- Dave Turner
One of the most storied franchises in football, one that had won 4 NFL Championships, yet after 20 Super Bowls was yet to win one. That would all change after Super Bowl XXI. The 1986 were an incredible team in so many ways, and 21 years after the Giants first Super Bowl win we can look back and honor this incredible season.
After two seasons of losing to the eventual Super Bowl Champions (49ers in 84', and Bears in 85') The Giants came into the 1986 season hungry and ready for their chance to bring home the Lombardi Trophy.
The season did not start out all that well with a loss to Dallas, but from that point on the defense would absolutely dominate. I could list the names of all of the players who contributed to the success of the 86' Giants, but as Giants fans reading this blog I will assume that you all know.
One tidbit that I think we do forget about is that while Phil Simms threw for over 3,000 yards and 21 touchdowns, but he did throw for 22 interceptions. That is a stat we look over because of the incredible game by Simms, which to this day is the best performance ever put forth by a quarterback in the Super Bowl.
Going into the game against the Denver Broncos the Giants were 9.5 point favorites. How could a team featuring the likes of Joe Morris, Lawrence Taylor, Leonard Marshall and Harry Carson not be favored?
Denver had the lead at the half, but a tremendous second half by the Giants allowed them to hoist their first ever Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Super Bowl XXI saw some records fall in place for the Giants. The 30 second half points that they scored is still to this day an NFL record. The performance of Phil Simms has also been unrivaled. 22 of 25 for 268 yards and 3 touchdowns. Tom Brady's performance against Jacksonville may have been better, but it did not come in the Super Bowl, so in that regard Simms is still the best.
I personally was not alive for this moment in Giants history, but I really wish I was. There is no doubt that this is one of the top 10 teams of all time, and maybe even top 5.
Every time I see the video of Phil McConkey waving that towel in front of the huge Pasadena crowd, and then Harry Carson dunking Bill Parcells it makes you realize just how special this team was.
In the same regard this 2007 team has a chance to be so special in a different way. Were they dominant? No way. They have come together and now stand at the doorstep of greatness.
A few things just to end today's post.
- The Giants are STILL running their mouths. Plaxico Burress has even went as far as to predict a score.
- Antonio Pierce had the Giants fly to Arizona in black suits, as if they are the bad guys here.
- All I can say is, it will be hard enough to beat the Patriots and now they have added fuel to their fire. I really do not like the way this team handled themselves so far. With media day today i'm sure I will have some interesting quotes to post tomorrow.
- By the way, my pick and preview will be out Friday night. Just a hint at the moment, I am picking the Patriots by at least 20. I really think the Giants have handled themselves wrong so far and the Patriots are going to want to send a big message to anyone who doubted them.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Super Bowl XLII
Lots of stuff in store over the next few days leading up to the Super Bowl
Already there is some trash talk going on. Osi Umenyiora has been quoted as saying that the Giants can beat the Pats, and also has called Matt Light a dirty player.
The Giants certainly do not need to give the Patriots any more incentive to win this game.
That is what happens though when there is a constant stream of media surrounding both teams.
Look for some more interesting quotes to come from both sides before the game arrives.
Starting next week we will review the first 3 rounds of the playoffs, then move on to a unit by unit break down, then some Giants past Super Bowl lore and of course the predictions.
Keep it right here for constant updates, news and articles.
Already there is some trash talk going on. Osi Umenyiora has been quoted as saying that the Giants can beat the Pats, and also has called Matt Light a dirty player.
The Giants certainly do not need to give the Patriots any more incentive to win this game.
That is what happens though when there is a constant stream of media surrounding both teams.
Look for some more interesting quotes to come from both sides before the game arrives.
Starting next week we will review the first 3 rounds of the playoffs, then move on to a unit by unit break down, then some Giants past Super Bowl lore and of course the predictions.
Keep it right here for constant updates, news and articles.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
One For The Ages
When the Giants were 0-2, and seemingly on their way to defeat in Washington and an 0-3 hole the season looked all but over. This team could not stop anyone on defense, and the offense was still not at its peak. Ask anyone if they thought the Giants would be playing in the Super Bowl at that time and they would probably have laughed. Now it is the Giants who have gotten the last laugh (well second to last) and are headed to Glendale Arizona. What the Giants did to get to Super Bowl XLII is nothing short of extraordinary. They went in to Tampa and beat an extremely talented defense. Then on to Dallas where they did the unthinkable and shut down a Dallas offense that scorched them twice in the regular season. Finally on Sunday they went into Green Bay, in the unimaginable cold and came out with yet another impressive road victory.
With the third coldest gametime temperature in NFL history looming down on Big Blue, especially Eli Manning the Giants came out and yet again shocked the world, yet if you ask anyone on the team, the only shock is that no one had faith that they could do it. But that feeling is the reason why they are here. This team was at the brink of destruction last season, but fueled by a new Tom Coughlin and the lack of outspoken players this time around, this team came together and has played as one. The players all rely on each other and have taken the word team to a whole new level.
There are so many performances in this game that need recognition. First off Eli Manning needs to be praised for his performance. It was not a great day for Eli, but he did exactly enough to help them win. He made big throws when needed and did suffer a few drops by his receivers. What we must realize is that Eli is never going to win football games on his own ability such as Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, but he will put you in position to win consistantly, and that is why the Giants are playing in the Super Bowl.
Plaxico Burress was even more impressive with his 11 catch 154 yard performance. Pro-bowl corner Al Harris was on him all game, yet again and again Burress was able to get open. Considering he has played basically the whole season with a torn ankle ligament he deserves so much credit for what he has done. He schooled Al Harris in a way that I have never seen a receiver single handedly destroy a corner. What a tremendous performance from Burress.
Perhaps there is no one else who is more deserving of recognition than Corey Webster. The re-emergence of Webster has been a catalyst in the Giants run to Super Bowl XLII and there is no bigger play than the interception in overtime that led to the winning field goal. Corey Webster's NFL was nothing more than dead until injuries forced him into uniform again. Now he has resurrected his career and may even end up starting at corner next season.
3 other things I liked:
1. Antonio Pierce- That play on the screen was incredible. More importantly, that play would have probably gone for a touchdown if Pierce did not get through 3 blockers to make the play. He is the heart and soul of this defense.
2. Ahmad Bradshaw- I know the 46 yard TD run got called back but what a run! He is going to be a star. He has speed strength and vision, a combo that will make him a very good running back in the NFL for years to come.
3. Amani Toomer- With his best years behind him, he has risen up to the task in the 2007 playoffs. His sideline catch was one that took tremendous concentration to get his feet down. He will need to play even bigger in the Super Bowl with New England sure to try and limit Plaxico Burress.
The 2007 season for the Giants was not a smooth one. Even after the winning streak that saw them at 6-2, the Giants faltered and at one point it seemed as if Eli was perhaps incapable of leading this team anymore. At some point late in the season, perhaps in the snow in Buffalo on the day the Giants clinched a playoff birth a light went on. A season that was by many, including myself supposed to end in frustration after a loss to Tampa Bay has now become one of the most memorable in team history.
I leave you with this: If the Giants lose in Super Bowl XLII then they have done exactly what everyone expects. Furthermore if they do lose to a team that is currently 18-0 there is no shame. What the Giants can do is one more time shock the world. If the Giants can come together as a team and defeat the best team in the history of the NFL then their run will go down as perhaps the best playoff run in all of sports. A lot of glory to be had here, and somehow although I don't think that they will win, they certainly can.
With the third coldest gametime temperature in NFL history looming down on Big Blue, especially Eli Manning the Giants came out and yet again shocked the world, yet if you ask anyone on the team, the only shock is that no one had faith that they could do it. But that feeling is the reason why they are here. This team was at the brink of destruction last season, but fueled by a new Tom Coughlin and the lack of outspoken players this time around, this team came together and has played as one. The players all rely on each other and have taken the word team to a whole new level.
