Big Blue View

Eli talks Peyton, Super Bowl

2010-02-09T21:40:16Z

Eli Manning was on ESPN Radio 1050 with Michael Kay Monday discussing the disappointment of watching his brother Peyton and the Indianapolis Colts lose the Super Bowl Sunday.

Listen to the full interview here.

Eli had some interesting thoughts on the game-clinching interception by Tracy Porter, and how much his brother means to the Colts.

-- 'Kudos' to NFL.com

Daily NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri

2010-02-09T16:00:25Z

More photos » L.G. Patterson - AP

Missouri linebacker Sean Weatherspoon

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As we continue our series of NFL Draft prospect profiles, looking at players who might be of interest to our New York Giants, let's look at a versatile linebacker who has been drawing some attention.

Sean Weatherspoon of Missouri. There seem to be a lot of things to like about Weatherspoon, as you will find out when you read the scouting reports. He seems more suited to be an outside linebacker, though, and that makes me question whether or not he would be a smart early-round choice for GM Jerry Reese and the Giants.

Let's look a little closer at what Weatherspoon brings to the table.

Sean Weatherspoon Scouting Reports

Here is Walter Football's very encouraging report about Weatherspoon.

Weatherspoon is an extremely talented weakside linebacker prospect who brings the play-making ability and athleticism a lot of teams are looking for. His ability to blitz gives him scheme versatility, but he isn't a 3-4 outside linebacker. Weatherspoon is going to be drafted in the top 40 picks with the potential to go in the top 15 or 20.

ESPN grades Weatherspoon as a probable second-round pick. Here is some of their report.

Is blessed with an excellent combination of size and speed. Is thickly-built and has the top-end speed to play inside or outside depending on NFL scheme. ...

He is big and has adequate overall strength. However, we just don't see that viciousness in his game that is present in elite NFL LBs such as Ray Lewis. ...

Overall tackling skills are adequate-to-good but not great. ...

Good range in coverage. Shows a deep drop in zone. Has better-than-average instincts in coverage and does a nice job of reading the quarterback's eyes.

Draft Countdown has this to say about Weatherspoon.

Good size and bulk --- Very athletic --- Great speed --- Has a burst and really closes in a hurry --- Quick and agile --- Solid instincts --- Reliable tackler and a powerful hitter --- Has sideline-to-sideline range ... Could project either outside or inside at the next level --- A true play-maker who always seems to be around the action --- Fantastic all-around player with an outstanding blend of physical tools and elite intangibles.

Why Weatherspoon fits with the Giants

Simple. The Giants need talented, athletic linebackers. Inside or outside, the Giants just don't have enough of them. The guy projects as one of the best linebackers coming out of the draft.

Why the Giants should pass

Where would he play? Michael Boley is a big-money weakside linebacker, and the Giants appear committed to him. What the Giants really need is a middle linebacker, and there are questions about whether or not Weatherspoon can play there at the NFL level. Early in the draft there are likely to be other players available to the Giants who are more natural fits as middle linebackers.

(E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com)

Ex-GM: Osi worth a No. 1 or No. 2 pick

2010-02-09T12:00:23Z

More photos » Tim Roske - AP

Osi Umenyiora

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A No. 1 or No. 2 draft pick. That is the price a former NFL general manager who wished to remain anonymous says Osi Umenyiora could fetch if the New York Giants decided to deal him this off-season.

So, put yourself in General Manager Jerry Reese's shoes. We have already spent some time the past several weeks talking vaguely about trading, or not trading, the obviously disgruntled defensive end. In reality, though, we had no baseline for an argument since we have all been speculating wildly on what he might bring in return.

But, on the theory that Umenyiora's still formidable pass-rushing skills could bring the Giants an additional first- or second-round pick would you keep him or trade him?

I am not a guy who favors trading up for draft picks. That is a gamble that sometimes works, but often blows up on the team doing it. If, however, the Giants could add an extra pick in the first two rounds -- a scenario I still have doubts about -- that is a pretty tempting proposition.

What teams might make an offer for Osi, especially with a shrinking number of teams playing the 4-3? That is another question entirely, and I would just be speculating. St. Louis with Steve Spagnuolo, maybe, but they would be silly to surrender draft picks.

Your thoughts?

(E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com)

Giants awarded OT on waivers

2010-02-08T21:44:27Z

From the Giants:

The Giants have been awarded offensive tackle Herb Taylor off waivers from Denver.

Taylor, 6-3, 295 pounds, was originally a sixth-round draft choice by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2007. In two seasons with the Chiefs, Taylor played in 18 games with one start (at left tackle on Oct. 5, 2008 at Carolina). Although he has primarily played left tackle in this career, has also filled in at the guard and tackle spots on the right side.

