Bleacher Report - Eli Manning

Thanksgiving Special: Fantasy Football Week 12 Player Breakdowns

kevin roberts — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 01:13:04 -0500

If you haven't had the chance, be sure to check out this week's Start/Sit column, as well as our player rankings. For quick match-up analysis, read on for Week 12's player breakdowns:

Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions

QB Aaron Rodgers: Just look what Brady Quinn did last week. Enough said. *****

RB Ryan Gant: Has been running hard and has a great match-up. *****

WR Greg Jennings: Broke-out last week and should kill on Thursday. *****

WR Donald Driver: Tasty match-up, so great play. ****

WR James Jones: Could get some looks underneath. **

WR Jordy Nelson: Scored last week, so should be involved. **

TE Jermichael Finley: Has a decent role and nice match-up helps. ***

QB Matthew Stafford: Is a game-time decision and not a great match-up. **

QB Daunte Culpepper: Likely the starter, but not a good play at all. *

RB Kevin Smith: Won't go very far against solid run defense. **

WR Calvin Johnson: An iffy play, but could do some damage if he's a go. ***

WR Bryant Johnson: Should see solid targets if CJ can't go. **

TE Brandon Pettigrew: Doesn't do much, and Green Bay stuff tight ends. *

Oakland Raiders at Dallas Cowboys

QB Bruce Gradkowski: Looked decent, but was horrible last time he played on Thanksgiving. **

RB Michael Bush: In a big RBBC, but running is Oakland's only chance. **

RB Darren McFadden: Best potential out of group, and his role is growing. ***

RB Justin Fargas: Had most carries last week, but role is uncertain. **

WR Darrius Heyward-Bey: He nor no other Oakland receivers are worthy owning. *

TE Zach Miller: Value rises with Gradkowski, but ceiling still limited. ***

QB Tony Romo: Not a great threat against very stingy secondary. **

RB Marion Barber: Should pound the rock against horrible run defense. ****

RB Felix Jones: Could be active, but Barbers is getting the ball more. **

RB Tashard Choice: Ditto. **

WR Miles Austin: Has been quiet, but there's hope for a big play or two. ***

WR Roy Williams: Could see some looks, but doesn't offer a ton of optimism. **

TE Jason Witten: Might not even play, and match-up stinks. **

New York Giants at Denver Broncos

QB Eli Manning: Has looked very good the past two weeks, and Broncos are reeling. ****

RB Brandon Jacobs: Should be all by himself and Denver hasn't been stopping the run. ****

RB Ahmad Bradshaw: Out.

RB Danny Ware: Should see increased role, but how much? *

WR Steve Smith: Is a solid WR2 and could see solid production this week. ****

WR Hakeem Nicks: Very inconsistent lately, but WR3 potential is always there. **

WR Mario Manningham: Has been very involved lately, so a decent play. ***

TE Kevin Boss: Has scored four times in last three games, so worth a shot. ***

QB Kyle Orton: Giants leaky secondary could be his cure for awful stretch. ***

RB Knowshon Moreno: Giants can be run on, and he's looked solid. ***

RB Correll Buckhalter: Inconsistent role, but is facing beatable defense. **

WR Brandon Marshall: Was terrible last week, but should get back on track. ****

WR Eddie Royal: Too inconsistent to rely on. **

WR Jabar Gaffney: Ditto. *

Stay tuned for the rest of Week 12's Player Breakdowns later this week, and head over to NFLSoup.com for all of your other breaking news and fantasy needs.

Read more Eli Manning news on BleacherReport.com

Silva: Thanksgiving Matchups

Evan Silva — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:58:43 -0500

Green Bay Packers (6-4) at Detroit Lions (2-8) 12:30 PM ET (The Sleeping Game)

Green Bay, victors in four of its last six, figures to dominate this one from start to finish. The Lions own the No. 32 pass defense, give up the NFL's second most passing touchdowns, and are without SS Ko Simpson (knee). You won't find a better Week 12 matchup than Aaron Rodgers' indoors on Thanksgiving. Donald Driver has slowed down in his last two games (nine combined catches, 90 yards, no TDs), but posted a 7-107 line against Detroit in Week Six. He's a rock-solid WR2. The Packers played it perfectly with Jermichael Finley's knee injury, holding him out for three games and making sure he returned at 100 percent. Coming off a seven-reception effort, Finley is a Top-12 TE1 again.

Rodgers' pass protection is much improved with tackles Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton healthy. Deep threat Greg Jennings may be the biggest beneficiary. Green Bay is taking shots downfield again, and Jennings caught five balls for 121 yards and a 64-yard TD last week against the 49ers. Detroit has the sixth fewest sacks in the league, so Rodgers will have time to deliver bombs Jennings' way. As usual, Ryan Grant is getting stronger in November. He's averaging 22 touches and 5.0 YPC with two TDs in his last three games. The Lions' run defense remains porous.

Matthew Stafford might've given Detroit an outside chance to keep this one close and at least offer high-scoring upside, but he's out with a dislocated left shoulder. Daunte Culpepper, who's thrown one TD on 62 attempts in 2009, will start against Green Bay's No. 7 pass defense. He's not even a QB2. Calvin Johnson is full-blown game-time decision, and the Lions could easily play it safe with their most valuable player to avoid aggravation of his knee injury. He's also listed on the injury report with "hand" ailment. Strongly consider other options even if Calvin is active.

