Here is the link to the NJ.com fan blog:
http://blog.nj.com/giants_fan_blog/index.html
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Movin' on Up?
Remember the NJ.com Giants fan blogger contest? Well, I won (along with 5 other people). NJ.com is associated with the Star-Ledger, so I guess I'll start telling people I'm a sportswriter for The Ledger. It's got a nice ring to it.
The question is what does this mean for fatgiantsfan.blogspot.com? The answer is, I really don't know. I will certainly not take down the site, for I don't really know how long this gig with NJ.com will last, but I need to figure out how it's going to work with my blog essentially moving to NJ.com for the time being. For now don't worry, I will pass along all the info once I get it, and now matter where it is, I'll keep the blog posts coming.
The question is what does this mean for fatgiantsfan.blogspot.com? The answer is, I really don't know. I will certainly not take down the site, for I don't really know how long this gig with NJ.com will last, but I need to figure out how it's going to work with my blog essentially moving to NJ.com for the time being. For now don't worry, I will pass along all the info once I get it, and now matter where it is, I'll keep the blog posts coming.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
10 Not-So-Interesting Facts: Week 1
1. The win evens up the Giants all-time series with the Carolina Panthers at 3-3. The Panthers have still outscored the Giants in those 6 contests 164-142.
2. As bad as the Giants rushing attack was in the first half, their 118 rushing yards was good enough to put them at 11th in league after week 1. The Giants didn't break 118 yards in a game until week 3 last season, when they rushed for 226 against the Bucs.
3. Eli Manning's 263yds passing was the most he's ever had in an opening day win. It his second highest total in any opening game behind his 312 yd performance in 2007's 45-35 opening day loss to the Cowboys.
4. Carolina's 5 turnovers was the most turnovers the Giants defense has forced since Oct 2, 2005, when they beat the Rams 44-24.
5. The last time they forced 5 or more turnovers on opening day was in 1999 when they beat the Bucs 17-13 (a close game considering the Giants didn't turn the ball over at all themselves).
6. The last time the Giants combined with an opponent for 9 or more turnovers was on Nov 4th, 2001 when they beat the Cowboys 27-24. Interestingly enough, the Giants combined with the Redskins for another 9 turnover performance just 1 month before that on Oct 14th, 2001 (another Giants win, 23-9).
7. The Giants and Jets combined for a whopping 220 penalty yards in week 1.
8. Mathias Kiwanuka recorded 2 sacks on Sunday. He is the first Giant to have a multi-sack game since Justin Tuck recorded 2 against the Oakland Raiders in Week 5 of last season.
9. The Giants have now won 3 straight opening games, and have improved to 4-3 on opening day with Tom Coughlin at the helm. Coughlin is now 10-5 all time on opening day as a head coach.
10. Hakeem Nicks' became the first Giant since Plaxico Burress in Week 1 of the 2007 season--a loss to the Cowboys--to haul in 3 receiving TD's in a single game. The last Giant with 3 receiving TD's in a win was Amani Toomer in Week 15 of the 2002 season (45-27 over the Colts). With defenses starting to focus on Steve Smith, it is imperative that Nicks step up and be a big time playmaker for this offense. So far so good. Nicks' performance makes him the Fat Know-It-All's player of the week for week 1. So congrats Mr Nicks, I know you're excited!
2. As bad as the Giants rushing attack was in the first half, their 118 rushing yards was good enough to put them at 11th in league after week 1. The Giants didn't break 118 yards in a game until week 3 last season, when they rushed for 226 against the Bucs.
3. Eli Manning's 263yds passing was the most he's ever had in an opening day win. It his second highest total in any opening game behind his 312 yd performance in 2007's 45-35 opening day loss to the Cowboys.
4. Carolina's 5 turnovers was the most turnovers the Giants defense has forced since Oct 2, 2005, when they beat the Rams 44-24.
5. The last time they forced 5 or more turnovers on opening day was in 1999 when they beat the Bucs 17-13 (a close game considering the Giants didn't turn the ball over at all themselves).
6. The last time the Giants combined with an opponent for 9 or more turnovers was on Nov 4th, 2001 when they beat the Cowboys 27-24. Interestingly enough, the Giants combined with the Redskins for another 9 turnover performance just 1 month before that on Oct 14th, 2001 (another Giants win, 23-9).
7. The Giants and Jets combined for a whopping 220 penalty yards in week 1.
8. Mathias Kiwanuka recorded 2 sacks on Sunday. He is the first Giant to have a multi-sack game since Justin Tuck recorded 2 against the Oakland Raiders in Week 5 of last season.
9. The Giants have now won 3 straight opening games, and have improved to 4-3 on opening day with Tom Coughlin at the helm. Coughlin is now 10-5 all time on opening day as a head coach.
10. Hakeem Nicks' became the first Giant since Plaxico Burress in Week 1 of the 2007 season--a loss to the Cowboys--to haul in 3 receiving TD's in a single game. The last Giant with 3 receiving TD's in a win was Amani Toomer in Week 15 of the 2002 season (45-27 over the Colts). With defenses starting to focus on Steve Smith, it is imperative that Nicks step up and be a big time playmaker for this offense. So far so good. Nicks' performance makes him the Fat Know-It-All's player of the week for week 1. So congrats Mr Nicks, I know you're excited!
Week 1 Report Card
There are two ways to look at Sundays game. The optimist will say, hey they didn't play well--4 turnovers, 9 penalties, 1 blocked punt allowed--and still won the game going away. Tighten up the mistakes and they'll be fine. The pessimist, on the other hand, will point out the running game was non-existent in the first half, the special teams were a joke, the defense gave up too many 3rd and longs, and all this was against an opponent that, frankly, doesn't look very good. I'll let you decide which side you're on, but here are my week 1 performance grades for the defense, offense, and special team.
Defense:
We can talk about the 3rd down conversions, but the bottom line is the Giants gave up only 237 yards (5th best in week 1), 89 yards on the ground against a supposedly great rushing team, forced 5 turnovers, had 4 sacks, and held their opponent to 16 points despite being given awful field position to work with all day courtesy of turnovers and horrific special teams play. That's a pretty damn good day. The question is whether or not this was the result of solid defense, or a completely inept offense. We'll find out next week for sure.
Grade: B
Offense:
Forget the 3 interceptions, Eli looked solid. More importantly, he looked confident in his receivers. Steve Smith has apparently graduated to double coverage, so Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham will be vital weapons for this offense (feel free to join the party anytime you want Ramses Barden). Both stepped up in that role on Sunday. The running-game remains a concern, but thanks to some second half adjustments they ended up with a respectable 118 yards on the ground. The Colts got gashed last week by Arian Foster and now they are without Bob Sanders, so if the Giants struggle to run the ball next week, then I'll worry.
Grade: B-
Special Teams:
They should play the "Entry of the Gladiators" every time one of the Giants special teams units come out on the field, because they are circus act right now. I'm not saying anything you don't already know, but the special teams will cost them at least one game this year if things don't turn around. They need to find some combination of guys who can run down and make a tackle, or make a block. As for the punter, Tom Coughlin said it best, "Patience is not a good word right now." I don't care that he was a draft pick, I said it before, and I'll say it again, I'm not interested in developing a punter. You have patience with a rookie QB, not a punter. It's clear Dodge struggles under pressure (he shanked his first few kicks in camp, his first few punts in preseason, and now his first few punts in a regular season game) so even if he starts to show some consistency in the regular season, can you really trust that his nerves won't get the best of him in the fourth quarter of a big game come December. God help us when the winds pick up.
