Dear New York Giants Fans: Time To Forgive Tiki Barber

One thing that disappointed me at Sunday’s game was the amount of people that booed Tiki Barber, who was introduced before the game as an honorary captain.

For whatever reason, some Giants fans refuse to forgive Tiki for the comments he made about Eli Manning, and for his mid-season retirement announcement.

There were also a number of people at the stadium (myself included) who stood up and shrugged, saying “why are you booing?” It just doesn’t make any sense to me. Tiki played every snap of his career as a Giant. He toughed it out for us, and carried the team on his back more than a few times.

For several years, along with Amani Toomer, he was the heart and soul of this team’s offense. He is one of the greatest players in Giants history.

Yet people still booed him. Why?

Is it the fact that he retired early? That’s really no ones business, but let’s not forget that if he hadn’t retired, the next season would have been entirely different. I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t want to change a single thing about the 2007 season.

Is it his comments about Eli? I’m sure no one feels worse about those comments than Tiki….you know, since Eli and the Giants won the Super Bowl that year.

Lot’s of people say stupid things. It’s been over two years, why hold a grudge? Are New Yorkers really that petty?

And seriously, I bet more than half the people who boo Tiki were saying the exact same things about Eli at that time.

Tiki has since said many glowing things about the New York Giants franchise. He said the thought that he is anti-Giants in any way is “insane.” Would he really have been an honorary captain if he had something against the team?

The guy is a class act and a Giant for life.

It’s time for forgiveness.

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NFC Power Rankings: Week 14

1. Saints (12-0)

I think we can all agree that their game against the Redskins was ridiculous. The same team that squashed the Patriots a week earlier needed a couple miracles and an overtime to beat the Redskins. Still easily the top team in the division. (Last Week: 1)

2. Vikings (10-2)

A loss to the Cardinals in Arizona is not that surprising. The fact that it was nearly a blowout is concerning. But the biggest loss here was the possibly career-threatening injury to MLB E.J. Henderson. The Vikings will still earn a first round bye, but the loss of Henderson is a huge blow to this defense. (2)

3. Cardinals (8-4)

The Cardinals now have their division all but locked up, and should be talked about in the same class as the Saints and Vikings. With a healthy Kurt Warner, this offense can be as good as any. Also, any defense that can shut down Adrian Peterson should not be taken lightly. (3)

4. Packers (8-4)

With the offensive line healthy, Aaron Rodgers can now devastate opposing defenses without having to worry about being on his back every play. For the record, I’m not any higher on the Packers than I am on the three NFC East contenders, but I would be the shocked if they did not make the playoffs. Games against the Bears and Seahawks should be gimmes. (5)

5. Eagles (8-4)

Their win against a wounded Falcons team is not as impressive as the score might indicate, but it’s still a big win. The return of DeSean Jackson could be huge in their game versus the Giants. We’ll see whether or not Michael Vick’s involvement in the offense is just a one-week thing. (6)

6. Giants (7-5)

This week’s game against the Eagles may be their biggest game since…last year’s playoff game against the Eagles. The Giants have revenge on their mind, and they’ll need to carry over their momentum from last Sunday if they want to take another step towards the playoffs. A win this week could put the Giants in a three-way tie for first place, and with the Redskins, Panthers and Vikings backups on the docket, the Giants could win out their schedule and earn a home playoff game in the final season of Giants Stadium. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. (8)

7. Cowboys (8-4)

With games against the Chargers, Saints, Redskins, and Eagles, would anyone be surprised if they finish 8-8 or 9-7? The December slump might seem like a media creation, but it’s hard to deny. The team I saw play the Giants hardly looked like a playoff team. (6)

8. Falcons (6-6)

Without Matt Ryan and Michael Turner, this team is a pushover. Hard to blame them though, as most teams would be in trouble without their two best players. It’s a disappointing turn of events for what looked like a playoff team earlier in the season. (7)

9. 49ers (5-7)

An inexcusable loss to the Seahawks puts an end to the 49ers’ season. What a waste of pro-bowl seasons by Patrick Willis (123 tackles) and Vernon Davis (10 touchdowns). (9)

10. Seahakws (5-7)

The Seahawks have now won two in a row and could finish .500 with a couple of upset wins. (12)

11. Panthers (5-7)

The Panthers defense picked off a rookie QB five times. That’s something, right? (10)

