Is Veteran Kenny Phillips the Giants Top Safety?

September 29, 2011

EAST RUTHERFORD – Today via the New York Giants Twitter account, defensive coordinator, Perry Fewell said safety, Kenny Phillips ‘has been balling’. What exactly does that mean to you and I? Is Phillips the ‘top dog’ over Antrel Rolle and Deon Grant? I will break down Kenny Phillips’ career with you starting all the way back to his days playing college ball. Plus, I will share with you whether or not I agree with Perry Fewell’s comment made earlier today.

Before the NFL

After playing college ball at the University of Miami, safety Kenny Phillips was picked by the Giants in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft. During his freshman year in college, Phillips was ranked third on his team, recording 93 tackles and one INT, after starting 11 games at free safety. Despite missing three games due to injury, Phillips continued his steller preformance the following year by starting ten games at strong safety and racking up 73 tackles and 4 INTs. He would set a career high in tackles his junior year with 95 total and he also picked off two passes. Phillips then decided it was time to take on the NFL.

Kenny’s NFL Career Begins

After the Giants lost safety Gibril Wilson to free-agency during the 2008 off-season, Phillips was most likely going to be competing for the vacant position at free safety. The Giants wasted no time, offering him a five-year contract worth $11 million dollars. Phillips did not obtain the sole starting job at free safety, he split duties at the position with Michael Johnson. He preformed rather well throughout his rookie year getting playing time in all 16 games and starting in 3 of those games. He recorded 67 tackles and grabbed one INT. Unfortunately, Phillips’s second year was shortened after he suffered a season ending knee injury. He got back on the field in time for the 2010 season opener against the Carolina Panthers as a starter. It was also the first time he would be playing alongside safety Antrel Rolle. Phillips started his season off with a bang by managing a few tackles and stealing one from Panther’s QB, at the time, Matt Moore.  He continued to be a top performer for the Giants defense, recording 77 tackles during the 10′ season.

Performance This Season

Has Phillips preformed well enough after three weeks for  defensive coordinator, Perry Fewell to say he “has been balling”? I would have to say DEFINITELY. Phillips has already wreaked havoc in the secondary by making 33 tackles in only three weeks, almost half of his career high of 77 tackles. He has shut down some key scoring plays by opposing offenses and has just flat out impressed me these past three weeks. I believe that having a safety with the ability to make tackles and kill potential scoring plays such as Phillips, is essential to winning games. On top of the 33 tackles, he has one INT. Of course many Giants fans would like to see more, but remember, we are only three weeks into the season. It is still a good start for him because he has only had one INT per season thus far.

With all of that being said, I would most definitely have to back up Perry Fewell’s comment and say that Phillips is the best safety on the team right now.

Spencer Conlin – nygreporter.com

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Posted by sconlinnygreporter

Hey ESPN, You Have Lost All Credibility in New York!

September 27, 2011

NEW YORK – I have reached my limit with ESPN. For the first three weeks of the 2011 season, their coverage of the New York Giants has been nothing less then insulting. It has been bias and extremely negative. They have lost all credibility in New York for delivering a balanced and fair assessment of professional football games. It amazes me that they could be so blatantly one sided when it comes to the Giants. From morning to night it has been nothing but negativity and many speculate it is because the producers are from Boston or they are simply Boston fans. If this were a playground and we were five years old that would make sense but as a grown man or woman, with a job that entails delivering accurate news, it simply falls short of credible. ESPN, which is owned by the Walt Disney corporation (80%) and the Hearst corporation (20%) need to look into what these producers are airing. This article would have never been posted if it was a one time issue but this has been going on for years now. Dozens of New York fans took to twitter these past few weeks spitting poison at ESPN for their bias, so I am not alone in my thoughts which are written here.