There are so many performances in this game that need recognition. First off Eli Manning needs to be praised for his performance. It was not a great day for Eli, but he did exactly enough to help them win. He made big throws when needed and did suffer a few drops by his receivers. What we must realize is that Eli is never going to win football games on his own ability such as Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, but he will put you in position to win consistantly, and that is why the Giants are playing in the Super Bowl.
Plaxico Burress was even more impressive with his 11 catch 154 yard performance. Pro-bowl corner Al Harris was on him all game, yet again and again Burress was able to get open. Considering he has played basically the whole season with a torn ankle ligament he deserves so much credit for what he has done. He schooled Al Harris in a way that I have never seen a receiver single handedly destroy a corner. What a tremendous performance from Burress.
Perhaps there is no one else who is more deserving of recognition than Corey Webster. The re-emergence of Webster has been a catalyst in the Giants run to Super Bowl XLII and there is no bigger play than the interception in overtime that led to the winning field goal. Corey Webster's NFL was nothing more than dead until injuries forced him into uniform again. Now he has resurrected his career and may even end up starting at corner next season.
3 other things I liked:
1. Antonio Pierce- That play on the screen was incredible. More importantly, that play would have probably gone for a touchdown if Pierce did not get through 3 blockers to make the play. He is the heart and soul of this defense.
2. Ahmad Bradshaw- I know the 46 yard TD run got called back but what a run! He is going to be a star. He has speed strength and vision, a combo that will make him a very good running back in the NFL for years to come.
3. Amani Toomer- With his best years behind him, he has risen up to the task in the 2007 playoffs. His sideline catch was one that took tremendous concentration to get his feet down. He will need to play even bigger in the Super Bowl with New England sure to try and limit Plaxico Burress.
The 2007 season for the Giants was not a smooth one. Even after the winning streak that saw them at 6-2, the Giants faltered and at one point it seemed as if Eli was perhaps incapable of leading this team anymore. At some point late in the season, perhaps in the snow in Buffalo on the day the Giants clinched a playoff birth a light went on. A season that was by many, including myself supposed to end in frustration after a loss to Tampa Bay has now become one of the most memorable in team history.
I leave you with this: If the Giants lose in Super Bowl XLII then they have done exactly what everyone expects. Furthermore if they do lose to a team that is currently 18-0 there is no shame. What the Giants can do is one more time shock the world. If the Giants can come together as a team and defeat the best team in the history of the NFL then their run will go down as perhaps the best playoff run in all of sports. A lot of glory to be had here, and somehow although I don't think that they will win, they certainly can.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
GIANTS WIN IN OT ADVANCE TO SUPER BOWL!!!
Destiny? Fate? Luck?
I don't know. All I do know is that my heart was in my throat after the both of the Tynes misses.
Corey Webster. So many times he was shunned and benched for his play. He came up with the biggest play of his career, and one of the biggest in team history.
This is amazing.
To think that if the Giants can somehow pull it out in 2 weeks it may be the most impressive turnaround in NFL history.
No chance in Tampa, no chance in Dallas, no chance in Green Bay. Not having a chance has not stopped this team yet. Who knows what may happen in the Super Bowl. We can only keep bELIeving.
What an amazing game.
I don't know. All I do know is that my heart was in my throat after the both of the Tynes misses.
Corey Webster. So many times he was shunned and benched for his play. He came up with the biggest play of his career, and one of the biggest in team history.
This is amazing.
To think that if the Giants can somehow pull it out in 2 weeks it may be the most impressive turnaround in NFL history.
No chance in Tampa, no chance in Dallas, no chance in Green Bay. Not having a chance has not stopped this team yet. Who knows what may happen in the Super Bowl. We can only keep bELIeving.
What an amazing game.
Touchdown! Giants 20-17
A very nice drive by the offense. Some great throws by Eli and an unbelievable catch by Amani Toomer.
Ahmad Bradshaw looked very good on the drive including the great TD run. He needs to be in there the rest of the way.
Defense gets another chance to make a huge stop.
Ahmad Bradshaw looked very good on the drive including the great TD run. He needs to be in there the rest of the way.
Defense gets another chance to make a huge stop.
Packers 17-13
What an absolutely pathetic call.
Madison and Morency were wrapped up both tangling. HOW DO YOU CALL THAT ON MADISON?
I'm sorry, but that is not a penalty on either player as they were both going at it, and especially on 4th down in the NFC Championship game.
What an awful, awful call.
But that is how it is and now the Giants need to go to work again.
Madison and Morency were wrapped up both tangling. HOW DO YOU CALL THAT ON MADISON?
I'm sorry, but that is not a penalty on either player as they were both going at it, and especially on 4th down in the NFC Championship game.
What an awful, awful call.
But that is how it is and now the Giants need to go to work again.
Giants 13-10
This drive wasn't exactly pretty.
For the Packers it was downright awful. There are no excuses for a terrible foul by Al Harris, then the late hit by Collins, and then the two defensive offsides. Doesn't matter though as the Giants take these blunders and score. That is what you have to do. If the other team gives you an opportunity you need to take it.
The defense is going to have to battle even harder than the second half in Dallas. This is going to be some half.
For the Packers it was downright awful. There are no excuses for a terrible foul by Al Harris, then the late hit by Collins, and then the two defensive offsides. Doesn't matter though as the Giants take these blunders and score. That is what you have to do. If the other team gives you an opportunity you need to take it.
The defense is going to have to battle even harder than the second half in Dallas. This is going to be some half.
Halftime: Packers 10 Giants 6
This is an interesting game because although the Giants find themselves down by 4 points they feel so much in the game. In that regard they are also a play away from being 11 points down and in a big hole.
The drive to start the half will be crucial. If the Giants go 3 and out it will give all the momentum to the Packers. A good drive by the Giants and this becomes a tight half.
The Giants need to realize that the Packers will start to make adjustments to stop Plaxico Burress, which will leave other players open. I would like to see Kevin Boss get some catches on the drive.
Also, they still need to utilize the running game to keep the Packers off balance.
Defensively it is simple. They have to make the Packers work, because when they have had to they only have scored 3 points.
The drive to start the half will be crucial. If the Giants go 3 and out it will give all the momentum to the Packers. A good drive by the Giants and this becomes a tight half.
The Giants need to realize that the Packers will start to make adjustments to stop Plaxico Burress, which will leave other players open. I would like to see Kevin Boss get some catches on the drive.
Also, they still need to utilize the running game to keep the Packers off balance.
Defensively it is simple. They have to make the Packers work, because when they have had to they only have scored 3 points.
7-6 Pack
What an awful display of pass coverage.
The Giants were dominating the half, and now they are down a point.
As i said, ask the Chargers what field goals do for you.
The Giants need to respond with at least some sort of drive here or the momentum reallllllly starts to shift.
This is a make or break point in this game.
The Giants were dominating the half, and now they are down a point.
As i said, ask the Chargers what field goals do for you.
The Giants need to respond with at least some sort of drive here or the momentum reallllllly starts to shift.
This is a make or break point in this game.
Giants 6-0
Another nice drive stalls.
The FG helps, but all I can say is; ask the Chargers about finishing nice drives with field goals.
Gotta score touchdowns.
Lets hope the defense can continue the solid play.
The FG helps, but all I can say is; ask the Chargers about finishing nice drives with field goals.
Gotta score touchdowns.
Lets hope the defense can continue the solid play.
Giants 3-0
The run game is having trouble getting going, but they need to keep working on it.
Eli looked good on the drive until that final play where defensive end Cullen Jenkins filled a lane and almost picked it off.
It may be only 3, but it is a drive nonetheless.
Keeping the ball out of Brett Favre's hands is the best defense.