12. Redskins (3-9)

The Redskins have come as close to winning three games in a row, without actually winning any of them as humanly possible. The Redskins lost by one to the Cowboys, three to the Eagles, and three in overtime to the Saints. If I were in the playoff hunt, I would not want to play the Redskins right now. (13)

13. Bears (5-7)

I am not impressed by an eight point win over the Rams. Sorry, Bears. Even though you have two more wins than the Redskins, I don’t think you would beat them head to head. (11)

14. Lions (2-10)

They hung with the Bengals, which is a moral victory. Calvin Johnson is still a freak. (14)

15. Buccaneers (1-11)

If a rookie QB throws five interceptions, and no one cares…I seem to have forgotten how this proverb ends. (15)

16. Rams (1-11)

If they win another game, I will fast for an entire week. Or until I get hungry. (16)

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New York Giants Beat Cowboys, Revive Season: Game Notes and Game Balls

I was lucky enough to be in attendance at Giants Stadium for their big win over the Cowboys, and I couldn’t have asked for a better game (well, maybe it would have been nice if the guy sitting in front of me didn’t throw up all over the guy sitting in front of him…).

Not only did I get to see the Giants save their season with a win over the hated Cowboys, I got to see two obnoxious Cowboys fans go silent after three quarters of taunting. I could even see Jerry Jones sitting in his press box. He disappeared out of sight after Domenik Hixon’s punt return…weird. Everyone else seemed to be having such a good time; I wonder why Jerry wasn’t enjoying himself.

• Show of hands: With about four minutes left in the first half and down 10-0, who honestly thought we were winning this game? Honestly?

• The biggest play of the game was probably the Hixon punt return (which proved to be the game winning touchdown). Instead of breaking down the play itself, I will break down Joe Buck’s “play-by-play” of the play:

1. Hixon fields the punt: “From just outside the 20, it’s Hixon. Good coverage down field.” A good start for Buck. Stating the situation and even painting a picture with his words.
2. Hixon runs along the 30-yard line, breaking five tackles: “Hixon breaks out of it!” That’s all? “Breaks out of it?” What was “it?” Five tackles?
3. Hixon starts running up field at the 32-yard line: “Still going!” Alright, not bad.
4. Hixon runs for 55 yards and gets two key blocks from Terrell Thomas and Derek Hagan: Six seconds of silence. Hey! Where’d Joe go?
5. Hixon reaches 12-yard line and continues into the end zone: “Still going for the touchdown, there are no flags!” There he is! He was watching the play with the rest of us. I guess Joe got caught up in the moment and forgot to talk into his microphone.
6. The crowd goes wild, Tom Coughlin loses his gum and Justin Tuck picks up Hixon: 31 more seconds of silence. I guess less is more. Certainly a minimalistic play-by-play approach from Buck. Good thing he’s not on the radio.

• It was nice to see Antonio Pierce on the sideline. It’s a shame that he may have played his last game as a Giant. And while he certainly slowed down the last couple of years, no one has ever questioned his heart or his desire. Maybe he’ll be a defensive coordinator some day.

• Troy Aikman: “The teams that have had success against [Jason Witten] are the teams that will bang him.”

• Compared to last week’s game, Eli Manning played like an all pro. But overall, this was not a great performance from Manning. He made some big throws, such as the perfectly thrown 10-yard pass to Brandon Jacobs that turned into a 74-yard touchdown. But overall, he had some bad underthrows, including one where he missed a wide-open Steve Smith. The interception in the end zone was also poorly thrown, but I thought Mario Manningham should have done a better job of playing defense. The ball was up in the air long enough for him to make a play on it. An offensive pass interference would have been a good penalty in that situation. Still, it was a poor decision and a poor throw from Eli.

• Corey Webster has had a pretty good season, but he has shown that he is not a lock down cornerback. In fact, he was beaten on all three of the Cowboys’ touchdowns. He was fooled badly by the fake sweep on the second Roy Williams touchdown, and he seemed to give up momentarily on the long Miles Austin touchdown with one minute remaining.

• Aaron Rouse (12 tackles, one sack) plays the run very well, and is clearly an upgrade over C.C. Brown. Unfortunately, the injury to Michael Johnson forced Brown back into the starting lineup. Hopefully Johnson can return for next week’s game. New starting MLB Jonathan Goff (eight tackles) also plays the run well. They were both instrumental in limiting the Cowboys to 45 rushing yards and an average of two yards per carry. Quite a feat, considering the Cowboys ran for 251 yards last time these two teams played.

