Giants Inconsistent in 27-25 Loss to the Jets

Hakeem Nicks was one of the few bright spots for the Giants in their loss to the Jets. He finished the game with 6 catches for 144 yards and 2 touchdowns.

GOOD

• Hakeem Nicks - This guy should be moved up to the number one receiver spot. Why? Do you really think Hixon or even Smith could ever be a true #1? I don't think so. Smith will be a great #2 guy but the big play guy this season will be Nicks. He had a great catch when he came into the game, at the beginning of the second quarter against Lito Sheppard. Also that sliding touchdown catch was very impressive. I don't care what competition he was against. He dominated. It won't be to long before he starts in my opinion.
  
• Running Game - Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw continue to move the chains. This will be the Giants greatest strength offensively once again this season.

• David Carr - Wow did he look good. If your a Giants fan you have to feel good to know that Carr is the guy backing up Eli. He has struggle a little this preseason but I believe once again he is a very good back up. I wonder if he gets another shot to start in the NFL.
  
• Offensive line - It was great for the Giants to have the whole starting o-line back together again and they looked very good.
  
• Eli Manning - I thought he did a great job and his stats would have been good if the receivers didn't drop so many passes.
  
• Kevin Dockery - Talk about an underrated corner. This guy is small but is as solid as they come. He isn't a great corner but he can get the job done.
  
• Kenny Phillips - Its amazing how much field he can cover and how quickly he gets to the sidelines.

Bad

• Defensive Pass Rush - So far this defense looks like they aren't playing together. I don't know if it is because of Spags' departure or what. But, bill Sheridan better make sure these guys are ready come week 1.
  
• Tackling - The defense once again was playing undisciplined, with all of the missed tackles left on the field.

Ugly

• Wide Receivers - DROPS!!! Once again I would start Hakeem Nicks. He will show he can replace Plax by the end of the season. He may have the best hands on the team. Steve Smith has good hands but he hasn't shown them lately.
  
• Offensive Inconsistency - The offense couldn't sustain long drives due to dropped passes and other offensive short comings.
  
• Turnovers - The interception Manning threw was terrible on the part of Domenik Hixon. Its unfortunate but that INT falls on Hixon for letting the pass go through his hands. Jacobs fumble was unfortunate and it should be something that doesn't happen much.

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NFC East: Battle of the Ground Game

Who has the best running game in the NFC East? The reason I ask is that I believe that in the end, this division will be determined according to who has the best running game. Last season it was the Giants and this season its wide open for many reasons. There are many great backs in this division and I will briefly breakdown team by team who I believe will be the best this season and why.

Washington Redskins - History shows they have always been a good running team. But with Clinton Portis' engine wearing down and the offensive line only getting older and more fragile, the Skin's will have the worst running attack in the NFC East. The Redskins are in need of a change up back and they have to decide if that will be Ladell betts or someone else. But right now Portis can't handle the entire load. He is breaking down faster then a used Pontiac at this point in his career.

Philadelphia Eagles - Brian Westbrook is a dynamic running back, and with an improved offensive line he may have another very productive season. The only thing holding him back is his mileage as well as getting past the recent ankle surgery that he underwent. Westbrook is a better player catching the ball out of the back field then he is running it since Westbrook has only recorded two 1,000 yard rushing seasons. Rookie LeSean McCoy will be the back I believe the birds will go to, to carry the load. Sprinkle in a little Westbrook and you have a possible top ten rushing attack.

Dallas Cowboys - The Dallas Cowboys may have one of the best running attacks in the NFL this season. Just like the Cowboys as a team, their running game is flying under the radar. Marion Barber is a proven beast as a back. Behind Barber, is an explosive and dynamic runner in Felix Jones. The Cowboys possess great depth as well, with a third back like Tashard Choice. Choice proved last year when called upon that he could handle the load. The Dallas passing game won't be the same without T.O. But their running game will be a spark to Tony Romo and the offense. I would place the Cowboys behind the Giants, only because of the offensive line. The Cowboys and Giants running backs are equal in my opinion.

New York Giants - The Giants offensive line is the best in the NFL and you can't argue that. They led the league last season in rushing and have been the most consistent over the past few years. They have one of the most feared backs in Brandon Jacobs, who can run over almost any defender. The Giants change up back, Ahmad Bradshaw, may be one of the most underrated running backs in the NFL. He was a seventh round draft choice three years ago and possesses all of the skills to be an impact player. Time will only tell whether he is better then a guy like Felix Jones. Behind Bradshaw is Danny Ware, who the Giants signed off the jets practice squad a couple of years ago. He has nice burst to go along with good upper body strength. He reminds me a lot of Derrick Ward.

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Preseason Week 3: New York Jets Preview

When: Saturday August 29, 2009 @ 8pm on WNBC

This may be the most significant Giants vs. Jets Game since it will be the last ever to be played at Giants stadium and its the third preseason game which is the warm up game before the regular season starts.