Eli looked good on the drive until that final play where defensive end Cullen Jenkins filled a lane and almost picked it off.
It may be only 3, but it is a drive nonetheless.
Keeping the ball out of Brett Favre's hands is the best defense.
Defense Holds
Nice stand by the defense. A couple of quick first downs on roll outs by Favre started to make the Packers first drive scary, but the defense looks good.
Gibril Wilson seemed to have baited Favre into making that throw as he played off of Jennings and then closed and almost came away with the INT.
Now, RUN THE BALL!
Gibril Wilson seemed to have baited Favre into making that throw as he played off of Jennings and then closed and almost came away with the INT.
Now, RUN THE BALL!
Gametime
So nervous right now...
Eli is sitting there on the sidelines noticeably in discomfort from the zero degree weather.
The Giants MUST limit the turnovers today if they hope to win. Plain and simple.
Here we go!
Eli is sitting there on the sidelines noticeably in discomfort from the zero degree weather.
The Giants MUST limit the turnovers today if they hope to win. Plain and simple.
Here we go!
The Frozen Tundra Awaits
- By Dave Turner
Game time temperatures will hover around zero degrees Fahrenheit. The Giants chances of winning this game according to mostly everyone not included in some way with the Giants? Also hovering around zero. Despite what are certainly huge odds to overcome the Giants will attempt to shock the world yet again on Sunday. If they can pull out the huge upset at Lambeau, and granted that they can thaw out in time, the Giants will be headed to the 4th Super Bowl appearance in franchise history.
For this game to be won it will require yet another great all around team effort. Eli Manning has been known for his struggles in the cold, and this will be the coldest game he may ever face. Manning will wear a glove on his left (non-throwing) hand in order to help keep a better grip on the ball.
Here are my keys to winning, both offensively and defensively.
When the Giants have the ball:
The gameplan is simple. Run, run, run and oh yeah.. run! The cold weather and wind will make every drop back treacherous, and the best way to avoid that is to run the ball effectively . The Packers have an extremely fast and aggressive defense that will surely test the Giants running attack. Brandon Jacobs should get in there early to pound it out and start making the Packers defense a little less edgy. For those who have to hit Brandon Jacobs in negative degree weather repeatedly, I don't care how big and strong you are, it is going to hurt. The Giants should also mix in a healthy amount of Ahmad Bradshaw. He possesses the ability to take one to the house should he break a tackle or two, and in this game one big play could be all it takes. The biggest thing out of the running game needs to be ball security. If the Giants lose the turnover battle in this game I can almost guarantee that they will lose. Jacobs especially must tuck the ball and make sure to not give the Packers any gifts. As for Eli, he should continue to do nothing more than be smart with the ball. Forcing throws in this weather is a very bad idea, because wind, and the cold can many times make the ball travel an unintended path. Safe short throws mixed with a solid running game is what will be needed.
When the Giants are on defense:
Watching Ryan Grant absolutely torch the Seattle Seahawks last week the Giants need to be worried about stopping the run. The way to do that is to simply load the box. With the conditions, it will not be the easiest thing for Brett Favre to throw the ball downfield, so loading the box up and stopping the run is key. If Grant has a huge day, it will keep the intermediate passing game open, and with Green Bay's talented receivers that cannot happen. Brett Favre loves to get into a gunslinging mode, and what the Giants need to do is find a way to get enough pressure to force Favre to start throwing up ducks. Favre is prone to interceptions because of his tendency to force balls, and there is no better way to do that than to get pressure. If the Giants can't get pressure? Well, Brett will be enjoying Arizona in two weeks. For a defense that rose to the occasion in Tampa, and then played an unbelievable game in Dallas, this will be an even tough task. It can be done, but not without limiting the running game and pressuring Favre.
3 Important Matchups:
1. Osi Umenyiora and Michael Strahan vs. Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher- The two Green Bay tackles may be the key to the game for Green Bay. If they keep the Giants DE's controlled it will be huge. Mark Tauscher is a tremendous player, but expect Michael Strahan to give it his all. Chad Clifton does have trouble with speed rushers, like Umenyiora but has been solid all year. The weakness of the Green Bay line is up the middle, and is where the Giants may need to bring the heat if the tackles are playing well.
2. David Diehl and Kareem McKenzie vs. Cullen Jenkins and Aaron Kampman- Keeping Eli upright will be so important in this game, because if he gets sacked, there is more than a good chance that he could have trouble holding on to the ball. Eli will be looking to get rid of the ball quick, but if he is given time to make his reads he will be able to find targets. Aaron Kampman is a pure force at defensive end, and will need to be double teamed or at least chipped by a running back on every passing play. He must be contained.
3. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw vs. The Green Bay Linebackers- While Brandon Jacobs is going to try to punish the tacklers he faces, Ahmad Bradshaw will try to evade them. The key to neutralizing this group is to attack quickly and get into the second level. Running to the outside is tough because of how quick A.J Hawk, Nick Barnett and Brady Poppinga are. Cutback plays and traps can work as the Giants need to get them to overpursue. Bradshaw could find a lot of success running against them, by using their speed to his advantage on the cutback.
My Pick:
This game is hard to pick as far as a scoring standpoint goes because of the cold. If this game is played in normal conditions, I think the total score is somewhere around 50 points or so. Due to the cold I think it will be lower scoring. The thing that happens so many times in big games like this is, things go back and forth for a while. As soon as one team gets a big break, and they can start feeling the Super Bowl in their grasp it tends to lead to a score that many times gets amplified in the final quarter. I haven't picked the Giants to win yet, so why break the trend. It is one thing beating Dallas with an unexperienced quarterback, but this is Brett Favre playing at home. It doesn't get much tougher than that. I do think that the Giants will stick around in this one for a while, but in the end Favre will find a way to make enough plays to get it done. This is certainly not an impossible game to win, but it will take yet another monumental effort by the defense.
The Pick: Packers 27 Giants 10
Game time temperatures will hover around zero degrees Fahrenheit. The Giants chances of winning this game according to mostly everyone not included in some way with the Giants? Also hovering around zero. Despite what are certainly huge odds to overcome the Giants will attempt to shock the world yet again on Sunday. If they can pull out the huge upset at Lambeau, and granted that they can thaw out in time, the Giants will be headed to the 4th Super Bowl appearance in franchise history.
For this game to be won it will require yet another great all around team effort. Eli Manning has been known for his struggles in the cold, and this will be the coldest game he may ever face. Manning will wear a glove on his left (non-throwing) hand in order to help keep a better grip on the ball.
Here are my keys to winning, both offensively and defensively.
When the Giants have the ball:
The gameplan is simple. Run, run, run and oh yeah.. run! The cold weather and wind will make every drop back treacherous, and the best way to avoid that is to run the ball effectively . The Packers have an extremely fast and aggressive defense that will surely test the Giants running attack. Brandon Jacobs should get in there early to pound it out and start making the Packers defense a little less edgy. For those who have to hit Brandon Jacobs in negative degree weather repeatedly, I don't care how big and strong you are, it is going to hurt. The Giants should also mix in a healthy amount of Ahmad Bradshaw. He possesses the ability to take one to the house should he break a tackle or two, and in this game one big play could be all it takes. The biggest thing out of the running game needs to be ball security. If the Giants lose the turnover battle in this game I can almost guarantee that they will lose. Jacobs especially must tuck the ball and make sure to not give the Packers any gifts. As for Eli, he should continue to do nothing more than be smart with the ball. Forcing throws in this weather is a very bad idea, because wind, and the cold can many times make the ball travel an unintended path. Safe short throws mixed with a solid running game is what will be needed.