Taylor was waived by Kansas City on Sept. 4, 2009 and signed by Denver on Dec. 9. He was on the active roster for one game (Dec. 13 at Indianapolis) but did not play. He was waived by the Broncos on Dec. 19 before being re-signed on Dec. 29 and waived again on Jan. 2, 2010.

My take: Maybe the guy has a shot to fit as a backup lineman. He has some versatility. At the least, he has some experience and figures to be better than the collection of training camp fodder the Giants had in Albany last summer.

Business of football continues

2010-02-08T19:52:22Z

Business of football continues

Today is the day after the Super Bowl. It is also the first day teams can begin cutting veteran players. Pro Football Talk has some of the chatter about who might be looking for work.

Daily NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Earl Thomas, S, Texas

2010-02-08T16:00:24Z

More photos » Harry Cabluck - AP

Earl Thomas

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In our continuing series of prospect profiles for the upcoming NFL Draft, it is time to turn our attention to a guy many of you would absolutely LOVE to see in a New York Giants uniform in 2010.

That would be Texas safety Earl Thomas. He is considered a ball-hawking safety with cornerback-type coverage skills (when is the last time anyone said that about a Giants safety?) and the more I read about the guy the more I wonder how or why the Giants would pass if he is available when their turn comes up at No. 15 in the first round.

Earl Thomas Scouting Reports

Here is Walter Football talking about what Thomas brings to the table.

Earl Thomas is the kind of football player you just love to watch on tape. You fall in love with his speed, athleticism and instincts, but some teams might be scared of his small frame, which really seems to be the only thing holding him back from being a top-10 draft pick. Thomas projects as a free safety in the NFL and seems to be too good to fall out of the top 25 picks.

If you watched the Giants safeties this season -- and, sadly, I know you did -- you have to absolutely drool when you read what SB Nation's Mocking The Draft says about Thomas' ability to play the football.

Thomas has perhaps the best ball skills of any defensive back in this year’s class – Eric Berry included. Thomas is a natural with the ball in the air. He catches the ball like a wide receiver. ...

Possesses elite recognition skills – both against the pass and sniffing out the run. When he plays back in coverage, Thomas does an excellent job of reading the quarterback’s eyes. ...

Thomas has the skills to be a starting cornerback in the NFL. He stays low in his backpedal and doesn’t take false steps in his break. Adept playing in zone. ...

Thomas has shown he has the football acumen to play at the next level. Played safety in college, but some teams might consider him a cornerback. His ball skills, agility and speed would say as much.

Why Thomas fits with the Giants

All of the above. All the reports indicate he has cover skills no Giants' safety -- including Kenny Phillips -- possesses. The Giants have got to find a way to stop giving up the big play in the passing game, and a safety with cornerback coverage skills -- particularly in zone, which we know Perry Fewell historically favors -- seems like an outstanding choice.

Why the Giants should pass

When you guys think of a good reason, let me know. I sure can't come up with one. The Giants have a desperate need, Thomas has the skills, and all reports indicate mid-first round is the right place in the draft for him to come off the board. The only reason I can possibly see that they would pass is if Alabama middle linebacker Rolando McClain is there, and they like him more. And, to be honest, that is debatable.

(E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com)

'Kudos & Wet Willies,' Super Bowl edition

2010-02-08T13:05:05Z

More photos » David J. Phillip - AP

New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey kisses the Vince Lombardi Trophy after the NFL Super Bowl XLIV football game against the Indianapolis Colts in Miami, Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010. The Saints won 31-17.

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The ultimate 'Kudos' goes to the Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints, 31-17 victors over the Indianapolis Colts Sunday night.

Let's do a quick Super Bowl 'Kudos & Wet Willies.'

Kudos to ...

Drew Brees -- Earned the MVP with a terrific 32-of-39 effort for 288 yards and two touchdowns. In a shootout with Peyton Manning Brees could not afford mistakes. And he did not make any.
Sean Payton -- The Saints coach showed the guts of the young Bill Parcells when he coached our Giants. The onside kick to start the second half set off one of the wildest in-game scenes I can recall in a Super Bowl, and turned out to be a brilliant tone-setting move. Of course, we all know that if Indianapolis recovered that ball we would probably be calling Payton an idiot this morning.
Tracy Porter -- Turned himself into a football immortal with his Super Bowl-sealing interception and touchdown return in the final minutes. Football games generally turn on a few big plays, and Porter made one of the biggest in Super Bowl history.
Jeremy Shockey -- The thoughts that ran through my mind when Shockey caught the two-yard go-ahead touchdown pass from Brees in the fourth quarter were the kind I would generally yell at you guys for if you wrote them here. So, I won't write them. But, they were not pleasant. Regardless of my personal ill-will toward the former Giant tight end, though, he caught the pass that ultimately provided the winning score. Good for him. I'm sure he feels vindicated now.
Dwight Freeney -- Playing bravely on one good leg, the Indianapolis defensive end was still a force. His one-handed throwdown of Brees in the first half was a Lawrence Taylor-esque play. The Colts certainly can't use Freeney's injury as any type of excuse.

