Bleacher Report - Articles by Craig Santucci

Can Hakeem Nicks Win Rookie of the Year?

Craig Santucci — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:34:28 -0500

Sevens months ago, the New York Giants drove 15 minutes into New York City and arrived at Radio City Music Hall for the 2009 NFL draft. That day the Giants brass left with nine unknown players who would hopefully make an impact for the New York Giants.

With their first pick in the 2009 draft, the New York Giants invested in North Carolina’s star wide receiver Hakeem Nicks.

It was a heavy wide receiver draft, so how did the Giants know they got the right guy? They didn’t! Reports circulated around the sports community that the Giants wanted wide receiver Jeremy Maclin from Missouri; however, the Eagles jumped up and took him, leaving Mr. Nicks the next best choice on the board for Big Blue.

Throughout the summer, the complaints were loud regarding to whom Eli was going to throw the ball. The team was now without Shockey, Burress, and Toomer. New blood Mario Manningham was an unproven player, Sinorice Moss looked like a bust, and Domenik Hixon, who is a fantastic special team player, was not a No. 1 or 2 wide receiver.

The Giants receivers did not command the respect as Amani Toomer once did, and they certainly did not strike fear into defensive backs as Plaxico Burress once did. So it looked like a long, rough road for the Giants passing game.

In steps rookie Hakeem Nicks!

Now, more than halfway through the 2009 season, this first-round pick looks like a top candidate to compete for “Rookie of the Year.”

Hicks is a playmaker with great hands. His lack of speed has not hurt him at all. In fact, at North Carolina, Nicks had the highest average per catch (18.0) of the top seven receivers drafted, including Maclin, Harvin, and Heyward-Bey.

While the NFL grind starts to catch up to most rookies, Hakeem Nicks and a handful of truly gifted players destined to become great have separated themselves from the pack. These players will become the future faces of their franchise and this great league.

Do all Rookie of the Year signs point to Percy Harvin? Not if Hakeem Nicks has anything to say about it!

Let's look at some details: Is it possible Harvin will see less opportunity because Adrian Peterson needs to get his touches? Yes, it’s possible. The same goes for Knowshon Moreno and Michael Crabtree. When you have a great running back and a great receiver, the ball will get spread around to keep defenses off balance.

I think Hakeem Nicks has a great chance as any to grab this hardware.

Since 1967, The Associated Press has given two annual Rookie of the Year Awards: one for an offensive player and one for a defensive player. But the NFL does recognize other awards from SI, The Sporting News, Pro Football Weekly, and Diet Pepsi.

Average

The Giants have abandoned smash-mouth football for more of a passing offense, giving Hakeem ample opportunities to make an impact. He is currently averaging 17 yards a catch, which is only second to Mohamed Massaquoi (19 yards a catch) from Cleveland.

Long

The North Carolina star has shown his big play ability, racking up a 62-yard touchdown, which is currently the longest touchdown of the season amongst his first-year year draft peers.

Competition

Outside of Massaquoi at Cleveland, the most difficult schedule goes to Nicks and Maclin facing Dallas, Philadelphia, San Diego, Atlanta, Arizona, New Orleans, Minnesota, and Denver. As much as Percy Harvin is a special talent, he is facing less competition with Cleveland, Detroit, San Fran, Seattle, Carolina, Chicago, and St. Louis.

Attitude

With the Giants' all-but-disappearing running game, Hicks should be seeing the ball coming his way more often. If Mario Manningham draws a double-team because his recent success with Eli, Nicks will become the “hot” route.

The Giants have the worst NFL red zone offense, and, it pains me to say this, but Jacobs has foolishly disappeared from the Giants' plans. The O-line has lost its swagger, so I suspect the ball will be put in Eli’s hands, where he can make a difference.

Harvin: 42 receptions, 602 yards, 5 TDs

Maclin: 42 receptions, 540 yards, 4 TDs

Nicks: 32 receptions, 538 yards, 4 TDs

Massaquoi: 26 receptions, 485 yards, 1 TD

Collie: 43 receptions, 483 yards, 1 TD

Crabtree: 26 receptions, 346 yards, 1 TD

Don’t get me wrong...Beanie Wells, Knowshon Moreno, Matt Stafford, and Mark Sanchez may have something to say about where that trophy goes, too.

Hakeem Nicks will be expected to make some plays if the Giants are to salvage this season, and, just maybe, it will win Mr. Hicks Rookie of the Year honors.

New York Giants: What We Really Know About Their Collapse

Craig Santucci — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 01:18:33 -0500

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

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

This is what we do know.

1. The Defensive Coordinator

Bill Sheridan has ruined this defense. Sheridan has taken Steve Spagnuolo's league leading sack machine to the WORST RANKED red zone defense in the league. All in one year.

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

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

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

2. Offensive Coordinator

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

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

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

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

3. Brandon Jacobs

A 260-pound tail back should not be taken down so easily. Jacobs is all but shying away from contact and is being taken down with ease. Arm tackles should never bring this guy down.

Where is the Earl Campbell, Eric Dickerson, Eddie George-style of smash mouth football this guy used to display. His speed is all but gone and his ferociousness has not been seen once this year. He is missing the holes and blocks on a regular basis. He is shell of his former self.

4. Offensive Line

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

5. Aaron Ross

What happened to our promising first-round draft pick out of Texas?

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

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

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

Giants Hold on To Beat Falcons, but Still Need Help Closing Out Opponents

Craig Santucci — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:29:21 -0500

Will the real New York Giants please stand up?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Craig Santucci — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 10:42:44 -0500

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spagnuolo Owes a Giant Thank You!

Craig Santucci — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 02:07:02 -0500

A good coach develops over time. He has traveled the ups and downs and weathered the storms. Perhaps these developing coaches have looked bad at times and some have had the rare opportunity to be celebrated while basking in the light of success.

Over the years two specific up and coming Giant coach's cut their teeth in the NFL as a NY Giants Coordinator. These two gentlemen went on to become legends in the game.

These two coaches are: Bill Parcells and Bill Belichick.

John Fox the Carolina Panthers head coach was also the New York Giants DC from 1997 to 2001 and continues to grow a nice body of work.

Today we are mid way through the 2009 season and most writers and the fantasy junkies want to discuss the mid season grades for the players. Call me crazy...but as we face the bye week and calm before the storm, I reflect back on the years past and how a certain individual might owe the NY Giant franchise a very big "thank you".

Highlight...Steve Spagnuolo...the new head coach of the Rams.

Spags learned from one of the best...the late, great Jim Johnson, the former defensive coordinator for Philadelphia Eagles. In Philadelphia, Steve learned how to master the 4-3 defense and developed his skills to dial up blitz packages that could not be stopped by a mere mortal offensive line.

Steve Spognuolo earned his stripes moving up the coaching ladder from the Eagles Defensive Assistant to Defensive Back coach to Linebacker coach in 2004. That's eight season honing his craft under one of the Best Defensive Coordinators in the NFL.

In 2007...the New York Giants opened the door and gave Steve Spagnuolo his first big start by hiring him as the new Defensive Coordinator for the NY Giants.

Would he finally bring something special back to the Big Blue?

The NY Giants have lived on defensive for so long...one could only hope this tradition would thrive once again! Spagnuolo was inheriting a defensive history that was more than good...they were legendary.

Players like: Huff, Tunnell, Robustelli, Martin, Carson, Taylor, Van Belt, Burt, Pepper Johnson, Armstead and Strahan! That's a list of players that could easily swallow up a new Defensive Coordinator, however, Steve Spagnuolo was up to the task.

He took over for the defeated and unaccomplished Tim Lewis and immediately put the swagger back in the Big Blue Wrecking Crew! This first time Defensive Coordinator took over the 4-3 defense with a fever and tenacity that reminded fans of the old days.

In 2007, Spag's first year at DC his defense lead the NFL in sacks and won Super Bowl 42 in style against the New England Patriots. His ferocious defense sacked Tom Brady five times which was most Tom Brady had been sacked all year in one game.

After this memorable ride to the Superbowl...the New York Giants made Spagnuolo one of the highest-paid defensive coordinators in the NFL with a new three-year contract, worth roughly $2 million a year.

In 2008 the defensive unit followed up with a strong performance ranking 12th for yards allowed, 5th in the NFL in sacks and 10th against the pass. In '09 with two years of great defensive and tradition restored...Spagnuolo was given a four year 11.5 million year deal from the St. Louis Rams to put the heartbeat back in the their franchise.

Yes, the Rams are a team in need of talent and possibly a life preserver, but this past week Spagnuolo once again showed a glimpse of greatness by holding the league's leading MVP candidate, Drew Brees to only 223 yards and two touchdown. Let's be honest...this is not a celebration because the Rams still lost; however, I recognize a suburb defensive effort and a coach hard at work.

I hope the Rams don't eventually crush Steve Spagnuolo and I hope he turns the team around but more than anything I hope somewhere in the bowels of Giants Stadium there is letter or a voice mail for the Giants management, expressing his gratitude.

And maybe, just maybe in time, we can convince the Spag's to come back to the Giants to replace Sheridan or follow Tom Coughlin when he decides to retire.

New York sure looks better than St. Louis right about now...especially during the bye week!

New York Giants Football Ranting and Raving: Part Four

Craig Santucci — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:20:56 -0500

It's that time again where I Rant and Rave about our New York Giants.

Lets dial up the good and the bad and really break down some good observations that don't get discussed everyday.