I’m not talking about a single negative comment or remark here (even though you can find plenty of those too). I’m talking about whole segments produced and edited in a way that makes the Giants look terrible and I’m sick of it. You have to understand that there is a difference between a commentator giving his or her opinion during a broadcast and edited segments that have the elevator music and dramatic camera angles to provoke emotion from the viewer. These guys at ESPN had aired three negative segments prior to the Giants vs. Eagles game on Sunday. This was after a week long campaign of negativity calling out Big Blue for faking injuries and currently we have to endure “day three” of them talking about poor Michael Vick being hit legally. You would have gotten away with it if some producer over at ESPN wasn’t such a glutton and turned their focus to something else but after three weeks, enough is enough.

The three segments included their homemade montage of the “Miracle at the Meadowlands” where DeSean Jackson ran back a punt for a TD last year. This was played all day and all night. The second was an interview with former Giants punter Matt Dodge that was edited to make him look like an idiot and the third was all about faking injuries during games and had the Giants as the poster child for such behavior, due to questionable injuries by the Giants during the Rams game two Sundays ago. Guys faking injuries to slow the game down has been happening since the Vince Lombardi days and happens every week in the NFL. Yet, they failed to focus on the real story which is the Giants victories. They certainly spent enough time bashing them during week one when the G-men lost to the Redskins.

Ironically enough, they seem to have the same loathing for the New York Yankees and continually share a one sided opinion about the team. I know they could have their people pull up a bunch of clips over time that show positive statements about New York teams but overall the scales are considerably tipped in favor of the negative aspects they choose to air. I encourage all of the aspiring sports reporters in New York to focus on this story and see why this is allowed to occur. I ask that anyone with s nose for the news break this story wide open and find the source of all the negativity directed at New York. I implore any millionaires out there to create a new sports television program that can deliver fair and balanced news and compete with the monopoly that ESPN has become. These guys at ESPN must think the fans are stupid and that we wouldn’t recognize what they are doing. Talk about the real news, which in this case, are the two victories the Giants pulled out with half of their team injured, instead of what you CREATE as the news in order to generate viewership.

In conclusion, I ask who ever is in charge at ESPN, a publicly traded company that produces one billion dollars in revenue on the eyes and ears of sports fans, to explain why this is happening? If you want to pump my head with hours and hours of commercials by your advertisers without my permission, then I demand that you fairly and accurately report the news on New York area teams. You have neglected the New York Giants fans long enough and it is time for a change. Everything in this story is strictly my opinion but I am certainly not alone in my observations.

What are your feelings about how ESPN handles news about the Giants and New York teams in general? Please feel free to leave comments below!

RD – nygreporter.com

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29 Comments | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Draft, 2011 NFL Lockout, 2011 NFL Preseason, 2011 NFL Regular Season, 2011 NFL Training Camp, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Giants Training Camp, Giants Transactions, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL New York Giants, NFL Schedule, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Preseason, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Schedule, NYG Site News, NYG Story, NYG Training Camp, NYG Update, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Pro Football Hall of Fame, Roger Goodell, Steve Tisch, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn, Wounded Warrior Project | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

NFL Week 3: Giants vs. Eagles, Game Notes

September 25, 2011

NEW YORK – This was one of the most anticipated games of the season. There was so much hype surrounding this game because of all the trash talk in the media by the Eagles. It was widely believed that the Eagles would field the better team because the G-Men suffered so many injuries but the experts were wrong again. The Giants won the game 29-16 (my prediction prior to the game was 27-16, pretty close). Even though the Eagles proclaimed themselves to be a “Dream Team” prior to the start of the season, they couldn’t back up their talk. Only time will tell how good they are but seeing how they were 1-1 before this game and 1-2 after the game, they sure don’t look like a “Dream Team” to me.

Let me be fair, this was a hard fought victory. Both teams were playing their hearts out and QB Michael Vick looked like he was on his way to having a great game until the Giants broke his right hand. Fans knew the game was over at that point. The Giants went into the locker room at halftime with a 14-13 lead and appeared to have lost the momentum. That trend continued in the 3rd quarter but then in the 4th quarter the Giants came back to life and finished strong. The entire game lived up to the hype and had the outcome that Giants fans were looking for. The Giants needed this win badly after losing the last six straight games to the Eagles.