Wet Willies to ...

Peyton Manning -- This was not supposed to be how it would go for one of the best quarterbacks in the history of the game. Manning was supposed to lead his team to a game-tying drive late in the fourth quarter, not throw a Pick Six that doomed his team. Question is, what does this do to Manning's legacy? It certainly puts some type of dent in it.
Jim Caldwell -- While Payton was showing the heart of a riverboat gambler, Caldwell was asking the 900-year-old Matt Stover to try and kick a 51-yard field goal in the fourth quarter. C'mon, Jim! You were in the Super Bowl, this wasn't a pre-season tryout for Stover.

Be sure to stop by Canal Street Chronicles to congratulate Saints fans and Stampede Blue to see how Colts fans are coping.

(E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com)

Super Bowl XLIV Open Thread

2010-02-07T20:00:30Z

Indianapolis Colts vs. New Orleans Saints for the big prize. Kickoff at 6:25 p.m. ET. Who are you taking tonight?

I am going with Peyton Manning and the Colts.

Anyway, use this as your Open Thread. Oh, and check in on the goings on at Stampede Blue (Colts) and Canal Street Chronicles (Saints), as well as coverage at SBNation.com.

Can the Giants be Super again?

2010-02-07T12:00:19Z

More photos » David J. Phillip - AP

The Vince Lombardi Trophy

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Around 10 p.m. EST fans of either the New Orleans Saints or Indianapolis Colts will be in a complete state of euphoria. Their team will have just won Super Bowl XLIV to become champion of the sport.

There is, of course, no better feeling for a sports fan than the complete euphoria of the moment your team is crowned champion of a sport. It is, of course, a feeling we know as Giants fans. The fact that we know it recently -- recently enough that the sweet taste of ultimate victory still lingers for us -- makes watching the Saints battle the Colts for the title of champion tough to swallow.

We want to know. Why isn't it our Giants facing the Colts? After 2007 things looked like they were all set up for a possibly dynastic run by the Giants. Alas, a self-inflicted shooting, a key coaching defection later we are left to wonder what happened. Also, how long will we have to wait for a chance to feel that euphoria again?

Yes, I'm sure we will see plenty of shots of Eli Manning today. But, he won't be in uniform on the field trying to shoot down Peyton in the Manning Bowl we have all wanted for so long. He will be in a skybox, probably in a suit that doesn't look quite right on him. He will be pumping his fist and cheering for Peyton when things go well for Indianapolis. He will likely flash that Eli face, the grimace we all hate to see, when things go awry for the Colts.

Question is, how long will we have to wait for our chance to feel that euphoria again? Will it come while Eli is still the Giants quarterback? Will it come next year? Can it come in 2010, despite a tremendously disappointing 2009 season?

This is the NFL. Of course our turn could come again in 2010. Why not? Yes, by current New York Giants standards 2009 was a bad season. But, the Giants are not a bad football team devoid of reasons to be anything but optimistic.

In Manning, the Giants have the first essential ingredient in winning another championship. A championship-caliber quarterback. They have a championship-caliber organization, including a coach, general manager and scouting department that know what they are doing.

They have gobs of talent on offense, even if some of that talent did not play up to its ability level in 2009.Better health in 2010 and you may see the most prolific offense in Giants history.

The defense needs help, but there is reason to feel good. There is a new coordinator, an experienced one who has shown he knows what he is doing and has a reputation for getting the most out of players. There are some talented defensive players with wounded pride, who are sure to enter 2010 wanting to erase the taste of consistently being run over in 2009.

Championships are not easy to win. When you get one, it doesn't necessarily mean another will follow. We know that in our heads, but in our hearts we bleed for that feeling of euphoria, we want it each and every season.

I have faith that the feeling will come again, and that it will come during Eli Manning's tenure as Giants quarterback.

(E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com)

Going Out With A Bang

2010-02-07T03:08:59Z

Giant Player Awards
We have reached the point of the year where soon there will be no more football for a long time. As much as I love football and the Giants, I cannot see myself commenting and reading football related rumors and draft junk for months. Instead of going out with a whimper, like the Giants did this year, I'm hoping to go out a bang and spend hours giving fictional awards to the players.

The general premise is "taken" from Bye Dawk's work on BGN

This is pretty much a "vacation" until real news comes. I'll be back for the draft, and then when Preseason stars. This site is awesome, and I've learned tons that I would never learn anywhere else. Here it goes...