Just three teams (Baltimore, San Francisco, Pittsburgh) allow a lower YPC than Green Bay. No NFC club has permitted fewer rushing TDs. The Packers will load up to stop the run with Stafford out, and Kevin Smith managed a measly 61 yards on 15 carries with no catches in his last meeting with the Pack. He's barely an RB2. Brandon Pettigrew has 15 grabs for 165 yards and two scores in his last three games. Green Bay is as tough on tight ends as anyone, but Pettigrew could be Culpepper's go-to guy if Calvin sits. Bryant Johnson (32.5 yards-per-game average) and slot man Dennis Northcutt don't have enough talent for fantasy use.

My Pick- Packers

Oakland Raiders (3-7) at Dallas Cowboys (7-3) 4:15 PM ET (The O its a Thankgiving football game so I will watch it game)

No team has more rushing attempts against than the Raiders. Opponents routinely game plan to beat them on the ground, and Dallas is a safe bet to follow suit. Particularly with Jason Witten nursing a foot sprain and Tony Romo a sore back, Marion Barber is a threat for 20-plus touches as he comes off a 107-yard game—his best since Week Two. MB3 is a borderline RB1 against a front seven that will start Richard Seymour (back) at less than 100 percent. Just the TE16 overall, Witten is a low-upside gamble with an injury and Raiders SS Tyvon Branch playing at a ridiculously high level.

Oakland's strength is in pass defense. Only the Colts and Jets have given up more TDs in the air, and the Raiders will likely to hold Roy Williams in check with Nnamdi Asomugha...Miles Austin, however, has factors working in his favor. The Raiders don't use nearly as many double teams as his last three opponents (PHI, GB, WAS), and he will mostly see LCB Chris Johnson in coverage. Johnson, who gets safety help from Branch—who will key on Witten—is the lesser of two evils in Oakland's secondary. Consider Austin a high-upside WR2, even if Romo only tries 25 passes.

Bruce Gradkowski breathed life into Oakland's offense last week, tossing two touchdowns against a Bengals team that didn't take the Raiders seriously. Losers of two straight, the Cowboys can't afford such an approach. Gradkowski has never had sustained success in the NFL, and Cowboys OLB DeMarcus Ware has seven sacks in his last six games. Dallas' fantasy defense is a recommended play. Zach Miller will stay on the line to help Raiders LT Mario Henderson block Ware, and Oakland's wideouts are never worth fantasy consideration. This game shouldn't be close.

Darrius Heyward-Bey and Chaz Schilens will start at wideout for Oakland. They rotate with Louis Murphy and Johnnie Lee Higgins...Michael Bush started Oakland's last two games over Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden, but a third-quarter fumble in Week 11 got him benched. Bush finished with four touches compared to Fargas' 10 and McFadden's nine. The Cowboys have the No. 7 run defense and have allowed only four rushing TDs (fifth fewest in the league). The Raiders' backfield needs to be avoided in fantasy until someone emerges as the lead runner. And that may not happen soon.

My Pick- Cowboys

New York Giants (6-4) at Denver Broncos (6-4) 8:20 PM ET (The Real Game)

Brandon Jacobs left last Sunday's game with a third-quarter knee ailment, but practiced fully all week and isn't on the injury report. He will start against a Denver defense that's surrendered at least 100 yards to opposing starting RBs in each of the last five weeks. Jacobs also will not have competition for carries from Ahmad Bradshaw (out, ankles). Danny Ware is only a third-down back, so Jacobs is a strong candidate for 20-plus touches. Ware had two carries and no catches last week despite a large bump in snaps during the fourth quarter and OT with Jacobs out. He's hardly a threat to Jacobs.

Mario Manningham and Hakeem Nicks are New York's big-play wideouts, but Steve Smith has the best matchup this week. The Broncos struggle with slot receivers (it's whey they signed Ty Law), and Smith plays the slot when the Giants go three wide. Smith is the safest bet to lead the team in receiving with something like seven catches for 90 yards. Don't get too excited about Giants TE Kevin Boss despite his 76-yard, two-TD game in Week 11. The Broncos will have FS Brian Dawkins (neck), and Jacobs is likely to be fed early and often in the red zone.

The Broncos trot out a starting quarterback with ligament damage in his ankle. Kyle Orton managed a measly 171 yards and no touchdowns despite missing only three series last week against San Diego. He's not close to 100 percent, is subject to aggravation of his injury, and makes Eddie Royal and Tony Scheffler complete fantasy non-factors. Brandon Marshall is difficult to sit no matter his QB or opponent, but can't be considered more than a WR3. The Giants' secondary will be much better going forward with Aaron Ross healthy, and his QB will struggle to get him the ball.

Bad news for Denver: RT Ryan Harris (toes) has been ruled out. The Broncos will start struggling former undrafted free agent Tyler Polumbus across from All-Pro LE Justin Tuck. Tuck has been up and down this year, but is heating back up and had a sack, four tackles, and a forced fumble against Atlanta in Week 11. It's a severe mismatch on the strong side. Knowshon Moreno started again last Sunday and averaged eight yards a carry, but lost a fumble at the goal line and was replaced by Correll Buckhalter on passing downs. Wait for Week 13 at Kansas City to consider a Broncos back.

My Pick- Giants

Read more Eli Manning news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Predictions: Week Twelve

Doug Rush — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:59:41 -0500

It's Week Twelve of the NFL season, and it's also Thanksgiving week.

In the past years, there has always been two games on this holiday, which usually were just the Lions at home against their opponent and the Cowboys and their opponent, which is fine because it is tradition, but lately, those games haven't been as great, so the league added a third game at night on the NFL Network, which generally has been a better game of the day.

So if you are at your family's house and you don't like your relatives, or if you do and are looking for something to do aside from eating turkey and turkey sandwiches, there is football all Thanksgiving day long.

