Monday Morning Manning: Week 3
By: Marco Imperati
During the Giants 29-27 loss to division rival Washington Redskins, I found myself checking the date late in the 4th quarter. This had to be 2015, right? It’s early in the season, although this loss stings for a boat load of reasons. None larger than an opportunity to go 3-0, 2-0 in the division, and send the redskins to a spiraling 0-3 record. However, that will all wait and we may or may not point back to this game late in the season.
Quarterback Eli Manning finished with a stat line of 25-38, 350 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions. There were many twists and turns to this game. In an all too familiar look, the Giants had many chances in this game to put the Redskins away and looked like the better team. Eli looked to be in rhythm at different times in the 1st half, only to have some drives stalled that shouldn’t have.
One specific drive that stalled was another Shane Vereen lost fumble. Credit must be given to the Redskins for making plays including two circus type interceptions. One of the interceptions, by linebacker Su’a Cravens, iced the game as the Giants were making one last drive. Over all Eli and the offense have not hit stride yet. The game seems to be closed a bit..the outside routes not leveraged as the were before.
Three games in, it’s difficult to label the NY Giants offense as inconsistent or flawed. The much talked about Wide Receivers group is one that is tops in the league. The running backs have surprised with their burst and ability to exploit the first three opponents defensive line. Manning has been solid and at times, great.
Keep an eye on: With news just breaking of Shane Vereen going down for the season, I will be keeping an eye on how Vereen’s role is filled. I’m not entirely concerned about the running/pass catching impact Vereen had on the game. The biggest aspect I will be looking at is a running back who can help in the blocking game. Without a fullback on the roster, Vereen was a trusty vet who Eli knew could stick his helmet into a blitzing player. Next up is Bobby Rainey and rookie, Paul Perkins.
Up next: Next up is a week 4 battle in Minnesota on Monday Night Football vs the Vikings. The Vikings have kicked off their season in a brand new stadium. Although dealing with a slew of injuries, the Vikings have one of the deepest rosters in the NFL, not to mention a top defense that will look to give Eli and the offense many different looks. I’m looking at Odell Beckham Jr. who although has come close, has not scored this year. If fans remember, the Giants got manhandled last season by the Vikings in a game where OBJ was missing due to suspension. A redemption game for the great Wide Receiver is exactly what this team, and he personally needs.
@MGiants11