• Osi Umenyiora’s recovery of a Marion Barber fumble (caused by Mathias Kiwanuka) was a huge play, and a turning point in the game. But Osi still doesn’t look like he’s playing at 100 percent. He has been turned into a third down pass rush specialist, and he didn’t even really excel in that regard. Osi recorded only one tackle, and still seems to be recovering from his knee injury. Hopefully he can continue to improve and add to his league leading four fumbles recovered.

• Jason Witten is a very good receiver, but for one player to catch 14 passes for 156 says a lot about the defense’s inability to adjust. If the Giants had lost this game, Witten would have been a big reason why. The Giants need to figure out a way to cover good tight ends.

• Refs weren’t bad, but there were two plays that stood out to me. The no-call on Corey Webster after he grabbed Roy Williams was a pretty big play, as it should have extended a Cowboys drive. Seemed like a pretty obvious holding to me. Also, on the first drive of the game, Jason Witten was stopped a full yard short of the first down line, yet the ball was placed right on the line. It was as bad a spot as I have ever seen. Luckily no harm came from it.
• I’m going to go ahead and give the offensive game ball to Brandon Jacobs, on the strength of his 74-yard touchdown catch and run. He did a great job of keeping his feet in bounds along the sideline.
• The defensive game ball goes to the run defense for shutting down the Cowboys’ run game (I know there is not a separate “run defense” and “pass defense,” but I couldn’t give the game ball to the entire defense since they allowed the passing game to run wild).
• Special teams game ball goes to Bear Pascoe, who was recently signed off the practice squad, for his big special teams tackle late in the fourth quarter. But seriously, the game ball goes to Domenik Hixon.

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New York Giants: Keys to Beating the Dallas Cowboys

1. Stop The Run

You may remember their Week Two matchup in which the Cowboys ran for 251 yards on only 29 carries, good for an embarrassing (for the Giants) 8.7 yards per carry.  Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tony Romo each had rushing touchdowns.

Simply put, if the Cowboys come even close to those numbers, the Giants will be blown out.  They were lucky to come away with a victory last time and this time, all of the other pieces will not fall into place. 

The Giants cannot hope that Tony Romo will have a repeat performance of his worst game of the year.  If they allow the Cowboys to run wild again, it won’t matter what else they do.  The Giants haven’t had a game like that since, but you can be sure the Cowboys will try to find what worked in that game and get back to it.

2. Key On Miles Austin

When these two teams last met, Tony Romo was a mess, completing only 13 of 29 passes for 127 yards, one touchdown, three interceptions, and a QB rating of 29.6. 

Unfortunately for the Giants, two things have changed since then: the Giants secondary has gotten weaker and the Cowboys’ passing attack has gotten stronger.

The Giants have lost safety Kenny Phillips, who had two of those three interceptions.  The loss of Phillips exposed the Giants’ secondary as a glaring weakness. Also since that first meeting, the Cowboys have started to feature Miles Austin in their passing attack, and that is not a good thing for opposing defenses.

In the first meeting, Tony Romo tried to force the ball to Jason Witten and Patrick Crayton, throwing seven passes to each of them.  Miles Austin, on the other hand, saw only one target, which he caught for a 20-yard gain. 

Since then, Austin has taken over as the team’s starting wide receiver opposite Roy Williams and has flourished.  The Summit, N.J., native has caught 42 passes for 824 yards and eight touchdowns and could be on his way to his first Pro Bowl (if voters vote correctly).  He is on pace for roughly 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns. 

Not bad for someone who went undrafted out of Monmouth.

If the Giants are going to have any shot at stopping the Cowboys offense, they will have to stop Austin from getting the ball.  With the ball in his hands, he can run for miles (sorry).  Austin has a reception of 40 or more yards in five of 11 games and four of his last seven.

3. Air It Out

The Giants’ running game has been pathetic and I see little reason to believe it can pick it up now.  While most people probably believe the Giants’ No. 1 priority should be to re-establish the running game, I’d like to see them go another way with it: an all-out aerial show.

The Cowboys probably expect the Giants to come out and try to establish the run; they’ll be ready for that. 