When the Giants are on defense:
Watching Ryan Grant absolutely torch the Seattle Seahawks last week the Giants need to be worried about stopping the run. The way to do that is to simply load the box. With the conditions, it will not be the easiest thing for Brett Favre to throw the ball downfield, so loading the box up and stopping the run is key. If Grant has a huge day, it will keep the intermediate passing game open, and with Green Bay's talented receivers that cannot happen. Brett Favre loves to get into a gunslinging mode, and what the Giants need to do is find a way to get enough pressure to force Favre to start throwing up ducks. Favre is prone to interceptions because of his tendency to force balls, and there is no better way to do that than to get pressure. If the Giants can't get pressure? Well, Brett will be enjoying Arizona in two weeks. For a defense that rose to the occasion in Tampa, and then played an unbelievable game in Dallas, this will be an even tough task. It can be done, but not without limiting the running game and pressuring Favre.
3 Important Matchups:
1. Osi Umenyiora and Michael Strahan vs. Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher- The two Green Bay tackles may be the key to the game for Green Bay. If they keep the Giants DE's controlled it will be huge. Mark Tauscher is a tremendous player, but expect Michael Strahan to give it his all. Chad Clifton does have trouble with speed rushers, like Umenyiora but has been solid all year. The weakness of the Green Bay line is up the middle, and is where the Giants may need to bring the heat if the tackles are playing well.
2. David Diehl and Kareem McKenzie vs. Cullen Jenkins and Aaron Kampman- Keeping Eli upright will be so important in this game, because if he gets sacked, there is more than a good chance that he could have trouble holding on to the ball. Eli will be looking to get rid of the ball quick, but if he is given time to make his reads he will be able to find targets. Aaron Kampman is a pure force at defensive end, and will need to be double teamed or at least chipped by a running back on every passing play. He must be contained.
3. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw vs. The Green Bay Linebackers- While Brandon Jacobs is going to try to punish the tacklers he faces, Ahmad Bradshaw will try to evade them. The key to neutralizing this group is to attack quickly and get into the second level. Running to the outside is tough because of how quick A.J Hawk, Nick Barnett and Brady Poppinga are. Cutback plays and traps can work as the Giants need to get them to overpursue. Bradshaw could find a lot of success running against them, by using their speed to his advantage on the cutback.
My Pick:
This game is hard to pick as far as a scoring standpoint goes because of the cold. If this game is played in normal conditions, I think the total score is somewhere around 50 points or so. Due to the cold I think it will be lower scoring. The thing that happens so many times in big games like this is, things go back and forth for a while. As soon as one team gets a big break, and they can start feeling the Super Bowl in their grasp it tends to lead to a score that many times gets amplified in the final quarter. I haven't picked the Giants to win yet, so why break the trend. It is one thing beating Dallas with an unexperienced quarterback, but this is Brett Favre playing at home. It doesn't get much tougher than that. I do think that the Giants will stick around in this one for a while, but in the end Favre will find a way to make enough plays to get it done. This is certainly not an impossible game to win, but it will take yet another monumental effort by the defense.
The Pick: Packers 27 Giants 10
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
60 Minutes From Arizona
While the Giants 21-17 win over the Cowboys last Sunday was not the biggest win in franchise history in terms of what was gained, it did serve as a great reminder of what happens when a team actually plays as a team. Despite the Cowboys being loaded with pro-bowlers, and the Giants having only one , in the end it was about the defense stepping up as a unit to stifle the Cowboys and preserve the victory.
There is no doubt that what we saw in the 2nd half from the Giants defense is one of the most amazing defensive performances put forth in Giants history. Why exactly? Because this unit was torched for 80 points in the two regular season games, yet somehow they came together in Dallas when it mattered the most. Yes, the 100+ yards gained by Marion Barber in the first half were bad, but the transformation by the defense at halftime was something out of a movie almost. The second half saw the Giants defense get a tremendous amount of pressure on Tony Romo. Although they only finished with 2 sacks on the night, the constant pressure not only cause Romo to be inaccurate, but many times Romo ended a play looking face down at the Texas Stadium Turf.
When it came to the final drive of the game, with the Cowboys just a touchdown away from winning, and the Giants defense running on fumes they posted their biggest effort yet. What the defense was able to do in their constant pressure of Tony Romo was simply incredible.
The effort put forth on both sides of the ball was tremendous and that is the reason why the Giants are now a game away from the Super Bowl.
Eli Manning again played turnover free, and Amani Toomer again showed that he can still play. They will face huge odds in Green Bay, but at this point who knows what this team can do. When a team believes in themselves it is one thing, but the Giants believe in each other, and that is something that may bring them to Glendale Arizona.
Packers pregame coming Saturday.
There is no doubt that what we saw in the 2nd half from the Giants defense is one of the most amazing defensive performances put forth in Giants history. Why exactly? Because this unit was torched for 80 points in the two regular season games, yet somehow they came together in Dallas when it mattered the most. Yes, the 100+ yards gained by Marion Barber in the first half were bad, but the transformation by the defense at halftime was something out of a movie almost. The second half saw the Giants defense get a tremendous amount of pressure on Tony Romo. Although they only finished with 2 sacks on the night, the constant pressure not only cause Romo to be inaccurate, but many times Romo ended a play looking face down at the Texas Stadium Turf.
When it came to the final drive of the game, with the Cowboys just a touchdown away from winning, and the Giants defense running on fumes they posted their biggest effort yet. What the defense was able to do in their constant pressure of Tony Romo was simply incredible.
The effort put forth on both sides of the ball was tremendous and that is the reason why the Giants are now a game away from the Super Bowl.
Eli Manning again played turnover free, and Amani Toomer again showed that he can still play. They will face huge odds in Green Bay, but at this point who knows what this team can do. When a team believes in themselves it is one thing, but the Giants believe in each other, and that is something that may bring them to Glendale Arizona.
Packers pregame coming Saturday.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
GIANTS WINNNNN!!!!
I am still shaking right now... I didn't dare post in the second half.
What a performance by the defense. They came up HUGE after getting beat in the first half.
Unbelievable performance all around.
ON TO GREEN BAY!
What a performance by the defense. They came up HUGE after getting beat in the first half.
Unbelievable performance all around.
ON TO GREEN BAY!
Halftime Giants 14 Cowboys 14
This was a very interesting half.
The Cowboys have seemingly dominated this game, yet the score is tied.
The Giants defense cannot allow Marion Barber to keep shredding them. More importantly, if the Cowboys keep driving the ball for 9, 10+ minutes the Giants defense is eventually going to get gassed.
A very solid first half from Eli. 2 TD's and again no interceptions. Hats off to Amani Toomer who now has 3 touchdowns in this post season.
This will be a competitive second half but the Giants NEED to stop letting the Cowboys control the ball for so long.
The first turnover may be the difference here.
The Cowboys have seemingly dominated this game, yet the score is tied.
The Giants defense cannot allow Marion Barber to keep shredding them. More importantly, if the Cowboys keep driving the ball for 9, 10+ minutes the Giants defense is eventually going to get gassed.
A very solid first half from Eli. 2 TD's and again no interceptions. Hats off to Amani Toomer who now has 3 touchdowns in this post season.
This will be a competitive second half but the Giants NEED to stop letting the Cowboys control the ball for so long.
The first turnover may be the difference here.
Touchdown Dallas
This is going to take a good amount of points by either team to win.
The tackling, or lack their of by the Giants on that drive was awful.
Let's' hope that the offense can respond here. A 3 and out would give all the momentum to Dallas
The tackling, or lack their of by the Giants on that drive was awful.
Let's' hope that the offense can respond here. A 3 and out would give all the momentum to Dallas
TOUCHDOWN
Amani Toomer runs yet another great route, and this time he avoids the Dallas defenders to take it to the house. Again Toomer proves why he is my favorite Giant.
A lead here, but 7 points still won't cut it.
Defense needs to show up. Let's go.
A lead here, but 7 points still won't cut it.
Defense needs to show up. Let's go.