Offensive MVP- Eli Manning

via cache-07.gawkerassets.com
(First Win at the New Stadium)

What can be said that hasn't? In a year where we were supposed to rely on the running game, and our receivers might as well have have been in the CFL, Eli proved the haters wrong. Rarely could the running game get it going once the puff cream part of the schedule was over, yet Eli kept us in most of the games. The scary part is that Eli set personal records in pretty much everything across the board; QB Rating (93.1), Completions (317), Completion Percentage (62.3%), Yards (Only the third NYG QB to go over 4,000 yards with 4,021), Yards per game (7.9), Yards per attempt (7.9), and Touchdowns (27), despite having a broken foot for most of the season. Only knock I can think of is that he seemed to fumble it a lot this year (13, with 8 lost). Manning isn't the reason we went 8-8 this year.

This is what we have to look forward to

Honorable Mention: Steve Smith

via assets.giants.com

Defensive MVP - Ow this hurts
Honestly no one really deserves this. Seeing how much Kenny Phillips meant to us, I'd be inclined to give it to him. But MVPs need to play most of the season. I'd have to give it to Justin Tuck despite having a down year. Tuck was cheapshotted by Fat Waste of Space (I mean Flozell Adams), and was never really the same after that first Cowboys game. Still, he stayed on the field and while everyone else was giving up, he'd still be trying to make a play. Tuck never complained, and never blamed his injuries. For the 2nd worst defense in Giants history, Tuck never tried to make excuses, even when half the team was injured. For that, I salute him

(Type in Flozell Adams on Google, and the 5th suggested search is "Flozell Adams Cheap Shot)

Honorable Mention: Terrell Thomas
Made a great leap from his rookie year, and at times was our best cornerback. Made the most of a crappy year with 5 interceptions, and 70 tackles

See Here for one of the few good games defensively

Most Pleasant Surprise - Steve Smith

The year begun with questions about who or what Eli would throw to. Jerry Reese NEEDED to get a playmaking receiver or the giants would suffer. Ha, we only wish our receivers were our problem. OUR Steve Smith stepped up in a big way and shattered the New York Giant reception record by 25 receptions, and had the 2nd most yards in Franchise history (more than Plax ever had). He also became the first Giant receiver in the probowl since Homer Jones in the 60's. 'Nuff said.

Honorable Mention- Bruce Johnson

Played more than he ever should have and his interception of Romo in Week 2 is still fresh in my mind.

Biggest Disappointment - The Whole Freaking Defense

Alright, that's a cop out. I can't put CC Brown or Rouse because they weren't expected to do anything when the season started. Bill Sheridan will have to work. Did he get the short end of the stick? Yeah, very few people could succeed with the amount of injuries the Giants had this year.Did he show he could do a good job despite things getting tough? NO. And that is why he was deservedly fired. His schemes did not take the abilities of his players into account, and we had times where CC would be responsible for covering top receivers.

via www.nypost.com

(In Honor of the Who - Nobody knows what it's like... To be the bad man)

(Dis)Honorable Mentions - Chris Canty
Injuries prevented him from fulfilling what I'm sure is a talented player. But you wouldn't know from this year.

Aaron Ross: After spending the off season saying how he was back into football, and that he'd stay healthy, he had no less than 3 separate injuries to the same leg. He only played 4 games, and part of them were coming in a rotation as a safety.

The "Thanks for your many years of excellent service, but you make too much money so we have to cut you" Award - Antonio Pierce

It's a shame alright, but he's a liability now. We'll all remember him for that time he took on 2 linesmen to stop a screen from getting anywhere vs the Packers.

The "You're a big fat waste of space, so get the heck off our team" Award - Rocky Bernard

Had one sack all year, vs Kansas City. Was pretty much invisible most of the year. Was a HEALTHY scratch for a game or two. And still made $3.5 million this year according to yahoo.

via blog.nj.com
(Rocky Bernard (95) in the most work he did all season)

The "I'm sure the other team enjoyed you escorting them to the endzone" Award - CC Brown

A big hitter with little to no other redeeming qualities. We might as well not covered the other team's players when he was around.

This picture isn't with the Giants, but it's pretty much sums up CC. He shouldn't have even bothered getting off the ground

via a.espncdn.com

(I actually found a Picture where CC did something good. But he's still on the ground...)

Lock This Guy Up Longterm NOW Award- Steve Smith

Come on, just because he has another year on the rookie contract and a possible lock out doesn't mean he shouldn't be paid. He's a legitimately good person, and works hard. For once, I'd like a good person and a great player to be rewarded.