What to watch for:

• Offensive line - With Snee and Seubert out so far this preseason, they have not been able to get the ball down field to their receivers. As far as I know the starting line should be intact for this game.
• Play making Wide Receiver - No one has set themselves apart from the rest of the receivers as who will be the play making receiver. Right now Steve Smith is the go to guy but the Giants need another guy to stand out as a a play maker.
• Will the defense actually play this week? - I give the defense a pass for last week. They did have a really short week and they had been going through two a days. So rest has not been on their side. This week they have had a lot more rest. Lets see how they rebound.
• Linebackers - Will Clint Sintim and Jonathon Goff continue to stand out and fight for starting spots? Also, what about Chase Blackburn, does he have a chance to start again?
• Injuries - Lets hope for the sake of the Giants depth that no one else gets hurt in this game and this team can focus on getting better for the Redskins.
• Lawrence Tynes - He hasn't been the most consistent kicker. It would be nice to see him go two for two or three for three.
  

What are looking forward to most about this weekends game? Reply in the comments section.

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Plaxico Burress: My Final Thoughts

Last night I was able to sit back with my wife and watch ESPN's E:60 interview with Plaxico Burress. I have to tell you that after watching the interview, I have a lot more sympathy for the Plaxico then I did before. What he did was dumb and he acknowledged that. I believe he also took responsibility and was very remorseful for what happened. I saw a response from Cris Carter on ESPN and he felt that Burress wasn't remorseful at all. Just by the way Carter carries himself on ESPN, totally kills his credibility with me. He carries himself in very arrogant and hard way as if he knows everything about football and life. If Carter really believes that a man who is about to miss the birth of his daughter and almost two years of his sons life isn't remorseful, then he needs to learn how to read people a little better and learn a little more about life himself. I believe most of the ESPN football analysts that are former players, are really bad at judging what is going on in the NFL. But that is a topic we will talk about another day.

The following if what I got from listening to Plaxico's interview...

• Plaxico doesn't just realize what he did was dumb but I believe he has finally "got it". He talked about his past flashing before him and all he wanted was his family and to be with them. That's when it clicked for him in my opinion. The unfortunate thing is that he has to go to jail for almost two years. Sometimes it takes situations like these for people to learn.
• Athletes have more enemies and people in their lives trying to do them harm then we realize. He talked about Steve Smith getting robbed at gun point and how Smith thought he was going to die. Also how his house was broken into numerous times. And that if someone really wants to get you, body guard or not, they will. And I agree with all he said. Honestly I don't believe anyone should own a gun. The stats show people who own guns end up getting hurt or dieing from their own weapon more often then those who don't own one. If I put myself in his shoes, I might do the same thing and own a gun. I just wouldn't bring it into a club and I believe he realizes the one small dumb thing he did by bringing it in, cost him two years of his life.
• He isn't a criminal or a "bad guy". Which leads me to agree that he is getting way to much time and only deserves maybe a maximum of three months in prison. But, the New York City DA is trying to make an example of him.
• Plax is a broken man and realizes how much he has messed up and I believe he is truly humbled by the whole situation. It would be nice if the Giants could sign him when he gets out of prison. But that would only happen in a perfect world.

I really hope Plaxico's time in prison is quick for him and that he is able to bounce back strong once he is released. May God bless his wife and children through this difficult time.

I encourage everyone to watch the interview. http://espn.go.com/video/category?id=3060647

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Giants Running Game Not Slowing Down With One Two Punch

As the season comes upon us, one of the most positive signs to note is how well the Giants running game has been coming along this preseason. The Giants running backs have definately picked up where they left off last season. Brandon Jacobs is running with a vengeance, while Ahmad Bradshaw and Danny Ware have been picking up the slack behind him. Even with the loss of Derrick Ward to free agency I don't see this team missing a beat when it comes to running the ball. Jacobs has averaged 5 yards per carry so far in his career and Bradshaw has averaged 5.3 yards per carry in his young career. There is no doubt in my mind that the Giants will have the best one, two punch this season They will come out this season with a running game that will once again be ready to steam roll over opponents. Jacobs has to be the most feared running back in the league. I wonder if he may be the most feared ever. Look at these clips and you tell me.
VIDEOS Jacobs: 1.) http://tinyurl.com/mc2ets 2.) http://tinyurl.com/kwvyad 3.)http://tinyurl.com/l3v8cx

You could argue that bradshaw might have the best quickness to strength ratio in the league. His burst through the hole paired with his strength makes him difficult to take down.
VIDEOS Bradshaw: 1.) http://tinyurl.com/nwjmkn 2.) Great highlight video http://tinyurl.com/nm8qh3

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Giants Depth is Being Tested Early

After this weekend, a lot of people are looking around and wondering where the Giants depth went on the defensive line. Specifically the defensive tackle spot. Right now in my opinion their is no way that Jay Alford plays this season. There is no way he can just rehab his knee in two weeks after tearing one ligament fully and then partially tearing the other. I think if anything the Giants may try to salvage his ability to snap on field goals and extra points. I have heard people asking why Zak DeOssie can't do it. There is a big difference between snapping fifteen yards back to a punter and snapping five yards back to a holder. There is a reason why DeOssie doesn't do all of the long snapping. We will have to wait and see who fills that role. (EDIT: I was wrong, it looks like in today's practice that Zak DeOssie will attempt to transition to the new field goal and extra point long snapper.) It also definitely hurts to lose the depth at tackle and a good snapper like Alford. But, the good thing is that it is still the preseason and they have some time to find someone to plug in and do a fine job of filling in.