Grade: F
-----
In case you missed it, Kevin Boss suffered a concussion on Sunday--and it's not his first. He will definitely miss this week and we'll have to wait and see after that. Also, Chase Blackburn re-sprained his MCL (same injury he had in camp) and William Beatty hurt his foot. Blackburn says he hopes to be back this week--although that seems unlikely. Beatty remains a bit of a mystery as Ralph Vacchiano reported that he needs surgery and may miss the season, but there hasn't been any conformation of that, and Mike Garofolo reported that his timetable is uncertain. The Giants signed Bear Pascoe off their practice squad and released LB Bryan Kehl to make room. I would think that if the Giants expected Beatty to really miss the year he would have been placed on IR to make room for Pascoe--so maybe that's a good sign. I'll let you know as soon as see something concrete. I'm sorry to see Kehl go, but if you remember I figured Pascoe would make the team over Kehl to begin with, so it's not too surprising. Kehl was also the one who missed his assignment on the blocked punt--which Tom Coughlin called "embarrassing"--so that may have been the play that sealed Kehl's fate.
Defense:
We can talk about the 3rd down conversions, but the bottom line is the Giants gave up only 237 yards (5th best in week 1), 89 yards on the ground against a supposedly great rushing team, forced 5 turnovers, had 4 sacks, and held their opponent to 16 points despite being given awful field position to work with all day courtesy of turnovers and horrific special teams play. That's a pretty damn good day. The question is whether or not this was the result of solid defense, or a completely inept offense. We'll find out next week for sure.
Grade: B
Offense:
Forget the 3 interceptions, Eli looked solid. More importantly, he looked confident in his receivers. Steve Smith has apparently graduated to double coverage, so Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham will be vital weapons for this offense (feel free to join the party anytime you want Ramses Barden). Both stepped up in that role on Sunday. The running-game remains a concern, but thanks to some second half adjustments they ended up with a respectable 118 yards on the ground. The Colts got gashed last week by Arian Foster and now they are without Bob Sanders, so if the Giants struggle to run the ball next week, then I'll worry.
Grade: B-
Special Teams:
They should play the "Entry of the Gladiators" every time one of the Giants special teams units come out on the field, because they are circus act right now. I'm not saying anything you don't already know, but the special teams will cost them at least one game this year if things don't turn around. They need to find some combination of guys who can run down and make a tackle, or make a block. As for the punter, Tom Coughlin said it best, "Patience is not a good word right now." I don't care that he was a draft pick, I said it before, and I'll say it again, I'm not interested in developing a punter. You have patience with a rookie QB, not a punter. It's clear Dodge struggles under pressure (he shanked his first few kicks in camp, his first few punts in preseason, and now his first few punts in a regular season game) so even if he starts to show some consistency in the regular season, can you really trust that his nerves won't get the best of him in the fourth quarter of a big game come December. God help us when the winds pick up.
Grade: F
-----
In case you missed it, Kevin Boss suffered a concussion on Sunday--and it's not his first. He will definitely miss this week and we'll have to wait and see after that. Also, Chase Blackburn re-sprained his MCL (same injury he had in camp) and William Beatty hurt his foot. Blackburn says he hopes to be back this week--although that seems unlikely. Beatty remains a bit of a mystery as Ralph Vacchiano reported that he needs surgery and may miss the season, but there hasn't been any conformation of that, and Mike Garofolo reported that his timetable is uncertain. The Giants signed Bear Pascoe off their practice squad and released LB Bryan Kehl to make room. I would think that if the Giants expected Beatty to really miss the year he would have been placed on IR to make room for Pascoe--so maybe that's a good sign. I'll let you know as soon as see something concrete. I'm sorry to see Kehl go, but if you remember I figured Pascoe would make the team over Kehl to begin with, so it's not too surprising. Kehl was also the one who missed his assignment on the blocked punt--which Tom Coughlin called "embarrassing"--so that may have been the play that sealed Kehl's fate.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Post Game Overreaction: Giants 31; Panthers 18
A win is a win is a win. They don't give style points. That being said, there are plenty of positives to take away from today's win, and also plenty of areas where the G-men need to improve. Here are my quick hit/half drunk thoughts on the game:
~ The special teams are still a nightmare. I like what I saw from Reynaud, but other than that, this is an absolutely awful special team unit. No coverage on kickoffs, the worst punter in the world, a blocked punt no return yards...a circus on the field every time they come on.
~ The adjustments both the offense and the defense made at half-time make me feel good about the G-mens chances.
~ Matt Moore is not a good football player...I thank him for that.
~ The decision to keep only 2 TE's (really 1.5 because Travis Beckum is incapable of blocking another human being) has already proven to be a mistake.
~ I like the look of the "Big Base"--with Kiwanuka at OLB and Chris Canty at DE. The run defense was impressive.
~ What's with those hideous "New Meadowlands Stadium" patches -- ugly.
~ All of Eli's INT's were slightly off-target passes, but all of them could have been caught.
~ The Giants need consistency from the run game. The yardage obviously improved in the second half, but overall the rushing attack was still inconsistent.
~ The game turned around when I poured myself a glass of Jameson. Just sayin'....
~ Linval Joseph a healthy scratch? You have to expect more from a second round pick.
~ Hakeem Nicks was ridiculous. Mario Manningham also impressed me -- which I'm sure was his goal going into the day.
~ Jason Pierre-Paul was a ghost in this one. Just sayin'....
~ Matt Dodge-- I know I already lambasted the special teams, but this guy needs a special mention. What an absolutely terrible punter.
~ I think the Panthers are a 6-10 football team. So beating them at home is nothing to write home about. But I also don't think the Giants played as well as they can, so there is a bit of hope. Then again, this was one sloppy game and the Giants won't beat many teams playing the way they did.
~ The special teams are still a nightmare. I like what I saw from Reynaud, but other than that, this is an absolutely awful special team unit. No coverage on kickoffs, the worst punter in the world, a blocked punt no return yards...a circus on the field every time they come on.
~ The adjustments both the offense and the defense made at half-time make me feel good about the G-mens chances.
~ Matt Moore is not a good football player...I thank him for that.
~ The decision to keep only 2 TE's (really 1.5 because Travis Beckum is incapable of blocking another human being) has already proven to be a mistake.
~ I like the look of the "Big Base"--with Kiwanuka at OLB and Chris Canty at DE. The run defense was impressive.
~ What's with those hideous "New Meadowlands Stadium" patches -- ugly.
~ All of Eli's INT's were slightly off-target passes, but all of them could have been caught.
~ The Giants need consistency from the run game. The yardage obviously improved in the second half, but overall the rushing attack was still inconsistent.
~ The game turned around when I poured myself a glass of Jameson. Just sayin'....
~ Linval Joseph a healthy scratch? You have to expect more from a second round pick.
~ Hakeem Nicks was ridiculous. Mario Manningham also impressed me -- which I'm sure was his goal going into the day.