Toughest SOB Mark Bavaro Award - Equal Winners: Kevin Boss and Ahmad Bradshaw

What an example these two set. Kevin Boss gets rocked out there and still manages to catch the ball. I remember 3 distinct different Helemt to Helmet Shots and the Bossman still made the catch. Can't forget that game vs KC where he was visibly hurt, but he needed to get back to the line so the Giants could spike the ball and kick a field goal. Had he not done this, an injury time out would have ended the half. Few other players could do that.
Bradshaw played with TWO broken feet. How can you play runningback with two broken feet? And still be a shifty devil, and make physic defying cutbacks.

Honorable Mentions: Rich Seubert, Madison Hedgecock

This is for playing unglorified spots with big injuries that make playing nearly impossible. If you're hurt, the last thing you want to do is face 250-300 lb behamoths, but that's exactly what these two did.

The Best Player with an Incredibly Frustrating Flaw Award - Mario Manningham

A player with so much talent, yet so many flaws. There's this Amazing bobble catch

via 1.bp.blogspot.com

and then other easy catches that were dropped that I don't want to look up. Concentrate on the dang ball Mario

Honorable Mention- Lawrence Tynes

Great in the clutch, yet couldn't hit a thing from under 25 yards. I don't understand it. Also, his kickoffs were horrible. Even allowing for those pooch kicks, the others weren't too inspiring.

Worst. Play. Ever. (Of the year)

http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2009121313/2009/REG14/eagles@giants#tab:watch

I'm still crying. How can someone just not... pick.. up... the ball? I mean some many other times were the ball is obviously dead, but still someone runs to the endzone. This would have all been avoided if Boley could have just intercepted the ball in the first place. It's better to be forgotten.

Free Bradshaw's "Are you fking kidding me" Award - Brandon Jacobs

He gets it cuz he had an injury in week one, could’ve missed a few weeks (maybe half of the season?? Maybe less?) and then who knows?

Maybe the idea that he got his contract and gave up is wrong. But maybe it was a clause in his contract that says if he plays a certain amount of games he gets some extra $$.

So that's all I could think of. Enjoy, and thanks for reading.

Daily NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Brandon Spikes, MLB, Florida

2010-02-06T16:00:20Z

More photos » Phil Sandlin - AP

Brandon Spikes

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If there is a linebacker in the 2010 NFL Draft who sounds a lot like a younger version of Antonio Pierce, it would have to be Florida's Brandon Spikes.

So, let's talk about Spikes as we continue our series of prospect profiles of players who might interest the New York Giants in the 2010 NFL Draft.

At one time, Spikes was considered a lock to be an early- to mid- first-round selection. He is widely considered the second-best middle linebacker propsect in the draft behind Alabama's Rolando McClain. Yet, the big question with Spikes is value -- how early is too early to grab him.

SB Nation's Mocking The Draft summarizes the dilemma that is Spikes this way.

Following a solid, but slightly unspectacular, senior year Spikes could go in the first 25 picks.

The catch there is that there is a trend of middle linebackers sliding in the draft. It's hard to say that Spikes is a better player than James Laurinaitis or Rey Maualuga, and they were both selected in the second round.

Let's take a closer look at what various scouting reports say about Spikes.

Brandon Spikes Scouting Reports

In its latest Mock Draft, The Football Expert analyzes the Giants and knows they need linebacker help. But, this is what they about Spikes and the Giants first-round selection, 15th overall. "Realistically it is too soon for Florida’s Spikes because scouts will fall asleep waiting for him to finish his 40."

That seems to be the major question about Spikes. Is he fast enough to be a dominant sideline-to-sideline middle linebacker, and to hold up in pass coverage? What type of speed he shows in the upcoming Scouting Combine will undoubtedly affect how early Spikes comes off the board.

Here is some of what SB Nation's Mocking The Draft said about Spikes.

The read and react skills for Spikes are stellar. He processes a play quickly and has the football intelligence to know where the play is going to develop. This helps him overcome a small lack of athleticism and agility. Does a really nice job of managing a defense and will be able to do so in the NFL.

What keeps Spikes from being an elite linebacker prospect is a lack of athleticism. He doesn't have those quick-twitch movements you like to see in premier players.

He's a heady middle linebacker who can lead a defense and be a coach on the field. He's a student of the game and it shows in his excellent recognition skills.

Spikes is a versatile linebacker who could handle playing in a 4-3 or a 3-4. His strength and intelligence should make him an immediate starter at the next level.

Here is a little bit of what ESPN says in its analysis of Spikes.

One of the most instinctive defenders in college football today. Recognition skills continue to improve. Finds the ball quickly and has playmaking flair. ...

Plays the game with a chip on his shoulder and shows the ferocious attitude teams are looking for in an ILB/MLB. ...