The other injured player of concern is the Giants big free agent acquisition of Chris Canty. It became public this weekend that he has a partial tear to his hamstring and that his recovery isn't coming along positively. Then you look at guys like Fred Robbins, Barry Cofield & Rocky Bernard, who are all bouncing back from injuries. Right now if there is something to be concerned about it is definitely the health of the players at the defensive tackle position.

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Giants Humbling Couldn't Have Come at a Better Time

Every now and then a great team needs their ego to be sent back down the earth. And that time came on Saturday night against the Chicago Bears. It is truly time for this team to wake up and realize that nothing will be handed to them this season just because of the hype that has followed them. Especially the defense. The Giants may have the best defense in the NFL on paper. But as we have seen in the past, paper is nothing but something nice to look at. And this team didn't show up on Saturday and that can happen any time and this team needs to see that. Last season it took until week six for this team to be humbled on Monday night football against the Browns. Well this season it was week two of the preseason. For all of the people out there panicking and already doubting the Giants this season. RELAX! Football is a game of focus and emotion and this team had neither this past week. Teams will always have their ups and downs. Don't forget its not how you start, its how you finish.



The good news is that they have a coach that is full of emotion and will make sure this team comes out firing this coming Saturday against the Jets. If I was Rex Ryan, I would just sit mark Sanchez because this coming weekend he will get his official welcome to the NFL party from the Giants. This team will come to play and come out to prove that this past week was a once time affair.

Comment below with your feedback of this past weekends game.

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Giants Look Lost in 17-3 Defeat to Chicago

There is only one way to break down this game. And that is in three parts. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Yes I did find some good in this game but it wasn't much.

The Good

• Ahmad Bradshaw & Danny Ware combined for 88 yards on 14 carries. I don't believe many other teams can get that kind of production out of there second and third backs.
  
• Eli's numbers looked good 7 of 10 62 yards.
• Jacobs had another nice showing running the ball as well as catching it.
• Hakeem Nicks showed a nice ability to get behind the defense and make a 55 yard catch.
• This was only a preseason game. The games don't start counting until September 13th.
  

The Bad

• Jay Alford's sprained MCL. Injuries are never good and lets just hope this is the worst for the Giants during this preseason. According to sources the MRI will be done today at 5pm.
• The Giants showed no ability to move the ball down the field and score with their first team offense. In the preseason it is good to at least get one good score from your offense.

The Ugly

• With Seubert and Snee out, Manning couldn't get enough time to move the ball down the field. In the end it resulted in five sacks for the Bears in the game.
• The defense looked lost trying to slow down Cutler and Forte as they marched up and down the field.
  
• The score 17-3.

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Giants Starting to Fly Under the Radar

Shhhhh. People are starting to overlook and forget how good the Giants really are. With Brett Favre signing in Minnesota, and Michael Vick landing in Philly. It has been leading people away from picking the Giants to do anything more then make the playoffs this season. I am not at all writing this to complain. I think it is great that people are starting to talk about other teams like Philly, Atlanta, Minnesota, New Orleans, etc. as the favorites in the NFC. Because in the end it fuels guys like, Antonio Pierce, Brandon Jacobs, Justin Tuck & company to prove everyone wrong. For some reason it seems when people doubt this team, they are able to over come anything and everything in their way. When they are expected to win, is when struggle the most. I don't blame last seasons disappointing end to the fact that they were the number one seed in the playoffs. But, instead to many other unfortunate circumstances that went against them. Some people are picking the Giants to win the NFC East which is great. Though, I get the feeling that the "experts" are picking the Eagles to take the division and that makes sense since numerous people have them in the Super Bowl as well. No one really knows what will happen at the end of the season. So in the end I can't say who is right and who is wrong because you never know who will win. All I can say is watch out people this Giants team is loaded and will come out of the gate firing with a vengeance this season.