~ Jason Pierre-Paul was a ghost in this one. Just sayin'....
~ Matt Dodge-- I know I already lambasted the special teams, but this guy needs a special mention. What an absolutely terrible punter.
~ I think the Panthers are a 6-10 football team. So beating them at home is nothing to write home about. But I also don't think the Giants played as well as they can, so there is a bit of hope. Then again, this was one sloppy game and the Giants won't beat many teams playing the way they did.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Giants vs Panthers Preview: It's Like Christmas Eve
I feel like a kid on Christmas eve. I'm so excited I can barely stand it. I am dreaming of all the wonderful things I may receive on Sunday: a big pass rush, a dominating run game, a high-flying pass attack...oh my! Of course, I also can't help but think about all the things that went wrong this year: the failure to improve the aging offensive line, the failure to significantly upgrade the LB's, the injuries, the question marks at DT... and I begin to fear that all I'll wake up to find is a lump of coal in my stocking. That's one of the things that makes week 1 great. You just don't know. No matter how much inside knowledge you have, or how many preseason games you've watched, you really don't know what to expect from a team until they strap on the pads week 1. Of course, with the bi-polar nature of the Giants last season, their new D-coordinator, and all the new faces, I feel I am even more clueless this year than in years past.
The Giants open their 2010 campaign, and the new "GIANTS" Stadium (until they name it, that's what I'm calling it), against the Carolina Panthers--the same team that humiliated the Giants (and me) in the last game the Giants ever played at the old stadium. The Panthers are another team that is hard to gauge coming into 2010. They have a young QB who showed promise last year (e.g. when he lit up the Giants), two excellent RB's, and the bold prediction by SI's Peter King that they are going to the Superbowl. I like Peter King, he's a fine writer and a seemingly lovely man, but he tends to be awful with his predictions and I think that might be the case here. The Panthers certainly offer an interesting challenge to the G-men, but the fact remains they are starting 4 new defensive linemen. And when I say new, I don't just mean to the Panthers, I mean they are starting 4 guys who didn't start for anyone in 2009! They are also going to be without starting RT Jeff Otah (knee).
The Giants need to win this game. I don't want to overstate the importance of the first game of the season (we all remember what happened at the start of the 2007 campaign), but if the Panthers come in and run all over them again, it will be devastating. Obviously, not so much in terms of standings, but more for its effect on the team's psyche. I get the sense the Giants are confident they can bounce back from last season, but still aren't quite sure they will. With a game in Indianapolis next on the schedule, a loss may very likely mean an 0-2 start. Now I know they went 0-2 in 2007 and went on to win the Superbowl (come to think of it, in 2007 they also had a new D-coordinator and were also coming off an 8-8 year--just saying), but I don't think this team could handle the pressure that would mount on them with a slow start.
One advantage the Giants have is the element of surprise. Perry Fewell said the Giants showed about 10% of their defensive looks in the preseason, meaning the defense you see on Sunday won't be on tape yet. Hopefully they can cause confusion for the young QB and get some pressure to force a few turnovers. Offensively, if the Giants can't run on this inexperienced front, they won't be able to run on anyone. I'm pretty confident they'll move the ball against this defense. Knowing the Giants, it will be a sloppy game. Don't expect the football equivalent of a Red Ryder BB Gun to be under the tree Sunday, but I don't think we're getting coal either. I think the Giants win--ugly.
The Giants open their 2010 campaign, and the new "GIANTS" Stadium (until they name it, that's what I'm calling it), against the Carolina Panthers--the same team that humiliated the Giants (and me) in the last game the Giants ever played at the old stadium. The Panthers are another team that is hard to gauge coming into 2010. They have a young QB who showed promise last year (e.g. when he lit up the Giants), two excellent RB's, and the bold prediction by SI's Peter King that they are going to the Superbowl. I like Peter King, he's a fine writer and a seemingly lovely man, but he tends to be awful with his predictions and I think that might be the case here. The Panthers certainly offer an interesting challenge to the G-men, but the fact remains they are starting 4 new defensive linemen. And when I say new, I don't just mean to the Panthers, I mean they are starting 4 guys who didn't start for anyone in 2009! They are also going to be without starting RT Jeff Otah (knee).
The Giants need to win this game. I don't want to overstate the importance of the first game of the season (we all remember what happened at the start of the 2007 campaign), but if the Panthers come in and run all over them again, it will be devastating. Obviously, not so much in terms of standings, but more for its effect on the team's psyche. I get the sense the Giants are confident they can bounce back from last season, but still aren't quite sure they will. With a game in Indianapolis next on the schedule, a loss may very likely mean an 0-2 start. Now I know they went 0-2 in 2007 and went on to win the Superbowl (come to think of it, in 2007 they also had a new D-coordinator and were also coming off an 8-8 year--just saying), but I don't think this team could handle the pressure that would mount on them with a slow start.
One advantage the Giants have is the element of surprise. Perry Fewell said the Giants showed about 10% of their defensive looks in the preseason, meaning the defense you see on Sunday won't be on tape yet. Hopefully they can cause confusion for the young QB and get some pressure to force a few turnovers. Offensively, if the Giants can't run on this inexperienced front, they won't be able to run on anyone. I'm pretty confident they'll move the ball against this defense. Knowing the Giants, it will be a sloppy game. Don't expect the football equivalent of a Red Ryder BB Gun to be under the tree Sunday, but I don't think we're getting coal either. I think the Giants win--ugly.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Here's What Won't Happen in 2010
I feel like it is a prerequisite that if you have any sort of sports-related blog or radio show you have to make preseason picks. So here are my uninformed, sure to be wrong picks:
^Home Field Advantage
*wild card
NFC East:
Cowboys: 10-6
Giants: 9-7*
Eagles: 9-7*
Redskins: 7-9
Comment: Cowboys and Eagles come back down a bit, Giants and Redskins move up a bit...tight division race with only a few games separating the top from bottom. Giants and Eagles just make the playoffs thanks to a weak conference.
NFC North:
Packers: 11-5
Vikings: 9-7
Bears: 7-9
Lions: 6-10
Comment: Brett Favre looked uninterested last night. He'll get hurt behind that shaky O-line and probably play through it--to the detriment of the team. The Pack emerge as the top team in the NFC North.
NFC South:
Saints: 11-5^
Falcons: 9-7
Panthers: 8-8
Bucs: 3-13
Comment: No surprises here. Saints win the division, Falcons stay competitive but come up just short.
NFC West:
49ers: 10-6
Cardinals: 6-10
Seahawks: 5-11
Rams: 3-13
Comment: 49ers cruise to a division title in the worst division in football
AFC East:
Patriots: 10-6
Dolphins: 9-7
Jets: 9-7
Bills: 0-16 (yeah I think they are that bad)
Comment: The Bills are awful but a thin line separates the Pats, Dolphins, and Jets. I think a healthy happy Brady puts the Pats on top.
AFC North:
Ravens: 12-4
Steelers: 10-6*
Bengals: 8-8
Browns: 7-9
Comment: Ravens do it with offense, not defense. Steelers get the wild card and both the Bengals and Browns are competitive making this the toughest division in the league.
AFC South:
Colts: 12-4^
Titans: 10-6*
Texans: 9-7
Jags: 6-10
Comment: Colts pull it off again. Titans get the wild card and once again the Texans fail to get over the hump.