Last week in Week Eleven, I had a great week going 14-2 with the only losses coming from the Steelers and Bengals. Overall in the 2009 season, I am 114-45 and looking to continue the good record.

Thursday Thanksgiving Football: Green Bay Packers @ Detroit Lions

These two teams have met in the past on Thanksgiving, two years ago in fact. Brett Favre and Jon Kitna were the respective quarterbacks for those teams.

Now it's Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford starting for their teams and looking to continue the tradition.

However, Stafford got hurt last week and his status for the game is unknown, so Daunte Culpepper or Drew Stanton might be playing on this night.

But it doesn't matter, because the Packers are on a roll and possibly could be a playoff team. Rodgers has the Packers headed in the right direction with multiple 300-plus yard games.

With a banged up team, the Lions might not be able to stand up to the Packers and this one could be over quickly.

Final Score: Packers 37, Lions 20

Thursday Thanksgiving Football: Oakland Raiders @ Dallas Cowboys

Be careful with this game, because it might not be as lopsided as it looks.

The Raiders finally benched JaMarcus Russell for Bruce Gradkowski and they won their last game and will look to make it two in a row with a quarterback that seems to care about playing and winning, something Russell never showed.

The Cowboys are coming in this game extremely banged up. Tony Romo's got a bad back and Jason Witten has a bad foot and both are listed as questionable, although most expect Romo to play, but not so much with Witten.

Over their last two games, Dallas has only scored a total of 14 points and nearly lost their last game. If they only score seven points again, they might not get away with another win.

Dallas usually plays well on Turkey Day and they should be able to pull a win off.

Final Score: Cowboys 24, Raiders 14

Thursday Thanksgiving Football: New York Giants @ Denver Broncos

This one will be on the NFL Network, but for most in the New York/New Jersey area like I am, if you don't have that channel, it will be played on WPIX-11, so it will be on TV locally.

The Broncos have lost four in a row and are sliding bad. They are also fighting among each other and Brandon Marshall seems to be going back to his selfish and destructive ways, fighting with teammates and blaming others for losing when he isn't getting the ball.

The Giants ended their losing streak with a huge win last week and are looking to get back into the playoff race. Denver is having trouble stopping everyone, so this may be a game where Brandon Jacobs can run over players and with Ahmad Bradshaw likely out, Danny Ware will get some playing time.

This will also be Eli Manning's first game on Thanksgiving. Manning should have no problems getting the Giants to win on the road despite the short week.

Final Score: Giants 30, Broncos 13

Carolina Panthers @ New York Jets

It seems so long ago when the Jets were 3-0 and Rex Ryan and Mark Sanchez were living large.

Now at 4-6, it's not the case anymore. Ryan's been humbled some in his rookie season as head coach, but Sanchez has not, he still thinks he's the USC god back in California. If he keeps throwing all those interceptions, he might find himself on the bench real soon.

The Panthers have been up and down all 2009 season.

They get so close to getting to .500 and then they will lose a game and stay under .500, which must be frustrating for John Fox.

You would think the Jets would have the advantage being at home against a losing team, but they lost games to the Jaguars, Bills and Dolphins at home, so the Jets aren't guaranteed to win.

This one I think will come down to a late field goal, and I don't trust the Jets anymore.

Final Score: Panthers 24, Jets 21

Indianapolis Colts @ Houston Texans

If you're a betting person, never, ever bet against Peyton Manning, because he finds ways to win.

Just like last week when the Colts somehow managed to win and get to 10-0 in another close game.

But the tough games on the road don't stop for the Colts, as they take on an opponent from the AFC South division.

The Texans lost their last home game on Monday night with a missed field goal and was devastating to take. Houston will be looking to get over that loss and come out strong against their division foes.

Houston always plays the Colts well, as they did earlier in the season. But like I said before, never pick against the Colts, and neither will I again this week.

Final Score: Colts 28, Texans 20

Washington Redskins @ Philadelphia Eagles

The Redskins are trying everything they can to win games, and came close against the Cowboys, but fell short.

Washington has a good defense, which has kept them in a lot of games, but their offense is dreadful. With Clinton Portis out again and with Chris Cooley done for the season, it gets worse for Washington in 2009.

The Eagles snapped their two game losing streak and got back on track. DeSean Jackson is becoming a dangerous weapon downfield for the Eagles and it almost seems like he is un-coverable because of his speed.

Most shouldn't count on Brian Westbrook playing in this game due to his severe concussions. Some don't even expect Westbrook back in 2009, which would be a shame.

Washington has yet to win a game on the road, and nobody expects them to win this week either.

Final Score: Eagles 27, Redskins 9

Seattle Seahawks @ St. Louis Rams

I'm not going to lie to you guys, this game is not exactly a great one. Both teams stink.

The only problem is, Seattle isn't supposed to be this bad. They have Matt Hasselbeck healthy, but even he can only do so much.

The running game isn't great. The passing game is mediocre. The defense has been bad.

But, they are playing a 1-9 team who is even worse.

St. Louis will be without Marc Bulger, who has several injuries. But even with him Bulger has been awful in 2009.

If you're not a diehard fan of either team, I wouldn't suggest watching. But Seattle is a little better and should be able to win this game.

Final Score: Seahawks 20, Rams 7

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons

This is a battle between NFC South rivals, but it won't have the same intensity like it has in the past.

Tampa is 1-9 and they keep on trying to get better. They think they found their quarterback in rookie Josh Freeman, but he's taking his rookie pains in a tough season.

The Falcons suffered a tough loss last week and dropped to 5-5 in the NFC playoff race, despite sending the game into overtime.