Top-end speed is not great but it is adequate for his position. He's quicker than fast and generally covers more ground than his 40-time indicates. ...

Displays better closing burst to the ball carrier than his timed speed might indicate.

Why Spikes fits with the Giants

The Giants defense could use an attitude adjustment, a little nastiness if you will. There is no better position to get that from than the middle linebacker, the guy who is in the middle of everything. You also have to like what you read about Spikes' intelligence and instincts. In his best seasons, Pierce was never the fastest middle linebacker. But, if you have the instincts to know where the ball is going to be, and the aggression to fight your way to it, that goes a long way. The other aspect of replacing Pierce that is often mentioned is his ability quarterback a defense. It seems Spikes has potential to be that type of leader.

Why the Giants should pass

Speed kills. This one depends on just exactly how much Tampa 2 new defensive coordinator Perry Fewell is intending to play. Spikes is reportedly better in zone coverage than man-to-man. If, however, Fewell is going to be asking the middle linebacker to consistently make that deep drop the Tampa 2 requires then Spikes might not be the right guy for the job. Otherwise, he seems like an excellent fit for the Giants if he happens to be available in Round 2.

(E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com)

A pleasant Super Bowl memory

2010-02-06T12:00:24Z

Former Giants quarterback-turned-TV broadcaster Phil Simms spent some time this week talking about his MVP performance in Super Bowl XXI. I'm sure thinking about it and listening to Simms discuss it will bring a smile to your face.

Speaking to the folks at Giants.com, Simms revealed even more about what that championship has meant to his life.

"Well, I'm glad it happened," Simms said of his splendid championship game. "It changed my life, no doubt about it. But I didn't realize that until...now. I didn't know it when I was doing it, when I got done playing. It took me a long time afterward to see all the things that have come because of that game. It would have been hard for me to be the lead announcer at any network if I didn't win the Super Bowl."

Simms believes he would have traveled a much different path had the Giants lost or not played in Super Bowl XXI. "I would have been coaching football," Simms said. "I'd have gotten a head job, maybe two by now, and I would have been fired twice. I'd be really bitter."

Interesting stuff.

Eli will be rooting for Peyton

2010-02-05T18:00:21Z

Here is an interview New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning did Thursday. He chats about Peyton, growing up as a Saints fan, the demolition of Giants Stadium and more.

Union leader sees lockout ahead

2010-02-05T15:00:33Z

This is news football fans definitely do not want to hear, even if their might be a little posturing involved.

The question to DeMaurice Smith was simple, coming from Cincinnati receiver Chad Ochocinco, asking how serious he viewed the possibility of football not being played in 2011.

Smith did not hesitate.

"On a scale of 1 to 10," Smith said Thursday, "it's a 14."

With that, the executive director of the NFL Players Association painted perhaps the bleakest picture yet regarding prospects of labor strife in the league, which could be looking at a 2010 season with no salary cap and, if the collective bargaining agreement expires as scheduled in March 2011, a lockout that year.

"I keep coming back to an economic model in America that is unparalleled," said Smith, who often repeated phrases for emphasis. "And that makes it incredibly difficult to then come to players and say, on average, each of you needs to take a $340,000 pay cut to save the National Football League. Tough sell. Tough sell."

Smith said the NFL would receive $5 billion from its network television deals even if no games are played in 2011. He regarded that as proof owners are preparing for a lockout.

By the way, that is pretty good journalism from Ochocinco.

Daily NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland

2010-02-05T11:42:09Z

Bruce Campbell via terrapintrail.com

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Don't believe Will Beatty is enough of a beast to be the New York Giants' left tackle of the future? How about Bruce Campbell, a 6-foot-7, 310-pounder out of the University of Maryland?

There are two reasons we are going to talk about Campbell today in our continuing series of prospect profiles of players who may interest the Giants on Draft Weekend.

It's never a bad idea to collect monsters on the offensive line, especially guys who are considered natural left tackles.
Hey, Campbell is from my alma mater. We are going to spend at least one post discussing SOMEBODY from Maryland.

From everything I have seen on the mock draft boards and rating systems, Campbell is a guy who should be available at No. 15. Shoot, the way things go with the draft he might be available in the second round. You just never know.

This is a direction I don't really expect the Giants to go in. I think there will be attractive players available who might fill more pressing needs than Campbell. I also think the Giants might prefer Idaho's Mike Iupati if they were to select a lineman in Round 1.

Still, Campbell is worth talking about. It is really, really difficult to pass up guys who could be franchise left tackles. Besides, I'm sitting here with my red Maryland shirt on and I feel like writing about the guy. So, that's what I'm doing.

