NY Giants Need A Monster To Play The Middle

Not in any particular order I have accumulated a list of names….

Harry Carson, Junior Seau, Zack Thomas, Ray Lewis, Jack Lambert, Patrick Willis, Mike Singletary, Sam Mills, Jon Beason, Chris Spielman, Dick Butkus, Brian Urlacher. What do they all have in common?

They all played middle linebacker.

Whatever decade they played in…they played the position angry.

They lived to stuff running backs and deliver punishment.

This is what the Giants need anchoring their defense…anger, dedication, and athleticism!

Remember the days when Giants defense was stout and the man in middle was Harry Carson? I can picture Carson and his blood stained white pants as he swallowed up running backs right at the line of scrimmage. 

How about one of the best NFL hits of all time…when No. 55 Gary Reasons, having the best game of his career, flies through the air crushing Denver Broncos running back Bobby Humphrey on a 4th and goal?  Bam!  John Madden raved about this hit as Humphrey’s ear piece flew out of his helmet because he got hit so hard.

I enclosed the video for you.

http://newyorkfootballgiantstalk.com/2009/11/gary-reasons-hit.html

I am not sure where you find this guy…whether it be in the draft or free agency; however, the Giants need a guy that can set a tone from the opening drive.  An guy who plays with anger, passion and heart.   A guy that can get in the face of Osi Umenyiora telling him when he needs to step up and still be smart enough to tell Fred “way too Big Daddy” Robbins to move his big butt out of the “A” gap.

This middle linebacker has to have the combination of size, speed and skill.  A Giant leader.

It’s time that the Giants find and secure the middle linebacker of the future.  The Big Blue Wrecking Crew always had that “cog” in the middle of the defense inspiring great play from those around him. 

I was in full support of Jonathan Goff being granted the opportunity to see playing time at the middle linebacker spot, with a chance to win the position. However, after watching the footage over and over the last two weeks, I see a young, athletic linebacker who lacks the ability to make the play at point of attack.  Goff either gets swallowed up in the interior frenzy or he scrapes too slow to make a play.

A great Middle Linebacker has the ability to bring enough pressure up the middle that he keeps the center and the guard honest while the outside linebackers or defensive ends come free.

A great Middle Linebacker meets the running back in the hole, not as the running back is cutting back against the grain and springing free for 24 yards. 

A great middle linebacker can read an offense with in seconds, communicate with the rest of the defense, allowing them to make a great play. 

Am I asking too much?   I don’t think so.  There was Huff, Carson, Kelly, Reasons, P. Johnson, M. Barrow and Pierce.  They did…we now have room for the next guy.

2010 off season…here we come!

 

 

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Heartless Giants Let Panthers Pound Playoff Hopes

Heartless. 

On a day that was supposed to be filled with great NY Giant memories as fans and players saluted the house the Wellington Mara built, the NY Giants football team laid down with the most inspiring play I have ever seen.

Even with HOF Lawrence Taylor, arguably the best linebacker the NFL has ever seen and clearly the most dominant player to ever where Giant blue, in the house this squad could not find enough inspiration to stop the Carolina Panthers on “one” of there first five offensive drives.

The aftermath was just as gutless, as Osi Umenyiora, who is supposed to be one of this teams defensive leaders complained about his playing time, lack of snaps and the end of his career as as New York Giant. 

Hey Osi…you’re under contract, so how about you keep your emotions in check, learn how to play the run and step up as a team leader. Tell the world you guys stunk today and that you and Justin Tuck are going to have a closed door meeting and challenge this team to reach deep down inside to find the heart that is Giants pride!

In the Giants post game show, former linebacker great Carl Banks said it the best when he described this defense as a “pile of scrap”. It starts off with small problem that isn’t fixed. Then you keep adding to the pile with another piece that isn’t fixed and soon enough you have a pile of scrap.

ie: Tackling, pass coverage, run defense, pressure on the quarterback, film study…

Banks, who’s on the field play and current analysis I admire very much spoke with pin pointed accuracy as he described this teams lack of pride and desire to give a little more. Banks said that even a good defense, not a great defense, a good defense never took a play off and always found the energy to give a little more. Every guy on the team wanted to make a big time play…a fumble recovery, a sack and tackle for a loss…anything!