Atlanta is a better team at home and needs to get back on track with a win. With or without Michael Turner, the Falcons still have weapons to use.

This one might be on Matt Ryan, and he should be able to win against Tampa this week.

Final Score: Falcons 31, Buccaneers 13

Cleveland Browns @ Cincinnati Bengals

This is the second meeting of the Ohio battle.

Cleveland came so close to their second win, but because they are the Browns, found a way to lose another game despite scoring over 30 points.

Brady Quinn played much better last week, so maybe he's not a total bust.

The Bengals lost to the Raiders last week. Not good. They need this division matchup to win all six games of the AFC North division match games.

Cedric Benson was out last week and is listed as questionable, but Bernard Scott has done a great job in Benson's place.

Cleveland sucks and Cincinnati is possibly playoff bound. Guess who wins here?

Final Score: Bengals 30, Browns 10

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills

Whoever said the Dolphins were dead in 2009 might be wrong, because at 5-5, they have a shot to make something of their season.

They lost Ronnie Brown for the season, but Ricky Williams is showing he's got plenty left for Miami.

Chad Henne is improving each week and showing everyone he deserves to be the starter. However, with Miami's Wildcat formation, expect Pat White to play because of Brown's injury.

Buffalo finally got the ball to Terrell Owens last week, as he almost had 200 yards receiving, and yet, the Bills lost.

Buffalo is not the team they once were that dominated the AFC 10-15 years ago. Even Bill Cowher turned down an offer to interview for their coaching vacancy.

Final Score: Dolphins 24, Bills 16

Jacksonville Jaguars @ San Francisco 49ers

This game means a lot more for the Jaguars than it does for the 49ers, because a win for Jacksonville and they find themselves right in the mix for the AFC playoff race.

After an up and down season, the Jaguars are winning, and they've put their faith solely in Maurice Jones-Drew, who has carried this team in 2009.

Jones-Drew has been nothing short of MVP-like in 2009 and has been the reason why the Jaguars are winning and at 6-4 right now.

The 49ers are still trying to find an identity, but they are at least making their games competitive, especially with Michael Crabtree active and playing very well.

With Crabtree, it has given Alex Smith a second chance to be the leader of this team, along with another target to throw to aside from Vernon Davis.

But, Jacksonville needs this game more and are riding a three game winning streak to continue their chase for postseason football.

Final Score: Jaguars 28, 49ers 21

Kansas City Chiefs @ San Diego Chargers

The Chiefs somehow managed to knock off the defending champion Steelers at home in overtime, which is a huge accomplishment for a team that hasn't been great in 2009.

But that was at home, and they're back on the road, where they aren't a great football team.

Even worse, they are playing the Chargers, who are on a five game winning streak and are getting back to playing solid football.

LaDanian Tomlinson has become a big part of the offense again and showing the league that he isn't washed up, and since the Chiefs can't stop the run, LT might have another decent game.

The Chargers have control of the AFC West and are at home. San Diego should have no problems winning this game.

Final Score: Chargers 34, Chiefs 17

Arizona Cardinals @ Tennessee Titans

Because of the Titans playing better football, it makes this game a decent contest to watch.

Arizona is starting to become a more complete team after being only known as a passing team in 2008.

They are running the football more with Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower and the defense is stepping up and playing much better.

So with those two factors added in with the powerful offense of Arizona, that makes them scary to stop. The only question is, does Kurt Warner play with the concussion or does Matt Leinart get a start?

Tennessee has won four in a row and they can thank that on the magnificent play of Chris Johnson, who is leading the league in rushing yards.

Vince Young is playing well too and deserving of a second chance as a starter.

As much as Tennessee has played well, Arizona's offense might be too much for the Titans defense to stop.

Final Score: Cardinals 38, Titans 24

Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings

So, Jay Cutler was supposed to be the savior for the Bears in 2009, right?

Only problem is Cutler is throwing way too many interceptions in games and costing them chances to win.

On the other side, the Vikings have been one of the best teams in 2009 and one of the most complete teams.

Their offense lead by Brett Favre has been solid, but their defense lead by Jared Allen is the best in the NFL.

Lately, Cutler's confidence has been lacking each week. With a defense like Minnesota that swarms the quarterback, Cutler will be in for a long day in the Metrodome.

Minnesota is so much better than Chicago and should have no problems going to 10-1.

Final Score: Vikings 34, Bears 16

Sunday Night Football: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens

This is a re-match of the AFC Championship game and another meeting of the AFC North rivals.

In 2008, the Steelers won both regular season games and the AFC Title game on their road to winning the Super Bowl.

The Steelers have been very banged up. Troy Polamalu is questionable with an injured knee. Pittsburgh's defense needs Polamalu back if they want to end their two game slide. Ben Roethlisberger also suffered a concussion last week, but is expected to play.

The Ravens once started out 3-0, but are 2-5 over their last several games and don't look like the same AFC powerhouse on defense that used to scare teams because they have lost too many games in 2009.

With Roethlisberger, the Steelers should be able to pull off a victory in Baltimore, but it won't be easy and could come down to a late score.

Final Score: Steelers 27, Ravens 24

Monday Night Football: New England Patriots @ New Orleans Saints

This very well may be the best game on the schedule. If you like offensive games with a lot of points, this game is for you. If you like defense, don't expect it here, because this one will light up the boards.

The Patriots have been playing much better football and have gotten the passing game going with Tom Brady. With Wes Welker healthy and combine him with Randy Moss, Brady is back to being his old self.