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Chicago Bears Preseason Week 2 Preview

Week 2 Preseason:
New York Giants @ Chicago Bears 8/22 8pm WNBC

Injury Situation:
LB Antonio Pierce (foot), S Kenny Phillips (knee), Gs Rich Seubert (shoulder) and Chris Snee (knee), DT Chris Canty (hamstring) and CB Aaron Ross (hamstring). Not sure if the following players will play even though they have made some progress this past week - CB Corey Webster (strained hip flexor), DE Justin Tuck (foot) and DT Rocky Bernard (hamstring)

What to watch for:

• Facing Jay Cutler will be a good challenge for the Giants defense. Even if a lot of the starters don't play, it will be a great experience for the back ups to have.
• Will we see the Giants defense continue to bring the kind of pressure it was able to bring last week against Carolina?
• Eli Manning and the first team passing the ball effectively down field.
• We will continue to wait and see if any particular wide receiver stands out this week.
• Andre Woodson v. Rhett Bomar. The battle will continue for that third and final quarterback spot.
• Gerris Wilkinson, David Tyree, Sinorice Moss, Derek Hagan, Maurice Evans, Adam Koets are just some of the players that need to step it up to secure a spot on this roster.

What things will you be looking for this Saturday?

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NY Giants are the Deepest Team in the NFL

Get ready, because I am going to make a bold statement. The New York Giants are the deepest team in the NFL this season. Take a look at the backups that this team has at almost every position and tell me they can't start on a lot of teams.

• QB - David Carr - The poor guy was traumatized from getting hit so much in Houston. He has seemed to fit it in well in New York and I would not worry if he had to come in and play.



• HB - Ahmad Bradshaw & Danny Ware - Both have proved they can carry the ball in the NFL. Bradshaw has shown it during his first two seasons and Ware has displayed his skills during the last two preseasons. He has the patience, vision and burst to come in at any time and run the ball well.



• WR- Right now the Giants have 6-7 guys battling for starting spots. To me that says it all right there. If these guys weren't goo enough to start they wouldn't have the opportunity.



• OL - I believe Tutan Reyes and William Beatty could come in if they have to and hold their own on this offensive line.



• DL - The Giants have so many good defensive tackles I don't even know who will start. They have at least 4 starters at DT, which is really amazing. And then you rotate Jay Alford in and their may not be much of a drop off between five guys rotating in and out. Also Mathias Kiwanuka as we all know should be a starter, but you can't bench Umenyiora or Tuck.



• LB- Chase Blackburn, Bryan Kiehl, Gerris Wilkinson and Clint Sintim could come in and play well if called upon. Kiehl, & Blackburn started quite a few games last season and did a great job when called on to fill in. Blackburn ended the season as a starter.



• DB- C.C. Brown Has started for the Texans in and past and will be a good back up to have behind Phillips and Johnson. Terrell Thomas at corner could start for the majority of teams in the league right now. Kevin Dockery has turned into an undrafted free agent steal four years ago. Rookie Stoney Woodson has showed nothing but tremendous upside since being drafted out of the 7th round back in April.

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Burress and Toomer Departed at the Right Time

All of the scouts and player development experts seem to always say it takes at least three years for a wide receiver to really develop and contribute to a team. Well, that is great news for the Giants because the starting 3 receivers are going into at least their third season. Also, when you look at some of the college stats of this young receiving corps you realize they dominated for the most part, in college. I know that doesn't mean they will dominate in the NFL. But, with great coaching they have that ability. And, I believe the Giants are one of the best coached teams in the league. Here are the college stats and what season each of the Giants young receivers are going into.

1. Steve Smith 3rd yr. - 190 rec 3,019 yds 22 TD's - As you can see Smith's stats are right up their with many top college players and he did it at a top notch school like USC.

2. Domenik Hixon 4th yr - 141 rec 2,092 yds 14 TD's - Very solid stats for a receiver coming out of a mid major school like Akron.

3. Sinorice Moss 4th yr - 63 rec 1,046 yds 8 TD's - Moss played at a great program (University of Miami) and was mostly a threat as a returner. But just like people say, speed kills and this guy has plenty of it to burn.

4. Mario Manningham 2nd yr - 137 rec 2,310 yds 27 TD's - Manningham was a dominating receiver at a top program like Michigan. He still has tremendous upside and will breakout within the next season or two.

5. Hakeem Nicks Rookie - 181 rec 2,840 yds 21TD's - Nicks showed great skills catching the ball and being able to control his body in college. He has been labeled as one of the most NFL ready receiver that came out of this years draft.

6. Ramses Barden Rookie - 206 rec 4,203 50TD's - Barden's stats are off the charts. But, don't forget he played at a small school (Cal Poly) and dominated much less competition. He has the height and the hands to be an effective NFL receiver. He will only get better over the next few years.

From looking at the receivers the Giants have this season, I am expecting at least one of their top 4 receivers to breakout and have a big season. I see so far that no one has really separated themselves in training camp. But from what I have seen in the NFL over the years, its in the regular season that guys really break out.

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Vikings the Team to Beat in NFC?

Now that Brett Favre has once again decided to come back and play in the NFL, for the Minnesota Vikings. I have to pose a big question. Are the Vikings the team to beat in the NFC? Well, no matter what you believe it seems that's what a lot of experts are predicting. Maybe they are, and maybe they are not the best team. We will not know until the season ends in Miami. I believe it is crazy to say that the Vikings are now the team to beat, because they just signed a QB that can't throw the ball like he once could. Winning in the NFL is about more then signing a future hall of fame QB. It is also about depth, unity, leadership, and perseverance. All the reasons why I will argue that the New York Giants are the team to beat.

