish strong. “If the guys are playing with energy and effort and physicality, that’s a sign of doing a good job,” outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen said. “Abdul has done it. Is the production where we think it would be? Sure. But you can’t chase numbers. You have to do your job at a high level.”

Carter remains optimistic about his performance. “Cup half full,” Carter stated. “I feel like there is a lot more I can do. I have to keep working. The sacks will come.”