Strap in—here we go. Rant & Rave: Edition No. 4.

Rant: Clark Kent

Superman he is not!

While the Giants Clark is well traveled and his experience is very valuable...his production seems almost non existent. He has been on five different teams in nine years and I had hoped that he would have made a bigger impact on this defense by now.

He did win the job at strong side linebacker out of camp, but he only has 29 tackles in nine games!

That's an average of only three tackles a game! I think it's time the Giants give Sintim a chance to run free. I am sure this kid can play.

Rave: Tough Guy's

Being a Giants fan and a season ticket holder for 25 years I have seen many big hits and extremely tough athletes that have worn the New York Giant Blue and White. Tough guys like Doug Kotar, Rob Carpenter, Harry Carson, Keith Hamilton, Brad Benson, Phil McConkey, Marc Bavaro, Maurice Carthon, Jim Burt, Lawrence Taylor, Jeremy Shockey, Tiki Barber...

Love 'em or hate 'em these guys were true warriors. And now we can add Kevin Boss! Have you seen the hits this guy has taken over the last two weeks. In traffic, Boss has manged to haul in Eli Manning's passes only to absorb a huge hit that would kill a mere mortal player.

I love it!

Boss gets the Rant & Rave award of the week!

Rant: Pass coverage

Is it Sheridan who thinks Osi and Justin Tuck should be chasing around tight ends? Someone, please, tell him to stop. Stop the madness. Two of our our best defensive players can be found chasing around tight ends in pass coverage. Is this productive?

Hell, No!

They looked over-matched and frequently out of position dropping into a zone. Please, Bill Sheridan, just let the dogs out of their cages and let them run free at the quarterback.

Rave: Kick Off Gunner

Not to continue this run down memory lane but guys like Reyna Thompson, David Tyree and Chase Blackburn have contributed some huge hits and great coverage on the kick off team over the years.

Stepping out of the shadows the last few weeks has been a healthy Jonathan Goff. Goff was a 5th round draft choice by the Giants in 2008 and is looked at as the replacement for Antonio Pierce in time. To his credit...he has made at least one big hit per week over the last three weeks on the kick off team.

The show stopping smacks make a world of difference for the defense and truly pumps up the fans!

Goff traditionally is hurt and on the Injured Reserve list; however, this year I think he finally gets it and his determined to make a difference.

Truth Be Told: The New York Sleeping Giants Playoff Picture is Bleak

Craig Santucci — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 02:20:26 -0500

For most New York Giant fans, watching the red hot Cowboys beat the Eagles was only a short-term remedy as fans drowned their sorrow after another devastating NY Giant defeat. Some fans just went to bed in disgust.

Everyone just wanted to forget how a New York Giant win was snatched away as Philip Rivers drove the San Diego Chargers 80 yards in the final two minutes of the game to beat the Giants 21 to 20, sending Big Blue on a four game loosing streak.

But not for me...I can't forget.

I had a two-hour drive home down the New Jersey turnpike and into Eagle country. Listening to the postgame show just fueled my fire. If you ever wanted to know what causes road rage...ask the 75,000 people leaving The Meadowlands last night.

The Giants have truly taken a huge step backwards from their 2008 season. Sunday's lose came at the hands of bad defensive execution, bad playing calling, and bad special teams.

Breakdown

1. A new defensive coordinator who does not have a feel for his personnel.

2. Ineffective & predictable offensive play calling.

3. A kicker who is inaccurate, unreliable and doesn't have the leg to kick deep.

4. A linebacker group who is too slow, too old and often injured.

5. A flawless GM who blows it by putting everything into one player.

Lets start with...

WHY IS JUSTIN TUCK IN PASS COVERAGE?

Stop it. Just stop it. There is no reason to take your best defensive player out of position and ask him to cover a pro bowl tight end.

It has become very obvious that Bill Sheridan does not know how to use his personnel. Key players are out of position and it was very apparent that Sheridan is asking his players to do things that will not help them win games. And I bet the players realize it, too.

Tuck and Umenyiora should NEVER drop into pass coverage!

I think back to August when Osi Umenyiora walked out of training camp. That was a sign of things to come! I see a new Defensive Coordinator desperately wanting to put "his stamp" on the defense and in turn, started forcing his star players to do things they did not believe would help them win games.

Can you hear Sherdian telling his Pro Bowl Defensive End he now needs drop like an outside linebacker and cover a running back or tight end. What?

This defensive lacks intensity and it is very reminiscent of the 2006 defense lead by Tim Lewis that almost got Coughlin fired. This was before Steve Spagnuolo came to town, hungry to show what he had learned from working eight years under the late great Jim Johnson.

Play Calling 101:

How can we look so innovative on one series to so predictable when it counts? Direct snap to Brandon Jacobs! End around with Hicks...I love it! Then when it counts, Gilbride implodes. And why did Jacobs only get 11 carries when he averaging 6.4 yards a carry?

Back to Back draw plays?

Excuse me, but this stinks! If you need to run a draw...execute the play with Bradshaw, as his feet are quicker than Jacobs, and he reaches maximum speed much faster in a shorter period of time.

Take a shot at the end zone with Hicks or Boss. Gilbride started off the third quarter with back to back "old school" sweeps around the tackle with Bradshaw, why not go back to this play. They needed that first down. They needed that touchdown.

Instead, Coughlin got conservative in fear of a turn over so he opted to kick the field goal. This is weak! Why did the Giants pay Eli all that money?

They are so predictable. Where is the play action? How about rolling Eli out? How about spreading Bradshaw out wide and running him underneath in a passing route. He is great in space...so why not create it for him.

Feagles & Tynes?

I can image the at 40+ your leg may wear out but that's no excuse to "mufff" the field goal hold. Feagles needs to have better kicks...everything can't be an angle kick.

Tynes just does not have it. He can not kick the ball past the 20 yard line and opponents start on the 40 to 45 yard line is killing the defense.

Kenny Philips

You love him. I love him. Everyone was excited to see what Kenny Philips was about to become on the football field; however, what was the Giants back up plan? The Giants just lost four games and the backup safety got smoked for seven touchdowns. Could Jerry Reece not have paid Butler to come back and compete.

I am very disappointed in Jerry Reece who has been a master at supplying depth to this team. With Ross coming up lame...the defensive backfield is a disaster.

The Giants are last in NFL offensive red-zone efficiency.

The Giants are last in NFL defensive red-zone efficiency.

Some one please wake up this sleeping Giant before it's too late.

New NY Giants Book Released: Making the Big Game

Craig Santucci — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:19:47 -0500

Enclosed is a message I received from a fellow Giant fan. This seemed like something fun to read about our Giants and the fans that dedicate themselves to their team.

"Hello, from Northern California- My name is Jeffrey Fekete and I am now connecting with Giants fans from around the U.S. following the publication of my book "Making The Big Game: Tales of an Accidental Spectator."

It's a part fan memoir and part unexpected road trip story (entirely true) that begins 10 days before kickoff of Super Bowl XLII and ends in the upper deck in Glendale AZ among life long Giants season ticket holders. My regional book tour in January that will make stops in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and just confirmed Miami, FL.

You can preview excerpts and find out more about it at www.MakingTheBigGame.com

Will Rodney Harrison Answer if New York Giants Call?

Craig Santucci — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:07:48 -0500

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He racked up 30.5 sacks—the most of any defensive back in NFL history. He had four interceptions in three games in the 2004-05 playoffs. His seven playoff interceptions are a New England team record.

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

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

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

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

2005—knee

2006—shoulder and knee

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New York Giants: Outplayed and Out-Coached Yet Again

Craig Santucci — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 02:50:15 -0500

Where do you go from here?

Three weeks ago I was told by Giants fans and the writers that the Giants had an off-day when they played the Saints.

An off day?

In case you forgot, Drew Brees and the boys dismantled the Giants. I didn't even write an article that week... I let sleeping dogs lie.

Two weeks ago I was told, "Don't panic, we are still 5-2," "Arizona had a better game plan," "Eli Manning had a bad day," "The refs were bad," "The Giants have a ton of injuries."

But this time, I wrote an article .

This article was read by 400 people, was received very well, and inspired some great dialogue.

But now I'm downright mad. I don't want to hear about some glass-half-full, happy-go-lucky, rah-rah article. The Giants right now stink. They cannot beat a good team. Their on-field communication is downright horrible.

I will have nightmares of this play all week: Corey Webster motioning a defensive audible, changing the play, fists closed and pumping high in the air, but C.C. Brown never picking up the change and Jeremy Maclin running free across the field and down the sidelines for a touchdown after catching a beautiful Donovan McNabb pass.

How about the wimp award? Envelope please: The award goes to Terrell Thomas. Does this guy hit or tackle anyone? Please...for the love of everything pigskin, can Thomas hit somebody or make a tackle instead of looking for a free piggyback ride on the back of a receiver or tight end?

You want to blame coaching? It's a personal favorite of mine, so let's roll with it. The Giants looked clueless from the opening kickoff. No one is in the right spot, and there is STILL NO PASS RUSH! They never used a screen or play action.

The Giants let two rookies beat them, LeSean McCoy and Maclin. This is weak. On 3rd-and-12, Eli throws a bomb? What gives? For most of the fourth quarter the Giants were down by 23 points, but they continued to run Brandon Jacobs like they were holding the lead.

I tried to stick up for Chase Blackburn and Danny Clark early on in training camp, but they are looking terrible right now.