He spoke of how Harry Carson was the first person at half time to question lack luster play and challenged players to step up. He spoke how Harry Carson would take up a collection from players so he could buy a full page ad in the paper to apologize to the fans for such embarrassing play as we saw today.

This team, especially on the defense lacks leadership. These players accept “coming out flat” as a tolerable excuse for getting embarrassed in front of tens of thousands fans. 

“Coming out flat” is not an adequate answer when facing playoff elimination. This was your season, your lively hood and this game should have been played with ferociousness that could not have been matched.

“Coming out Flat” is not good enough for a team who prides itself on defense and constantly being the under dog! The tackling on this team is down right disgraceful.  Instead of trying to arm tackle or body slam every player…Michael Boley, Michael Johnson, Aaron Rouse and Terell Thomas need to wrap up and take guys down. 

Yes, text book tackles don’t make sports center.

On a day filled with Giant ghosts from the past…it reminded me how this team seriously lacks an inspirational leader who backs up his words with great on-the-field play like Harry Carson, LT, Brad Van Pelt, Carl Banks, George Martin, Leonard Marshall, Jim Burt, Keith Hamilton, Gary Reasons, Pepper Johnson and the great Michael Strahan.

I’m sure Jerry Reese and Tom Coughlin will make changes after next weeks game against Brett Farve and the Vikings. This team needs a certain type of player. Antonio Pierce was that guy; however, his skills have diminished. His days of showcasing a 15 tackle day and flying around the field are in the rear view mirror.

Todays performance and explanation of…”We Came Out Flat” is garbage.

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New York Giants’ Antonio Pierce Should Coach the Giant Linebackers

What usually happens when a player goes on injured reserve?  

History shows us that these players disappear from the public eye. 

Kiwanuka broke his leg three seasons a go…where did he go? 

Shockey broke his leg three years ago…where did he go?  

Aaron Ross had been on injured reserve for roughly 10 weeks with a mysterious injury…where did he go?  

Osi Umenyora blew out his knee last year…where did he go?

You get my point? 

Over the last two weeks there is a certain person who has been very visual on the sidelines and he has made his presence felt amongst his teammates. 

That someone is Antonio Pierce.

I’m not sure what this guy has left in the tank for next season, but someone should give this guys a job now.  I’m watching him standing on the sidelines waving his arms, fist pumping and throwing his hands up in the air…reading offenses.   He’s coaching!

I am sure he wants to come back and play.  I don’t blame him.   He loves the game and he feels he still can contribute, but the writing is on the wall.   While Jonathan Goff may or may not be the answer…I think Antonio Pierce’s days of being the “man in middle” are done. 

So, unless modern medicine and Dr. Feelgood can make Antonio Pirece two inches taller, twenty pounds of muscle heavier, and much, much faster…the Giants should make Pierce the next linebacker coach and when the season comes to a close, offer him a job.

I’m not sure how many fans remember Charles Way, but Charles was one of the full backs the Giants have had since Maurice Carthon.  Charles suffered a career ending knee injury and was forced to retire.  It only took a short time before his talents were recognized and he became part of the organization in the front office.

Pierce knows the organization and he knows these group of young players.  Think what he could do to mentor Sintim, Goff, Boley, and Kehl. 

For an undrafted linebacker, Antonio Pierce has made a significant contribution to football, sports and society.  Having grown up on streets of Compton, Pierce has made it his mission to improve the quality of life for kids in the Compton area offering a free football camp for underprivileged youths and he is a community leader who works with the Giants inner city youth programs.