Here We Go
Pretty jittery here.
The Giants will have to play their best football to win today.
Let's hope Terrell Owens is not 100% or they are in trouble.
Go Giants!
The Giants will have to play their best football to win today.
Let's hope Terrell Owens is not 100% or they are in trouble.
Go Giants!
Friday, January 11, 2008
Showdown In Big D
- By Dave Turner
The Giants have earned the rite to play the Cowboys for a 3rd time this season. Many believe that the third time may be the charm for the Giants. I myself am not convinced this can be done. Part of that may be that every time I think of the Giants playing the Cowboys this season, I see images of Patrick Crayton, Terrell Owens and Jason Witten catching passes as Tony Romo picks apart the Giants secondary. I also remember the frustration of Eli Manning being sacked twice in a row when the Giants tried to mount their comeback at home later in the year. These memories are there because simply the Cowboys dominated the Giants twice this season. With those games in the past, the Giants are going to come out with confidence and focus as they try to get to within one game of the Super Bowl.
Here is my breakdown of what the Giants need to do to be successful in Dallas.
When the Giants have the ball:
The Giants offense has been better the last few weeks after hitting a slump mid-season. Much of the revival of the offense is due to the running attack which now features a healthy Brandon Jacobs and speedster Ahmad Bradshaw. The way to get those two going is to keep the Cowboys off balance with the pass. Eli will need to have another exceptional game for the Giants to stay competitive. He will need to not only spread the ball around, but be smart with his throws and limit mistakes. The difference in this game may surely be the turnover battle. Look for the Giants to get Kevin Boss involved to loosen up the coverage on the receivers.
The Dallas defense is a very talented unit which features a great pass rush. One of the biggest tasks will be blocking pro bowl OLB DeMarcus Ware. David Diehl will have to step up in this game in order for Eli to get enough time to throw. Mixing in the play action pass is a must, especially if they can get Safety Roy Williams to commit on the run. Plaxico Burress like usual has a height advantage over the Dallas corners so they should look to try and stretch the field. When it comes down to it the Giants would like to be able to score early in this one and just ride the 2 headed running attack late in the game. Easier said than done.
When the Giants are on defense:
A lot needs to be changed on defense if the Giants expect to win. The Cowboys torched the Giants twice this season through the air. The biggest area of concern for the Giants must be their lack of pass rush. Tony Romo was so successful in the prior two games due to the fact that he was able to step up or get outside the pocket and make throws. The Giants must contain Romo in the pocket and bring pressure up the middle forcing him to have to step up into the blitz and make throws. If the Giants do not get sufficient pressure on Romo they will be in for a long day. It won't even take a 3-4 sack day to do it, but pressure is needed in order to make Romo get rid of the ball quicker than he wants to.
The pass rush will also be helped by solid coverage from the secondary. With injuries to Kevin Dockery and presumable Sam Madison the Giants will be thin at corner. So thin in fact, that mid-season free agent rookie pickup Geoffrey Pope will probably see work as the dime back. Scary thought isn't it? Corey Webster was fantastic against Tampa Bay and will need to at least try his best to keep the Dallas receivers at bay. Ross and Webster may each be lining up against Terrell Owens during the game, which even though Owens is injured is no easy task. The most important thing? Do not give up the long pass to Owens.
Stopping Marion Barber will also be a tough job for this unit. Barber is not only dangerous running the ball, but he is many times the recipient of dump passes from Romo. Stopping Barber will force the Cowboys to become one dimensional, and if the Giants cannot do that it will only complicate things further
3 Biggest Matchups
1. Offensive Line vs. Cowboys Pass Rush- If the Giants cannot keep Eli Manning upright they will not win. Not to mention Eli tends to get a little jittery once he knows that there is pressure. If it takes keeping a tight end in to help block then that is what must be done.
2. Defensive Line vs. Cowboys Line/Tony Romo- The Giants have sacked Tony Romo only twice this year. If they want to do enough to stop the Cowboy's offense they need to get pressure. Even if it isn't a sack they MUST hurry Romo or he will pick the Giants apart. Need any more proof of that? Just watch a replay of both games this season.
3. Corey Webster/Aaron Ross vs. Terrell Owens- Last time T.O had an injury and played through it he finished with 9 catches for 131 yards in the Super Bowl with the Eagles. The Giants cannot let that be the case. T.O will obviously get his share of catches, but the most important thing is not allowing the Cowboys to go deep. Aaron Ross and Corey Webster will be facing the biggest test of their careers.
The Pick-
I know the Giants have momentum, but as I stated earlier I just keep replaying all of those Romo TD passes in my head every time I think of the Cowboys. I don't think that the Giants will be able to get enough pressure to disrupt Romo, and if they do I think it will be at the expense of coverage, which had even worse results for the Giants. For example, during the game at home versus the Cowboys on a 3rd down the Giants blitzed Aaron Ross from the slot. Romo found the open man and bought just enough time to make the throw. The only way to get pressure without giving up bodies in coverage is to do it with the front 4. I do feel that Eli will have a nice game, but in the end his offense will not be able to match that of the Cowboys. Eli has proved me wrong, so now it's up for the Defense to prove me wrong. I just don't think that can happen
The Pick- Cowboys 34 Giants 23
The Giants have earned the rite to play the Cowboys for a 3rd time this season. Many believe that the third time may be the charm for the Giants. I myself am not convinced this can be done. Part of that may be that every time I think of the Giants playing the Cowboys this season, I see images of Patrick Crayton, Terrell Owens and Jason Witten catching passes as Tony Romo picks apart the Giants secondary. I also remember the frustration of Eli Manning being sacked twice in a row when the Giants tried to mount their comeback at home later in the year. These memories are there because simply the Cowboys dominated the Giants twice this season. With those games in the past, the Giants are going to come out with confidence and focus as they try to get to within one game of the Super Bowl.
Here is my breakdown of what the Giants need to do to be successful in Dallas.
When the Giants have the ball:
The Giants offense has been better the last few weeks after hitting a slump mid-season. Much of the revival of the offense is due to the running attack which now features a healthy Brandon Jacobs and speedster Ahmad Bradshaw. The way to get those two going is to keep the Cowboys off balance with the pass. Eli will need to have another exceptional game for the Giants to stay competitive. He will need to not only spread the ball around, but be smart with his throws and limit mistakes. The difference in this game may surely be the turnover battle. Look for the Giants to get Kevin Boss involved to loosen up the coverage on the receivers.
The Dallas defense is a very talented unit which features a great pass rush. One of the biggest tasks will be blocking pro bowl OLB DeMarcus Ware. David Diehl will have to step up in this game in order for Eli to get enough time to throw. Mixing in the play action pass is a must, especially if they can get Safety Roy Williams to commit on the run. Plaxico Burress like usual has a height advantage over the Dallas corners so they should look to try and stretch the field. When it comes down to it the Giants would like to be able to score early in this one and just ride the 2 headed running attack late in the game. Easier said than done.
When the Giants are on defense:
A lot needs to be changed on defense if the Giants expect to win. The Cowboys torched the Giants twice this season through the air. The biggest area of concern for the Giants must be their lack of pass rush. Tony Romo was so successful in the prior two games due to the fact that he was able to step up or get outside the pocket and make throws. The Giants must contain Romo in the pocket and bring pressure up the middle forcing him to have to step up into the blitz and make throws. If the Giants do not get sufficient pressure on Romo they will be in for a long day. It won't even take a 3-4 sack day to do it, but pressure is needed in order to make Romo get rid of the ball quicker than he wants to.