AFC West:
Chargers: 10-6
Broncos: 7-9
Raiders: 7-9
Chiefs: 7-9
Comment: Chargers still the best team out west, but no one is that good.
Playoffs:
NFC Wild Card Round:
Giants @ 49ers (Giants blow a huge lead in the second half and lose on a botched field goal attempt...oh wait that already happened. Screw it, Giants WIN 17-12)
Eagles @ Cowboys (Eagles 27-20)
NFC Divisional Round:
Giants @ Packers (Rodgers doesn't pull a Brett Favre and there is no repeat of the 2007 magic in Lambeau, Packers win convincingly 31-17)
Eagles @ Saints (Saints 38-24)
NFC Championship
Packers @ Saints (Again, Rodgers doesn't pull a Brett Favre; Packers win 37-24)
AFC Wild Card Round:
Steelers @ Patriots (Patriots: 24-21)
Titans @ Chargers (Titans: 23-13)
AFC Divisional Round:
Titans @ Colts (Colts 24-14)
Patriots @ Ravens (Ravens 27-20)
AFC Championship Game:
Ravens @ Colts (Colts once again humiliate their old city 37-20)
Superbowl:
Colts 31 Packers 27 (Manning is redeemed)
^Home Field Advantage
*wild card
NFC East:
Cowboys: 10-6
Giants: 9-7*
Eagles: 9-7*
Redskins: 7-9
Comment: Cowboys and Eagles come back down a bit, Giants and Redskins move up a bit...tight division race with only a few games separating the top from bottom. Giants and Eagles just make the playoffs thanks to a weak conference.
NFC North:
Packers: 11-5
Vikings: 9-7
Bears: 7-9
Lions: 6-10
Comment: Brett Favre looked uninterested last night. He'll get hurt behind that shaky O-line and probably play through it--to the detriment of the team. The Pack emerge as the top team in the NFC North.
NFC South:
Saints: 11-5^
Falcons: 9-7
Panthers: 8-8
Bucs: 3-13
Comment: No surprises here. Saints win the division, Falcons stay competitive but come up just short.
NFC West:
49ers: 10-6
Cardinals: 6-10
Seahawks: 5-11
Rams: 3-13
Comment: 49ers cruise to a division title in the worst division in football
AFC East:
Patriots: 10-6
Dolphins: 9-7
Jets: 9-7
Bills: 0-16 (yeah I think they are that bad)
Comment: The Bills are awful but a thin line separates the Pats, Dolphins, and Jets. I think a healthy happy Brady puts the Pats on top.
AFC North:
Ravens: 12-4
Steelers: 10-6*
Bengals: 8-8
Browns: 7-9
Comment: Ravens do it with offense, not defense. Steelers get the wild card and both the Bengals and Browns are competitive making this the toughest division in the league.
AFC South:
Colts: 12-4^
Titans: 10-6*
Texans: 9-7
Jags: 6-10
Comment: Colts pull it off again. Titans get the wild card and once again the Texans fail to get over the hump.
AFC West:
Chargers: 10-6
Broncos: 7-9
Raiders: 7-9
Chiefs: 7-9
Comment: Chargers still the best team out west, but no one is that good.
Playoffs:
NFC Wild Card Round:
Giants @ 49ers (Giants blow a huge lead in the second half and lose on a botched field goal attempt...oh wait that already happened. Screw it, Giants WIN 17-12)
Eagles @ Cowboys (Eagles 27-20)
NFC Divisional Round:
Giants @ Packers (Rodgers doesn't pull a Brett Favre and there is no repeat of the 2007 magic in Lambeau, Packers win convincingly 31-17)
Eagles @ Saints (Saints 38-24)
NFC Championship
Packers @ Saints (Again, Rodgers doesn't pull a Brett Favre; Packers win 37-24)
AFC Wild Card Round:
Steelers @ Patriots (Patriots: 24-21)
Titans @ Chargers (Titans: 23-13)
AFC Divisional Round:
Titans @ Colts (Colts 24-14)
Patriots @ Ravens (Ravens 27-20)
AFC Championship Game:
Ravens @ Colts (Colts once again humiliate their old city 37-20)
Superbowl:
Colts 31 Packers 27 (Manning is redeemed)
Thursday, September 9, 2010
A Look at the "Other" NFC East Teams
So the NFL season kicks off tonight, meaning all is right with the world again. I guess it's about time I mention teams other than the NY Giants, so here's my pseudo NFC East preview.
Dallas Cowboys: For a while the Eagles had surpassed the Cowboys on my hate scale, but as sure as the tide, the Cowboys always manage to rekindle my hatred. There’s not much to like: their owner, their name, their fans, their QB, their "America's Team nonsense. I mean really, I get sick just thinking about them. Everyone has got them winning the division, and many like them to represent the NFC in the Superbowl—which is being played, not-coincidentally, at their home field. Here’s what I don’t get: why should we think the Cowboys will be better than last year? Sorry if I don't think adding a late first round WR who was injured all through camp isn’t enough Cowboy fans. Especially when you have serious concerns with your offensive line. They lose stability up-front, and basically stay the same in every other position and I’m suppose to think they are magically going to get better? It doesn’t work that way. Say what you will about the Giants, but you have to admit they have a much better roster right now than they did at the end of last season—you know, when they beat the healthy Cowboys for the second straight time. In this league you’re either getting better or getting worse, and the Cowboys certainly didn’t get better.
Philadelphia Eagles: Who trades a pro-bowl quarterback to a division rival? Andy Reid, apparently. Philly’s rotund head coach/general manager is either going to look like the savviest man in the league, or the dumbest (he’s also battling Rex Ryan for the title of “fattest”, but that’s neither here nor there). Kevin Kolb looks pretty good, so I understand moving McNabb, but unless the former pro-bowler and face of the franchise has nothing left in the tank, sending him to Washington looks pretty stupid. The Eagles biggest question mark is not at QB, however. It’s their defense. It wasn’t good last year, and they've addressed their problems by starting a rookie at safety this year. They also have a banged up offensive line that could cost them as well. Andy Reid (his questionable GM Tactics aside) is probably the best coach in the division, so the Eagles will likely be competitive. Like the Giants, I think the Eagles could compete for the division if everything falls into place, but like our friends in blue, they could also be in for a long season if they don’t.
Washington Redskins: Living in the DC area I’ve learned that Redskins fans are truly unique. I’ve never seen a fan base that is more delusional about their team. Every year (and actually this extends to other sports as well) they are convinced they are going to win the Superbowl. I mean literally convinced. Every year Dan Snyder spends a lot of money on players/coaches/GM’s and everyone in DC drinks the cool-aide and rejoices. Of course, this year is no different. Yes my friends, don’t bother watching the season, just picture McNabb and Shanahan each hoisting the Lombardi Trophy and embracing in a long-drawn out hug. The only real question is will Albert Haynseworth be there to lift his coach and quarterback up on his shoulders?