The Saints are 10-0 and steam-rolling through the NFC. They have blown out teams and they have also shown they can come back from being down in games, a good quality of a playoff team.

Drew Brees has done a great job in making his wide receivers have tremendous seasons in 2009, especially Marques Colston, maybe the most underrated top receiver in the NFL.

In the past, the Patriots defense could stop New Orleans. Not anymore. They give up too many points, which in the end favors Brees and company. But this one will be worth watching and enjoying.

Final Score: Saints 42, Patriots 35

That does it for the schedule and picks for Week Twelve of the NFL season.

Everyone, from my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving and enjoy your holiday and time with your family and loved ones. Also, for those who do Black Friday shopping, be safe over the weekend and during that crazy time.

See you back this weekend for more exciting NFL football games that start on the holiday.

Read more Eli Manning news on BleacherReport.com

The Giants' Losing Streak Comes to an End—Barely

Michael Fitzpatrick — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:42:47 -0500

Eli Manning threw for 384 yards, three touchdowns and led the Giants on a game winning overtime drive yesterday afternoon at the Meadowlands.

Let’s elect him New York’s athlete of the year right now.

Let’s roll out the red carpet for him every time he walks in and out of Giants Stadium for the rest of his career.

Let’s begin praising him as the best pig skin tosser in New York since Broadway Joe.

Or…let’s just be thankful that our $100 million quarterback finally played like, well, a $100 million quarterback.

Yesterday afternoon Manning did exactly what you’d expect your $100 million franchise quarterback to do. He took his team by the reins and led them to their first victory in nearly six weeks.

The Giants’ running game was non-existent and the defense was suffering yet another fourth quarter collapse. So, despite Coach Coughlin’s admission that he didn’t have enough confidence to turn to Eli with the game on the line two weeks ago against the Chargers, he had no choice but to turn to his $100 million man this past Sunday.

And Eli delivered.

It was an ugly win for a team that’s been playing ugly football for more than a month now, but it was a win all the same—even if it was likely determined by the overtime coin toss.

There was little to suggest that had the Falcons won the overtime coin toss, Matt Ryan would not effortlessly lead them right down the field for a third consecutive time.

Although the Giants avoided becoming the first team in NFL history to go 5-0 and then lose their next five straight games, we shouldn’t view this victory as anything more than it was.

Our franchise quarterback simply played like a franchise quarterback, and the defense still appeared to be in a state of complete disarray.

Cautiously optimistic would be the best way to describe the feeling of most Giants fans as the team prepares for Thursday night’s showdown with the Denver Broncos.

However, cautiously optimistic is a very large step up from being ready to toss in the towel.

The Giants live to fight another day, thanks in large part to Matt Ryan's call of "tails"—and the coin landing with heads pointing towards the sky.

Read more Eli Manning news on BleacherReport.com

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.

Read more Eli Manning news on BleacherReport.com

One NFL Fan Rant to Another!

thomas moreland — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 22:22:05 -0500

Refer to Photograph. " Damn, this phone number is smeared. I got to get some of that! Huh? Whats the play? C'mon Ben, distractions, distractions, distractions.

Their opponent, the inept Matt Cassell running for his life in every game, Kansas City Chiefs are horrible the last three seasons. A storied franchise in ruins. Hank Stram is pissed. Good Super Bowl win, back in the day, though.

Miami is an average team without a couple of big play wide receivers to throw the football for long patterns. Now it's the Ricky Williams show. Can the wildcat survive without Ronnie Brown?

They zapped Carolina, which isn't really beating anyone great this year. Jake is always a good name for a quarterback. Are Jakes usually in charge of stuff? Carolina is really inconsistent. I do not think they make the playoffs. Punchless Panthers.

That gets me to the almighty palace in Dallas, where individual pizza's can be $60-$100 each. People are mostly stupid at large events, and alcohol, disturbing their brains.

Washington is fun to watch the soap opera owner, I want to win, idiot. Get a coach, then go do something else. Build a pet shelter. Don't be a meathead, Snyder. Please get better, another storied franchise in shambles.

The Forty-Niners. Rah, Rah, Rah. Get a quarterback. A big name good quarterback. Singletary to Chicago. Get rid of that Lovie coach dude. Holmgren to coach Niners. There's a scoop for you. He Built a house in the Bay Area.

I am already sick of picking New Orleans and Minnesota to win week after week.What happened to putting out maximum effort and stepping up against good teams.

Who does Eli throw to if they double Steve Smith all the time. They better figure something out against Atlanta this week, or they are kings of suckdom.

Buffalo is horrible. T.0. who? Ah, hell. still the stats of a first ballot hall-of-famer.

Who can challenge the Jerry Rice stuff anyway? Those records will be around a while. Joe Montana forever.

Indianapolis rolls until they suck in a play off game and lose. Awe! Peyton can't get to Brady stuff. Please start your comments now, and end them in 2018 and we will add up who is better, Brady or Manning.

Dumb ass Giants. We want a Manning/Manning Super Bowl. Keep losing, if you don't try harder.

Can The Cleveland coach even walk very far? He is abusive and tyrant like? That's hilarious. Push him over. Little Jabba the Hutt will be gone from football a total failure.

The biggest loser could certainly use you in a coming season, huge blob like ogre coach. You are scary, dude.

Oh great Aaron Rodgers???? Beat the frickin Tampa Bay Bucs!!!!! Every game, every year, every time. Are you idiots?

I'm an NFL Quarterback with ADD. C'mon McNabb, go play right. and eat some clock. Your defense will win it. Don't call any time outs or get in an overtime game, or anything. Don't make any play decisions. Trust Coach Andy.

