Cornerback Amik Robertson is in his first season with the Washington Commanders. While he is still looking for his first interception of the year, he has been a major contributor and leader for the Commanders’ defense.

“We want our identity to be wolves, and that’s the mindset that wolves have,” Robertson said. “Sometimes you go out there, you hunt, you don’t get no food. But you keep going. That’s just, that’s what [has] to be our identity.”

Washington will have a chance to establish that identity in its Thursday night game against the New York Giants. Last time the Commanders faced the Giants, it ended in a tie, even though Washington should have been able to win. In the tie, Robertson had seven tackles, including six solo tackles. He even had what would've been a game-clinching interception, but it was called back due to a questionable penalty.

Both teams look much different than the last time they played each other. For the Commanders, they are without star receiver Terry McLaurin for the rest of the season. So are starting defensive tackles Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw. Running back Jacroy Croskey-Merritt is also injured. As for the Giants, they have changed quarterbacks from Jameis Winston to J.J. McCarthy. Running back Cam Skattebo, who fumbled in overtime, is also questionable for this game.

This is a pivotal division matchup for both teams. With a win, the Commanders would stay within striking distance in the NFC East division race. But with a loss, New York would take a commanding lead in the division and could effectively eliminate Washington’s playoff chances.