Instead, give Eli Manning the keys to the car and let him decide the fate of the team’s season.  Let him run some no-huddle drives and take Kevin Gilbride’s play-calling out of the equation. 

If Eli is healthy enough to play, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be given the opportunity to throw it all over the field.

In their last meeting, Eli threw for 330 yards and two touchdowns.  Mario Manningham and Steve Smith each had 10 catches for 130-plus yards and a touchdown.  Yes, it was in the Jerry Dome, but the point is that this Cowboys team can be beaten by the pass. 

The Cowboys give up 225 passing yards per game, 21st overall in the NFL; they are much more stout against the run.

I’ve been barking up the “establish the run” tree all season to no avail.  So screw it.  Let’s air it out.

4. Block

This is pretty self-explanatory: the offensive line has been putrid and unless it can create some holes for Brandon Jacobs and give Eli Manning more time to find his receivers, the offense will go nowhere.  What used to be the biggest strength of this team is now a weakness. 

Perhaps there is no solution to this problem.  Maybe the offensive line has just lost some of its skills.  Maybe the wear and tear of the NFL, as well as age, has finally caught up with these trench warriors.

But for at least five more games, the line needs to get its mojo back.

5. Remember December

Since 1997, in games in or after the month of December (including five postseason losses), the Cowboys are 19-39 (.328). 

Since 2002, it’s been even (slightly) worse: 11-23 (.324).

As mystical and magical as a December swoon may seem, the results speak for themselves.  With a sample size of almost 40 games played after the month of November over the last 11 years, the Cowboys have won just under one-third of their games.  That’s bad.

This isn’t really a strategy, just something to keep in mind.  Four keys should be enough.

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NFC Power Rankings: Week 13

1. Saints (11-0)

In thoroughly dispatching of the Patriots, Drew Brees has put himself in front of the pack for the MVP award. That may be hotly debated, but one thing is for sure: The Saints are the odds-on favorite to win the NFC. (Last Week: 1)

2. Vikings (10-1)

Brett Favre continues his unbelievable play, and his wide receiver corps continues to prove itself. Sidney Rice may be the most improved wide receiver, and Percy Harvin looks like he might win offensive rookie of the year. Adrian Peterson’s fumble problems are troublesome, but that’s about the only thing not going right for the Vikings right now. (2)

3. Cardinals (7-4)

You think Matt Leinart is tired of Vince Young already? The Titans are a much improved team under Young, so I am not overly concerned with this week’s loss. Once Kurt Warner returns, this offense is still dynamic, and the defense isn’t bad. The defending NFC champs get the benefit of the doubt. (3)

4. Cowboys (8-3)

Their shellacking of the Raiders on Thanksgiving doesn’t change anyone’s perceptions of either team, but Cowboys fans have to be happy with the way Tony Romo got the ball to his best receiver, Miles Austin. (4)

5. Packers (7-4)

Like the Cowboys, the Packers did what they were supposed to do on Thanksgiving and beat up on a bad Lions team. Aaron Rodgers continues to play great, and the wild card is theirs for the taking. I don’t have enough faith in their offensive line to see them doing any damage in the playoffs. (5)

6. Eagles (7-4)

They were outplayed by an undermanned Redskins team for most of the game but pulled it out in the end. What does this say about the Eagles? I don’t know, but they came away with the all-important W. Unfortunately, they may be without DeSean Jackson for some time, as he was lost to a concussion. (6)

7. Falcons (6-5)

They overcame the loss of Matt Ryan to beat a frisky Tampa Bay team. Unfortunately, they face the Eagles in a must-win game and will find life much tougher without their QB against real competition. (8)

8. Giants (6-5)

In yet another embarrassing performance, the Giants played like turkeys against the Broncos on Thanksgiving. Things look grim for the Giants, as they must win their next two games against the Cowboys and Eagles to have a realistic shot. (7)

9. 49ers (5-6)

Don’t sleep on the Niners. When Alex Smith plays well, this team can play with anyone. The offensive triplet of Frank Gore, Vernon Davis, and Michael Crabtree creates as good a young core as there is in the league. With a relatively easy schedule, a 9-7 finish is well within their grasp. That might not be enough to make the playoffs, but this team is moving in the right direction. (9)

10. Panthers (4-7)

All right, I think we can all agree the Jake Delhomme Era comes to a close by the end of this season. (10)