• Just like Eli Manning, Favre has to get used to and learn how his new receiving corps plays and operates. In Eli's case most of the receivers on the Giants have been with Eli for at least 2-3 seasons. Both will be challenged in this area, but Eli has the edge.
  
• Favre will not be a leader for the Vikings and it is important that your quarterback is one of your key leaders. At least on the offensive side of the ball, since everything revolves around him. A leader must have trust with his teammates and Favre can't develop that on the fly.
• In football it has been proven year in and year out that you can't win Super Bowls by bringing in a high priced star. Just ask the Redskins and Cowboys how that is working out.
• The Giants defense is much better then the Vikings. It is great that the Vikings have 2 good DT's and Jared Allen at one DE spot. But I'm sorry, having Ray Edwards as your other DE is not disturbing to any team coming in to play you. The Vikings have 1-2 pass rushers. The Giants have 5-6 pass rushers, in Justin Tuck , Osi Umenyiora, Mathias Kiawanuka, Chris Canty, Clint Sintim, Michael Boley. Which can rotate in and stay fresh throughout the game.
• I don't see a leader like Antonio Pierce, who gets his guys up each and every game to believe that they can win no matter what. That is the leadership you need in order to win. Guys like Tuck, Jacobs and Pierce lead in an unselfish way as well. All they want is another ring and unlike the Vikings the Giants know what it will take.
• The Vikings have not proven that they know how to win the tough games down the stretch to make a run. Last season they squeaked out a win at home against David Carr and the Giants reserves to get into the playoffs. Brett Favre does make this team a much better team, don't get me wrong. But I do not see them as the team to beat.

Post your comments below and tell me who you believe is the team to beat.

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Giants Look Very Deep in 24-17 Victory

Every Giants fan waking up this morning should be satisfied with last nights performance. The offense looked strong, the running game hasn't missed a beat and the Giants may have the deepest team in the NFL. Below are the plays that stood out to me in this game.

PLAYER NOTES

- WR Manningham had a very nice punt return. He showed good vision and quickness to get up field.

- DE Osi Umenyiora is back, he looked like he has not even missed a beat from being out last season. Great sack and FF, by blowing right past the o-lineman.

- WR Manninghan had a nice 10 yd catch on a 3rd and 5 from Manning. But it was called back due to a penalty on Kareem Mckenzie.

- HB Jacobs had a nice catch out the back field to gain about 10 yds for a first down. This may be a sign he has improved his pass catching. We will have to wait and see.

- HB Jacobs burst through the line for a 22 yd run. All in all Jacobs looks good and ready to roll.

- WR Hixon caught a WR screen and had a nice 18 yard gain. Showed great focus and burst up the field.

- HB Bradshaw scored on a 19 yd run. Great burst and strength. He looks like the Bradshaw that led the Giants in rushing when they won the Super Bowl.

- WR Sinorice Moss had a very nice catch over the middle for a 9 yd gain and a first down. I would like to see him do this all season out of the slot.

- QB David Carr ran the ball for a 13 yd gain that kept a drive going. He is a very good QB that can keep plays going with his legs.

- K Tynes missed a 43 yd FG. Here comes Mr. Inconsistent. There is no reason to miss a 43 yd FG. The Giants will need to make an upgrade at kicker sometime in the future.

- LB Gerris Wilkinson had a nice burst into the back field to slow down the Carolina HB and stop him a yd short of a first down. If he stays healthy he will be a great contributor on this defense.

- CB Stoney Woodson took advantage of a tipped ball and made a nice INT. Giants have great depth at CB.

- DE Maurice Evans had a very nice sack and FF. He looked like Osi for a minute.

- HB Danny Ware, had a great catch and run for a 22 yd TD on a screen pass. Once again Danny Ware has shown he can play and that he belongs in the NFL.

- QB Andre Woodson, threw an INT by forcing a pass into coverage. Bad decision. Not good for his case to stick on the roster.

- WR Ramses Barden, made a nice 20 yd catch on a 3rd and long play. If he keeps catching the ball, he may make a nice impact this season.

- LB Clint Sintim, sack and FF, who didn't have one in this game? Shows just how deep the Giants are with pass rushers.

- HB Allen Patrick, Showed he may be the guy for that #4 HB spot with a nice 29 yd run.

- K Tynes, makes a 46 yd FG, go figure, he made one.

- WR Hakeem Nicks, Made a nice 9 yd catch for a 1st down. He bobbled the ball because the defender got a hand on it. But he showed great concentration and hauled it in.

- DE Tommy Hill, Made a great play with an INT for a TD to win the game.

OTHER NOTES

- Jerry Reese has stacked this team with depth (I will elaborate more in a later post)

- Danny Ware Moved the chains well.