In 2007, Pierce received the “United Way Man of the Year” award and was honored by the Catholic Diocese for his support of the community.  Pierce was also honored at the 2008 ESPY awards and lets not forget that Antonio Pierce is also a Pro Bowl linebacker who has played and won the best Super Bowls of all time.

If the Giants do not win three of their last four games to get to 10-6, someone is getting canned.  Whether that be Sheridan or Gilbride…one or both is going!  Whatever does happen Tom will most likely dip into his Santa sack of coaches.

If changes due come, Tom already has a great, young, candidate standing on his sidelines starring him in the face every week that can make an impact, bringing back some swagger to this New York Giant defense.

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Young NY Giants Linebackers Bring Down Dallas!

So, there’s a heart beat in New York and the NY Giants live another day. 

Today was a good performance—not a great performance, they did give up almost 400 yards passing—but a win either way.  See more at www.NFLtouchdown.com

The Big Blue defense still gives up too many yards down field and my boy, Steve Smith, dropped one too many passes; however, this will not stop me from raving about our new core of young backers. 

Boley, Goff and Sintim brought an energy and a fire that had been missing behind the big boys upfront.  The young backers were flying around the ball, shooting gaps, wrapping up would be ball carriers and defending passes. 

I like these backers.  Let them play!

1. Michael Boley – #52 Weakside OLB

Boley who came to the Giants as a free agent from Atlanta is by far, the most athletic linebacker on the team.  Today, against Dallas he had four tackles and seven assists and one HUGE pass deflection down field as he was defending Dallas TE Jason Witten.

Boley has been a great addition to this team, when healthy.  He’s making tackles and flying all over the field.  He also has a good sense of the ball when he is in coverage.  It’s been a long time since the Giants had an outside linebacker with his skills set.   Just think of the last crop of outside linebackers the Giants have had…Reggie Torbor, Kevin Lewis, Carlos Emmonds, Barrett Green, Brandon Short.  Should I go on?

2. Jonathan Goff – #54 Middle Linebacker

Goff got his first start for the Big Blue Wrecking Crew at MLB, replacing Chase Blackburn.  He did not disappoint and pulled down a solid performance.  I was watching No. 54 closely.   He was flying to the ball and made some great,  instinctual plays.  I am sure the adrenaline got the best of him, as the first time starter over pursued many of his lanes, causing him to miss a handful of tackles.  

Overall, Goff showcased a good nose for the ball and was on top of the ball carrier before or just as he got to the hole.   His game time speed was impressive.

Goff had four tackles & four assists.

3. Clint Sintim – #97 Strong Side Linebacker

I love this guy.  Danny Clark is a nice player; however, he has never been a stud on any team he has ever played for.  Now would be the perfect time to let Sintim run wild.   CS has excellent speed as displayed today by snaring his first sack against Dallas’ Tony Romo.

Sintim hit the edge unblocked and was pressing Romo’s faces mask in matter of seconds.

It was very refreshing too see.

Bill Sheridan:

I am not a fan of the Giants Defensive Coordinator, Bill Sheridan.   This one defensive stand will not win him any new fans, but the shuffling of players did wonders for execution.  Osi being benched and used on third and fourth down plays was certainly a wake up call for the former pro bowl defensive end. 

He did rush the quarterback with a bit more passion and showcased some heart by coming up with a fumble recovery and run back.

Over all, Sheridan seemed to have a good grip on what needed to be done and his scheme finally made some sense.   The players responded well and kept the great Dallas Cowboys rushing attack to 45 rushing yards with one costly fumble.

Going Forward:

Salvage the season!  It might be too late for the GMen but there destiny lies in their own hands as they take on the Eagles next week.  The Giants need to beat Philadelphia Sunday to continue this run for the wild card…and Sheridan…Let the young guys play!

See more on this story at www.NFLtouchdown.com

 

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The Ghost of Christmas Past: A Look Under Coughlin’s Coaching Tree.

So you want a new coordinator do ya….well, lets look at the fun and bizarre world of Tom Coughlin’s coaching tree.