11. Bears (4-7)

These are some bad old Bears. Hopefully Jake Cutler is suffering from first season jitters, because he can’t really be this bad. Right? (11)

12. Seahawks (4-7)

I watched the 1:00 games at a bar. From my table, I could see about 18 televisions. Not one of them was on the Seahawks vs. Rams game. Enough said. (13)

13. Redskins (3-8)

Seriously? You have to blow back-to-back games in the final minutes to the Cowboys and Eagles? Giants fans can’t be happy. (They’re not. I know this.) (12)

14. Lions (2-9)

Matthew Stafford, Calvin Johnson, and Kevin Smith will make the Lions relevant again. But not yet…not yet… (14)

15. Buccaneers (1-10)

They played the Falcons tough. I referred to them as “frisky” earlier, and I stand by that assessment. (16)

16. Rams (1-10)

Just read what I wrote for the Seahawks. Or don’t. I don’t want to waste anyone’s time. (15)

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New York Giants Embarrass Themselves Vs. Denver Broncos

How many times in one year can I say “this is the worst I’ve seen the Giants look in years.”  Apparently at least four times.

The Giants continued their mid-season swoon, and have now dropped five of their last six.  There’s really not much good to say about last week’s game, so I’ll just say that Lawrence Tynes gets this week’s game ball for going two for two on field goals.  That alone should say all you need to know about the team’s performance.

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New York-Denver: Keys To a Giants Victory

1. Cover Brandon Marshall

Brandon Marshall is an absolute beast.  The Giants secondary did a nice job of covering a banged up Roddy White, but Marshall is a different animal.  At 6’4″, 230 pounds, Marshall is one of the toughest men to cover.  After the catch, he is even better.  Although he has had his ups and downs this season, when he’s on his game, he’s as good as Terrell Owens in his prime.

Eddie Royal is a good deep threat, but Marshall is the guy the Giants need to worry about.

2. Dial Up Pressure

The San Diego Chargers recorded three sacks, four tackles for a loss, and four QB hits.  The result was the removal of backup-turned-starter Chris Simms after a 2-4 day.  Normal starter Kyle Orton did not fair any better as he threw 15-29 with no touchdowns and one interception.

During their four game losing streak, Orton has been sacked five times.  However, in the one game he was not sacked, Orton completed 11 of 18 passes for 193 yards, two touchdowns, no interceptions, and a QB rating of 134.7.  In the three games he was sacked, Orton completed 59 of 104 for 544 yards, no touchdowns, four interceptions, and a QB rating of 55.1.

3. Run the Ball

Three weeks ago, Rashard Mendenhall ran for 155 yards on 22 carries against Denver.  Two weeks ago, Ladell Betts ran for 114 yards on 26 carries.  Last week, the Chargers rolled up 203 yards on 43 carries.

In their last victory in Week Six, the Broncos held that very same San Diego Chargers to just 73 yards with 21 yards on the ground.  But one of the keys to their downfall during their four game losing streak has been their inability to stop the run.

During that four game losing streak, they have allowed 168.75 rushing yards per game, and an average rush of 4.7 yards.

With Ahmad Bradshaw out, the Giants should rely heavily on Brandon Jacobs and Danny Ware against a susceptible Denver rushing defense.

4. Key On Moreno

The Broncos have two running backs: Correll Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno.  Buckhalter is a solid backup, but he is not anything special (now that I said this, I’m sure he’ll run for 150 yards this week).

But Knowshon Moreno was the 12th overall pick this year from Georgia, and he is expected to be the running back of the future for the Broncos.  He has 600 yards for the year and has started to gain some momentum lately.  In his last two games, Moreno has gained 177 yards on 28 carries, good for 6.3 yards per carry.  Buckhalter has received only nine carries in his last two games.

However, Moreno has fumbled four times this season, and he has lost all four fumbles.  So while the Giants should expect to see a good amount of the talented youngster, they should remember that he has had some trouble holding on to the football.

5. Skip Thanksgiving Dinner

Aside from breakfast and fourthmeal, dinner is the most important meal of the day.  But maybe it would be wise to skip the traditional hearty Thanksgiving dinner, or at least postpone it until after the game.  I don’t have the right to tell football players what they can do, but I imagine it’s harder to run a post route or cover a wide receiver right after eating a turkey dinner, not to mention stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, and maybe part of a vegetable.