- Feagles is ageless, after 22 yrs he can still stick the opponent well inside the 20.

- O-line might be the only position where depth might be a concern.

- Great challenge by Coughlin on that Goodson fumble. It was clearly a fumble.

- What a great ending to a game, even though it was only preseason. I was dreading a preseason OT game.

What did you think of the game? Leave your comments below.

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Giants Core Begins with Draft

As start of the regular season approaches and I take a look at the Giants roster, it came to my mind that this team is truly built through the draft. Just like any other championship caliber team, some spots are also filled with free agents that can come in and fit in to make an impact. Below I will list the Giants starters and significant back ups for bother offense and defense and list the round they were drafted in.

QB - Eli Manning (1Rd. #1 pick Draft Trade) *

HB - Brandon Jacobs (Draft 4th Rd) *

HB - Ahmad Bradshaw (Draft 7th Rd) Leading rusher in Super Bowl XLII

WR - Hakeem Nicks (Draft 1st Rd)

WR - Ramses Barden (Draft 3rd Rd)

WR - Steve Smith (Draft 2nd Rd) *
WR - Mario Manningham (Draft 3rd Rd)

WR - Sinorice Moss (Draft 2nd Rd)

TE - kevin Boss (Draft 5th Rd) *

OT - David Diehl (Draft 5th Rd) * All Pro

OG - Chris Snee (Draft 2nd Rd) * All Pro

DT - Barry Cofield (Draft 4th Rd) *
DT- Jay Alford (Draft 3rd Rd)

DE - Justin Tuck (Draft 3rd Rd) * All Pro

DE - Osi Umenyiora (Draft 2nd Rd) * All Pro

DE - Mathias Kiwanuka (Draft 1st Rd) Could start for any team in the NFL

LB - Bryan Kiehl (Draft 4th Rd)

LB - Clint Sintim (Draft 2nd Rd)

LB - Jonahton Goff (Draft 5thRd)

CB - Aaron Ross (Draft 1st Rd) *

CB - Corey Webster (Draft 2nd Rd) *

CB - Terrell Thomas (Draft 2nd Rd) Could start for most teams in the league
S - Kenny Phillips (Draft 1st Rd) *

S- Michael Johnson ((Draft 7th Rd) *

* = Starter

As you can see above, this organization has truly established its foundation through the draft. In the NFL unlike most other leagues, success starts with building the core of your team through the draft. Not only do the Giants cherish their picks but they do a great job picking the right players to fit in and contribute.

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Carolina Panthers: Game 1 Preseason

The first football game of the 2009 season is just a few days away. Below, I will breakdown the key things to look for in this game. As we know, winning doesn't matter. All that matters is that the Giants look good in key parts of their team.

• First team offense: Most likely Eli and the rest of the starting offense will only play 1-3 drives. The key is whether or not they can move the ball down the field. Especially with the new starting receivers.
• First team defense: I will be looking to see how Chris Canty is adjusting to being a Giant and the style of defense that is run. I will also be paying attention to how Bill Sheridan is doing getting acclimated to being the defensive coordinator. Most importantly want to see a very good pass rush with a rotation of guys and how all of that works. Kenny Phillips will be someone to watch out for since he is now a starter.
• Wide Receivers: Everyone is excited to see Hakeem Nicks & Ramses barden make their Giants debut's. So far it seems like they care catching everything. But that is in practice. Lets see how they do in a game. Sinorice Moss will be someone to watch, to see how he performs in a game situation. Since he has been limited in his career so far. And, don't forget Mario Manningham, it will be nice to see if he can have a productive preseason.
• Position Battles:

QB (3rd spot) Rhett Bomar & Andre Woodson

HB (2&3 spots) Ahmad Baradshaw, Danny Ware & Andre Brown

WR I would say it is wide open, with the only exception Steve Smith being the #1 guy right now.

CB (Nickel) Kevin Dockery & Terrell Thomas

***I will be breaking down these position battles in the coming weeks...***

What are looking for during Mondays pre-season opener?

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Let Vick Move On

I know this is not directly related to the Giants and their team. But I feel it is important for people to hear my opinion on this matter since people are always so quick to condemn and judge others.

After hearing and seeing Vick make the statements he made during his press conference last week in Philly, it showed me he is a humble and broken man because of all he has been through. I am not saying to feel sorry for him. But isn't everyone in this world guilty of something. Even if it as little as stealing a pen from someone cheating on a girlfriend or spouse. In my opinion no one in this country or anywhere has the right to not forgive him and move on. in life we all need to learn lessons. For some of us it is a harder lesson to learn then others. It is sad for anyone to judge him and look down on him and this includes animals rights people.

I am very happy that he is back in the NFL and I am rooting for him to have a successful comeback. I would like everyone who reads this that condemns Mike Vick, to look at themselves before passing judgment. Because we are all guilty of something and we all need forgiveness at some point in our lives.