I am the first in line to scream, “Please Tom get rid of these bums!” But then I pause and think…who would Tom hire? All coaches at one time or another circle back to that old familiar group call the boys club.

You know these guys…these are the guys that have been riding Tom’s coat tails for the last 25 years. These are the same guys that Tom has given a job to time & time again, even though they have failed.

We call this the “Coaching Tree”!

Some guys have gone on to super start’em…but most of these guys just have become misfits and under achievers. Most of these I wouldn’t touch if they were giving away free seat licenses and some I can only dream would want to come back! (hint)

Begin Slideshow

New York Giants: What We Really Know About Their Collapse.

Giants fans had hoped that the offensive spark displayed last week versus Atlanta would ignite this team to a return to dominance in the second half of the season.  Instead, every mistake and miscue that was made over the four game loosing streak was displayed for the entire nation to see on Thanksgiving.

The Giants have collapsed, while the fan base was given a dose of reality tonight.  The four game loosing streak was no fluke, you can stop blaming injuries. This team is just not that good.  So what went wrong from 2008 to 2009?

This is what we do know.

 

 

1. The Defensive Coordinator —Bill Sheridan has ruined this defense.  Sheridan has taken Steve Spagnuolo’s league leading sack machine to the WORST RANKED red zone defense in the league.  All in one year.

Did anyone see Chris Canty in pass coverage against the Broncos?  Has anyone seen Osi Umenyiora or Justin Tuck in pass coverage this season?  Yes, our passing rushing specialists are now required to cover tight ends instead of rushing the quarterbacks. 

The under-sized Broncos defense executed misdirection stunts all night with success; however one of the “best defensive lines” in football was nowhere to be found. 

The Giants defensive front should be taking control of any football game.  Bill Sheridan must be dismissed.

 

 

2. Offensive Coordinator —Kevin Gilbride has taken away any swagger this offense once had and all but dissolved the “identity” of this Giants football team.   Where is the smash mouth football that this team is known for? 

The in-your-face running attack of the New York Giants is nonexistent. 

Brandon Jacobs is not getting enough carries and Gilbride MUST stop calling the draw play. Wake up, Gilbride.

It’s predictable and everyone knows what you’re calling including the defense your facing. The play calling has been embarrassing!

 

 

3. Brandon Jacobs —A 260-pound tail back should not be taken down so easily and effortless.  Jacobs is all but shying away from contact and is being taken down with ease.  He is shell of his former self.

Where is the Earl Campbell, Eric Dickerson, Eddie George-style of smash mouth football this guy used to display.  His speed is all but gone and his ferociousness has not been seen once this year. 

 

 

4. Offensive Line – Are they just a year older and a year slower?  Because this group is playing down right terrible.  The under-sized front four of the Denver Broncos out-muscled, and embarrassed the Giants offensive line.  They were pushed off the ball on numerous plays and out-smarted on more than half the snaps.

 

 

5. Aaron Ross –  What happened to our promising first-round draft pick out of Texas?

Everyone was talking about a break-out year. Yet Ross has all but disappeared from the team and seems to be either in the dog house or on the way out of town. 

His injured hamstring held him off the field for what seemed like five weeks too much and now when The Giants need an impact player with great coverage and tackling skills…he is nowhere to be found.

With Dallas, Philadelphia, Washington and Carolina looming…it could be a 7-9 season unless something amazing happens.

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Giants Hold On To Beat Falcons: But Still Need Help Closing Out Opponents

Will the real New York Giants please stand up? 

Once again, The New York Giants played football like Jekyll and Hyde changing their personality half to half, quarter to quarter, and sometimes play to play.

For most of the day the offense moved quite effectively.  Eli had is first 300-plus yard game at home.  Manningham and Smith once again performed on the big stage, proving to Eli they he can trust them to make the big plays down field. 

