EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- As he's been hampered by foot and knee issues this season, Hakeem Nicks has continually said he's feeling better each week. Even this week, as Nicks sat out a day to manage his injuries, the wide receiver believes he's on the right path.

"I feel real good actually right now," Nicks said Friday. "This week ... I had a good practice today, yesterday as well. The legs are feeling pretty good, so I'm looking forward to playing."

Coming into the week, Giants head coach Tom Coughlin said the team was going to have to slow it down with Nicks. The receiver missed Wednesday before having limited practices on Thursday and Friday. Nicks said he's been doing the reps in practice he needs to be on the same page with quarterback Eli Manning, and believes the slowed down schedule has been beneficial.

"I feel good and I'm ready to play," Nicks said. "Big game. We need it. Focused on playing team ball and get the job done."

This week's game is being billed as the battle of the receivers as Atlanta will send out Roddy White and Julio Jones and the Giants will counter with Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz. Earlier this year, White said Atlanta had the best duo, even calling out Cruz for being a slot receiver. Nicks isn't concerning himself with that talk as the Giants prepare for the important game.

"That isn't anything we're focusing on," Nicks said. "We're focusing on playing team ball and doing what we've got to do to get this win for our team and our organization."