Dallas Cowboys: For a while the Eagles had surpassed the Cowboys on my hate scale, but as sure as the tide, the Cowboys always manage to rekindle my hatred. There’s not much to like: their owner, their name, their fans, their QB, their "America's Team nonsense. I mean really, I get sick just thinking about them. Everyone has got them winning the division, and many like them to represent the NFC in the Superbowl—which is being played, not-coincidentally, at their home field. Here’s what I don’t get: why should we think the Cowboys will be better than last year? Sorry if I don't think adding a late first round WR who was injured all through camp isn’t enough Cowboy fans. Especially when you have serious concerns with your offensive line. They lose stability up-front, and basically stay the same in every other position and I’m suppose to think they are magically going to get better? It doesn’t work that way. Say what you will about the Giants, but you have to admit they have a much better roster right now than they did at the end of last season—you know, when they beat the healthy Cowboys for the second straight time. In this league you’re either getting better or getting worse, and the Cowboys certainly didn’t get better.
Philadelphia Eagles: Who trades a pro-bowl quarterback to a division rival? Andy Reid, apparently. Philly’s rotund head coach/general manager is either going to look like the savviest man in the league, or the dumbest (he’s also battling Rex Ryan for the title of “fattest”, but that’s neither here nor there). Kevin Kolb looks pretty good, so I understand moving McNabb, but unless the former pro-bowler and face of the franchise has nothing left in the tank, sending him to Washington looks pretty stupid. The Eagles biggest question mark is not at QB, however. It’s their defense. It wasn’t good last year, and they've addressed their problems by starting a rookie at safety this year. They also have a banged up offensive line that could cost them as well. Andy Reid (his questionable GM Tactics aside) is probably the best coach in the division, so the Eagles will likely be competitive. Like the Giants, I think the Eagles could compete for the division if everything falls into place, but like our friends in blue, they could also be in for a long season if they don’t.
Washington Redskins: Living in the DC area I’ve learned that Redskins fans are truly unique. I’ve never seen a fan base that is more delusional about their team. Every year (and actually this extends to other sports as well) they are convinced they are going to win the Superbowl. I mean literally convinced. Every year Dan Snyder spends a lot of money on players/coaches/GM’s and everyone in DC drinks the cool-aide and rejoices. Of course, this year is no different. Yes my friends, don’t bother watching the season, just picture McNabb and Shanahan each hoisting the Lombardi Trophy and embracing in a long-drawn out hug. The only real question is will Albert Haynseworth be there to lift his coach and quarterback up on his shoulders?
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Better Late Than Never...Post-"Cutdown Day" Overreaction
Well, Saturday was one crazy day. I spent it driving up to Lake Placid, NY with my wife in the passenger seat "manning" my blackberry and giving me Twitter updates every few minutes as the news of the Giants' cuts slowly leaked out. Most were expected, but a few caught me by surprise. As we approached the 6 O'Clock deadline, the Giants needed one more cut to get down to 53. The rumors on "Twitter" were that the Giants were trying to trade DE Dave Tollefson, so if a deal couldn't be reached, he seemed to be the most likely odd-man out. As the tension mounted, I--of course--lost cell phone service. It wasn't until around 6:30 when I got into my hotel room that I finally found out what was--in my opinion--the biggest surprise of the day. The Giants had kept Tollefson, and dropped second year RB Andre Brown. The decision didn't surprise me because Brown had "wowed" me in the preseason, but rather because the Giants seemed very high on him, and as a general rule, they don't like to give up on draft-picks too quickly. But in the end, the banged-up and unrpoven Brown was simply not worth a roster spot.
To me, the other big surprise was WR Duke Calhoun beating out WR Derek Hagen. Hagen was a solid back-up and (I thought anyway) a very good special teams player. I had also noticed he was one of the Giants captains for their preseason game against the Ravens, so I didn't think he was really on the bubble. But apparently the Giants felt Hagen had slowed down as a gunner on punt coverage, and they felt Calhoun was an upgrade in this regard.
The one bold pick I got right was that the Giants would cut Jay Alford. Despite my intuition, Alford was probably the player I was most disappointed to see go. His hit on Tom Brady in Superbowl XLII will live in Giants' lore forever, but he was coming off major knee surgery, and the Rocky Bernard simply outplayed him in the preseason. Alford wasn't out of work long though, as he was reunited with former defensive line coach Mike Waufle in Oakland. I wish him luck.
Finally, I was legitimately happy for Victor Cruz. There were a lot of doubters who felt his lack of a role on special teams would cost him a roster spot but he just played too damn well to not keep. He could probably be the #1 WR on the Rams right now. Besides, he replaces Sinorice Moss on the roster, and what did Moss ever do on special teams? If anything, Cruz is more versatile because he's bigger than Moss. They had to keep him, and I'm glad they did. It's amazing when you think about the fact that Calhoun and Cruz were both undrafted rookies, trying to make a team that was supposedly already stacked at WR. That's a hell of a job by those two, and I tip my hat to them. That being said, the minute one of them drops a pass or misses a tackle on punt coverage, I'll be the first to curse them out demand they be cut. I overreact, it's just what I do.
To me, the other big surprise was WR Duke Calhoun beating out WR Derek Hagen. Hagen was a solid back-up and (I thought anyway) a very good special teams player. I had also noticed he was one of the Giants captains for their preseason game against the Ravens, so I didn't think he was really on the bubble. But apparently the Giants felt Hagen had slowed down as a gunner on punt coverage, and they felt Calhoun was an upgrade in this regard.
The one bold pick I got right was that the Giants would cut Jay Alford. Despite my intuition, Alford was probably the player I was most disappointed to see go. His hit on Tom Brady in Superbowl XLII will live in Giants' lore forever, but he was coming off major knee surgery, and the Rocky Bernard simply outplayed him in the preseason. Alford wasn't out of work long though, as he was reunited with former defensive line coach Mike Waufle in Oakland. I wish him luck.
Finally, I was legitimately happy for Victor Cruz. There were a lot of doubters who felt his lack of a role on special teams would cost him a roster spot but he just played too damn well to not keep. He could probably be the #1 WR on the Rams right now. Besides, he replaces Sinorice Moss on the roster, and what did Moss ever do on special teams? If anything, Cruz is more versatile because he's bigger than Moss. They had to keep him, and I'm glad they did. It's amazing when you think about the fact that Calhoun and Cruz were both undrafted rookies, trying to make a team that was supposedly already stacked at WR. That's a hell of a job by those two, and I tip my hat to them. That being said, the minute one of them drops a pass or misses a tackle on punt coverage, I'll be the first to curse them out demand they be cut. I overreact, it's just what I do.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Giants Add Rosenfels and Reynaud
The Giants solved their concerns at back-up QB and in the return game in one fell swoop last night by trading with the Minnesota Vikings for QB Sage Rosenfels and RB/WR/RS Darius Reynaud. The Giants sent Minnesota a 5th round pick in 2011 and a conditional pick in 2012 in return.
The trade shores-up two of the Giants' concerns, but has also got to have a few players worried. As I discussed the other day, a lot of noteworthy players could find themselves cut today. Adding two more players (both guaranteed to make the roster provided they pass a physical) only creates more of a log-jam. I'm sure a lot of players started to feel their seats warm-up last night.