Professional football players have plenty to be thankful for.  They can wait a few extra hours for Thanksgiving dinner.

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NFC Power Rankings: Week 12!

NFC Teams Only!

1. Saints (10-0) 

Drew Brees played mistake free for the first time in four weeks (seven interceptions since Week Seven), tossing three touchdown passes and no interceptions.  With Brees at the helm, bench players become playmakers (Wendy’s Dave Thomas had four receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown). (Last Week: 1)

2. Vikings (9-1)

Wins don’t come much easier than this.  With Brett Favre playing like someone in his late 30’s, this offense is absolutely dominant.  Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin form a great young one-two punch.(2)

3. Cardinals (7-3)

They got off to an early lead, and cruised for most of the game before having to make one final stop.  Kurt Warner’s injury is worrisome, as Matt Leinart continues to look pedestrian, but the running game is getting better every week; 183 yards on 30 carries and an average of 6.1.  Anquan Boldin’s play was also encouraging. (3)

4. Cowboys (7-3)

A putrid offensive performance against the Redskins, but they came away with the win.  Tony Romo has become maddeningly inconsistent.  The Raiders are the perfect cure. (4)

5. Packers (6-4)

Nearly blew a 20-point fourth quarter lead, but they hung on to beat the 49ers.  Aaron Rodgers continues to play spectacularly, and Greg Jennings finally had his breakout game.  They should move to 7-4 with a Thanksgiving win over the Lions and are in the driver’s seat for an NFC Wild Card spot. (6)

6. Eagles (6-4)

They didn’t look nearly as good as I would have thought against a pathetic Bears team, but they got the win.  LeSean McCoy had a very nice game in what could be a changing of the guard at running back.  DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin give the Eagles a very scary duo at wide receiver, and they will only get better over the years. (5)

7. Giants (6-4)

The passing game finally clicked like it had earlier in the season, with Eli Manning playing one of his best games of the year.  Mario Manningham and Kevin Boss were forces through the air.  The defense once again looked overmatched, though.  The fact that they let the Falcons hang around continues a concerning pattern. (7)

8. Falcons (5-5)

The loss to the Giants almost certainly means they can lose only one more game.  Four of their remaining six games are against teams with losing records.  They’ll likely have to beat either the Eagles or the Saints to finish 10-6. (8)

9. 49ers (4-6)

They hung in their and mounted a huge comeback but ultimately fell short to the Packers.  The problem with this team is that they continue to put themselves in positions where they need to come back.  They are still one year, and maybe one quarterback away. (10)

10. Panthers (4-6)

The tough loss to the Dolphins likely ends their season, as they must now beat teams such as the Patriots, Vikings, Giants, and Saints.  This is still one of the more talented teams in the league, and I wouldn’t want to have to play them down the stretch. (9)

11. Bears (4-6)

You think Bears fans want a re-do on the Jay Cutler trade? (11)

12. Redskins (3-7)

They led the Cowboys for more than 57 minutes, but lost by a point.  They also lost Ladell Betts for the year.  That’s the kind of season it’s been for the Redskins. (13)

13. Seahawks (3-7)

Seattle is going to have to be careful, as most of their remaining games are winnable.  Winning games at this point doesn’t do anyone any good. (12)

14. Lions (2-8)

Did you not hear what I just told the Seahawks??  You just gave away the #1 pick with a last second touchdown.  And for what? (16)

15. Rams (1-9)

They played the Cardinals extremely tough and almost came away with a win at the end.  But they were smart enough not to. (15)

16. Buccaneers (1-9)

After giving up 38 points to the Saints, the Bucs fired their defensive coordinator.  What did they expect to happen?  (14)

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New York Giants Defeat Atlanta Falcons in Overtime: Game Balls and Notes

There was a definite feeling of “here we go again” when Eli Manning had his duck of a pass intercepted on the first drive. But after that, Eli probably had his best game of the year, in the most important game to date.

He threw some of his best deep balls of the year, including some beauties to Steve Smith and Mario Manningham, and he continued to get Kevin Boss involved in the passing game.

Eli completed 25 of 39 passes for a career high 384 yards (somehow it was his first 300 yard game at home), three touchdowns, and one interception. He looked in control in overtime and he did a good job spreading the love, completing passes to eight different receivers. He even threw two completions to Madison Hedgecock, one for a touchdown.