Eli’s over the shoulder pass to Smith and the two quick sideline strikes to Manningham were probably the three best passes I have seen Eli throw all year. 

Some may argue for others passes; however, the ball placement was extraordinary and the chemistry between these three players is exciting to watch.

During the Giants pregame show on WFAN I heard former Giants superstar running back Rodney Hampton say that he feels like Jacobs needs the ball 25 to 30 times a game to make a major impact. 

I agree. Jacobs started off this game playing great and then disappeared before getting hurt.

I also think I have the Eli Manning thing figured out.  Eli is streaky player who works well once he has established a rhythm.  He performs at his best when the play comes in early and the offense works quickly.  Much like a major league pitcher who works quickly on the mound. 

As good as Smith and Manningham were, Kevin Boss ran step by step with the two stud receivers scoring two touchdowns and having career day in yards.  They should use this 6-foot-6 target more often.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Giants just lack consistency.  They rarely string together a few good plays in a row like a dominant defense does.  The Giants are last in the NFL in red zone efficiency and it’s easy to see why.

If Tony Gonzalez or Michael Jenkins don’t drop touchdowns, does that change this game?

Where is the push up the middle on the goal line? Running backs are slashing their way through the Giants defense.  Whether it’s Canty, Benard, Robbins, and Cofield on the front line or Pierce, Blackburn, and Clark on the second level, someone needs to step up.

For the most part, Osi and Tuck played a great game, getting in the face of Matt Ryan and rushing hard from the edge. However, it’s a mystery to me why the announcers say it’s not the sack that’s important, it’s the pressure up front. 

Well, the lack of sacks seems to be effecting the defensive backs because those boys are getting picked apart.  Today against Atlanta, Corey Webster, Chase Blackburn, and Michael Boley had very good games, but where did the rest of the squad go?  They let a third string running back take it to them today.

The only two things that are consistent with the Giants pertains to Giant corner and nickel backs. 

First of all, Terrel Thomas can not tackle.  Can someone tell this guy that this is the NFL?  He needs to tackle like a professional football player or go find a job somewhere else.  Every week Thomas is throwing shoulders into receivers, running backs, and tight ends like he’s Ray Lewis. Only difference is he’s not getting the same results.

Secondly, it’s extremely apparent that Bruce Johnson can’t cover.  Was Ross used sparingly to ease him back into the game?

There were plenty of positive things to look at in today’s game, but the Giants need to learn how to put teams away if they truly want to make a playoff push.  Giving up a 14-point lead is unacceptable.

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NY Giants Captain Antonio Pierce Out: Linebackers of the Future on Display

The Giants defensive captain and field general will be sitting on the sidelines this Sunday after a bulging disc was found in his neck after an MRI.

No. 58 Antonio Pierce could be sitting for quite some time as neck injuries are very serious and have ended players careers in the past. Pierce originally sustained a burner during the Arizona game on Oct. 25.

Up until this week, Pierce had been pain-free. This week in practice, Antonio experienced an increased discomfort, so the Giant medical staff scheduled the MRI exam immediately.

The Giants will face the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday and will need all hands on deck to snap a four-game losing streak.  The loss of Pierce at this critical time could be devastating. 

The Big Blue defensive has been ravaged with injuries over the last 10 weeks including Canty, Ross, Boley, Philips and Dockerty.

Antonio Pierce in his ninth NFL season has made an huge impact as a New York Giant since joining the team in 2005.  Pierce makes up for his lack of size and speed by being one of the smarter players in the NFL. 

Consider Pierce a film junkie, as he is very diligent in the film room, giving him an edge come game time.  No. 58 is also the first Giant linebacker to make the Pro Bowl since fan favorite Jessie Armstead’s five-year tenure in Hawaii.

Pierce was quoted that he was looking forward to trying to help New York snap its losing streak on Sunday against the Falcons (5-4).

