Time for Hakeem Nicks to Explode

When Tom Coughlin spoke to the media today, he explained that wide receiver Hakeem Nicks will be included in a four man rotation. The starters as we know will be Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon and Mario Manningham as the slot. Today Coughlin was asked if Nicks will play a major role. He then replied, "He's playing it right now." Then he added, "He's involved right now in everything we're doing. We basically have four guys that will do a lot of rotating and a lot of playing." Nicks was asked in the locker room about playing a large role in Sundays game. He replied, "Ready to go." Added, "Can't wait to get started."

It is clear that Tom Coughlin and the rest of the Giants organization is on board and set to launch the Hakeem Nicks era at receiver. I have said it before and I will say it again, he will be starting by at least week four. He is going to have the chance to show his game changing skills that got him drafted in the first round. Nicks made a lot of big catches in the preseason and I am confident he will do the same in the regular season. He will surely have his opportunity to set himself apart and to officially explode onto the NFL scene . Nicks has the complete package, great hands, body control, speed, & concentration. He will be the difference maker at receiver this season and it starts on Sunday.

NOTE: Nicks has changed his number from 18 to 88 since michael mathews was traded.

What do you think about Hakeem Nicks getting a lot of playing time? How do you think he will fair?

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Giants - Redskins Week 1 Preview

WHEN: Sunday September 13, 2009 @ 4:15pm on FOX

Keys to the Game:

• Defense - Running Game: If the Giants shut down Clinton Portis and the running game right from the start and make Campbell pass. If they are able to do this, it will be along game for the Skins.
• Defense - Passing Downs: The Giants should not have a problem getting to Jason Campbell. The Redskins line has talent but I don't see them having the ability to slow down this pass rush that is relentless and comes in waves.
• Rushing Offense: The Giants offensive line, which anchored the NFL's best rushing attack in 2008 will have the task of handling Albert Haynesworth I don't believe this will be a problem. I know that most of the time you may want to double Haynesworth, but in the end I don't believe that one great defensive lineman won't shut down the Giants running attack.
• Passing Offense: Eli Manning has established himself as one of the games best quarterbacks and now he needs the help of the wide receiving core to assist him. Unlike in the preseason, Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon and Mario Manningham need to catch the ball and make plays when they are needed. I believe the Giants need to start off with shorter passes to get Eli and his receivers into a rhythm. The Giants are a run first team, so the passing game isn't a concern of mine. I believe in the end the offense will make the plays to win this game.

As I break this game down I don't see how the Redskins are going to be able to contain the Giants pass rush. On the other side of the ball the Giants Offensive Line will do enough to get Brandon Jacobs running down hill and down the field. The Giants have the clear advantage in this game on offense and defense.

My Biggest concern is that Kevin Dockery has not practiced all week. I was thinking at the beginning of the week that him and Ross would play but now it looks like both will most likely sit this one out. Which leaves them down to three corners and three safeties.

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