The pass rush will also be helped by solid coverage from the secondary. With injuries to Kevin Dockery and presumable Sam Madison the Giants will be thin at corner. So thin in fact, that mid-season free agent rookie pickup Geoffrey Pope will probably see work as the dime back. Scary thought isn't it? Corey Webster was fantastic against Tampa Bay and will need to at least try his best to keep the Dallas receivers at bay. Ross and Webster may each be lining up against Terrell Owens during the game, which even though Owens is injured is no easy task. The most important thing? Do not give up the long pass to Owens.
Stopping Marion Barber will also be a tough job for this unit. Barber is not only dangerous running the ball, but he is many times the recipient of dump passes from Romo. Stopping Barber will force the Cowboys to become one dimensional, and if the Giants cannot do that it will only complicate things further
3 Biggest Matchups
1. Offensive Line vs. Cowboys Pass Rush- If the Giants cannot keep Eli Manning upright they will not win. Not to mention Eli tends to get a little jittery once he knows that there is pressure. If it takes keeping a tight end in to help block then that is what must be done.
2. Defensive Line vs. Cowboys Line/Tony Romo- The Giants have sacked Tony Romo only twice this year. If they want to do enough to stop the Cowboy's offense they need to get pressure. Even if it isn't a sack they MUST hurry Romo or he will pick the Giants apart. Need any more proof of that? Just watch a replay of both games this season.
3. Corey Webster/Aaron Ross vs. Terrell Owens- Last time T.O had an injury and played through it he finished with 9 catches for 131 yards in the Super Bowl with the Eagles. The Giants cannot let that be the case. T.O will obviously get his share of catches, but the most important thing is not allowing the Cowboys to go deep. Aaron Ross and Corey Webster will be facing the biggest test of their careers.
The Pick-
I know the Giants have momentum, but as I stated earlier I just keep replaying all of those Romo TD passes in my head every time I think of the Cowboys. I don't think that the Giants will be able to get enough pressure to disrupt Romo, and if they do I think it will be at the expense of coverage, which had even worse results for the Giants. For example, during the game at home versus the Cowboys on a 3rd down the Giants blitzed Aaron Ross from the slot. Romo found the open man and bought just enough time to make the throw. The only way to get pressure without giving up bodies in coverage is to do it with the front 4. I do feel that Eli will have a nice game, but in the end his offense will not be able to match that of the Cowboys. Eli has proved me wrong, so now it's up for the Defense to prove me wrong. I just don't think that can happen
The Pick- Cowboys 34 Giants 23
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Mid-Week Update
- Dave Turner
Some injuries, and some Cowboys news to report as of Wednesday.
For the Giants, Sam Madison and Kareem McKenzie did not practice.
McKenzie has an ankle injury, and seems like he will be ready. As for Sam Madison, he may not be recovered in time from his chest injury.
Shaun O'Hara was very limited in practice, but it is a very good sign that he at least was doing something.
Plaxico Burress did not practice, but that is not a surprise. Kevin Dockery also did not practice with a hip injury that has nagged him for a few weeks. His status is not yet known.
As for the Cowboys, the only major injury is to Terrell Owens. While the early talk was that he would play, he was not even at the Cowboys facility today as he was getting work done on his ankle.
ESPN Analyst John Clayton has listed Owens as Doubtful. This would surely be a huge blow to the Cowboys offense if he cannot play. It is at least expected that if he does play he will not be at 100%.
The Tony Romo Jessica Simpson relationship continues to take center stage. With the constant media barrage following Romo's trip to Mexico with Ms. Simpson, there are a lot of people questioning whether Romo will be prepared for this weekend's game.
I will say this: Either Romo will be wanting so bad to prove everyone wrong that he just goes off and torches the Giants, or he really isn't mentally there and accompanied by the lack of T.O, he struggles.
I'm not sure which one it will be come Sunday, but I'm sure hoping that its the latter.
More later in the week.
Some injuries, and some Cowboys news to report as of Wednesday.
For the Giants, Sam Madison and Kareem McKenzie did not practice.
McKenzie has an ankle injury, and seems like he will be ready. As for Sam Madison, he may not be recovered in time from his chest injury.
Shaun O'Hara was very limited in practice, but it is a very good sign that he at least was doing something.
Plaxico Burress did not practice, but that is not a surprise. Kevin Dockery also did not practice with a hip injury that has nagged him for a few weeks. His status is not yet known.
As for the Cowboys, the only major injury is to Terrell Owens. While the early talk was that he would play, he was not even at the Cowboys facility today as he was getting work done on his ankle.
ESPN Analyst John Clayton has listed Owens as Doubtful. This would surely be a huge blow to the Cowboys offense if he cannot play. It is at least expected that if he does play he will not be at 100%.
The Tony Romo Jessica Simpson relationship continues to take center stage. With the constant media barrage following Romo's trip to Mexico with Ms. Simpson, there are a lot of people questioning whether Romo will be prepared for this weekend's game.
I will say this: Either Romo will be wanting so bad to prove everyone wrong that he just goes off and torches the Giants, or he really isn't mentally there and accompanied by the lack of T.O, he struggles.
I'm not sure which one it will be come Sunday, but I'm sure hoping that its the latter.
More later in the week.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Giants roll into Dallas
- Dave Turner
When the final whistle blew signifying the Giants 24-14 win over Tampa Bay, the Giants had done so much more than just win a playoff game. With the win, the almost insurmountable amount of weight on both Eli Manning and Tom Coughlin had lifted... at least until next Sunday.
Giants fans can rejoice in the win, the club's first since the 41-0 drubbing of the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Championship game back in 2000. While all is fine in Giantsland for now, a huge matchup looms against the team that twice embarrassed the Giants defense this season. Not to look ahead just yet, there is much praise to be given for the team's performance against the Bucs.
The most convenient route would be to discuss the play of Eli Manning, but rather I will start by discussing some of the other bright points of today's win. The one performance that stood out to me above the rest was that of Corey Webster. Webster lost his starting job early in the season, and had even fallen so far down the depth chart that he did not dress for the majority of the games this season. Pressed into duty due to injuries, Webster saw action in the Buffalo game. Upon picking off a pass for a touchdown he saw playing time against the Patriots as well. Today, he was forced into a starting role and came up bigger than anyone could predict. Webster's interception of Jeff Garcia in the endzone was only one example of the exceptional coverage he had on Joey Galloway all game. For Corey Webster this may be a rebirth after his career was all but dead.
Ahmad Bradshaw came back from his injury to run very well in the second half. Bradshaw has emerged as a more than capable change of pace for Brandon Jacobs. Jacobs himself had trouble finding a lot of room against a swarming Bucs defense, but he did run for a touchdown and catch a touchdown as well. The offensive line must also get a lot of credit for the job they did in protecting Eli. For the most part Eli was able to step up in the pocket and deliver the ball without facing much pressure. The pass blocking came up big, and will have a tall task next week against a tough Cowboys front seven.
Now, on to Eli. I will be the first to acknowledge that he proved me wrong. I tabbed him as the QB who would make one more mistake that would cost the Giants the game. Jeff Garcia was in fact the one who made the mistakes, as Eli led an efficient and smart passing attack. Certainly, most important of all his stats on the day was the 0 in the turnover category. Eli showed great poise and decision making abilities as many times he pumped and read the field scanning through the defense to find the open receiver. His play was very good. Lets not go crazy and anoint him the next best thing. Lets let Eli shut everyone else up with another big performance next week.
This win was more than just a win for this team. It shows that when Eli plays well this team is capable of winning big games against good teams. Regardless of the result of next week's game the Giants now have a blueprint on which to build on. Improve the secondary a bit, add another receiver and this team may be able to compete toe to toe with the best this league has. Hell they almost beat the Patriots a few weeks ago. The sky is the limit for Big Blue when Eli plays well. If that becomes a frequent occurrence then maybe Eli is the real deal. Let him prove that this game was not just an aberration, as I've been saying, prove me wrong Eli... prove me wrong.