The Giants offense performed so well that I will have to divide my offensive game ball into three sections for QB Eli Manning, RB Ahmad Bradshaw and WR Victor Cruz. Manning had his best game of the year despite being sacked 3 times. The offense played above and beyond what anyone thought they could today and did the fans proud by shutting up the loudmouth Eagles players and fans. The G-Men came up big in the 4th quarter by shutting out the Eagles and scoring fifteen points themselves. Ironically enough, I have to divide my defensive game ball up in three parts too for DE Jason Pierre-Paul, CB Aaron Ross and S Kenny Phillips. Today was a great day to be a Giants fan.

Let’s take a look at some of my notes from the game.

QB Eli Manning – Manning had an outstanding game and finished 16/23 with 254 yards 4 TD’s and 0 INT’s.

RB Ahmad Bradshaw – Bradshaw is simply a beast. He finished with 86 yards on the ground, 53 receiving yards and 1 TD.

WR Hakeem Nicks – Nicks was being smothered the entire game but still finished with 25 yards.

CB Aaron Ross – Ross played out of his mind today and was all over the field. He finished with 2 INT’s.

DE Justin Tuck – Tuck was having a good game until he left with an injury. We all hope he will be OK.

WR Victor Cruz – This Jersey native had a break out game today. He finished with 102 yards and 2 TD’s.

RB Brandon Jacobs – Brandon the Bull had a great game and finished with 19 yards on the ground, 53 yards receiving and 1 TD.

S Antrel Rolle – Rolle had a good game and kept his cool despite the Eagles players trying to get in his head.

WR Mario Manningham – Super Mario missed this game due to a concussion. Fans are hoping Mario will have a speedy recovery and get back on the field soon. Get well soon Mario!

DE Jason Pierre-Paul – The future is now for this young man. He left the game late in the 4th after getting banged up but still finished with 2 sacks.

S Kenny Phillips – Phillips played an outstanding game and finished with 1 INT and 1 forced fumble.

LB Jacquian Williams – Keep your eye on this rookie. He led all defensive tacklers and plays with fire.

S Deon Grant – Grant had a great game and his veteran swagger on the field cannot be overstated. Re-signing him was huge this offseason.

LB Mathias Kiwanuka – Kiwi had a nice game and a few key tackles. I still think he should be used as a DE and not a LB.

TE Travis Beckum – Beckum’s return to the field was quiet and he finished with 1 catch for 2 yards.

WR Brandon Stokley – Stokley had a quiet game and finished with 1 catch for 7 yards.

LB Greg Jones – The rookie Jones is still settling into his role in the middle and had a decent game.

LB Michael Boley – Boley had a great game and continues to be the veteran presence needed in the LB group.

K Lawrence Tynes – Tynes made all three of his extra point attempts and had no FG attempts.

P Steve Weatherford – The Weatherman had another good game and kept the ball away from DeSean Jackson.

Giants Defense – The defense was outstanding today and finished with 2 sacks, 3 INT’s and 1 forced fumble.

Giants Offense – Hats off to Kevin Gilbride who called a good game today. The Giants offense played their best game of the year.

Giants Special Teams – Even the special teams got in on the party and played much better today.

What did you think about the Giants performance against the Eagles?

RD – nygreporter.com

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10 Comments | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Regular Season, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Roster, Giants Transactions, Hamps Camp, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, New Jersey, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL New York Giants, NFL Schedule, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Schedule, NYG Story, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Steve Tisch, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

Giants Must Shut Up the Eagles by Winning on Sunday

September 22, 2011

NEW YORK – I don’t know when it became cool to talk trash in the media but the old school football players know that you let your skills do the talking. There have been a few Eagles players who think it is cute to talk trash about the Giants. The G-Men need to step up and play their most physical game of the year so far. Win or lose, the Giants must leave that game with the respect of the Eagles players and media. I’m tired of listening to both of them bad mouth Big Blue at will and show no respect. If the Giants do not get pumped up for this game, I don’t know if they can for any other game this entire season.