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Amazing Hakeem Nicks Catch (UNC)

In case you haven't seen this is from last years bowl game that UNC played in. This trully shows what great control and hands Nicks has. His hands are a size 4XL. Enjoy the video below.

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Camp Battle: Wide Receiver

Guys like Mario Manningham (pictured above) make it a very tight and difficult race for a guy like David Tyree to make this team. The guys that will make this team are obvious. They are listed below.

• Steve Smith - #1 Receiver
• Domenik Hixon - Worth to much to let go, he can return kicks and has upside as a receiver (http://tinyurl.com/n5yhab)
• Mario Manningham - Jury is still out him, he was just drafted last yr. Its not time to give up on himbecause of the tremendous upside he still obtains.
• Hakeem Nicks - #1 draft pick 3 months ago, hes not going anywhere
• Ramses barden - Another recent pick that is catching on quicker then everyone thought. Jerry Reese said on WFAN yesterday that they expect him to contribute this season.

There is a serious battle for that sixth and seventh spots. I know, your saying, "seven?!?!" Yes Seven, there is no way they will let Derek Hagan go. He was a highly touted college player that couldn't develope in a disfunctional Dolphins organization. He is having an amazing camp right now. I believe they will keep him since right now there really is no clear cut #1 target at receiver. And you never know he may become a great receiver down the road.

The last spot I believe will goto Sinorice Moss. He also is having a great camp, but once again is sitting out of practice this morning due to a hamstring injury. He needs to figure out how to get back on the field and contribute. So that leaves the super bowl hero David Tyree to be the odd man out. Right now barring a miracle, I believe this will be the outcome.

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Dallas Cowboys Quick Breakdown

The Cowboys will be dangerous if...

• Roy Williams - With the absence of TO, Roy Williams has to step in and take over as Romo's new #1 target at receiver.
• Tony Romo - Romo is a very good QB. He knows how to extend plays with his feet and make tough throws but must maintain consistency through November and December in order to elad this team on a playoff run.
• Secondary - The Boy's need Mike Jenkins and Orlando Scandrick to step up and be there top two corners, Terrance Newman is getting old quick and its time for some young guys to step in.
• Leadership - This team has never been short on talent. They have always lacked a mature leader for everyone to follow. The guy I'm looking to is Demarcus Ware to step up and take charge of this team in order for this team to win. Great teams have great leaders, which leads to unity.

Provide your thoughts below...

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Philadelphia Eagles Quick Breakdown

The Eagles will be dangerous if...

• Defense - Someone has to step up and take over as the leader of this defense. With Brian Dawkins in Denver and Stewart Bradley out for the season. Guys are going to have to come together and pick there game.
• Brian Westbrook - One of the most explosive running backs ever, needs to stay healthy, that is the obvious. That is why they drafted LeSean McCoy. In order for the Westbrook to be effective, McCoy will have to take a good portion of the load to keep him fresh.
• Donovan Mcnabb - A top ten QB in the NFL but has been unable to get over the hump in regards to winning the Super Bowl. He will have to play consistently well throughout the season in order to overcome the NFC East and make a run to Miami.
• Receivers - So far in camp Desean Jackson has continued to excel and has looked explosive. If Jackson keeps getting better, watch out. With the addition of Jeremy Maclin the Eagles could have the most explosive wide receivers in the NFL.
  

Leave comments below...

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Washington Redskins Quick Breakdown

The Redskins will be dangerous if...

• Offensive line - The O-line must stay healthy, if it does watch out, Campbell will have plenty of time to throw down field and Portis will have have comfortable lanes to run through. The reason the Skin's started 6-2 last season was the health of the O-line. They went 2-6 in the second half of the season due to injuries.
• Clinton Portis - Portis is still a very productive back, but he needs to stay healthy and really take care of his body. The Skin's will need to find a change up back to help spell their work horse.
• WR Production - Santana Moss is a very good receiver, but he can't do it by himself. They need to put Devin Thomas as the number two guy and move Randel El to the slot. If this happens and they are able to stay relatively healthy, the passing game will be much improved.
• Pass Rush - Albert Haynesworth was a huge signing, literally and figuratively. He will surely help with the run game and if he can help by occupying bodies in the passing game it may free up guys like Andre Carter to get through easier to the QB.

Let me know what you think below.

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Give Me Eli

This debate has been brought up on and off since the 2004 draft when both quarterbacks were drafted and then traded to their respective teams. I am going to break down why Eli is the better quarterback.

• Super Bowl MVP (enough said)
• 41-23 record over the past 4 years against the NFC East, which is arguably the best division in the NFL.
• Philip Rivers has great stats, but if he is such a good quarterback on a super bowl caliber team, how did the Chargers go 8-8 last season and have to beat the Broncos in week 17 to win the division.
• They play the Raiders, Chiefs and Broncos a combined 6 games per season. The combined record the past 4 seasons for the Chargers division opponents is, 73 wins and 119 losses.
• Combined record of the Cowboys, Eagles and Redskins the last four seasons is, 105 Wins and 86 Losses.
• Philips Rivers has played in the beautiful southern California weather while Eli has had to deal with 15 degree wind chills. The point here is Rivers can air it out all season, while Eli has to rely on the ground game when November rolls around.
• Rivers has benefited from having one of the greatest running backs in the backfield behind him. You think teams have been worried more about Rivers throwing or LT running?