Three Things I Liked:
1. Gerris Wilkinson- The more I see this kid play the more I like him. He has great speed and shows good tackling ability. He can cover well and should be in there next week covering Marion Barber or Jason Witten.
2. Grey Ruegamer- The veteran backup filled in for Shaun O'Hara valiantly. He helped coordinate the blitz pickup and allowed Eli to be able to step up into the pocket.
3. Amani Toomer- With the Bucs focusing a lot on limiting Plaxico Burress, Toomer made a bunch of key catches. The wily veteran showed his great route running ability finishing with 7 catches for 74 yards and a touchdown in the second half.
Three Things I Didn't Like:
1. 4th quarter blitzing- The Giants kept blitzing Jeff Garcia, even late in the 4th quarter with the score 24-7. The blitzing allowed Garcia to find open receivers and helped result in the Bucs second touchdown of the game.
2. Early Offensive Playcalling- Although the offense was effective in the second half, they struggled early. It was not until the Giants got the intermediate passing game going that the running game was able to work.
3. Jeff Garcia- How many times did he narrowly escape a sack only to complete a pass. God, it was nice to finally see the Giants finally beat him. Now on to Tony Romo, whom I would like to see the Giants beat into the Texas Stadium turf repeatedly.
Check back later in the week for a complete set of breakdowns for the big showdown in Dallas.
When the final whistle blew signifying the Giants 24-14 win over Tampa Bay, the Giants had done so much more than just win a playoff game. With the win, the almost insurmountable amount of weight on both Eli Manning and Tom Coughlin had lifted... at least until next Sunday.
Giants fans can rejoice in the win, the club's first since the 41-0 drubbing of the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Championship game back in 2000. While all is fine in Giantsland for now, a huge matchup looms against the team that twice embarrassed the Giants defense this season. Not to look ahead just yet, there is much praise to be given for the team's performance against the Bucs.
The most convenient route would be to discuss the play of Eli Manning, but rather I will start by discussing some of the other bright points of today's win. The one performance that stood out to me above the rest was that of Corey Webster. Webster lost his starting job early in the season, and had even fallen so far down the depth chart that he did not dress for the majority of the games this season. Pressed into duty due to injuries, Webster saw action in the Buffalo game. Upon picking off a pass for a touchdown he saw playing time against the Patriots as well. Today, he was forced into a starting role and came up bigger than anyone could predict. Webster's interception of Jeff Garcia in the endzone was only one example of the exceptional coverage he had on Joey Galloway all game. For Corey Webster this may be a rebirth after his career was all but dead.
Ahmad Bradshaw came back from his injury to run very well in the second half. Bradshaw has emerged as a more than capable change of pace for Brandon Jacobs. Jacobs himself had trouble finding a lot of room against a swarming Bucs defense, but he did run for a touchdown and catch a touchdown as well. The offensive line must also get a lot of credit for the job they did in protecting Eli. For the most part Eli was able to step up in the pocket and deliver the ball without facing much pressure. The pass blocking came up big, and will have a tall task next week against a tough Cowboys front seven.
Now, on to Eli. I will be the first to acknowledge that he proved me wrong. I tabbed him as the QB who would make one more mistake that would cost the Giants the game. Jeff Garcia was in fact the one who made the mistakes, as Eli led an efficient and smart passing attack. Certainly, most important of all his stats on the day was the 0 in the turnover category. Eli showed great poise and decision making abilities as many times he pumped and read the field scanning through the defense to find the open receiver. His play was very good. Lets not go crazy and anoint him the next best thing. Lets let Eli shut everyone else up with another big performance next week.
This win was more than just a win for this team. It shows that when Eli plays well this team is capable of winning big games against good teams. Regardless of the result of next week's game the Giants now have a blueprint on which to build on. Improve the secondary a bit, add another receiver and this team may be able to compete toe to toe with the best this league has. Hell they almost beat the Patriots a few weeks ago. The sky is the limit for Big Blue when Eli plays well. If that becomes a frequent occurrence then maybe Eli is the real deal. Let him prove that this game was not just an aberration, as I've been saying, prove me wrong Eli... prove me wrong.
Three Things I Liked:
1. Gerris Wilkinson- The more I see this kid play the more I like him. He has great speed and shows good tackling ability. He can cover well and should be in there next week covering Marion Barber or Jason Witten.
2. Grey Ruegamer- The veteran backup filled in for Shaun O'Hara valiantly. He helped coordinate the blitz pickup and allowed Eli to be able to step up into the pocket.
3. Amani Toomer- With the Bucs focusing a lot on limiting Plaxico Burress, Toomer made a bunch of key catches. The wily veteran showed his great route running ability finishing with 7 catches for 74 yards and a touchdown in the second half.
Three Things I Didn't Like:
1. 4th quarter blitzing- The Giants kept blitzing Jeff Garcia, even late in the 4th quarter with the score 24-7. The blitzing allowed Garcia to find open receivers and helped result in the Bucs second touchdown of the game.
2. Early Offensive Playcalling- Although the offense was effective in the second half, they struggled early. It was not until the Giants got the intermediate passing game going that the running game was able to work.
3. Jeff Garcia- How many times did he narrowly escape a sack only to complete a pass. God, it was nice to finally see the Giants finally beat him. Now on to Tony Romo, whom I would like to see the Giants beat into the Texas Stadium turf repeatedly.
Check back later in the week for a complete set of breakdowns for the big showdown in Dallas.
Giants win 24-14
A nice game all around. The defense was solid, Eli played well and the Giants can feel confident going into a huge matchup with Dallas next Sunday.
I was very impressed by the resilience of the team, and by the performance from Eli.
It will take a huge effort to beat Dallas next week.
Post game coming later.
I was very impressed by the resilience of the team, and by the performance from Eli.
It will take a huge effort to beat Dallas next week.
Post game coming later.
Toomer TD 24-7
A great ready by Eli and another great grab by Toomer to now make it 24-7.
The Giants now need to simply play defense and this one should go in favor of Big Blue.
A great all around performance from the Giants today.
The Giants now need to simply play defense and this one should go in favor of Big Blue.
A great all around performance from the Giants today.
Halfway To Dallas
A good first half after some early struggles.
The key to winning is simple: Don't turn it over and run, run and run the ball.
Also the Giants MUST NOT let Tampa get back in it with a quick strike. Make Tampa work for every yard.
Eli finished the half 11/14 for 108 yards and a touchdown.
Michael Strahan has 6 tackles and a sack.
The key to winning is simple: Don't turn it over and run, run and run the ball.
Also the Giants MUST NOT let Tampa get back in it with a quick strike. Make Tampa work for every yard.
Eli finished the half 11/14 for 108 yards and a touchdown.
Michael Strahan has 6 tackles and a sack.
Jacobs makes it 14-7
Finally Jacobs finds room as he runs it in.
a nice mix of passes that saw Smith and Bradshaw contribute big.
They need to make the stop now and perhaps get a 2 minute drill going.
The D-Line is really getting to Garcia today, forcing him to throw it early.
a nice mix of passes that saw Smith and Bradshaw contribute big.
They need to make the stop now and perhaps get a 2 minute drill going.
The D-Line is really getting to Garcia today, forcing him to throw it early.
Momentum Shift
Giants get a score, then a stop.
They need to come out with a nice drive here to change the course of the game.
Keep throwing the ball to Amani Toomer who is looking great so far.
They need to come out with a nice drive here to change the course of the game.
Keep throwing the ball to Amani Toomer who is looking great so far.
Correct that, one defense showed up
The Giants are lost out there. I think they're still on the tarmac at Newark airport.
Tom Coughlin needs to go if they lose this game. No more mediocrity, its sickening.
It is still 7 points, but7 points seems like 28 at this point.
Are they going to at least make some sort of effort on offense in this game?
Tom Coughlin needs to go if they lose this game. No more mediocrity, its sickening.