No one has a sense of urgency, and the play calling still stinks.

No creativity...nothing fantasy or flashy! They don't even execute "smash-mouth" old school football correctly.

Can you say out-coached again?

Note to Tom Coughlin: Go get secondary help. Call Rodney Harrison!

Everyone needs to stop defending the issue. The Giants miss James Butler. The Giants put all their eggs in one basket with Kenny Phillips, and Aaron Ross is soft! Ten weeks for a sore hamstring.

Can they hide the truth a little longer? The bye week is two weeks away.

NY Giants Coordinators: Gilbride & Sheridan Exposed

Craig Santucci — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 01:36:37 -0400

Winning in the NFL is not easy. However, when you have the best defensive line and one of the best offensive lines in football, coaches and their assistants should not loose much sleep.

Seven games into the NFL season and I am nothing but disappointed in the production from the New York Giants. Looking back on the victories over Tampa, KC & Oakland, I now firmly believe the Giants are not as good as advertised.

Last week the defense got down right embarrassed. By half time it was easy to see that the Giants' defensive coordinator, Bill Sheridan, had not adequately prepared. The Jets and Rex Ryan threw the "sink" at Drew Brees and they shut him down!

The Giants played read and react and got smoked...so what did the Giants do tonight against the Arizona Cardinals? They got smoked again.

They did not get beat tonight with 5 touchdowns. They did however allow big play after big play!

WAKE UP BILL SHERIDAN!

Note to Sheridan: If you want to make it here in the NFL as a D.C., especially in the NFL East, you better understand your personnel and how to turn them loose.

Did you forget that Kurt Warner, the human statue, was the quarterback? With two minutes left in the game the Giants had one sack on four hits and four pressures.

Second year corner Terrell Thomas, who had a great game, should not be allowing Larry Fitzgerald to run down the middle of the field untouched. In the beginning of the game the Giants had their best cover corner, Corey Webster covering Larry Fitz.

Why the change when everyone admitted that Boldin could not run. What happened to the pressure? Where were the blitzes, the stunts, etc...

The offensive coordinator was no better. Gilbride is a flat out phony!

When things get tough he goes into a shell. The playing calling was terrible. Take away a great catch from Kevin Boss and another circus catch from Steve Smith and the Giants have nothing but another dropped game-tying pass by Mario Manningham.

Running a "draw" at our own goal line was a joke.

Jacobs was 4 for 63 in the first quarter and Gilbride took him out. Third and two and Eli is throwing bombs. The screens to open the game were nice..why not go back to it?

Where is the screen?
Where is the draw?
Boss? Darcy Johnson? Barden? Beckman?

The Giants will win some games; but good teams like San Diego, Philadelphia, Dallas, Chicago, Denver and Minnesota make adjustments and find ways to win.

And if analyst Chris Collinsworth can figure out the snap count from the booth regarding Eli's "Omaha" call, I am sure the players on the field from Arizona could figure it out.

These coordinators are hurting the team and the flow of the game.

I hope Coughlin lights a fire under these guys before it too late.

NY Giants Football: Ranting & Raving: Part Three

Craig Santucci — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:33:08 -0400

Take three...Rant & Rave is back.

Rant: Game on TV

I must admit...after being a season ticket holder for the past 25 years, I thought I would miss watching the games from seat in Section 133...but surprisingly, watching the game on TV from home has it's perks!

Like...no lines at the bathroom, concessions that don't cost be $26 bucks for a beer, and I can take a nap when my squad rolls up on a team 44-7.

Rave: Nicks

Hello Hakeem Nicks. When is the last time the Giants had their first pick in the draft score a touchdown? Well...Aaron Ross had an interception return for a touchdown his rookie year in 2007, but he's on defense.

Actually...The Giants have drafted four offensive players and five defensive players in the last nine years. Ron Dayne and Jeremy Shockey both scored in their rookie seasons. So that would be six years since a rookie offensive player got to the end zone.

You'd make Ike Hillard proud you wore No. 88.

Rant : Jacobs

Now, I know that No. 27 can run the ball with precision and power and I know how important it is to have a productive Brandon Jacobs. So why the dramatic loss in production.

I thought something might be different from last year to this year...so I looked up the 2009 vs the 2008 game situational stats. And guess what I found?

Just run left!

Bang! There's your answer...some one please call Gilbride.

In 2008, Brandon Jacobs found almost ALL of his success running left over Seubert and Diehl. When running left...Jacobs racked up 616 yards on 98 attempts that resulted in 7 touchdowns for 6.2 yards per carry. Nice!

When Jacobs ran right...Jacobs only mustered up 359 yards on 96 attempts for 3.7 yards per carry and five td's.

In 2009...Brandon Jacobs already has 50 carries running right and only 34 running left. Shouldn't Gilbride know where his back is having the most success? Statistics prove that Diehl and Seubert are better run blockers.

Rave: DC

All thumbs up on Bill Sheridan stepping in for Spags! I would like to see him work in a few more internal line stunts freeing up the big boys in the middle; but boy I am happy. Let's see what he can muster up against Drew Brees and Shockey.

Great job Bill...don't forget to move Tuck next to Fred sometimes!

Rant: Injuries

What do these players have in common? Canty, Ross, Boley, Boss, Dockerty, Alford, Philips and Brown?

I know this is football, but the hell? Is this just bad luck, a bad medical staff, lack of training, lack of desire? Somebody please help get these guys back on the field before the Giants play a team that actually plays in the NFL, unlike the Division 1AA teams they just played the last three weeks.

Did the Giants not just get Boley back on the field and pay him a ton of money? Was he training while on suspension or hitting the nightclubs?

Canty just had a surgical procedure for excessive bleeding in the calf? I thought he had a hamstring injury. And how about Ross...six weeks and still hurting?

Giants and Cowboys Recap: Quick Hits 101

Craig Santucci — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 21:31:36 -0400

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

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

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

Quick Hit: Linebackers

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

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

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

Put Sintim on the field.

Cowboys Linebackers

Who are these players? These "no name" guys were flying around the field making plays everywhere. Why can't we find some guys like that?

Quick Hit: Touchdowns

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

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

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

Field goals are dramatic… but touchdowns win games!

Quick Hit: Michael Boley

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

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

Quick Hit: Vertical versus Horizontal

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

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

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

Quick Hit: Eli

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

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

Quick Hit: Boss Man

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

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

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

You want more offensive points…throw Boss the rock.

2009 NY Giants: My Wishlist

Craig Santucci — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:30:31 -0400

Wants and needs are always part of football. I want a touchdown they need a field goal, I want a linebacker they draft a defensive end, I want a deep pass Gilbride runs it up the gut! As a fan, ex college player and a season ticket holder...remaining objective can be sometimes....impossible. Enclosed is my 2009 NY Giant Wishlist:

Begin Slideshow

NY Giants Football: Ranting & Raving In 2009, Part 2

Craig Santucci — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 16:08:47 -0400

Part No. 2 of Rant & Rave. For those of you who maybe puzzled. A Rant is a complaint and a Rave is a compliment.

Rant

Who the hell is Albert Haynesworth. The $100 million man right. Whatever! I did a little research...yes, I did my research comparing the Giants Defensive Tackles to this "supposed" best tackle in football.

Before we even start I do want to acknowledge that Albert is very good...but $100 million good? He did benefit from playing on a GREAT defense in Tennessee. Back my Rant.

In his seven year career Fat Albert has 271 tackles, 24 sacks, and 18 knock downs. In the same seven years Rocky Bernard, who played his entire career in Seattle, has 280 tackles, 29 sacks, and 13 knock downs.

In eight years Fred Robbins has 275 tackles, 26.5 sacks, and 11 knock downs. So what gives? Is Albert overrated or is the NY Giants Defensive Tackles underrated?

Rave

How good does Clint Sintim look? This guy has a motor and it's always running. Did you know this guy had 245 tackles at Virginia, 39 behind the line of scrimmage for a loss. Throw in the 27 sacks and I think we got a football player.

Those 27 sacks are the most by any active linebacker in the NCAA ranks at the conclusion of the 2008 campaign.

Sintim will be looking over the shoulder of Danny Clark all season. Look for Clint to make a big contribution this year and possibly start before the seasons over if Danny Clark doesn't have an outstanding year.

Rant

Why is Gerris Wilkerson on this team?

In three years this guy has 51 tackles. I don't see what he brings to the table. The Giants could have kept TE Michael Mathews, WR David Tyree, RB Allan Patrick, or DE Maurice Evans.

Any of these three players could have contributed more than Wilkerson. He's either hurt, missing tackles, or getting run over. Could there be some hidden raw talent somewhere...I just don't see it.

This is his 2008 recap: He played in eight regular season games with five starts before injuring a knee that caused him to sit out the remainder of the season. He finished with 11 tackles and two special teams tackles. Two special teams tackles!...you got to be kidding me.

Wilkerson started at weak side linebacker in the season opener against Washington and finished with only four tackles. Against Cleveland he mustered up another two tackles before leaving the game with a knee injury.

He was inactive for six games before returning to the field against Washington where he had his two special teams tackles. On the opening kickoff of the Dallas game he injured his knee and was inactive for the rest of the season. Oh Boy!

Rave

Can some one please call Kevin Boss's number and throw the kid the ball. This guy actually hurdled Eagles Strong Safety No. 27 Quintin Mikell on Nov. 10, 2008, with the ball in his hands!