Let me know what you think.

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Offensive Breakout Player for 2009

Don't worry I am not crazy and yes I know, Sinorice Moss has not been the poster child of staying healthy in his career. But this is his season. No more Toomer and no more Burress. The field is wide open for him to claim a spot, high on the depth chart. Not to mention this is a contract year. Right now the Giants have him slotted in as the third receiver. Which I believe is the perfect spot for him. With his small stature and quickness, it would be wise for Kevin Gilbride and the Giants to use him similarly to how the Patriots use Wes Welker. Also Moss has the explosiveness and speed to get down field. From the reviews I have heard so far in training camp, he is blowing past people and not putting many balls on the ground. Right now he is on pace to be the breakout player at receiver that this offense needs. Moss wasn't drafted in the second round for nothing. Last season when he was needed he came in and made the catches and plays that he needed to make. He had a very solid season for a player buried on the depth chart. This is his make or break year and I have the feeling as well as the confidence that he will make it big.

2008 Receiving Stats

12 Rec
12.8 Avg.
27 Lng
153 Yds
2 TD's

2009 Receiving Stats (Projected)

35-40 Rec
10-15 Avg
40 Lng
425 Yds
4 TD's

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Five Reasons Eli Got Paid

I will start off by saying that I agree with everyone who says that Eli Manning's stats show that he is going to be overpaid once his new contract kicks in, in 2010. Below I have listed five reasons why he deserves the big payday.

1. Super Bowl XLII MVP - Yes you can say that the defense won the game for the Giants since they shut down the greatest offense of all time (statiscialy). But, how many qb's in the NFL can lead their team down the field in the last 2 minutes of the most watched sporting event in the world and throw the game winning touchdown? Not more than maybe a few.

2. 41-23 Record last 4 seasons (reg season) - Plain and simple Eli knows how to win games. His career record shows it.

3. 4 straight seasons with a playoff birth - I believe only 3-4 teams have done this over the past four seasons

4. 4 quarter comebacks - I read a stat last season that Eli has rallied the Giants out of a fourth-quarter hole to either take the lead or tie the game an amazing 16 times. Eleven times the comeback has resulted in a win. Not many QB's can overcome that pressure and lead their team to a victory.

5. Bad memory - You might askwhy is this a good thing. If you think about Eli's career when he has a really bad game, for example the 4 INT loss to the Vikings during the '07 season. He was able to bounce back and win key games in Chicago and Buffalo to lead the Giants into the playoffs and to a Super Bowl championship.

Chime in below with your thoughts.

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Defensive Breakout Player for 2009

2008 Season Stats
- 67 Tackles
- 1 INT
- 5 PD

Kenny Phillips is my 2009 defensive breakout player. Looking at his 2008 stats below he had a good season for being a role player and not starting. I know the 1 INT came on a prayer that Rethlisberger threw up in the air to try and give the Steelers a shot to win. The main thing I look at are the 5 pass deflections which is very good.

During last seasons training camp he showed great explosion to the ball and recovery speed and the same goes so far for this season. As a starter you cant help but expect big things from him this season. Check out the link below. I expect many plays like this one.

ttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yn6iA9uuZQ4&feature=channel_page

2009 Projected Stats
- 92 tackles
- 4 INT
- 12 PD

At the end of the season we will look back and see if my prediction comes true.

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Week 9 Redemption?

On November 8th 2009 the San Diego Chargers will come into the Meadowlands to face the New York Giant's. This is one of many games I have marked on my calendar. Charger fans have done nothing but rave about how they got the better end of the 2004 NFL draft day deal that sent Eli Manning to the Giants for Philip Rivers and some draft picks. Charger fans love to hate Eli since he refused to play for them and they should hate him since he has what the Chargers have never attained. That is a Super Bowl trophy. It was a great day for Charger fans back in 2005 when they stuck it to the Giants in Sand Diego and now the Giants will have a chance at redemption. Win or lose in the end the Giants have the ultimate redepmtion, a Super Bowl trophy.

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Do you feel lighter today?

I wanted to ask Giants fans just how much lighter they feel today since yesterdays announcement that Antonio Pierce will not be indicted? It is really amazing how so early in the season (August 3rd), the Giants were almost eliminated from being able to contend right from the beginning to claim their second Super Bowl in three seasons. Not to say Pierce is everything, but without his leadership the Giants would have been in a lot of trouble.

Giants defense once again putting in a strong performance today during practice. Notable stand outs have been Terrel Thomas and Kenny Phillips.

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