It is still 7 points, but7 points seems like 28 at this point.
Are they going to at least make some sort of effort on offense in this game?
Defense may rule
This game is probably going to be very low scoring.
What does that mean? Don't be the one to make the big turnover.
Lets see the Giants actually pound the ball in between the tackles this drive.
Yea! lets run a stretch play against a fast defense when their lack of size would certainly allow for some success running in between the tackles.
What does that mean? Don't be the one to make the big turnover.
Lets see the Giants actually pound the ball in between the tackles this drive.
Yea! lets run a stretch play against a fast defense when their lack of size would certainly allow for some success running in between the tackles.
Pregame Thoughts
I just feel that inside blitz that Minnesota used so well coming today from the Tampa defense.
The Giants need to get an early score here. If they get down I don't know if they can come from behind.
Plaxico needs to get open up top to open up the field for the running game.
Much more to come.
The Giants need to get an early score here. If they get down I don't know if they can come from behind.
Plaxico needs to get open up top to open up the field for the running game.
Much more to come.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Judgement Time
- By Dave Turner
Heading into tomorrow's game the Giants may very well be without the 3 starters who suffered injuries in the Patriot game. Sam Madison, Kawika Mitchell and Shaun O'hara are all very much in doubt for Sunday's 1:00 pm kickoff in Tampa. These 3 players each would play a huge role in the Giants attack, and without them key units may be vulnerable. The secondary may have to start youngsters Corey Webster or Aaron Ross against the explosive Joey Galloway. The linebacking corps would have to limit the Bucs running attack with seldom used Gerris Wilkinson, and the offensive line would be without it's captain as they try to stop the Bucs from bringing pressure up the middle.
While the presumed absence of these 3 players looms large, in the end tomorrow will be about the play of one man; Eli Manning. The Giants can only go as far as number 10 will carry them, and if they want to win in Tampa they need to not only take care of the ball, but allow the pass to set up the run, and of course let the run set up the pass. Whatever the case may be, it will be Eli who needs to step up and make big throws on 3rd downs to keep drives alive, and be smart in controlling the ball. What the Giants cannot afford is interceptions that come at crucial times, something Eli has made a habit of this season. While he looked so good in the first 3 quarters of the Patriots game, the rest of the team looked equally as impressive. When he faltered in the 4th, the offense came to a halt until the final drive. Eli does not need to throw 4 TD's to win here, rather he needs to just make the throws needed to keep drives a live, and more importantly not make costly turnovers.
Defensively the giants will have to play disciplined and force Jeff Garcia to throw from the pocket. Even if they can't get a ton of sacks, pressure and containment will be enough to get Garcia out of his rhythm. What the Bucs love to do is dink and dunk short passes and runs, and then take a shot down field. This is where the secondary will need to play big, because they simply cannot allow the Bucs to score quickly. Limiting Earnest Graham is a must. If the Giants cannot stop the run there is no way they win this game. If the defensive can make the Bucs one dimensional and force Garcia to throw the ball down field it will be a huge boost.
3 Offensive Keys To the Game:
1. Get Brandon Jacobs going, and make sure he holds on to the ball- The Giants should stick with he run and pound it against a small Tampa front 7.
2. Pick up the middle blitz- The Giants cannot afford to let the Bucs do what the Vikings did earlier in the year, or the score may be similar.
3. Eli plays big- Eli needs to be smart with the ball, and deliver big throws when needed. There is no way the Giants win if he does not play well.
3 Defensive Keys To the Game:
1. Don't let Earnest Graham become a factor- if the Bucs stay balanced it will be hard to stop
them.
2. Contain Joey Galloway- Galloway has had a bunch of big receptions this season, and many of those were the difference if some of Tampa's close wins. The secondary must not allow big strikes down field.
3. Keep Garcia in the pocket- The defensive front must not only apply pressure, but close running lanes to force Garcia into throwing from the pocket. Letting him run free will result in a ton of first downs.
My Thoughts-
I will say right now that the Giants are on paper the better team, but I also do not think that they will win. It will take a very solid effort from Eli, and at this point I personally do not trust him enough to do it. Tom Coughlin needs to get the team motivated for this one. This is an area where he has had trouble, as seen in dismal home losses this season. Luckily this one is on the road. In the end I feel that Jeff Garcia will make a few more plays than Eli, and the Giants will lose on yes, a Matt Bryant field goal. I have said it all year, but Eli; prove me wrong.
Prediction: Bucs 20 Giants 17
Heading into tomorrow's game the Giants may very well be without the 3 starters who suffered injuries in the Patriot game. Sam Madison, Kawika Mitchell and Shaun O'hara are all very much in doubt for Sunday's 1:00 pm kickoff in Tampa. These 3 players each would play a huge role in the Giants attack, and without them key units may be vulnerable. The secondary may have to start youngsters Corey Webster or Aaron Ross against the explosive Joey Galloway. The linebacking corps would have to limit the Bucs running attack with seldom used Gerris Wilkinson, and the offensive line would be without it's captain as they try to stop the Bucs from bringing pressure up the middle.
While the presumed absence of these 3 players looms large, in the end tomorrow will be about the play of one man; Eli Manning. The Giants can only go as far as number 10 will carry them, and if they want to win in Tampa they need to not only take care of the ball, but allow the pass to set up the run, and of course let the run set up the pass. Whatever the case may be, it will be Eli who needs to step up and make big throws on 3rd downs to keep drives alive, and be smart in controlling the ball. What the Giants cannot afford is interceptions that come at crucial times, something Eli has made a habit of this season. While he looked so good in the first 3 quarters of the Patriots game, the rest of the team looked equally as impressive. When he faltered in the 4th, the offense came to a halt until the final drive. Eli does not need to throw 4 TD's to win here, rather he needs to just make the throws needed to keep drives a live, and more importantly not make costly turnovers.
Defensively the giants will have to play disciplined and force Jeff Garcia to throw from the pocket. Even if they can't get a ton of sacks, pressure and containment will be enough to get Garcia out of his rhythm. What the Bucs love to do is dink and dunk short passes and runs, and then take a shot down field. This is where the secondary will need to play big, because they simply cannot allow the Bucs to score quickly. Limiting Earnest Graham is a must. If the Giants cannot stop the run there is no way they win this game. If the defensive can make the Bucs one dimensional and force Garcia to throw the ball down field it will be a huge boost.
3 Offensive Keys To the Game:
1. Get Brandon Jacobs going, and make sure he holds on to the ball- The Giants should stick with he run and pound it against a small Tampa front 7.
2. Pick up the middle blitz- The Giants cannot afford to let the Bucs do what the Vikings did earlier in the year, or the score may be similar.
3. Eli plays big- Eli needs to be smart with the ball, and deliver big throws when needed. There is no way the Giants win if he does not play well.
3 Defensive Keys To the Game:
1. Don't let Earnest Graham become a factor- if the Bucs stay balanced it will be hard to stop
them.
2. Contain Joey Galloway- Galloway has had a bunch of big receptions this season, and many of those were the difference if some of Tampa's close wins. The secondary must not allow big strikes down field.
3. Keep Garcia in the pocket- The defensive front must not only apply pressure, but close running lanes to force Garcia into throwing from the pocket. Letting him run free will result in a ton of first downs.
My Thoughts-
I will say right now that the Giants are on paper the better team, but I also do not think that they will win. It will take a very solid effort from Eli, and at this point I personally do not trust him enough to do it. Tom Coughlin needs to get the team motivated for this one. This is an area where he has had trouble, as seen in dismal home losses this season. Luckily this one is on the road. In the end I feel that Jeff Garcia will make a few more plays than Eli, and the Giants will lose on yes, a Matt Bryant field goal. I have said it all year, but Eli; prove me wrong.
Prediction: Bucs 20 Giants 17
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