BUFFALO \u2013 The Russell Wilson Era is starting earlier than expected for the Giants.<\/p>\n
In a surprise decision, Wilson and the rest of the Giants\u2019 healthy first-teamers will start Saturday in the preseason opener against the Bills<\/a> at 1 p.m.<\/p>\n Head coach Brian Daboll had refused to reveal his plan before Thursday\u2019s backups-heavy walk-through practice.<\/p>\n Wilson is going to play without stud left tackle Andrew Thomas<\/a> to protect his blind side.<\/p>\n Thomas has not practiced during training camp because he is on the Physically Unable to Perform list, and fill-in starter James Hudson has been banged up at camp, too.<\/p>\n Most of the Giants\u2019 starting offensive line will be available, though right guard Evan Neal is not expected to play after he was injured.<\/p>\n Russell Wilson will start against Buffalo on Saturday. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST<\/p>\n That is a setback because Neal needs preseason reps as he transitions from right tackle and tries to wrestle a starting job away from Greg Van Roten<\/a>.<\/p>\n The choice to play Wilson is also interesting because it is unlikely that Malik Nabers will play.<\/p>\n Wilson and Nabers have shown exceptional chemistry for a first-year pairing during camp, but Nabers is still managing a toe injury that sidelined him for all of spring workouts.<\/p>\n Wilson, a 14-year veteran, has done it all in the preseason throughout his career. He has played a lot, played a little, and sat out entirely.<\/p>\n Jaxson Dart will play Saturday, but it\u2019s unknown when he will enter. Charles Wenzelberg \/ New York Post<\/p>\n Here is a chance for him to work with new offensive coordinator Mike Kafka during a game situation<\/a>.<\/p>\n Wilson expressed an interest in playing during the preseason, but Daboll said the decision would be made just on what the coaches felt was best.<\/p>\n Jameis Winston during training camp. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST<\/p>\n