The fourth quarter came around, and right on cue, the Giants’ defense collapsed like a poodle on roller skates (I don’t get the analogy either; let’s just move on). 

Watching the Giants defense blow it on the final drive of the fourth quarter yet again was like DeJa Vu, the mediocre 2006 Denzel Washington movie that combines elements of science fiction and romance. It suffered from poor direction, the story seemed familiar, and the featured players were just going through the motions.

When the opposing team needs a big first down, there’s always someone open. The defense just cannot muster up any pressure when they need to, and they cannot cover anyone when they are not getting pressure. Thus, this defense cannot get a stop in crunch time. This is not a good pattern.

It seems as if Danny Ware is now the Giants’ third down running back. I’m not sure how I feel about this. On one hand, it’s great to see him finally contributing, after hearing about his potential for two and a half years. He showed great awareness picking up a fumbled snap and converting it into a 13 yard gain. He also did a great job on blitz pick-ups.

But on the other hand, is this a sign that Ahmad Bradshaw’s injured foot is killing his explosiveness? Bradshaw has not done much damage the past five weeks, and he averaged only 2.8 yards on 12 carries this week. Getting Ware involved gives the offense another weapon, but if this is how Bradshaw is going to play for the rest of the season, it’s a huge blow to the versatility of the offense.

Mario Manningham is healthy, and once again showing why one GiantsFootballBlog writer once referred to him as “the best receiver ever, probably” (it was me). Manningham was unstoppable, hauling in six passes for 126 yards, including a couple of toe-tappers at the sideline. 

Manningham also had the huge reception in overtime that set up the game winning field goal. I’m a little surprised he didn’t try to cut in at the end of that run, as he only had to beat one defender and he would have scored. But I guess I just expect a little more from the best receiver ever, probably.

I think we can all agree that this is Lawrence Tynes’ final season as a Giant. Yes, he won the game in overtime, but let’s not be silly. He missed a 31-yard chip shot in the second quarter, and not one person was surprised. He’s inconsistent and his kickoffs are less than stellar.

The refs weren’t terrible, but there was a late hit called on Barry Cofield along the sideline that was beyond ticky-tack. I’ve certainly seen worse hits out of bounds that were not called, including one or two in this game alone.

Defensive game ball goes to Michael Boley, who recorded 13 tackles (11 solo) and one sack against his former team. Boley was everywhere and has played well in every game that he has been healthy enough to play in. If only he were able to stay on the field for the full season, he might be on his way to a pro-bowl.

So far, Boley easily looks like the best off-season signing the Giants have had in a couple of years, provided his injuries are behind him. In five games this year, he has 34 tackles. At that rate, he’d have almost 110 over a full season. 

He’s the kind of dynamic talent this team has been missing at linebacker for years; someone who can cover tight ends and rush the pass. He’s just a playmaker. With the injury to Antonio Pierce, his presence is needed more than ever.

The way Atlanta’s offensive line has been playing recently, I really expected the Giants’ front four to do some damage this week, but they only recorded a pedestrian two sacks. With guys like Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, and Mathias Kiwanuka, I just don’t get why they aren’t wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks. 

Bill Sheridan needs to get this figured out, because if the defense can’t produce more pressure, this team will not make the playoffs.

The Giants have a short week, as they face the Broncos in Denver this Thanksgiving night. Let’s all hope the Broncos don’t suddenly remember how to play football.

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NFC Playoff Picture: Nine Teams, Four Spots Remain

With the NFC South and NFC North all but locked up, there are four remaining playoff births up for grabs in the NFC.

While divisional leaders Dallas and Arizona have the upper hand, their hard work is not nearly over. The Eagles, Packers, Falcons and Giants are all 5-4, and are right in the playoff hunt.

At 4-5, the 49ers, Panthers and Bears are on life support, but their dreams are not dead yet.

What it all boils down to is that with seven games remaining, there are nine NFC teams fighting for four spots in the playoffs.

Cardinals (6-3)

The Cardinals have a two game divisional lead over the 49ers, and have by far the easiest remaining schedule. They still get to face the Lions once and the Rams twice, giving them three easy wins. They must travel to Tennessee to play an improved Titans team and finish up at home against an improved Packers team, but these are two games they should win. 

A home game against the Vikings will be tough, and they must also travel to San Francisco to play a huge divisional game on Monday night.  But even with these tribulations, the Cardinals missing the playoffs would be an epic collapse.