“This game means a lot to us,” Pierce said earlier Friday. “For one, we need a win to get out of this four-game slump and, two, it will help us in the playoff hunt. We are tied for one of the wild card spots and you always want to win the head-to-head battles.”. – ESPN

This gives the Giants a variety of moves at the linebacker position. 

Pierce’s replacement most likely will be No. 57 Chase Blackburn who’s natural position is behind Pierce at the MLB spot. 

With the placement of Gerris Wilkinson to IR last week with a broken wrist, weak side linebacker Brian Kehl becomes the back up to starter Michael Boley.

For any reason, Blackburn stays put at the weak side linebacker position behind Boley, 2nd year pro Jonathan Goff will step in the starting role for Pierce at MLB.  Goff was a fifth round draft pick in 2008 out of Vanderbilt. 

In 2009 he has made a nice impact on special teams including some huge hits on the kick off return team.  In 2008 Goff was shuffled in and out of training room with a rash of injuries:

Injury No. 1: a transverse process fracture in the preseason opener at Detroit.

Injury No. 2: concussion against the Eagles that knocked him out for a game.

Injury No. 3: Season ending hamstring injury suffered against Arizona. 

With the Captain on the sidelines…it’s time for the young guys to step up and show what they can do until Pierce can return.  The spotlight will be on Goff and Kehl.   The linebackers of the future are on display. 

Clint Sintim, who maybe the best of three backers, is also not far away from starting on this Giants defense, replacing Danny Clark. 

The Big Blue Wrecking Crew could be back in business with Sintim, Goff, Boley and Kehl all starting at some point for the New York Giants.  Four linebackers with size, speed and all under the age of 27. 

I can only hope that Pierce’s work ethic has rubbed off.

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If the New York Giants Call, is Rodney Harrison Answering?

Sometimes you have to take the good with the bad.  Currently, the Giants safeties and corners are just plain bad, and watching them play is even more insult to injury.

Now, I know some of you are going to think this is a stretch…but I’m looking through the Yellow Pages for a phone number.  Maybe some of you readers can help me out.  I’m looking for Rodney Harrison’s phone number.

Yes, you Giants fans remember Rodney Harrison from Super Bowl XLII as David Tyree made the best catch in Super Bowl history with No. 37 Rodney Harrison draped all over him like a cheap suit.  Yes, that Rodney Harrison.

Is he retired?  Yes.  Is he still better than CC Brown?  Yes! 

I would bet he still wants to play and I would bet he’s still in great shape.  He probably would love someone to call him to come bang around once again. 

I did a tad bit of research on the guy.  Check out his bio; talk about an up and down career.

In 1997, Rodney became first player in NFL history to score touchdowns on an interception return, fumble return, and kickoff return in same season.  Not bad!

He racked up 30.5 sacks, the most of any defensive back in NFL history.

Had four interceptions in three games in the 2004-05 playoffs.

His seven playoff interceptions are a New England team record.

He is one of nine players in the history of the NFL to record at least 20 interceptions and 20 sacks in his career.  This nine member elite club has members that go by the names: Seth Joyner , Wilber Marshall , William Thomas , Donnie Edwards, Ray Lewis , LeRoy Butler ,  Brian Dawkins , and Ronde Barber.

On Oct. 21, 2007, he became the initial member of the 30/30 Club of players with both 30 interceptions and 30 sacks.

Now, this move does have some drawbacks, as Rodney Harrison has had some MAJOR injuries…including the complete reconstruction of his knee as he blew out the ACL, MCL, and PCL while playing for the Patriots in 2005. 

The next three seasons, Rodney could not stay healthy and was off the field more than he was on it.

2005—knee.  

2006—shoulder and knee. 

He was also caught with HGH.  One might guess that he was desperately trying anything to stay healthy.  Some speculate that his injuries may have been a result of all the extra muscle put on his frame.  I have no idea.

No excuses—what he did was wrong & illegal, but can he still play?

Love him or hate him he does come with a built in attitude and big hitting prowess.  