It started a month or two ago when Eagles RB LeSean McCoy called DE Osi Umenyiora soft and overrated. Then we heard more chatter from the Eagles players about QB Eli Manning and most recently we had Eagles player Jeremy Maclin talking trash about S Antrel Rolle. He said that Rolle is insecure or scared but didn’t know which one it was. I fully expect Antrel Rolle to take issue with that comment and separate Maclin’s head form his helmet at some point. I want our younger readers to understand that I do not support playing dirty or taking cheap shots. That is not what I’m talking about here. I’m talking about the Giants taking their game to another level and hitting the Eagles players with everything they’ve got. I’m talking about playing with a chip on your shoulder and shutting up the loud mouth Eagles players with superior game play on the field. I hope the media gives the Giants as much coverage for destroying the Eagles on Sunday as they have about how funny it is for the Eagles to disrespect the Giants or how bad it is for the G-men to fake injuries.

I find it funny that a team that has won zero Championships can talk trash about a team that has won three. The Eagles need to be put in their place and I can only hope that Big Blue can do it this weekend. The Giants lost WR Domenik Hixon for the year with a torn ACL after his circus catch against the Rams. The team announced it yesterday and he is the latest Giants player to go down for the year. The amount of injuries (for a third straight year) that the G-Men have had is dumbfounding. Is it any wonder why they missed the playoffs the past two years, when they were decimated by injuries, just as they are this year. Something needs to be done about this. Make a change on the staff or do something to show you’re concerned about the complete collapse in the health of our players. I don’t think fans realize that we are starting rookies and second string players in crucial spots on the field. You cannot fake talent or replace superior talent with inferior talent. This is in no way disrespectful for the guys who are trying to step up, I’m simply talking about depth charts and where players fall on that chart. The Giants will play the Eagles in Philly on Sunday at 1:00 PM EST.

How do you feel about the Eagles talking so much trash this year?

RD – nygreporter.com

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15 Comments | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Regular Season, A Journey for 9/11, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Giants Transactions, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL New York Giants, NFL Schedule, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Schedule, NYG Story, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Steve Tisch, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

NFL Week 2: Giants vs. Rams, Game Notes

September 20, 2011

NEW YORK – The Giants faced the Rams last night on Monday Night Football. The game was pretty ugly as many expected but the Giants played a much better game then they did against the Redskins last week. It was still a sloppy mess of a game that leaves plenty of room for improvement. Coach Tom Coughlin could be seen pacing the sidelines in a rage on more then one occasion last night. Still, a win is a win and this was a win the Giants really needed. They improve to 1-1 on the year and will play the Eagles this upcoming weekend.

At one point in the game, I was wondering out loud how the Giants could possibly have the lead because they were playing so bad. The firs half seemed to go by in slow motion with one mistake after another. If not for the awesome play of the Giants defense, the results would have been much different. The Giants went into the locker room at halftime with a 21-6 lead. The Rams were much more competitive the second half and really exposed the Giants weak secondary. CB Aaron Ross was benched for a while in favor of CB Michael Coe, because he was giving up big plays. The Giants offensive line is giving up a lot more sacks then fans are use to seeing. They gave up another 3 sacks last night and will need to work on that or risk getting the franchise QB seriously injured.

The Giants defense was stout inside the red zone but were having major issues in the open field against the pass. The Giants dominated the time of possession by nearly 10 minutes and still had trouble getting first downs. It is tough to watch those “three and outs” happening so frequently. The G-men had way too many penalties again this week with 5 for 55 yards. The G-Men will need to correct a lot of their issues before facing the Eagles this weekend.

Let’s take a look at some of my notes from the game.

QB Eli Manning – Manning had another mediocre game but it was better then last week. He finished with 200 yards 2 TD’s and 1 INT.

RB Ahmad Bradshaw – Bradshaw had a great game and finished with 59 yards on the ground and 45 yards receiving.

WR Hakeem Nicks – Nicks had a relatively quiet night but still finished with 15 yards and 1 TD. Remember, he was playing banged up.

