Monday Morning Manning: Week 3
By: Marco Imperati
Finally, a much, much-needed win. In the division, the Giants beat the Washington Redskins 32-21 in a game that at times, wasn’t really that close. I’ll chock a lot of the odd plays and frustrating field goals instead of touchdowns for the Giants to Thursday night being a difficult night for any team to play.
Week 3 is behind us, Giants fans. For the time being, enjoy the win and take it one week at a time. When this team plays well, it’s easy to see the potential that exists.
Some goods:
-Eli Manning. A smart, controlled, and decisive game for the quarterback. Earning his 100th victory as the Big Blue leader, Eli was checking out of plays, taking advantage of the play clock, and keeping all his play-makers happy.
Reuben Randle. Last week vs Atlanta he had one catch for five yards. A much needed, bounce back game and confident booster for Randle. Even with OBJ, and the expected return of Victor Cruz, it’s good to see Randle getting catches and scoring. He will be an important player going forward.
Nikita Whitlock. When the 53 man roster was announced, one of the few surprises was Whitlock making the team over Henry Hynoski. Whitlock, a converted defensive tackle, has proved the Giants right three weeks into the season. Thunderous lead blocks and has even given them some plays in his old position on defense.
Prince Amukamara. Although this is an offensive centered article, I’d like to give a nod to the defense. Hidden in the Eli mental mistakes, the defense has allowed offenses to go down the field and score in the last two games. This is a group that does not have a top flight pass rusher for the first time in almost 20 years! Prince lead the way in the secondary with DRC down and played like a top guy tonight while the pass rush is still trying to find their way.
Some bad’s:
-Getting a pass rush with 4 defensive linemen. Very difficult for this group to do without generating pressure from a blitz. With Robert Ayers out, Kerry Wynn flashed a little but we’re all still waiting for Demontre Moore to be the pass rusher he was drafted to be.
-Closing games out cleanly. These 4th quarters have not been easy on my heart. Two onside kicks that could have gone either way. A kickoff-return for a touchdown. Consistent three and outs for the Giants. Here’s hoping that with a win also comes the confidence to finish off teams in the 4th quarter.
Up next: Giants will get 10 needed days off before traveling to face a tough Buffalo team. Should be fun with the expected Victor Cruz return.