Anytime a 6'6" 255lb guy jumps over a Strong Safety...I say he's an athlete!

Mr. Gilbride...please throw him the ball. We didn't throw to Shockey because everyone said he had a big mouth, or he dropped too many balls, or he made Eli nervous.

Now we have a big dude who runs good routes and keep his mouth shut. Throw him the rock and lets put the seem pass that Simms made famous back into the playbook. Did someone forget he is wearing No. 89.

Rant

Anyone love a kick return for a Touchdown? What if I told you that there was an active player on the Giants roster who had returned 23 kickoffs for Giants resulting in 675 yards and a touchdown?

What if I told you that there is an active player on the roster who holds the Giants all-time post-season return record with 290 kick off yards in four games?

For the love of all that is red, white, and blue...Can we please put Domenik Hixon back in center field and let him shag flies? The guy is a stud with the ball in his hand and our return game has not been the same since.

There has been plenty of starting running backs and wide receivers that returned kicks for their teams. Maybe you've heard of Tim Brown, Eric Metcalf, Dave Megget, Devin Hester, or Brian Westbrook.

Eagles Star Players Sheldon Brown & Quintin Mikell Hang With The People

Craig Santucci — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 23:49:01 -0400

Eagles fans call him “The Hit Man” from the damage he puts on opposing team ball carriers…just ask Saints running back Reggie Bush or Rams running back, Steven Jackson.

They both know the wrath of Eagles star corner back No. 24 Sheldon Brown. In fact …Sheldon’s tremendous collision with Reggie Bush in 2006 made “Hit of Year” and was captured on the front cover of Sports Illustrated.

And how about his partner in crime No. 27 Quintin Mikell? Quintin has emerged from the shadows of Brain Dawkins to grab his first all-pro selection and led the team in tackles in 2008.

Sheldon and Quintin both are going to be heavily relied on this season to step up and be leaders, not just on the defense but with the entire team. With Jon Runyon, Tre Thomas and Brian Dawkins now gone in Free Agency, Sheldon & Quintin become senior members of this team.

Like all other Eagles fans…you love defense. You grew up on Reggie White, Jerome Brown, Wes Hopkins, Eric Allen, Seth Joyner, Andre Waters, Troy Vincent, Jeremiah Trotter and Brian Dawkins.

Sheldon and Quintin are the new generation of big time Eagles players. As these two star players share the spotlight…the questions will become more prevalent. Who are these guys? What are they about?

Sure you root for them every week, wait for them to make a big play and wear their jersey religiously but according to sports radio 610WIP you now have a chance to actually hang with these two guys for two hours every Monday throughout the 2009 football season.

Over the years player shows have become immensely popular allowing the average guy a chance to get up and personal with some of their favorite players and get a “snap shot” of what it is like to be a professional football player on and off the field.

Sheldon and Quintin will be making a weekly appearance on Monday nights at Kaminski’s Sports Bar and Grill located in Cherry Hill New Jersey which is centrally located for fans in the Philadelphia region or South Jersey.

Quintin and Sheldon will be fielding questions from the fans, signing autographs and taking pictures every Monday from 6pm to 8pm. Jason Myrtetus the 610WIP Assistant Program Director and weekend on-air talent will head up the show as Emcee.

So if you have questions that have been eating you all off season like… “Why didn’t they just give Dawkins the money? Or why didn’t they offer Runyon a contract? or maybe something simple like…

What does it feels like when you slam into something as big as Brandon Jacobs? For more info log onto Kaminskisbarandgrill.com

New York Giants Football: Ranting and Raving in 2009

Craig Santucci — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 01:57:19 -0400

Rant: Aaron Ross

How does the boyfriend of a two-time Olympic gold medalist and numerous track and field records have hamstring problems?

Yes, one of the fastest women on the planet, Sanya Richards, is engaged to Aaron Ross, who plays cornerback for the New York Giants

Miss Richards might want to start training her fiance, for the world is still waiting for him to shine. However, his hamstrings will not allow him to showcase his talents and prove he is is better than Mark Collins, Phillipe Sparks, Will Peterson, and Will Allan.

Rave: Giants Management and Coaching Staff

The Giants have a knack for signing cast-offs from the Jets and turning them into stars. Yes, practice squad scrubs who can't seem to make the "powerhouse" franchise that is the New York Jets seem to find a home with Big Blue.

Last year, Derrick Ward became one of two running backs in the Giants' backfield to rush over 1,000 yards, and he played his way into a nice contract with Tampa Bay.

In 2009, Danny Ware steps in as "wind" to complete the Earth, wind and fire trio of dominating backs. Ware has had a great preseason and continues to show why he belongs with the big boys.

Rant: Lawrence Tynes

Can some get Lawrence Tynes a clue?

He's the only kicker on the 80-man roster, and he should start kicking like it.

His brother is in federal prison for 27 years on drug and witness intimidation charges stemming from his 2004 involvement in a plan to move 3,600 pounds of marijuana between Texas and Florida.

His dad is a former Navy SEAL, and his brother Jason Tynes served in the United States Army in Iraq and Kuwait.

I get it—this guy might have a pretty warped home life. But being a kicker isn't overly demanding.

Training camp isn't demanding for kickers, and neither is practice. The Giant fans aren't asking for much. They only need the guy to do two things: Kick the freaking ball in the end zone and through the uprights.

Why is ever year, every game, and every kick an adventure?

Rave: Fred Robbins

Fred Robbins has been one of the best defensive the Giants have had since Keith "Hammer" Hamilton, and he probably makes the short list of the top five in the last 35 years behind Rosey Grier, Jim Burt, Erik Howard and Keith Hamilton.

When's the last time you went to work with two broken hands? When's the last time you heard of a defensive tackle in this era of rich, speciality, down lineman not only play but perform with two broken hands.

How about never!

In 2009, Robbins had micro fracture surgery, which in the real world can sideline an athlete for more than a year. But this isn't the real world, and Robbins is officially a super human.

No. 98 took 10 snaps in last week's preseason game, and he played a few series against the Jets.

This can only be deemed as an impressive comeback by the big dog.

Rant: Receivers

Memo to the New York Giants wide receivers: Catch the ball!

As the Giants went head-to-head with their roommates in the New York Jets, both Steve Smith and Domenik Hixon dropped passes that should have been caught.

These opportunities are not missed by No. 1 receivers.

In the first quarter, Steve Smith dropped a huge pass from Eli Manning. And in the very same series after a pass interference penalty, Manning went to work with Hixon. However, the ball goes through his fingertips for an interception.

Just this past week, as the Giants were wrapping up camp, first-round draft pick Hakeem Nicks caught the ire of Coach Coughlin by dropping a ball that should have been caught. However, he redeemed himself tonight with 144 receiving yards on six receptions with scores of 71 and 22 yards.

These receivers are going to have some growing pains, and it's starting to show.

Rave: Defense Depth

The Giant linebackers and defensive line kept the Jets to 3.4 yards per carry and under 100 yards. Blackburn led the linebackers with six tackles, and defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka led the team with four tackles and one sack.

Once this unit is fully healthy, it will make a huge impact on any game. And despite what people are saying about the injury to Canty, players like Bernard, Tollefson, and Cofield are better than most teams back ups or situational players.

Rant: Antonio Pierce

Why isn't this guy playing? Why does Antonio Pierce look soft?

Shouldn't the middle linebacker for the Giants' defense look like he could take your head off?

It's possible that Pierce spends hours in the gym every day, but I don't think it's working. That leads me to wonder if his lack of power or upper-body strength is hurting the defense. Get this guy a "cycle" or something.

I look at Kehl and Sintim and these guys look diesel. They are big, and it's obvious they are strong.

Can they play? Only time will tell, but they sure don't look like they need personal trainer.

New York Giants Offensive Coordinator Exposed

Craig Santucci — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 03:01:47 -0400

Two preseason games in the books on the 2009 season and the fans are circling the wagons about the lack of offensive talent and fire power from the receiving unit.

Should the Giants trade for Brandon Marshall? Should the Giants have kept Amani Toomer?

I try not make any concrete opinions in preseason or do I call for irrational changes regarding strategy, the play calling or the personnel because these situations change by the day; however, I am starting to wonder if we have a bigger problem.

Maybe the problem isn't the personnel but the coach...like...Kevin Gilbride.

Over the last 20 years Kevin Gilbride has been the quarterbacks coach or the offensive coordinator for six different teams in NFL! The constant landscape change would lead you to believe his services are not well regarded.

For five years Gilbride ran the run and shoot in Houston. Run and shoot! That puts the fear in me even as I write it. Yes, the team had huge offensive numbers but was that Gilbride or Warren Moon?

Last time I checked, Warren Moon was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. I'm gonna stick with my theory that Moon made Gilbride look pretty good.

Gilbride isn't even know for offensive prowess...instead his most famous moment was being punched in the face by Buddy Ryan, the Houston Oilers Defensive Coordinator in 1994 while standing on the sidelines during a nationally televised game. All because Gilbride's run-and-shoot offense couldn't run out the clock when needed, especially just before halftime or at the end of a game.

Gilbride's offensive scheme deemed "funny ball" by Houston writers couldn't win big games despite having possibly the best collection of talent in the league.

In 1997 Kevin Gilbride left Tom Coughlin, the head coach at Jacksonville Jaguars to become the head coach for the San Diego Chargers. Quarterback Stan Humphies arguably the best thing going for the Bolts in 1997 has been quoted how in one year the San Diego Chargers became the NFL's worst team.