One player I thought was safe but suddenly is definitely in jeopardy is Victor Cruz. The local training camp hero is no lock to make the roster (I know I said I thought he was, but everything changes now). Cruz is not much of a special teams contributor so it's possible (I still don't think likely though) that Reynaud just took his roster spot. The Giants haven't had a 3rd QB in several years, so Rhett Bomar might also be looking for a job by the end of the day. Fortunately for both of them, they've played well enough to land a job somewhere in the league.
Overall, this is a good deal for the Giants. They were in desperate need of a kick returner and Rosenfels is the kind of veteran presence you like to have on the bench, ready to steady the ship if Eli goes down.
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Today is the big cut-down day. I'll be on the road but I'll try and update everyone via Twitter (@fatgiantfan) as the cuts are announced.
The trade shores-up two of the Giants' concerns, but has also got to have a few players worried. As I discussed the other day, a lot of noteworthy players could find themselves cut today. Adding two more players (both guaranteed to make the roster provided they pass a physical) only creates more of a log-jam. I'm sure a lot of players started to feel their seats warm-up last night.
One player I thought was safe but suddenly is definitely in jeopardy is Victor Cruz. The local training camp hero is no lock to make the roster (I know I said I thought he was, but everything changes now). Cruz is not much of a special teams contributor so it's possible (I still don't think likely though) that Reynaud just took his roster spot. The Giants haven't had a 3rd QB in several years, so Rhett Bomar might also be looking for a job by the end of the day. Fortunately for both of them, they've played well enough to land a job somewhere in the league.
Overall, this is a good deal for the Giants. They were in desperate need of a kick returner and Rosenfels is the kind of veteran presence you like to have on the bench, ready to steady the ship if Eli goes down.
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Today is the big cut-down day. I'll be on the road but I'll try and update everyone via Twitter (@fatgiantfan) as the cuts are announced.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Check me out on NJ.com's Giants Fan Blogger Contest
I'm shooting for the top. Or, at least as close to the top you rank NJ.com in the blogosphere. They are holding a contest to select a new Giants Fan Blogger. Since I'm blogging anyway, I figured, why not? So I'll be posting all my entries from here on out (started with my roster preview from yesterday actually) to their site. Check out the link below to find my entries (username: brunkst64). Please comment and follow me, as I figure your support can only help! Thanks again!
http://blog.nj.com/giants_fan_blog/index.html
http://blog.nj.com/giants_fan_blog/index.html
Post-game Overreaction (Preseason Week 4: Giants 20; Patriots 17)
Well, I got at least one of my wishes. The Giants' offense took the ball down the field with ease on their opening possession to score a TD. Finally! Unfortunately, the defense--set up with bad field position by terrible kick coverage once again--let the Pats answer right back. Oh well. Here's a few random observations from the game:
- The Giants opening game is 9 days away and they still don't have a kick returner. Manningham and Ross (if and when he returns from the injury) can handle the punt returns, but no one has looked good on kick-offs. Andre Brown was probably the most consistent (albeit the least explosive) through preseason, but he has the dreaded "Turf Toe" and will likely miss at least the first game of the season. I'll tell you another thing, it doesn't matter who is back there right now if the Giants don't find 10 other guys who can block because there has been no where to go.
- Bryan Kehl played his heart out last night. I'm a long-time supporter of Kehl's and I hope to see him hang on. He showed some tremendous speed last night. The problem is, who do you cut?
- I know they gave up a TD on the first drive, but I thought the starting defense played much better overall. Brady was squeezing the ball into some tight spaces. If those are the types of passes they are going to make QB's make, then I expect they'll generate a lot more turnovers this year, which should help counteract the yards they may give up.
- Clint Sintim is awful.
- Carl Banks made 2 good points on the broadcast last night:
- First, when he talked about how the Giants don't seem to have anyone who understands how to blitz. Their blitzes look like they are in slow motion. They need to watch some film of how teams like the Ravens and Jets blitz (and while there at it, pop in some tape of their own defense from the 2007 season).
- Secondly, I agree with Banks about Jonathan Goff's play. Even though he was in with back-ups, he just seemed to be moving around with more aggression and confidence.
- Mario Manningham is still running the wrong routes. If this guy had half a brain he'd be a hell of a football player.
- If the Giants can't bring themselves to cut some of the veterans on defense I mentioned in my preview of the cuts, they may be able to roll the dice and go with only 8 offensive linemen. They have guys who are versatile, so they might be able to pull it off for at least 6 weeks when Boothe comes off the PUP. If they do, they'll likely release Petrus and just pray he clears waivers so they can sign him to the practice squad. I'm not saying they will, I'm just saying it's an option.
- Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith are going to be one hell of a 1-2 punch at WR.
- The Bossman (aka Kevin Boss) looked good last night in his limited action.
- Shawn Andrews looks like he may have been an absolute steal.
- Antrel Rolle is going to do what they paid him top dollar to do: make big plays.
- With the preseason wrapped-up, I can honestly say I have no idea what to expect from the Giants this year. I can see them winning 11 games and the division, I can see them losing 11 games and finishing in dead last, and I can see all possibilities in between....
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Five Things To Watch: Giants vs Patriots
It's the final preseason game, and no one cares, so there is no point in coming up with "10" things to keep an eye on when most of you will probably not watch the game anyway. But for all of you who lack a life (like me), here's 5 things to keep an eye on as the Giants wrap-up the preseason.
1. Southern Miss at South Carolina - Real football begins in college tonight, you're probably better off watching it than another practice NFL game.
2. Shaun Andrews - He should get some extended playing time for the second week in a row. Forget about how he plays, if he is physically able to go the whole time it's a good sign.
3. Rhett "The Threat" Bomar - If he plays well, I think the Giants go with him as the #2. If he struggles, they'll look to sign a veteran (not named Matt Leinart).
4. The Battle for the final roster spots: see preceding article
5. Can someone, anyone, for the love of God, return a kick-off past the 30 yard line? I promise to throw down a shot of Jameson if they do.
1. Southern Miss at South Carolina - Real football begins in college tonight, you're probably better off watching it than another practice NFL game.
2. Shaun Andrews - He should get some extended playing time for the second week in a row. Forget about how he plays, if he is physically able to go the whole time it's a good sign.
3. Rhett "The Threat" Bomar - If he plays well, I think the Giants go with him as the #2. If he struggles, they'll look to sign a veteran (not named Matt Leinart).
4. The Battle for the final roster spots: see preceding article
5. Can someone, anyone, for the love of God, return a kick-off past the 30 yard line? I promise to throw down a shot of Jameson if they do.
Alford and Kehl Could Find Themselves on the Chopping Block
No one likes to talk about it, but we are just a few short days away from the Giants having to cut 22 players from their active roster. They will undoubtedly sign a few to their practice squad, but only rookies are eligible. No matter how you slice it, there will be some veteran names you recognize being let go on Saturday. Here is a look at each position by the numbers and how I think it might shake out:
Safeties:
Currently: 8 on the roster
2009: 3
Safe: Antrel Rolle, Deon Grant, Kenny Phillips
Hot Seat: Michael Johnson
Pack your Bags: John Busing, Sha'reff Rashad, and Seth Williams
Breakdown: The Giants will likely keep 4 safeties this year. It's definitely Johnson's job to lose, but he hasn't been overly impressive as of late. Then again, neither have the other 3. Giants could add a free-agent if they don't like what Johnson shows.