I am sick of Houston sucking all the time. Could the defense play at a professional level so Matt Schaub, Steve Slaton, and Andre Johnson, doesn't have to carry your slow asses the whole game.

Jacksonville has two good guys. That's it. That's funny.

The Chargers/Saints Super Bowl would be cool. Can the Chargers also play defense at a professional level so your team could be great? What your problems, idiots. Cover better. Concentrate. Don't look foolish.

I pick 'em right. Happy weekend little football mice.

Thomas [NFL Mikee] Moreland

Read more Eli Manning news on BleacherReport.com

NFC Midseason Review and Playoff Predictions

Devin Dunevant — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:23:24 -0500

The first half of the NFL season is in the books and it has once again proven that no one knows anything about this league. The last team to lose last year is one of the last to record a win this year. The Saints are proving that defense is overrated and no lead is safe. The Broncos are proving that defense wins championships. (what a Super Bowl match up that would be) Nine weeks ago I told you who was going to be good and who was going to be bad. I told you who would win and who would lose each division. I was wrong. Now that I'm more enlightened to the fact that no one can predict this game I'm going to try and predict the second half. Wish me luck.

East

What I Knew Then

The Cowboys can run the ball. (when healthy) Marion the Barbarian is on his way to another solid year. Throw in Felix Jones and the surprising effectiveness of Tashard Choice and you have a running attack that rivals the best in the league. Too bad Tony Romo showed us all once again that he cannot consistently produce on the big stage. They still haven’t figured out how to get production out of the wide receiver position. Roy Williams has done nothing this year and has started to complain about his use in the offense. TO and now Williams. Maybe the wide receivers aren’t the problem. Miles Austin has had a nice year, but he is still doing it against teams number two corner. He is not a number one receiver.

The Eagles can score. DeSean Jackson may be the most explosive wide out in the league right now. He can score from anywhere on the field and his threat downfield softens defenses allowing McNabb and the rest of that offense to move the ball underneath. Brent Celek has turned into a solid fantasy tight end and is a weapon across the middle of the field and on the goal line. LeSean McCoy (besides making the Eagles the team with the most double capital letters in players names in the league) has done a decent job filling in for the ever injured Brian Westbrook and they’ll need both backs down the strectch if they want to make some noise. Their defense is still suspect, however. If you take away the Carolina game when Jake Delhomme threw four picks and couldn’t muster over 100 yards the D has been unimpressive against some really bad offensive units. Luckily for them the Eagles are able to put up points early forcing teams to throw the ball, in turn allowing the defense to only have to focus on defending the pass. They have to travel to San Diego and Atlanta still along with rematches against division foes New York and Dallas. The defense will have to prove themselves if the Eagles want to win this division. Let’s see how well this pass happy team holds up in the cold weather too.

The Redskins are bad. Need I say more? Jim Zorn will be lucky to survive the season.

What I Thought I Knew

The Giants defense is good. This may be the most perplexing development of the year. They’re secondary was never that great to begin with. Losing Kenny Phillips for the year has really hurt and neither Aaron Rouse nor C.C. Brown have been able to fill the void. Aaron Ross’s nagging hamstring injury has depleted the secondary even more. Still the most concerning thing for Giants fans is the disappearance of the pass rush. During their four game skid they’ve sacked the QB six times, compared with 18 in the first five games. The lack of pressure on opposing teams QBs has lead to the secondary being torched. Their offensive woes aside, h if this team can’t create pressure to protect the secondary they don’t stand a chance in December.

What I Still Don’t Know

What is the Giants offense? I don’t think the Giants can even answer that question right now. Mario Manningham and Steve Smith have stepped up in a big way and have some in New York saying “Plaxico who?” Despite this emergence (or maybe because of it) the Giants can’t decide what type of offense they want to be. This has lead to erratic play calling and a misuse of their biggest weapon, the running game. Despite productive days Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw haven’t been able to consistently pound the ball the way they have the last several years. Baby Eli has been inconsistent, possibly due to his plantar fasciitis, leading to general disarray on offense. Kevin Gilbride better figure this out soon or the Giants will be on the outside looking in come playoff time.

Playoff Bound

With the relative weakness of the rest of the conference three teams could come out of this division. Each team (Dal, Phi, NYG) has one or two more tough games and a couple of division games. I see all of them finishing 10-6 with the division winner (pay attention to the division records) getting home field to open the playoffs.

West

What I Knew Then

The Cards can score. They’ve put up at least 24 points every week since their bye five weeks ago. Warner is completing his normal 65% of his passes and is already over 2,000 yards (though he has already thrown 11 picks). They can’t, however, run the ball. They’re second to last in the NFL in rushing yards per game and neither Tim Hightower nor Beanie Wells have been impressive. Their defense has fallen back to earth, too (as predicted). They have given up at least 17 points in all but one game this year. They’ve got four remaining division games, which in the NFC West is a good thing. They’re only real test will be Minnesota week 13. Despite their inconsistent play Warner and Larry Fitzgerald should be able to continue to put up points against bad defenses, protecting their own questionable defense and lack of running game.

The Niners have quarterback issues. Shaun Hill had a nice little run from the middle of last year but I’m hard pressed to find anyone who really believed he was the answer to the Niners QB issues. Now Alex Smith is back and despite his performance against Houston in week seven, he’s still Alex Smith. Frank Gore is having a solid year, but this offense has a long way to go before they can really be considered contenders.

