Three things to watch when the Giants play the Jets in their first preseason opener Thursday night:

Passing the test

Eli Manning historically is so-so in the preseason. If he plays, it would be comforting for the Giants to see him get off to a fast start in his cameo appearance, as it is his second year running Pat Shurmur’s offense, and it should be second nature by now. After that, all eyes will be on Daniel Jones as the rookie and next in line after Eli makes his NFL debut, albeit in a preseason affair. The No. 3 quarterback job is a battle between Alex Tanney and Kyle Lauletta but for now, Jones is the drawing card.

Better to receive

Sterling Shepard is healing quickly from a fracture to the tip of his left thumb but he will not play. Golden Tate’s first Giants camp has been a strong one, but he’s likely headed for a four-game suspension to open the season. This is the time for the strongest wide receiver candidates to step forward. Bennie Fowler looks the best thus far, and there’s Cody Latimer and Russell Shepard waiting in the wings. Is there room for any of the youngsters? Alonzo Russell, Reggie White, T.J. Jones, Amba Etta-Tawo (rookie Darius Slayton is out with a strained hamstring) are all on display.

The Money Backer spot

This is the hybrid linebacker/safety position defensive coordinator James Bettcher is listing on the depth chart this season. First in line to start is Tae Davis, a former safety who is better-suited for the role than B.J. Goodson, who is working mostly with the second team. Coverage and movement capability in open space is required and the coaching staff thinks Davis does it better than Goodson. Watch for rookie Ryan Connelly from Wisconsin to get a bunch of snaps here.