Cornerbacks:
Currently: 6
2009: 5
Safe: Corey Webster, Terrell Thomas, Bruce Johnson
Hot Seat: Aaron Ross (Inj)
Pack your Bags: Courtney Brown and DJ Johnson
Breakdown: As Antrel Rolle can play corner, the Giants may elect to go with only 4 corners this year. If they do, both Brown and Johnson will be released. If they stick with 5, then those two will be battling it out, however, it's likely that the Giants will look for help elsewhere if they need it. If Ross's injury is worse than the Giants have let on, then he could end up on IR.
Defensive End:
Currently: 7
2009: 4
Safe: Mathias Kiwanuka, Jason Pierre-Paul, Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora
Hot Seat: Dave Tollefson
Pack your bags: Alex Hall and Tommie Hill
Breakdown: Hall and Hill are dead men walking. I think the Giants hold onto Tollefson who's had a great summer and go with 5 defensive ends.
Defensive Tackles:
Currently: 7
2009: 4
Safe: Chris Canty, Linval Joseph, Barry Cofield
Hot Seat: Rocky Bernard, Jay Alford,
Pack Your Bags: Nate Collins and Dwayne Hendricks
Breakdown: This is where it gets interesting. Collins and Hendricks are gone, but can the Giants afford to keep 5 DT's AND 5 DE's? Something has got to give, and I think it may be Alford.
Linebackers:
Currently: 8 (not including DeOssie)
2009: 8 (not including DeOssie)
Safe: Clint Sintim, Keith Bulluck, Michael Boley, Jonathan Goff, and Phillip Dillard.
Hot Seat: Gerris Wilkinson, Bryan Kehl and Chase Blackburn (Inj)
Pack Your Bags: N/A
Breakdown: Blackburn is probably safe, but if his knee isn't healing right he'll be placed on IR. Wilkinson has played well in my opinion, so I think he hangs on as well. The Giants need to trim the roster somewhere, and I think this might be one of those positions. I think Kehl winds up the odd-man out.
Offensive Line:
Currently: 14
2009: 9
Safe: Rich Seubert, Chris Snee, David Diehl, Kareem McKenzie, William Beatty
Hot Seat: Shaun O'Hara (inj), Shawn Andrews (inj), Adam Koets, Guy Whimper, and Mitch Petrus
Pack Your Bags: Jacob Bender, Dennis Landolt, Jim Cordle, Taylor Herb
Breakdown: The Giants are worried about O'Hara's ankle, so even though I don't think he'll end up on IR, I don't want to rule it out either. Obviously, he's the starting center if healthy. Andrews' back has held up so far, but if he suffers a set-back tonight he could be gone. Landolt and Cordle are definitely going, and if O'Hara and Andrews are healthy, then Bender and Herb will definitely join them. I think Koets is the other cut, getting them down to 9. Petrus likely makes the roster but quite frankly hasn't looked very good so far. Remember that the Giants also have Kevin Boothe on the PUP list, so if he comes back and is able to play after week 6, then Whimper might be looking for a job then too.
Wide Receivers:
Currently: 8
2009: 7
Safe: Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks, Derek Hagan, Mario Manningham, and Victor Cruz (yeah I think it's a done deal now).
Hot Seat: Ramses Barden (inj)
Pack Your Bags: Tim Brown and Duke Calhoun
Breakdown: Again, Barden is only listed as being on the hot seat because of his back issues. If he gets the all-clear he'll be on the active roster. Tim Brown and Duke Calhoun are both potential practice squad guys--Brown has a better shot--but I don't see them making the 53 man roster. The Giants may take a look at a free agent or two, but I think they go with 6 wide receivers this year.
Tight Ends:
Currently: 4
2009: 3
Safe: Kevin Boss and Travis Beckum
Hot Seat: Scott Chandler and Bear Pascoe
Pack Your Bags: N/A
Breakdown: I think Chandler gets the axe, Pascoe makes the team.
Runningbacks:
Currently: 7
2009: 5
Safe: Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, Andre Brown, Madison Hedgecock
Hot Seat: DJ Ware
Pack Your Bags: Gartrell Johnson and Jerome Johnson
Breakdown: Jerome Johnson has done nothing to unseat Hedgecock for the full-back job, so he'll be gone. I think this is the end of the road for Gartrell Johnson. DJ Ware is probably safe unless the Giants decide they'd rather have Alford and Kehl.
Quaterbacks:
Currently: 3
2009: 2
Safe: Eli Manning and Rhett Bomar
Hot Seat: N/A
Pack Your Bags: Dominic Randolph
Breakdown: Randolph will hope to play well enough tonight to get a spot on the practice squad, but that's it. The Giants could bring in a veteran to challenge Bomar for the #2 spot if they aren't comfortable, which could shake up the roster even more. Even if they bring in a veteran, they'll have to hold onto Bomar at this point I would think.
Specialists:
Currently: 3
2009: 3
Safe: Lawrence Tynes and Zak Deossie
Hot Seat: Matt Dodge
Pack Your Bags: N/A
Breakdown: Most likely nothing will change with this group, but if Dodge is inconsistent tonight the Giants may look for a veteran punter on the waiver wire.
As you can see, getting down to 53 ain't easy. What do you think? Who should go, who should stay?
Safeties:
Currently: 8 on the roster
2009: 3
Safe: Antrel Rolle, Deon Grant, Kenny Phillips
Hot Seat: Michael Johnson
Pack your Bags: John Busing, Sha'reff Rashad, and Seth Williams
Breakdown: The Giants will likely keep 4 safeties this year. It's definitely Johnson's job to lose, but he hasn't been overly impressive as of late. Then again, neither have the other 3. Giants could add a free-agent if they don't like what Johnson shows.
Cornerbacks:
Currently: 6
2009: 5
Safe: Corey Webster, Terrell Thomas, Bruce Johnson
Hot Seat: Aaron Ross (Inj)
Pack your Bags: Courtney Brown and DJ Johnson
Breakdown: As Antrel Rolle can play corner, the Giants may elect to go with only 4 corners this year. If they do, both Brown and Johnson will be released. If they stick with 5, then those two will be battling it out, however, it's likely that the Giants will look for help elsewhere if they need it. If Ross's injury is worse than the Giants have let on, then he could end up on IR.
Defensive End:
Currently: 7
2009: 4
Safe: Mathias Kiwanuka, Jason Pierre-Paul, Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora
Hot Seat: Dave Tollefson
Pack your bags: Alex Hall and Tommie Hill
Breakdown: Hall and Hill are dead men walking. I think the Giants hold onto Tollefson who's had a great summer and go with 5 defensive ends.
Defensive Tackles:
Currently: 7
2009: 4
Safe: Chris Canty, Linval Joseph, Barry Cofield
Hot Seat: Rocky Bernard, Jay Alford,
Pack Your Bags: Nate Collins and Dwayne Hendricks
Breakdown: This is where it gets interesting. Collins and Hendricks are gone, but can the Giants afford to keep 5 DT's AND 5 DE's? Something has got to give, and I think it may be Alford.
Linebackers:
Currently: 8 (not including DeOssie)
2009: 8 (not including DeOssie)
Safe: Clint Sintim, Keith Bulluck, Michael Boley, Jonathan Goff, and Phillip Dillard.