The Seahawks can’t run the ball. They’re ranked 30^th in the league in rushing yards per game and are averaging less than 3.5 yards per carry. Matt Hasselbeck has had a respectable season since missing two plus games with a bruised rib but their offensive line still has issues. Their defense has been respectable, pitching two shut outs (I don’t care that it was against the Rams and Jags, they’re still shutouts). They’ve got some youth on that side of the ball as well meaning they have room to grow. So far, the defense has been the one bright spot for this team. Beyond that, they’re just not very good.

The Rams can run the ball. Steven Jackson, despite only one touchdown, has been a beast for the Rams. He’s third in the NFL in rushing yards and nearly single handedly gave the Rams their first win in 17 games. They’re defense has been predictably bad. First year coach Steve Spagnuolo has jettisoned a bunch of the Rams defensive starters from a year ago as he tries to rebuild the defense to fit his style. The Rams are exactly where I thought they’d be through the midway point. They still have potential to make a run if they can get their turnovers and penalties under control (keeping Richie Incognito off the field should help with the latter). Theoretically this team could win seven games given their easy second half schedule. They could just as easily lose every game for the rest of the year.

What I Thought I Knew

The Cards could stop the pass. In fact, it has been quite the opposite.Their run defense is third in the NFL (though I still think that’s because of the points their offense puts up), but it has been their secondary that has let them down. They’re ranked 28^th in the league and despite the addition of Bryant McFadden they haven’t been able to stop anyone’s passing attack. This team better figure something out on the defensive side of the ball if they expect to even contend for the NFC again. After DeAngleo Williams going nuts against them on the ground in week eight, not much is looking good for the Cards.

The 49ers could play defense. They’re ranked in the bottom third of the league in every category except rush defense despite playing some ineffective offenses. Patrick Willis continues to lead this unit, but the rest have underperformed. With the struggles this team was bound to have on offense they needed the D to step up in a big way. They haven’t. Things don’t look as good now as they did at the beginning of the season in San Fran.

What I Still Don’t Know/Playoff Bound

I’m pretty proud to say I think I had this division right from the outset. The Cards are an unimpressive team with major fatal flaws, but the rest of the division is so bad it doesn’t really matter. The Seahawks have disappointed, but they do have a shot to bounce back in the second half playing only one team with a winning record (Min). I don’t know if the Rams can turn it on and win some games. Same could be said for the Niners who have an even more favorable schedule. Still despite the opportunity for these teams to make up ground, none of them are good. The Cards hold on to the division and once again are the sole NFC West representatives in the playoffs.

North

What I Knew Then

The Bears defense is bad. Though they remain ranked in the middle of the pack in most defensive statistics anyone who has watched this team knows better. The loss of Brian Urlacher certainly hurt but this unit had limited potential even before that injury. Devin Hester has proven that he is not a threat at wide receiver. Poor Jay Cutler wants nothing more than to be back in Denver throwing to Brandon Marshall with a good defense. (who would have ever though that the Broncos would be the better defense)

The Lions won a game. Ok that may not be a revelation but ask any Lions fan and they’ll still tell you they were surprised. This is still a bad team but there are some bright spots. Matt Stafford hasn’t sucked, which out of a rookie QB is pretty good. (just ask the Jets over the last few games) Calvin Johnson continues to prove that they kept the right receiver and single handedly can keep the Lions in a game. Yes, this win came against a bad Skins team and they also lost to the Rams, but they’re improving and after a winless year, that’s the best you can ask for.

The Packers defense is questionable. Ok so questionable may not be quite strong enough. Their D has been just plain bad. Take out the home shutout of the Lions and the Browns game when they gave up a field goal (which has turned out to be a ton of points for that offense) and they’ve been gouged over and over, especially on the ground. Stud defensive end Aaron Kampman hasn’t had the impact since moving to linebacker and despite flashes, the secondary hasn’t lived up to the hype or potential.

The Vikings are, well, good. AP is still the best back in the league, even if he isn’t setting the league on fire quite like he did last year. They stop the run with the best of them and with Jared Allen getting pressure their secondary has looked pretty decent too despite the loss of Antoine Winfield for much of the first half. This may be the most complete team in the NFC (no offense New Orleans) They can play in the dome at home or on the road in the cold. They’ve had some close games that probably shouldn’t have been so close but they’re so balanced they stand a chance no matter who they play. They’ll be around late into the playoffs.

What I Thought I Knew

The Bears can run the ball. Matt Forte has been one of the biggest disappointments of the year. He’s getting less than 4 yards per carry and at one point lost a significant number of carries to (the other) Adrian Peterson. As a team they’re 30^th in the league running the ball. With no real weapons on the outside the Bears need to run the ball to try and protect Cutler and not allow teams to sit on the pass. So far, they’ve failed miserably.

The Packers offense (and Aaron Rodgers) will have a breakout year. This may be my worst prediction of the year. (though I will point out I’m not the only one who had them making a run at the Super Bowl) They’re offensive line is atrocious. Ryan Grant is having a mediocre year with only one 100 yard game. A far cry from the breakout year I saw coming. (though some of that may have to do with the o-line) The biggest disappointment, however, has been the man at the helm. Rodgers has a prodigious problem of holding the ball too long, exacerbating their protection issues. He’s been ineffective in getting the ball to his weapons Greg Jennings and Donald Driver and is completely unable to get the ball down field. Their members don’t look bad, but as they’re record shows they simply can’t stay in games. They still have to play Pitsburgh and Baltimore, both of which should just add to their problems.

Brett Farve will be a detriment. So far, he’s proven this wrong. Quite possibly the best signal caller ever, Farve continues to do it with his patented youthful enthusiasm. (and with those weapons, who wouldn’t have fun) He has won a few games for them and is an obvious leader on the team. The major question is if he keep it up for the rest of the year. He fell apart down the stretch last year, but apparently did it with a torn tendon. They’ve played more close games than you’d like out of a Super Bowl favorite but if Farve can continue to play like this it’s hard to imagine them falling short of the NFC Championship game.