Opponents Record: 23-40

Opponents Over .500: 2

Three Home, Four Away

Cowboys (6-3)

The Cowboys have a one game lead on the Giants and Eagles, and they have yet to play divisional doormat Washington. They still face tough battles against the Giants, Eagles, Saints and Chargers, but a game against the Raiders should be a gimme.

With three games they should win easily, the Cowboys only have to beat one more good team to secure ten victories. It’s tough to imagine the Cowboys missing the playoffs.

Opponents Record: 33-30

Opponents Over .500: Four

Four Home, Three Away

Eagles (5-4)

Though their remaining schedule seems similar to the Cowboys, they do not get to face a cupcake team like the Raiders, and only get to face the Redskins one more time. On the flip side, they have already played the powerful Saints. 

Still, Philadelphia’s schedule includes some tough road games, including the Bears, Falcons, Giants and Cowboys. Home games against the 49ers and Broncos wont be walks in the park either.

Opponents Record: 33-30

Opponents Over .500:Four

Three Home, Four Away

Giants (5-4)

The Giants do not have an easy game on their schedule, and if they lose at home to the Falcons, they can pretty much forget about the playoffs. 

Their easiest opponent is the Redskins, but that game is in a hostile opponent’s stadium on Monday night. If the Giants are going to make the playoffs, they’ll have to win some games in prime time, as three of their remaining five games are at night, including a Thanksgiving battle in Denver. 

The good news is that their key games against the Eagles and Cowboys are home games.

Opponents Record: 37-26

Opponents Over .500: Five

Four Home, Three Away

Packers (5-4)

Green Bay may have saved their season with a huge win against the Cowboys, and now they might have the easiest schedule of any of these teams. Their games at Pittsburgh and Arizona will be very difficult, as they should be significant underdogs in both contests.

Home games against the Ravens and 49ers should be tough battles as well, and it’s never easy to play in Soldier Field, even against the woeful bears. But games against the Lions and Seahawks should be walks in the park. That is, if the offensive line can stop acting like a revolving door for pass rushers.

Opponents Record: 29-34

Opponents Over .500:Three

Three Home, Four Away

Falcons (5-4)

Although they only play three teams with records better than .500 (Giants, Eagles, Saints), all three of them will be very tough games. Don’t be fooled by the easy opponents record, that is mostly due to the fact that they play Tampa Bay twice, whose 1-8 record does not accurately represent the way they have played since Josh Freeman has taken over as quarterback. 

Their two games against the Bucs, as well as games against the Jets and Bills are certainly games the Falcons should win. But there’s a good chance they will have to win all four of them, plus one against one of the tougher opponents if they are going to make the playoffs.

Opponents Record: 28-35

Opponents Over .500:Three

Four Home, Three Away

49ers (4-5)

At 4-5, the 49ers have some serious catching up to do. Luckily, they have one of the easiest schedule remaining. If they can survive their next five games, they finish the season at home against Detroit and then on the road at St. Louis. At this point, the Lions and Rams will be falling all over themselves to get the #one overall pick. 

But before their soft landing, the 49ers face four teams with winning records, as well as the Seattle Seahawks.  If they can beat one of the Packers or Eagles on the road, and one of the Jaguars and Cardinals at home, they’ll have a good shot at 9-7.

Heck, if they can win all of the games they should, and beat the Cardinals at home, they’ll have an outside shot at winning the division.

Opponents Record: 26-37

Opponents Over .500:Four

Three Home, Four Away

Panthers (4-5)

Carolina has played much better lately, and they may even be one of the better teams in the NFC.  But their awful start, combined with their treacherous schedule will likely leave them out in the cold. 

If the Panthers cannot sweep their next three games (Dolphins, Jets, Buccaneers), they may have no room for error in their last four games.  That’s bad news, considering the fact that they finish the season against the Patriots, Vikings, Giants and Saints.

Opponents Record: 38-25

Opponents Over .500:Five

Four Home, Three Away

Bears (4-5)

The Bears have an interesting schedule: two games remaining against one-win teams (Rams and Lions) and two games remaining against eight-win teams (Vikings twice).

Even if they can win three of those four games, they might have to win out against the Eagles, Packers and Ravens; three teams fighting for playoff spots.

Opponents Record: 33-30

Opponents Over .500: Five

Four Home, Three Away

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