Bruce Campbell Scouting Reports

Here is the word on Campbell from SB Nation's fine draft blog, Mocking The Draft.

Campbell is one of the most intriguing players in this year’s draft. He’s an incredible athlete for an offensive lineman and a natural left tackle. His quickness, upper body strength and size make him ready for the NFL right now, even though he came out following his junior season.

Campbell’s an attractive talent because he’s shown he can handle a man and zone scheme. This could give him the advantage over other early entrants Bryan Bulaga and Anthony Davis, who are almost strictly man blockers.

Where Campbell gets negative points is in his inconsistent technique, which could give a line coach fits. Campbell also has a growing history of injuries. Missed time in 2009 with turf toe and an injury to his medial collateral ligament. Campbell started only 17 games in his career, which is a big red flag. Campbell may define the term "boom or bust prospect."

Walter Football absolutely loves Campbell's potential.

Consider Bruce Campbell the Jason Smith of the 2010 NFL Draft class. His stock will be soaring through the roof once we get to the Combine, however, he is more of a natural pass protector than Smith. With more experience, he could become a Pro Bowl left tackle at the next level. Of course, you have to consider his long list of injuries, but he'll likely be taken in the top 16 picks.

Draft Board Insider sees Campbell as a huge risk-reward type player.

Campbell has a ton of potential and more upside than any tackle in the draft. BUT ... Any team that chooses to draft him will have to weigh out if the risk is worth the potential that Campbell has shown.

ESPN Insider has a nice piece on Campbell, in which it details that he profiles as an elite run blocker.

He is an intriguing name to watch. And I will never complain if the Giants take a guy from my alma mater -- even if I am glad Darrius Heyward-Bey ended up in Oakland last season.

Why Campbell fits with the Giants

Because he has "more upside than any tackle in the draft," that's why. Those players are just not easy to come by. We know that, among several other things, it is also time for the Giants to continue addressing adding quality young players to their offensive line. How about Campbell and Beatty, one of last season's second-round picks, book-ending the line for the next 6-8 years? If Campbell is the real deal you would think that scenario would make Eli Manning pretty comfy in the pocket for the next several seasons.

Why the Giants should pass

Because these are not the Giants of the past couple of seasons. They just went 8-8, they have some obvious holes and they cannot afford to miss with this pick. Campbell might end up being a great player, and teams who pass on him might wish they hadn't. But, reports indicate a really high risk factor with the guy. At least in the first round the Giants are likely to have 'safer' choices.

(E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com)

Osi interview, thanks to 'SBaker'

2010-02-04T20:09:42Z

[UPDATE: 02/04/10 4:08 PM EST -- Osi was also apparently on WFAN today. Per Ernie Palladino, he was much more strident in his remarks to Mike Francesa. Sorry gang, but this one looks like it could get ugly.]

One of Big Blue View's long-time community members, 'SBakerTheTouchdownMaker,' works for an Indianapolis sports talk radio station, XL 950. The station had New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora -- who seems to be everywhere these days -- as a guest Thursday afternoon.

'SBaker' was kind enough to send along an mp3 of the interview for your listening pleasure. Osi is a terrific talker, and sounded truly bothered by what happened to both him and the Giants in 2009.

Osi was pleasant and did not rant and rave. But, he did not back off his statements about not accepting a pass-rush specialist role. Give the interview a listen and see what you think.

Oh, and make sure you thank our man 'SBaker' for passing this along.

Osi_02.04.10

Osi no-show for ESPN radio spot

2010-02-04T14:45:43Z

Osi no-show for ESPN radio spot

Osi Umenyiora was supposed to be on radio with 'Mike & Mike' this morning. He didn't appear, however. I was actually hoping he would be on -- I was anxious to hear how he would follow Wednesday's remarks.

Daily NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Arthur Jones, DT, Syracuse

2010-02-04T12:00:22Z

Arthur Jones via media.syracuse.com

View full size photo »

While profiling NFL Draft prospects who might be of interest to our New York Giants, I want to recognize that there are seven rounds, not just one. Yes, the first round gets all the attention. But, it is the depth of the draft and how many players you hit on 2 thru 7 that often makes or breaks a draft.

So, many of the guys I profile will be players who won't be first-round selections. They are guys who could, though, end up available to the Giants as the draft unfolds.

Today, let's look at one such player. Arthur Jones of Syracuse is a highly-regarded defensive tackle prospect who is not generally thought of in the first wave of defensive tackles discussed by draft experts. He was somewhat injury-prone his last couple of seasons -- and, of course, he did play for Syracuse. So, those partially explain why his name isn't on the top of most boards.

But, he is an intriguing player at a position of need for the Giants. So, let's look closer.