What I Still Don’t Know/Playoff Bound

How good the Vikes are. They seem to have it all put together with a very balanced team and a nice blend of youth and experience. Still they haven’t really played anyone (a Ravens team we’re not really sure is that good and a loss to the Steelers are they only .500 or better teams) and had a competitive game the mediocre Niners that required some Brett Farve magic to get the win.

If the Packers can turn it around. They’ve looked really bad at points, but they’re still 5-4. Their only losses are to the AFC North leading Bengals and two to the Vikes. Those are two really good teams (I think). Too bad they went and crapped the bed against the Buccaneers making it impossible for anyone to think they’re legitimate contenders, but they may not be as bad as everyone thinks.

That being said I think they’ll hang around in the Wild Card hunt. They’ve still got to play the Ravens and Steelers so the road won’t be easy, but the other contenders in the NFC don’t have the easiest of schedules either. The Vikings will win the division and probably join the Saints with a first round bye.

South

What I Knew Then

The Falcons defense is bad. The 21 points a game their giving up puts them in the middle of the pack but their other defensive numbers are pitiful. They’re giving up 370 yards a game including 130 per game on the ground. The loss of starting cornerback Brain Williams certainly didn’t help the situation. John Abraham has only 3.5 sacks and has been a non-factor.

The Panthers are bad. Just watch this team (if you can). They’re in the bottom third in every offensive category other than rushing yards and they’re scoring less than 20 points a game. Steve Smith is openly unhappy about his use (what happened to the screen pass?) and has been virtually nonexistent. Jake Delhomme has been horrid. The only bright spot to this team, and the only way they’ve won any games is their tenacious running game. Johnathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams are putting up nearly 160 yards per game, good for 3^rd in the NFL. Julius Peppers has been a beast, as always, but he’s the extent of the talent on that side of the ball. They’re giving up 130 yards per game on the ground and are in the bottom third in the league in defensive points per game As I said at the beginning of the year they’re playmakers will make plays (you know, other than Steve Smith) but the rest of the team sucks.

The Saints can score. This was pretty obvious. Drew Breese is having his name thrown around in the MVP conversation (and rightly so). Marques Colston is finally turning into the number one receiver he was suppose to be. Jeremy Shockey is having a bounce back year after failing to score a touchdown last year. It’s hard to tell if Breese has tons of weapons or if he has created some of those weapons. Mike Bell and Pierre Thomas are having a better year than expected, getting 150 yards per game, good for 5^th in the league. They’re first in yards and scoring and pretty much the most dominate offense we’ve seen since the fall of the Patriots Dynasty.

The Bucs are a mess. They’re on their third starting quarterback of the year with rookie Josh Freeman now at the helm. Derrick Ward left New York to be a starting running back, and has failed again losing his job to Cadillac Williams. They’re near the bottom in all offensive categories. They’re defense is even worse. They’re second to last in points and rushing yards surrendered and 29^th in total yards given up. It’s hard to find many bright spots on this team. Raheem Morris took it upon himself to purge the franchise of aging veterans in favor of youth, especially on defense. That’s backfired so far and given his lack of coaching experience Morris may not have much time to turn this franchise back around (some may argue he actually set the team back).

What I Thought I Knew

The Falcons offense would be epic. They’ve been good, but not as explosive as I thought. They’re middle of the pack in every offensive category despite the apparent weapons they have. (Keep in mid this team was 10th in points and 6^th in yards last year and ADDED arguably the best tight end ever) Michael Turner’s injury doesn’t help. He hadn’t fallen off as much as expected after his 376 touches last year, but the injury could create some questions about his long term durability (even though the injury may not have to do with his number of carries). They’re playmakers are making plays (Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez are top 10 in most receiving categories for their given position) but the overall offense just can’t seem to break out. Given the way their defense has played they’re going to need that to change if they want a shot at the playoffs.

The Saints defense would be terrible. They’re not great, but they’re not as bad as expected. In fact, their one of the top scoring defenses in the league with 7 touchdowns. They’re not losing the game, which given their offense is all that this team needs. They’re schedule hasn’t turned out to be all that tough (Philly and Atlanta are the only teams .500 or better) and that doesn’t change the rest of the year. The Patriots week 12 will be the only real test with winnable games at Atlanta and home against Dallas. If they’re D can keep doing what they’re doing (even without the defensive scores) they should be in really good shape.

What I Still Don’t Know/Playoff Bound

If the Falcons are real contenders. This team has been spastic all year long. They’ve yet to beat a good team (losses at NO and NE). They lost to a bad Panthers team and a Cowboys squad that I still have major doubts about. After their miracle run last year they’ve come back down to earth. Still they’re 5-4 with a shot down the stretch to make the playoffs. Week 11 at the Giants may answer this question once and for all.

The Saints may be the best team in the NFC. They’ll have the advantage of avoiding bad weather by locking up home field for the divisional playoffs (after their first round bye). Given the makeup of this team that is huge. Offensive talent can be neutralized in bad weather, it’s nurtured inside. Add to the fact that the other prohibitive favorite in the NFC (Minny) plays inside the Saints have a real shot at getting to the Super Bowl in Miami.

The Falcons will be there down the stretch. They still have the Eagles and Saints at home and the aforementioned Giant’s game making it difficult for them. Last year’s NFC south champs probably won’t return to the playoffs.

Read more Eli Manning news on BleacherReport.com