Humphries, a tough and productive QB showcasing a 47-26 as a starter and ranking third among active quarterbacks in 1997 was badly beating and crushed in Gilbride's Run and Shoot. Gilbride cut the teams top two running backs and brought in no new line help.

So, now you have a Chargers team with no running back, no offensive line and a quarterback looking over his shoulder, who will be asked to direct a run-and-shoot attack with Eric Metcalf, Tony Martin and a bunch of no-names who can't catch.

Look yourself in the mirror and ask yourself..."Was Plaxico Burress making Gilbride look good for the past three years?" This is not about Burress; however, does this guy really get it or do players like Moon and Burress make him look good?

Against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2008 playoffs the New York Giants Offensive looked lost and over matched...exposed! Gilbride is looking more and more like fraud. It is very well documented that the Giants have young, in experienced receivers...so what!

Why are Ei and company not throwing to these guys when the competetion is at it highest? It's preseason...let the young boys run and air it out while it doesn't count.

And if the Giants become one dimensional and predictable, the Giants will loose.

Wake up Gilbride.

Cut To the Chase: New York Needs Giant Year from Linebacker Chase Blackburn

Craig Santucci — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 08:05:00 -0400

Chase Blackburn just flies below the radar. Nothing fancy...just a football player. With lunch pail in hand...No 57. Chase Blackburn comes to work every day, busting his ass and competing.

I am really starting to appreciate this guy and I think some other people should too. He reminds me of Nick Griesen the old Giant linebacker who played his way into a contract at Jacksonville a few years back.

Chase, like Griesen was another hard working guy that can and will play anywhere, anytime because they love football. Chase is one the most consistent players on the roster and I don't think many people even know who he is. The media especially doesn't pay attention to him and I'm sure that's the way he likes it.

He doesn't have elite speed or top of the food chain talent like an Urlacher, Willis or Tatupu...he's just not in that premiere class; however, this guy has made the most of his opportunities and once again...The New Giants are depending on him in 2009.

For you football heads who love stats...Chase Blackburn is not your guy. He does not turn in 100 plus tackles, with 40 for a loss or 10 sacks and five interceptions. Over the years elite linebackers have been a NY Giants staple, especially anchoring the middle.

Huff, Carson, Kelly, Reasons, Johnson, and Armstead...yet Big Blue has not suffered having the master of ceremonies (Pierce) and the hard hat (Blackburn) behind the biggest and arguably one of the best defensive lines in football.

Chase Blackburn over the last four seasons has turned in quite a nice performance. Originally signed as a rookie free agent by the Giants on June 21, 2005 from the University of Akron, Chase has played middle linebacker as well as the weak-side outside linebacker.

With a nose for special teams, Chase made the Giants 53-man roster out of training camp as a rookie free agent and has since led the team in special teams tackles in each of the last four seasons.

Week in and week out he is the most exciting player to watch on the kick off team as he takes his 4.65 speed and throws around his 247 pound body like a wrecking ball. As a rookie in 2005, Chase showed his skills right out of gate recovering a fumble on the game's opening kickoff.

Making his first NFL start at outside linebacker vs. Kansas City on Dec. 17, Chase finished with nine tackles (three solo). During the last two games of 2005 season Chase took over for Antonio Pierce when the defensive signal caller went down with an ankle injury.

In his starting debut in the middle of the Giants defensive he recorded six tackles (three solo) and picked off a Mark Brunell pass and returned it for a 32-yard touchdown. Since being signed by the Giants on 2005 he has played games except but one either on special teams, outside linebacker or in the middle.

Every year he has gotten better, finding a groove and making tackles. During the 2008 season he earned the starting role as the weak-side linebacker and was also named a first alternate to the NFC Pro Bowl team.

This is the year the Giants need him to step up and make a difference whether he is playing for the injured Michael Boley, backing up Antonio Pierce or splitting time with Danny Clark.

He has had a great camp and he deserves to be on the field; however, if he is to stay on this New York Giant team as a starter he will need to separate himself from Gerris Wilkinson and Bryan Kehl by making game changing plays.

Drafting New York Giants: The State of Illinois Produces Football Studs

Craig Santucci — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 09:22:06 -0400

Over the years the New York Giants have found that the keys to success come from all different types of players with different skill sets, from all over the United States.

However, Illinois has been especially good to the Giants.

Over the past nine years, the Giants have drafted four stellar players from the Prairie State who are currently contributing to the Giants' winning ways.

1. Rich Seubert - Western Illinois

With Amani Toomer now gone, Seubert—who was drafted in 2000—becomes the senior statesman on the Giants.

He fractured his leg midseason 2003 and was forced to the sidelines for the remainder of 2003 and the entire 2004 season.

With a great work ethic and determination, Rich worked his way back into the starting lineup in 2005.

Seubert has teamed up with O’Hara, Diehl, Snee, and McKenzie to make the Giants' offensive line one of the best in the game.

In 2008, they became the only current team to start the same five linemen in 32 straight regular season games.

At Western Illinois Seubert was named first-team All Gateway Conference as a senior and led the Leathernecks to the 21st-ranked rushing attack in the country.

Before moving to guard he began his career as a tight end.

In high school Rich lettered in football, baseball and basketball.

2. David Diehl - Illinois

As most fans know, David is a tough and durable player who plays tackle and guard for Big Blue. He was originally drafted from Illinois in the fifth round (160th pick overall) by the Giants in 2003.

He is the first Giant since the introduction of the 16-game schedule in 1978 to start all 96 regular season games in his first six seasons.

In 2008, Diehl was selected to the All-NFC team by the Pro Football Writers Association.

As a senior, David started every game at left guard, registering 91 knockdowns.

Since turning pro in 2003, David has never forgotten his alma mater. David and his wife, Nicole, donated $350,000 for a new weight room at the University of Illinois.

In high school, David lettered in football, wrestling and track.

3. Brandon Jacobs - Southern Illinois

Tailback Brandon Jacobs was a well traveled athlete in college. He played for Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College and Auburn University before settling in at Southern Illinois.

Originally a fourth round selection (110th pick overall) by the Giants in 2005, Brandon has become the focus of the Giants offense and has grown into one of the most feared running backs in the NFL.

His 2,620 career rushing yards is currently the tenth-highest total in Giants history.

With a 1,000-yard rushing season in 2009, Jacobs will surpass Frank Gifford, Eddie Price, Doug Kotar, and Tuffy Leemans to move into sixth place. That would leave him only 216 yards behind the great Ron Johnson.

In 42 games at the three different schools, he amassed some big stats.

He rushed for a total of 4,003 yards with 52 touchdowns on 595 carries, a 6.7-yard average.

At Auburn, Jacobs was part of one of the most amazing collegiate backfields in history, sharing time with Ronnie Brown and Carnell "Cadillac" Williams. He was second on the team with 72 carries for 446 yards (6.2-yard avg.) and three touchdowns.

Big Brandon, of course, wanted more playing time, which was the catalyst for his second move. Jacobs once again hit the road, this time to Southern Illinois.

Jacobs was perhaps the most highly-touted transfer in Southern Illinois history.

In his one season with the Salukis, Jacobs impressed the Giants' scouts by rushing for 922 yards and 19 touchdowns on 150 carries with averages of 6.6 yards a carry and 122.1 yards a game.

4. Barry Cofield - Northwestern

Barry Cofield has been a very solid player for the Giants. He was originally a 4th round (124th pick overall) draft choice by the Giants in 2006 from Northwestern.

He started 36 of his last 37 games for the Wildcats and is a versatile player, starting at both right and left defensive tackle and left defensive end during his career.

Barry was a very hard worker and won the starting nose tackle position in his first season. He was the first Giants rookie defensive player to start every game since linebacker Lawrence Taylor in 1981.

Barry has played in 32 regular season games with 31 starts and has started all five postseason games.

Known as an outstanding run-stuffer, in 2008, Barry helped the Giants finish eighth in the NFL in run defense (97.7 yards per game).

This upcoming season the former NU star will be fighting against Rocky Benard, Fred Robbins, Chris Canty, and Jay Alford for playing time. This could be a very special group that could dominate offensive linemen across the NFL.

As a senior, Barry earned All-Big Ten second-team honors in 2005, when he lined up at left defensive tackle. That year he recorded a career-high 63 tackles (24 solo) and had two sacks with six-and-a-half stops for losses and seven pressures. He forced two fumbles, recovered another, deflected five passes and returned an interception 16 yards.

Big Barry also lettered in baseball and track in high school.

Illinois has been a very good state for producing football talent for the N.Y. Giants.

Maybe that’s why the official state prairie grass is called the big bluestem.

The Tale of Two Linebackers: Pierce Out of Trouble...Bradley Down for the Season

Craig Santucci — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:55:26 -0400

We held our breath. The news...Antonio Pierce is free to go!

Antonio Pierce has been a pillar of consistency for the New York Giants and their fans. Healthy or injured the man comes to play. He is also one of the smartest and hardest working backers in the game. This could have turned out ugly.

From everything I have researched No. 58 Antonio Pierce(AP) followed what he was told to do when and "if" something went wrong in his travels. That was to reach out to Charles Way, the Giants old full back, now the director of player development for the Giants.

So now the Giants can move forward with no distractions...but football! It does remind me that we are a bit thin in the middle. It's time someone steps up and grabs the horns for any reason AP can not go in the future.