Hot Seat: Gerris Wilkinson, Bryan Kehl and Chase Blackburn (Inj)
Pack Your Bags: N/A
Breakdown: Blackburn is probably safe, but if his knee isn't healing right he'll be placed on IR. Wilkinson has played well in my opinion, so I think he hangs on as well. The Giants need to trim the roster somewhere, and I think this might be one of those positions. I think Kehl winds up the odd-man out.
Offensive Line:
Currently: 14
2009: 9
Safe: Rich Seubert, Chris Snee, David Diehl, Kareem McKenzie, William Beatty
Hot Seat: Shaun O'Hara (inj), Shawn Andrews (inj), Adam Koets, Guy Whimper, and Mitch Petrus
Pack Your Bags: Jacob Bender, Dennis Landolt, Jim Cordle, Taylor Herb
Breakdown: The Giants are worried about O'Hara's ankle, so even though I don't think he'll end up on IR, I don't want to rule it out either. Obviously, he's the starting center if healthy. Andrews' back has held up so far, but if he suffers a set-back tonight he could be gone. Landolt and Cordle are definitely going, and if O'Hara and Andrews are healthy, then Bender and Herb will definitely join them. I think Koets is the other cut, getting them down to 9. Petrus likely makes the roster but quite frankly hasn't looked very good so far. Remember that the Giants also have Kevin Boothe on the PUP list, so if he comes back and is able to play after week 6, then Whimper might be looking for a job then too.
Wide Receivers:
Currently: 8
2009: 7
Safe: Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks, Derek Hagan, Mario Manningham, and Victor Cruz (yeah I think it's a done deal now).
Hot Seat: Ramses Barden (inj)
Pack Your Bags: Tim Brown and Duke Calhoun
Breakdown: Again, Barden is only listed as being on the hot seat because of his back issues. If he gets the all-clear he'll be on the active roster. Tim Brown and Duke Calhoun are both potential practice squad guys--Brown has a better shot--but I don't see them making the 53 man roster. The Giants may take a look at a free agent or two, but I think they go with 6 wide receivers this year.
Tight Ends:
Currently: 4
2009: 3
Safe: Kevin Boss and Travis Beckum
Hot Seat: Scott Chandler and Bear Pascoe
Pack Your Bags: N/A
Breakdown: I think Chandler gets the axe, Pascoe makes the team.
Runningbacks:
Currently: 7
2009: 5
Safe: Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, Andre Brown, Madison Hedgecock
Hot Seat: DJ Ware
Pack Your Bags: Gartrell Johnson and Jerome Johnson
Breakdown: Jerome Johnson has done nothing to unseat Hedgecock for the full-back job, so he'll be gone. I think this is the end of the road for Gartrell Johnson. DJ Ware is probably safe unless the Giants decide they'd rather have Alford and Kehl.
Quaterbacks:
Currently: 3
2009: 2
Safe: Eli Manning and Rhett Bomar
Hot Seat: N/A
Pack Your Bags: Dominic Randolph
Breakdown: Randolph will hope to play well enough tonight to get a spot on the practice squad, but that's it. The Giants could bring in a veteran to challenge Bomar for the #2 spot if they aren't comfortable, which could shake up the roster even more. Even if they bring in a veteran, they'll have to hold onto Bomar at this point I would think.
Specialists:
Currently: 3
2009: 3
Safe: Lawrence Tynes and Zak Deossie
Hot Seat: Matt Dodge
Pack Your Bags: N/A
Breakdown: Most likely nothing will change with this group, but if Dodge is inconsistent tonight the Giants may look for a veteran punter on the waiver wire.
As you can see, getting down to 53 ain't easy. What do you think? Who should go, who should stay?
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Matt Leinart in Blue? Not Buying It
Early this morning, Adam "I Like to Run With Stories Without Solid Sources" Schefler reported on ESPN Radio's "Mike & Mike in the Morning" that the Giants were one of three teams interested in trading for Cardinal's QB Matt Leinart (The Bills and Raiders were the other two). In related news, I'm looking to drop 20 pounds, but neither is going to happen. First of all, Leinart is owed $10 million in base salary over the next two years. I don't see the Giants trading a draft pick to spend $5 million a year on a back-up. Secondly, the Giants don't need another young, unproven QB. I mean, isn't that essentially what Rhett Bomar is? I realize Leinart was a star in college and a first-round pick, but none of that matters now--does it. Both he and Bomar are unproven back-ups at this point. I'm in favor of the Giants adding some QB depth, but only if it is a veteran who has shown that he can play in the NFL. I mean, Jeff Garcia is playing in the UFL right now--just sayin'. If Eli goes down and can't play a few games, wouldn't you feel more comfortable with a veteran stepping in to hold down the fort until he comes back? I think the Giants wait for cut-down day to make a decision. If they see someone they like that is available, they'll sign him, if not, then Rhett "the threat" Bomar should be the #2.
Now that the dust has settled...a calmer look back at the Giants Preseason Loss to the Ravens
I had my hand on the panic button Saturday night, but I managed to talk myself out of pushing it. 3 days later I've taken my hand off, but I'm still keeping it close by. I'm not as worked up about the problems the Giants had in coverage anymore, however. Tom Coughlin said that they stuck with a lot of man coverage (even though it wasn't working) as a test for their young corners--hinting that the Giants defensive game plan was designed more to see what the unit was capable of, rather than stopping the Ravens. It's also Perry Fewell's first season, and as we saw in 2007, it can take a little time for players to grow comfortable with a new scheme, so we as fans shouldn't overreact to what happen Saturday night. Plus Fewell's Bills were the second best defense against the pass last year and I still believe the Giants have more talent in their secondary than the Bills.
Still, I can't shake the worry I have about both sides of the line. The offensive line looked old and slow, and the defensive line--the tackles anyway--looked soft. I think that the Shaun Andrews pick-up is looking more important every day. If O'Hara's ankle continues to be a problem, I expect the starting O-Line to be Diehl (LT), Andrews (LG), Seubert (C), Snee (RG), and McKenzie (RT) by week 3. No matter who is in there, the line will have to pick up their play. On the defensive side of the ball, Perry Fewell is going to have to get creative with how he attacks the run. The Giants are not a "read-and-react" type of front 7. They lack the strength and 2-gap style D-tackles. They need to get back to attacking the run gaps like they did under Steve Spagnuolo. Of course, Fewell is the coordinator who had one of the worst run defenses in the league over the past two years (sigh). Let's hope for the best.
Still, I can't shake the worry I have about both sides of the line. The offensive line looked old and slow, and the defensive line--the tackles anyway--looked soft. I think that the Shaun Andrews pick-up is looking more important every day. If O'Hara's ankle continues to be a problem, I expect the starting O-Line to be Diehl (LT), Andrews (LG), Seubert (C), Snee (RG), and McKenzie (RT) by week 3. No matter who is in there, the line will have to pick up their play. On the defensive side of the ball, Perry Fewell is going to have to get creative with how he attacks the run. The Giants are not a "read-and-react" type of front 7. They lack the strength and 2-gap style D-tackles. They need to get back to attacking the run gaps like they did under Steve Spagnuolo. Of course, Fewell is the coordinator who had one of the worst run defenses in the league over the past two years (sigh). Let's hope for the best.
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