Arthur Jones Scouting Reports

Jones is a 6-foot-4, 302-pound player with the reputation of being a better run defender than pass rusher from his post in the middle of the Syracuse line.

Here is part of the scouting report on Jones from SB Nation's Mocking The Draft.

Jones has the size and strength to play tackle in either a 3-4 or a 4-3. Syracuse used a three-man front in 2009 and Jones held the nose. While it limited some of Jones' playmaking ability, he was still a factor, particularly against the run.

Jones is flying far below the radar, especially after Gerald McCoy and Brian Price declared and Dan Williams emerged. But also causing the low profile are some serious injury concerns. He tore a pectoral muscle in the 2009 offseason and saw his senior year shortened by a torn left lateral meniscus.

Jones is an attractive prospect because his ability to play the 3-4 or 4-3. This would allow teams the luxury of presenting different looks on defense.

Jones' injuries may have knocked him out of the first 50 picks of the draft, but he's a very good player. Despite his injuries, Big East head coaches named him a first-team all-conference player in 2009.

Fantay Football Toolbox had this to say about Jones.

Heading into the 2009 season, Jones was considered one of the top five senior defensive tackles according to most pundits.

Having two surgeries in two years has raised major questions about his health. He will need to have a very productive NFL combine in order to move past the second or third round, but Jones certainly has the talent to be a solid defensive tackle in the NFL.

DraftSeason.com compares Jones to the Giants' Fred Robbins. If we are talking about Fred Robbins in his prime, Jones is the kind of player the Giants might want to consider.

Why Jones fits with the Giants

Obviously, the Giants need to improve their defense against the run. And improving the talent level at defensive tackle needs to be part of that. Jones is one of those guys who did not have a great season due to injuries, but in the second or third round might provide tremendous value at a position where the Giants need help. He has a reputation as a stout run defender who can hold his own against multiple blockers. It also seems as though his 2009 injuries did not allow him to showcase his true pass-rushing capability.

Why the Giants should pass

That injury history is the biggest red flag. The Giants just went through a rough season where too many key defenders could not get on the field consistently. Jones' talent may be too hard to ignore, especially if he is still available by Round 3, but the fact that he has not been able to stay healthy makes him a bit of a question mark.

A quick note about who we are

2010-02-04T00:05:42Z

I had to do something today I have not done in quite a while. I banned two relatively new members of the community who seemed to want to belittle and personally attack anyone who disagreed with them.

If you are new here -- and even if you are not -- please re-read the Community Guidelines.

This site has become a success because it has a reputation as a classy place for intelligent, friendly discussion about the New York Giants. I will not allow it to become just another place on the Internet where morons run amok, screaming at and belittling anyone who dares disagree with them.

If that is what you want to do, there are plenty of places on the Internet where you can. This is NOT one of them. We are all friends here, and if you can't treat people with some respect I suggest you simply keep your opinions to yourself.

Osi: "I'm not going to be a back up"

2010-02-03T21:08:40Z

Consider this the first direct challenge thrown at new Giants defensive coordinator Perry Fewell. It comes courtesy of, as we should have expected, Osi Umenyiora.

"I’m not going to be a back up player, I can promise you that," Umenyiora said. "I’ll stop playing football before I do that ever again. This has been just the worst offseason of my entire life. I can’t even think of a time when things were this bad during the offseason. You’re supposed to be relaxing, but I can’t relax because all I can think of is the things that took place last season, you understand? So for me it’s not something that I’m going to do. If I’m asked to come back there and do that then I’ll just stop playing football."

Umenyiora, of course, is coming off a tremendously rocky season which began with a one-day walkout after a dispute with former defensive coordinator Bill Sheridan, and continued as he struggled to regain his form after missing all of 2008 following knee surgery. His play slipped so far, especially against the run, that he was replaced in the starting lineup by Mathias Kiwanuka for the final weeks of the season.

He was so frustrated, in fact, that he thought his time with the Giants was just about over.

"Did it go through my mind? Obviously, yes," he said. "Obviously you come through a situation where you’ve been here for a long time and you’ve won Super Bowls, you’ve been to the Pro Bowl a couple of times, then things like that start happening, you start being benched and they say you’re coming in on the third down rush, I think it almost seemed like the writing was on the wall at that particular time. I felt like I had worn out my welcome, because for certain people, no matter what happens, they’ll never take them out of the lineup, you understand what I mean?

"So I felt that way. I felt like maybe it was my last year because of that situation. But you never know man. I hope it’s not. I hope things can be rectified and things can be resolved. But we’ll see."

Here's my advice to Osi. Shut your mouth and play better football. If you want status your performance doesn't justify, you aren't needed. The Giants should just move on without you.

Here is the link to the full interview on WFAN. 'Kudos' to my pal Ernie Palladino for that.