Blackburn? Sintim? Can Kehl slide inside? Is Goff the real deal? I can't tell you how relieved that man in the middle is not a serious question mark!

The linebacker core is fortunate that Clark and Blackburn are experienced vets on this teams making AP's job a bit easier. Sintim the young rookie linebacker isn't ready to step in and take on that leadership role as Pierce does so well. It's a full time job—on and off the field.

Goff could really win over some coaches and fans with a great camp. He would have been asked to do allot more if AP was not around. I hope Goff doesn't take his foot of the gas pedal; I would like to see him progress, as if he was to be in the line of fire.

And let's all breath easier that the anchors of the D line are back...Tuck and Osi.

The Giant fans are suddenly not alone. In comes the Philadelphia Eagles with their own devastating lineup change.

Stud middle linebacker, No. 55 Stewart Bradley reportedly tore his ACL last night at the scheduled team scrimmage at Lincoln Financial Field and is most likely out for the season. This was to be confirmed this afternoon by Andy Reid and the Eagles.

Stewart was coming off a fantastic campaign in 2008 and was easily seen as a potential pro-bowl player by many analysts. Without Stewart in the middle anchoring the defense, as he did so well...the Eagles will be forced to turn to second-year player Joe Mays or Omar Gaither.

Omar was a backup to Akeem Jordan at weak side linebacker in 2008. However, he started almost every games in the middle in 2007 after the Eagles cut long time fan favorite The Axe Man, Jeremiah Trotter. Trotter, turned part-time 610WIP sports radio analyst mostly likely doesn't have the knees for a 3rd tour of duty. Derrick Brooks is still looking for a job...isn't he?

Last football season I spent a good portion of time with Stewart Bradley. I got to know him a bit and found him to be a great human being and a fantastic player. He fell into that new breed of linebacker...big, fast and could run sideline to sideline tracking ball carriers down at will.

He works hard at his craft and I am confident that the third-year pro out of Nebraska will be back sooner than later. I hate to see big time injuries to players that make an impact on the game and I do feel Stewart Bradley was poised for that break out year.

As far as our Giants...we can breathe a bit easier for the moment knowing Jacobs will have a better chance of making forward progress without No. 55 tracking him down.

The rivalry is always great and the Eagles will make quick adjustments. As far as the 2009 season...I'll have to wait to see the clash of the titans.

NY Giant Ticket Madness: Too Little Too Late

Craig Santucci — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:43:20 -0400

I received a call today from a good friend of mine. For the past 20 years, he has sat next to me in Giant Stadium. The tradition of watching Big Blue spans over 40 years as our fathers have been going together since 1969.

They have seen the Giants play at Yale Bowl, the original Yankee Stadium and of course...Giant Stadium. We have seen many great moments over the years and are very fortunate to have had tickets for such a long span of time.

So, this conversation focuses on the Giants and the upcoming year. We banter back and forth about everything from Eli Manning without Burress to how we are both looking forward to watching KP knock the stuffing out of Dallas receivers.

Now...what most people need to know to make this article work is that we are both reeling over the cost of the PSL's and the ticket costs in the New Giant Stadium. Sure, the new stadium is going to be "amazing," but the price attached to "amazing" has forced many of the long standing fans out.

Sunday traditions including ours has be crushed. I was hoping to take my son someday; however, that opportunity for me is no more...for I have turned my four seats back in. My lower level seats were to cost $47,000 up from $4000. WOW!

The Giants are having trouble selling tickets. This is a fact. There are talks of blacking out games in the North Jersey/New York area. This is also fact.

And the reason for the call from my friend was to tell me the offer he received from the Giants today. Now, this friend was on the Giants waiting list since 1990. He was attempting to acquire a second pair of tickets, so he did not have to buy his fathers tickets week in and week out.

His offer was to buy a PSL in the Mezzanine level. The PSL was still $7500 a seat (crazy!) but they were dropping the seat price from $400 to $250. Also, the rights to purchase concerts seats, complimentary parking, fixed seat prices for three years and private stadium entrance with elevators, extra wide seats with more leg room.

Get ready for the blackouts, people coming to the game in the middle of the first quarter and leaving after half time.

This is the first time in those 20 years that I will not see him every Sunday over the course of the football season.

If they just had been fair up front with their prices this desperation move would not be necessary. My friend told them "Thanks" but "No Thanks."

Why I Love to Hate Plaxico Burress

Craig Santucci — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 02:49:44 -0400

There are just some players I love to hate!

Maybe there cocky, a potential distraction, constantly being quoted in the paper saying something inappropriate or plain ignorant. If you’re like me you just LOVE to HATE these type of players.

This is my story and my daily ever changing feeling about Plaxico Burress.

I promised myself I was moving on from this mess…but here I am again talking about Mr. Selfish.

Who am I? Well, in the big picture…I’m no one special. But I am a season ticket holder. That’s a start. I am a guy who has seen every down this guy has played since joining the team in 2005. Okay, that counts for something too..since I have been fortunate to watch every route No. 17 runs up close.

Most of these plays don’t even make the camera on Sunday afternoons.

Me and 70,000 other Giant fans every week get to see “ALL” the plays he is involved with. He jaws with corner backs and safeties. I like that! He also blocks…and hard! He takes cheap shots...many times taking a palm to the face snapping his head back.

He has a target on his back week in and week out. He’s never the underdog or the sleeper pick to make the “big play.” With that said…he’s a rich athlete who gets paid very well to play this game.

Looking over his four-year career with the New York Giants and taking in to consideration the numerous infractions…you have to ask yourself some hard questions.

Does this guy get it?

Does he respect the game?

Does he realize his time in NFL is short?

Where else is he going to have more success?

Out of 60 to 70 offensive snaps per game Plaxico is on the field for 98 percent of those plays. Plaxico has a total of 505 catches for his career, that’s 56 catches per year for nine years. Broken down to averages…that is 3.5 per game. So, if you’re watching the game on TV you don’t see a lot of what the man does week in and week out.

On the other hand…he's cashing a big check and doesn’t do all that much. You can go either way!

Like most fans I favor moving on; however, I can also admit that Eli is not the most accurate guy. The Giants offensive benefits tremendously from having that tall, athletic wide receiver that tends to bail Eli out time and time again.

No. 17 has game. When at his best…I love his on field performance.

Have you ever thought about how many bad balls Plaxico has plucked out of the air? Remember…Eli only averages 200.3 yards per game. Sad…but true!

Still, at 6’ 5” watching him run routes is like watching a prehistoric bird taking flight. During NFC Championship game against Green Bay I was truly amazed at his performance.

Without Plaxico there is a good chance Eli struggles to make a difference down field. Maybe Hixon becomes the guy, but no one is predicting Nicks to be Plax's replacement. It's gonna be an interesting year and if Burress did come back…he is sure to get a four game suspension.

In those for four games the Giants can start to get a feel for Nicks, Hixon, Manningham, Moss, and Smith and if they can get it done.

Damn…I love to hate this guy!

On the road to the Super Bowl...a trip through NFL nicknames

Craig Santucci — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 13:15:10 -0400

Everyone loves a good nickname. Anytime somebody calls you by your nickname you know the person vying for your attention is a good and personal friend. That philosophy goes for football fans too…don’t you think? Your favorite team, your all time favorite defense or your favorite player…they probably have nicknames too. Some people have a made a living on the art of giving nicknames to players. Some are attention grabbing and some are completely ridiculous… but it makes things more interesting when you can root for a guy who’s nickname you know. It’s like you’re watching your old school buddy from grade school whoop ass on the gridiron. It’s makes it personal! Not every player needs a nickname and certainly every player does not deserve one. But over the years there has been so many stellar nicknames used to describe players, coaches, dominant defenses, flamboyant receivers, dominant O-lines, stud ball carriers and great quarterbacks. String them all along together and get a very bizarre tale.

Begin Slideshow

A Great Giant Running Back : Rodney Hampton

Craig Santucci — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 12:37:33 -0400

Over the past twenty years, No. 27 has been a main stay on the NY Giants roster. Before Jacobs…there was Dayne. Before Ron Dayne there was Hampton. I was always a huge fan of Rodney Hampton.

Through out the 80’s fans flocked to the Meadowlands…sporting their favorite blue or white jersey. One row after another, like Giant infantry, the names of Simms, Taylor, Bavaro, McConkey, or Morris were sewn or ironed on the back. But wait a minute…this was 1990 and there was a new first round draft pick in the house!

Enter Rodney Hampton.

That’s right…a new breed of back from Houston, Texas was making a home behind the quarterback. No. 27 became the dawn of the new decade and was considered a big back for the Giants in those days. Drafted at 215 pounds, Rodney played between 221 and 230 for his seven year career. The 5’11" back was a giant compared to Billy Taylor, Joe Morris, and Dave Meggett. Rodney, superior in talent, still had 10 pounds of muscle on the taller Butch Woolfolk.

He was one part high flying “over the top” type of back, he was one part “run you over” type of back, and he was one part “slash past you” and “turn the corner” type of back.

I can remember the article in one of NFL preview magazines showing a picture of a Georgia running back flying over the top of a huge defensive line into the end zone.

The caption under the photo read something like…“The Giants are a much improved team now that they drafted the high-flying Georgia running back, Rodney Hampton."