He also was voted the “dirtiest player” in the NFL by his peers according to a 2004 poll conducted by SI.   In 2006, Harrison once again topped the “dirtiest player” voting by 361 other NFL players. 

In 2008, NFL coaches awarded the title to Harrison in an anonymous poll conducted by ESPN Harrison has also been fined and suspended multiple times, and as of 2002, had racked up over $200,000 in fines by the NFL.

I may be way off base here…but at some point you have to try something.  How many times has Junior Seau come back?

Someone please give Tom and Jerry his number.  They should be calling.

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Giants and Cowboys Recap: Quick Hits 101

As the weekend approaches and the Giants’ Sunday night victory over the Cowboys is firmly in the rear view mirror…my thoughts are finally clear and concise. 

There is a lot of work to do for Big Blue.

Game Two “Quick Hits” and some thoughts to back up my observations.

Quick Hit: Linebackers

First and foremost…where are the NY Giant linebackers?  I hate to say this but they stink.  The once pride and joy of great NY Giants defenses have come and gone.

Whether you think they’re too young, too old, too small, or just injured…please stop making excuses for them.  They are not super bowl quality linebackers.  They are not game changers. 

Yes, Pierce is a great film student and makes some nice calls during the game, but his skills are limited.  The entire unit beside the unknown Clint Sintim is soft and out of position.  Without Kiwika Mitchell—now in Buffalo—Pierce is exposed.

Put Sintim on the field.

Cowboys Linebacker

Who are these players?  These “no name” guys were flying around the field making plays everywhere.

Quick Hit: Touchdowns

With under a minute left in the second quarter of the Dallas game, the Giants offense had not scored a touchdown in three quarters.  Is it the lack of fire power or the offensive play calling?

Whatever it is…they better figure it out because, as you witnessed, good NFL teams will stack eight players in the box to stuff Brandon Jacobs.  Offensive Coordinator Kevin Gilbride needs to involve his tight end Kevin Boss and rookie receiver Ramzee Barden in the red zone packages.

Elio has grown up and this is now his team. His postgame on the field interview made it all clear, “We need to score more touch downs!”

Field goals are dramatic… but touchdowns win games!

Quick Hit: Michael Boley

My evaluation of Michael Boley is simple.  The guy is a good football player.  He flies around the field with ease and from what I saw on Sunday night he seems to be a good tackler.   The only knock on him to this point would be his positioning. 

He seemed out of place on half the plays he was on the field.  Chalk it up to rust?

Quick Hit: Vertical versus Horizontal

The passing game Sunday night was fast and furious with Eli slinging the ball down field and the Giants seemed very much a vertical team. However, somewhere after the first two series of offensive plays the passing game, changed from vertical to horizontal. 

Gilbride went deeper into the play book only to eliminate the vertical game in exchange for screens, short outs, and dump passes to the full back. 

Outside of the Hixon getting held during a deep passing threat…I’m at a loss why the Giants didn’t stick it to them by going deep and often. The “down field” game plan was working and the corners were kept honest. 

Quick Hit: Eli

Sunday night against the Dallas Cowboys, Eli Manning had his best regular season game as the Giants quarterback.  Eli stepped up his game without Plaxico Burress, Amani Toomer, Jermey Shockey, or Tiki Barber. 

Eli threw for 330 yards, going 25 of 38 and had a spectacular 22 yard touchdown catch by Mario Manningham right before half time.  Eli’s performance was good enough to finally break a 13 game stretch without a single 100-yard receiver.

Quick Hit: Boss Man

Kevin Boss had a very nice game opening week…in fact it was eye opening, because I had almost forgotten about Kevon Boss as our tight end. 

So does anyone know—where did he go?  Shockey used to own the Cowboys and so can Boss.  If we are having trouble scoring touchdowns, throw No. 89 the ball and let him ball his way into the end zone.

This kid is an athlete and most likely good for seven catches, 85 yards, and one touchdown. 

You want more offensive points…throw Boss the rock.

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