I have many fond memories of Rodney Hampton. He went on to have five back-to-back 1,000 yards plus rushing seasons and collected 6,897 yards along the way. That would make Mr. Hampton No. 50 all time! Now that will change in the next few years as the great Brian Westbrook, Steven Jackson, Larry Johnson and Willis McGahee continue their careers.

So, that got me thinking. Who was the best Giant running back of all time?

I couldn’t decide if I should research the stats and big play ability or go with Super Bowl winners and Pro-bowlers? How about old school vs. new school? Either way, the New York Giants have had some fantastic running backs over their great history and some impressive ball carriers in the last 30 years.

Carpenter, Morris, Meggett, Hampton, Anderson, Barber, Jacobs, Ward, Bradshaw and we hope to see Danny Ware have a break out season. For those keeping stats, let’s not forget the Giants traded away the 1,000 yard rusher Ryan Grant to the Green Bay Packers in 2007.

I understand Rodney is still around participating in some special New York Giants functions and it’s also good to see Jacobs rising out of the shadow of Tiki Barber to give new life to No. 27.

NY Giants-Philadelphia Eagles: By the Numbers in 2009

Craig Santucci — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 03:24:42 -0400

Since the Eagles knocked the Giants out of the 2008 playoffs, Philadelphia fans are talking about a special run at the Super Bowl. Eagles fans believe that the Birds are a much better team than the GMen, especially now that McNabb finally has some explosive weapons.

The head to head/position by position 2009 preview lies below, by the numbers.

QB: edge—Even

Eagles—A healthy McNabb with a new $5 million dollar bonus can be dangerous, but has choked down the stretch and is thirty-three years old this November. His arm was sore in mini camp and he was wearing a protective sleeve. Let's see what 5 can do with his new weapons.

Giants—The former Super Bowl MVP lost two major weapons, but has another year of experience. His accuracy can be questioned, but his consistency can't be! He also has some new, young talent around him. He has yet to step up and show he can be an elite quarterback.

RB: edge—Giants

Eagles—Brian Westbrook has basically been injured his entire career. It’s amazing the productivity he has been able to put out so far. Last month (June), B-West had ankle surgery and will mostly likely miss Training Camp. If healthy...one of the best.

Why did he wait so long to have the surgery? Will he be ready? The rookie RB LeSean McCoy from Pitt will be exciting if and when he gets on the field.

Giants—Jacobs is a true beast who runs around you, through you and over you. No. 44 Bradshaw has already shown what he can do... a very special player with break-away speed.

O-line: edge—Giants

Giants—This could be the best o-line in football. This group blocked for two 1000-yard rushers in 2008. This feat has only been done four times in the league history. O’Hara & Snee are recent Pro bowlers.

There's no reason why they would be slowing down. The entire group is under 31.

Eagles—This unit has a bit of uncertainty after losing both starting tackles—tough guy Jon Runyon (eight years) and Tra Thomas (ten years).

Jason Peters is a great pro bowl addition; however, he is not the best tackle in football (claimed by another B/R journalist) but his addition will be felt in the run and passing game. Peters is more athletic than Diehl...so let's see the big boy play in the NFC. Shawn Andrews, the Pro Bowl guard has had some up & downs with depression and a bad back. He is clearly one of the best if healthy.

Center Jackson and RG Stacy Andrews are good not but elite players...they won't hurt the team but head to head, O'Hara and Snee are Pro-Bowlers.

WR: edge—Eagles

Eagles—Curtis and last year’s sensational rookie DeSean Jackson are great slot receivers with plenty of speed and upside. Rumor has it that Curtis might become expendable if Maclin is the real deal. Tight End Brent Celek is a good passing tight end, but struggles when blocking.

Avant doesn’t scare anyone, but the jury is out—Maclin could be the “weapon” McNabb has been asking for!

Giants—Steve Smith is the most reliable receiver on the Giants, and he has made some great catches to earn Eli’s trust and favorite target status.

But he can’t do it alone. Hixon made some nice strides but he’s not a No. 1 receiver. He can stretch the field, but needs to be more consistent.

Moss, Manningham and Nicks...not healthy, not reliable and not known. It will be interesting. If TE Kevin Boss or Ramses Barden, the 6’6 second-round draft pick, can take over for the Giants in the red-zone for a jump ball, Big Blue might draw this position competition to even.

D-line: edge—Giants

Giants—can you say oh my god! This d-line will most likely will lead the NFL or come in the top 3 in sacks. This unit was already real good, but with the addition of Chris Canty (Cowboys) and Rocky Benard (Seahawks), the men in the trenches look really scary.

Justin Tuck is one of the NFL’s most dominant players, and big Fred Robbins in the middle will be joined by Canty & Benard. Ball carriers, beware! Speed rusher DE Dave Tollefson is great off the bench and now with DE Kiwanuka wearing #94 and Pro Bowler Osi Umenyora back, this line is the most complete in football.

Eagles—This unit is a bit undersized and it shows throughout the season as their star DE #58 Trent Cole usually disappears round game 9. Patterson & Bunkley are solid in the middle and have improved there run game defense dramatically but there overall production is somewhat below average when it comes to sacks.

In 2008 they had 2.5 sacks between them. In 2008 Robbins and Cofield had 8.8 between them.

Line backers: Eagles

Giants—The weakest unit on the team! Pro-bowl linebacker Antonio Pierce had somewhat of a down year for one of the smartest middle linebackers in the game, partly because Kawika Mitchell moved on. AP struggled without a run stuffer next to him. During the 2008, No. 57 Chase Blackburn became the weak side linebacker and was also named a 1st alternate to the NFC Pro Bowl team. He was by far the Giants' biggest surprise of the year.

No. 53 Kehl is developing into a nice player who contributed last year in a big way after bring drafted from BYU. but needs to improve rapidly with Boley out for 10 weeks with a hip injury. No. 55 Danny Clark lacks big play ability.

Eagles—No. 55 Stewart Bradley is a pure stud—leaps and bounds better than most middle linebackers. He will become a multi-time Pro Bowler, and can run sideline to sideline with the best of them.

No. 57 Chris Gocong, clearly is younger and stronger than Clark and was probably the most improved player on the defense. No. 56 Akeem Jordan is young and raw. No. 96 Omar Gaither lost his starting job mid way through the season. Some say it was because he did not want to sign the Eagles extension.

Still...this group is strong and can play fast and furious.

Defensive Backs: edge—Even

Giants—the most improved unit on the team. The light bulb has gone on for No. 23 Corey Webster, for he has played two years of great football. His coverage skills dramatically improved, and his ball skills have been exceptional as Webster has made some really big INTs! He has a way to go if he was ever to be considered a shut down corner like Brown or Samuels.

Aaron Ross, the Giants No. 1 draft pick in 2007, also became a great cover corner, and even better, a superb open field tackler. Ross has great speed and is used frequently on the safety blitz.

The safeties are under a bit of construction, but the ’08 first-round draft pick, No. 21 Kenny Phillips from Miami, is ready to have a breakout season. He showed some great flashes last year, and look out for some MONSTER hits! Phillips is 6”2, with a 210 lb frame.

Eagles—The face of the franchise and seven-time pro bowler, Brian “The Wolverine” or "Weapon X" Dawkins, was disrespectfully shown the door, and so he left for Denver. This turn over is the only reason I call this even. Loosing B. Dawk is a huge blown to that locker room. No. 27 Quintin Mikell and No. 39 Quintin Demps take over as the safety duo.

Mikell made the Pro Bowl as an alternate last year, and has come a long way under the guidance of Brian Dawkins. There’s no way to know what Demps brings to the table; however, he did get beat for the game-winning touchdown in the past NFC Championship game vs. Arizona.

Asante Samuel was quite a disappointment in his first year with gang green, as he only had 4 interceptions and 40 tackles. I like his ability but has shown a steady decline in tackles and int's over the last 3 years. The new system might have held him back.

Their best cover corner, the hard hitting No. 24 Sheldon Brown, is back, but there are problems in the City of Brotherly Love (see Lito Sheppard) as the always-cheap Eagles won’t restructure his contract.

Brown, who has never missed a game in his tenure, has been the most consistent player on the defensive unit and deserves to get paid for his hard work and dedication, especially since they just paid No. 21 Joselio Hanson, the nickel back.

As a footnote, first-round draft pick and two-time Pro Bowler Sheppard was basically run out of town because he asked for more money.

Special Team: Giants

Giants—This is an easy one; Jeff Feagles is amazing even at 43. That’s 22 years in the NFL, and there is no better weapon! Lawrence Tynes kicked the Giants to a Super Bowl in the coldest game in history.

No. 87 Dominick Hixon & No. 44 Ahmad Bradshaw are extremely dangerous each averaging 25 yards a return.

Eagles—Sav Rocca is average. Akers is older and lost some leg after tearing that hamstring a few years back. Plus, he just can’t get it done in the playoffs. No. 10 DeSean Jackson is very special, but I feel that at 175lbs. he won’t last long. As far as No. 39 Quintin Demps, the jury is still out.

Giants vs. Eagles: The Best Rivalry in Sports

Craig Santucci — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 02:17:53 -0400

Where would the NFL be without the leagues greatest rivalry? Over the years I’ve watched the Giants and Eagles battle like no other contest in sports. These two juggernauts have been clashing since 1933.

Seriously, try to name a better head to head confrontation in the sport. The rich history, the epic battles, and game changing dramatic plays. Sure, the Jets and Miami can be considered a rivalry, but remember the Jets and Dolphins didn’t enter into the NFL until the early to mid '60s.

The Browns vs. Steelers and a bit of Baltimore sprinkled in can give you a good game, but nothing like when the New York Giants play the Philadelphia Eagles. There’s only two hours of asphalt between these two teams, but years of electrifying moments.

Fifteen Of the Top Plays to Remember:

No. 1 - Old School—Bednarik knocks out Frank Gifford putting him out of football for the reason of the year and the entire 1961 season.

No. 2 - "2nd-and-13"—With less than one minute to play, the Giants only need to run out the clock to preserve the win by taking a knee. The win would almost certainly knock the Eagles from the playoff picture when QB Joe Pisarcik misses the Larry Csonka handing. The ball hits the stadium turf and bounces straight up into the hands of cornerback Herman Edwards who runs for a touchdown…and the "Miracle at the Meadowlands" is born!

No. 3 - No. 56 Is born—The best linebacker and pass rusher off all-time, Lawrence Taylor crushes Ron Jaworski for his first sack of his NFl career. LT sacked two Eagles quarterbacks, Ron Jaworski and Randall Cunningham 12.5 each, sharing the distinction of being Taylor’s most frequent sack victims.

No. 4 - Buddy’s Bad Advice—October 1986, LT has a two sack day. The second sack was amazing as LT clearly jumps four feet in the air over RB Keith Byers crushing Jaworski. Buddy would never leave only a running back to block Taylor again.

No. 5 - The Hit—RB Keith Byers gets retribution with the “decleater” on LB No. 52 Pepper Johnson.

No. 6 - Must Be the Circus—LB No. 58 Carl Banks delivered a hit on QB Randall Cunningham which cuts his legs out from under him, sending him flying backward. Randall manages to keep his balance, recovers to his feet, and throws a touchdown.

No. 7 - The QB Can Kick?—Randall Cunningham’s 91-yard punt!

No. 8 - Halloween—1999 overtime, game tied at 17. Michael Strahan bats a pass from Doug Peterson into the air, before intercepting it and taking it in for the game ending touchdown.

No. 9 - Two to the House—The Giants 2000 Super Bowl run was something special as the Giants had two amazing plays vs. the hated Eagles in the divisional playoff game. Ron Dixon took the opening kickoff to the house for a TD and corner back Jason Sehorn made a sensational acrobatic diving interception tipping the ball back to himself and got up to run in for a touchdown.

No. 10. NFC Championship—Strahan pushes past Jon Runyon and the Eagles with two sacks and a fumble recovery of Donovan McNabb in Jan. 2001 earning their way to the Vikings in 2001.

No.11 - The Punt Return—In October 2003 the game is winding down. With 1:36 to play, the Giants decide to punt. RB Brian Westbrook goes to house with a 84-yard punt return to win the game. Don’t kick to B West!

No. 12 - Jump Ball—Jeremy Shockey tied the game at 7-7 by out wrestling Eagles safety Brian Dawkins on a jump ball in the end zone in October of 2002. Giants win 10-7 and earn a playoff birth.

No. 13 - The Comeback—In 2006 the Gmen are losing 24-7, when Eli Manning marched his team back from the brink with 17 straight points. Eli flings a deep TD pass to a single-covered Plaxico Burress, who outmaneuvered the Eagles stud corner back, No. 24 Sheldon Brown for a 30-26 victory.

No. 14 - Osi…Can You See?—The boys in blue whipped No. 5 on a beautiful October day in 2007...tying an NFL record 12 sacks including a franchise-record six by Osi Umenyiora.

No. 15 - Sack King—Michael Strahan does it again by sacking McNabb in Sept 2007 passing the great Lawrence Taylor.

New York Giants Defense: In the Booth

Craig Santucci — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 02:11:24 -0400

Booth or not to booth…that is the question. Being a sports fan or if you were fortunate to be athletically inclined you might find yourself over time asking yourself if chemistry is over rated? Could I have played next to that guy I couldn’t stand to be around but still function as a well oiled machine.

If I execute and take care of my assignment and he does the same, does it matter that we go our separate ways after the game? Does it matter that we don’t pump each other up before kick off or tap each other on the helmet after a great play?

Yes, it does matter. Chemistry is the fine line between success and failure…the fine line between the championship game and winning the Super Bowl. So why do so many people over look chemistry? And if successful teams and successful players have chemistry with one another…why can’t players have chemistry with their coaches?

Last month the NY Giants new defensive coordinator Bill Sheridan announced to the world he won’t be changing much…except for the fact that he will be calling the game from booth! Is this what he considers not changing much?

Why would he want to separate himself from his players during the heat of battle…especially after watching Steve Spagnuolo ‘s recent success over the past two years. Being on the sidelines with your players is a vital part of a team’ success and continued growth within that unit.

This closeness and willingness to be a part of what takes place on the field instead of a disconnected bystander will help grow the trust and bond between the player and coach. This trust allows the player to be more emotionally invested in the success of the scheme. This so called “investment” increases the percentage of success.

Look back at the Defensive Coordinators in the last 25 years that have had success from the sidelines for the NY Giants. Bill Parcells, Bill Belichick, John Fox, Steve Spagnuolo all coached from the sidelines…and they are all winners.

These hands on coaches were a vital part of winning games on Sundays. How many times over the years could you find a great Defensive Coordinator on his knees with a white board drawing up plays, making adjustments, motivating their players and listening to direct input from the big guys up front.

Looking back over the years... Mike Nolan, Johnny Lynn, and Tim Lewis all called the game from the booth. They were disconnected from the warriors on the field and lacked the chemistry needed to be winners in the NFL.

In 1993, Nolan took over much of the personnel from Bill Parcells. After his first year the defensive had a steady decline in success. D Ranking- 1993-1996—fifth, 11th, 17th, 14th.

In 2006 on Defensive Coordinator Tim Lewis watch the Gmen finished 25th overall, 28th against the pass and 14th against the run, as the team barely made the playoffs at 8-8. His unit allowed an average of 342.4 yards a game. That was a 15 yards-per-game increase over the 2005 figure.

Under Spagnuolo in 2007, the Giants ranked seventh, led the league with 53 sacks and won the super bowl…harassing Tom Brady along the way sacking him a season-high five times and holding down New England's potent offense in a 17-14 Super Bowl 42 upset win.

In '08 New York ranked fifth in the league in total defense, giving up 294 yards per game and this was without seven-time pro-bowler Michael Strahan and fellow Pro Bowl defensive end Osi Umenyiora who was lost for the season with a major knee injury.

Justin Tuck described Spagnuolo as "one of those coaches where he can kind of yell at the star player and get away with it because everybody loves him that much."

"I wouldn't say he's a player's coach, but he knows what it takes to motivate his players," cornerback Corey Webster said. "He gets us to work hard, but we have fun and enjoy it, so it makes us want to work even harder."

Antonio Pierce already commented that he prefers the DC on the sidelines. It’s not too late for Coach Sheridan to change his mind. Chemistry is not over rated…just ask the boys in blue.

Has Anyone Seen Giant Stadium?

Craig Santucci — Mon, 25 May 2009 02:44:54 -0400

24 years seems like a long time. That's how long I have been going to see the Giants play on Sunday afternoons in the Meadowlands. Having played football in high school and college, Sunday was a free day for me to make Section 133 my home.

But with this football season peaking its head around the corner...it just feels different. Sure, I've seen some amazing football from those seats in East Rutherford over those 24 years.

Let me give you a few snapshots...I have vivid memory's of 4th and 17...Simms to Johnson and the birth of the Gatorade Shower. Jim Burt steam rolling Joe Montana to allow LT to intercept the pass and run it back for a touch down.

Hostetler coming in for an injured Simms, the emergance of young Rodney Hampton with a 4 TD game, and how about LT's season ending injury? Joe Morris TD run with only one shoe or when Strahan sacked Farve for the record.

How about the amazing ceremony when the Giants retired Phil Simms No. 11 jersey and his final pass in the stadium was to a flip flop wearing LT. Beating the undefeated Denver and...okay, I can go on and on...you get the point.

Tons of memories; however, something profound happened to me this past Saturday night as I was visiting friends in Manhattan which caused me to think. Have I lost my home field advantage!

"I heard they took Giant Stadium down already" one individual commented. He continued...I take the train into the city from Maryland all the time for business meetings and I don't see the old stadium anymore. Good riddance!

Well, I almost choked on the ice in my drink before I interjected...No, it's still there. I just sent in my 2009 season ticket money plus the deposit for my seat license for 2010. Trust me...it's still there!

And immediately I felt a sense of anger all over again. My dad has been going to Giants games for 40 years. He loves to tell you about Yankee Stadium and how they used to hop the wall after the games to get on the field and what a major commitment it was to go see the Giants play at the Yale Bowl because of how far the stadium was.

"Big Joe" won't be at the games this year for he was priced out of that opportunity to see his team play and he turned his seats in. A casualty of the "new order."

I suddenly realized my passion for football and the NY Giants was more of the love of tradition and the fact that me and my dad sat in Section 133 every Sunday. It was "our" section and "our" seats.

Memories of how we cooked out and pregamed every week in the Meadowlands parking lot instantly came to mind. We continued to laughed about how I went to college with the guy that threw the famous snowball during the Chargers game and how we loved the half time Frisbee dogs.

I put down my drink and walked away from the conversation. I was ready for football season...I just wasn't ready for sweeping changes. If anybody has seen my stadium please send it back...I miss it already.