DE Justin Tuck – Tuck had an awesome game and was all over the field last night. He finished with 1.5 sacks.

LB Michael Boley – Boley had a great game and made a heads up play in the 2nd quarter for a 65 yard TD on a fumble recovery.

DE Jason Pierre-Paul – JPP is a force to be reckoned with. He had a great game and finished with half a sack that he shared with Tuck.

RB Brandon Jacobs – Jacobs had a little spark in his step last night and finished with 50 yards on the ground and 17 yards receiving. He also scored 1 TD.

S Antrel Rolle – Rolle led all tacklers on defense and had 1 forced fumble. He is becoming a beast out there.

WR Mario Manningham – Super Mario led all WR’s with 56 yards but also went down with a concussion late in the game. Get well soon Mario!

LB Jacquian Williams – Williams was second on the team in tackles and had a very nice game for a rookie.

TE Jake Ballard – Ballard had a quiet night but still caught one pass for 13 yards.

LB Greg Jones – The rookie Jones was out there making plays but is still clearly raw and in need of more experience.

CB Corey Webster – Webster had a good game and continues to quietly do his job for Big Blue.

WR Domenik Hixon – Hixon had a nice game and finished with 29 yards and 1 TD. He also got hurt late in the game but was able to return.

RB Danny Ware – DJ came in and contributed late in the game with 22 yards on 3 carries.

LB Mathias Kiwanuka – Kiwi had a few nice plays and is laying out anyone who comes into his area.

WR Brandon Stokley – Stokley saw very limited action in his first game as a Giant.

K Lawrence Tynes – Tynes made all four of his extra point attempts and had no FG attempts.

P Steve Weatherford – The Weatherman had a nice game and I feel much more comfortable with him punting.

WR Devin Thomas – Thomas has been doing a pretty nice job with returning kicks and plays with a real fire.

Coach Tom Coughlin – Coach was visibly upset on the sidelines for most of the game but will put it behind him and focus on the Eagles this weekend.

Coach Perry Fewell – Coach Fewell is making lemonade out of lemons. His squad was hit the hardest with injuries and he is getting the most out of the players.

Coach Kevin Gilbride – Gilbride is calling plays too conservatively but it was better then last weekend.

Giants Defense – The bright spot for the team finished with 2 sacks, 0 INT’s and 2 forced fumbles.

Giants Offense – This group played much better but still needs some work.

Giants Special Teams – ST played better this week too but it still needs a complete overhaul in my opinion. From top to bottom.

What did you think about the Giants performance against the Rams? Feel free to leave comments below.

RD – nygreporter.com

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4 Comments | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Regular Season, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants Injuries, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Giants Transactions, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, MetLife Stadium, Monday Night Football, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL New York Giants, NFL Schedule, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Schedule, NYG Story, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Steve Tisch, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn, Wounded Warrior Project | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

nygreporter Sports Special: Mariano Rivera Gets Save 602

September 20, 2011

NEW YORK – It is time for another nygreporter sports special. Our readers know these sports specials are about the world of sports in general and not specifically about the Giants. They are usually about a New York team or player but could be about anything sports related and from anywhere in the world. Today, I would like to discuss a guy named Mo, maybe you have heard of him. Mariano Rivera is the best closer to ever play the game of baseball, period. On September 19, 2011, during a beautiful day game, Rivera collected his 602nd save to officially make him the all-time saves leader in Major League Baseball. He also has 42 post season saves that do not count towards the regular season total. Congrats to Mr. Rivera, who is one of the classiest guys in the game and one of my favorite all-time players.

Let’s take a quick look at Rivera’s numbers. I expect these numbers will change rather quickly but as for today, here there are. Mariano is a 12-time All-Star, 5-time World Series Champion, 1999 World Series MVP, the all-time MLB leader for saves (602), the MLB all-time leader in post-season saves (42) and the MLB leader in finishing games (881). He has also won a ton of other awards but these are the big ones in my opinion. Not a bad resume at all and the guy already has 40 saves this year. It is amazing that after all of these years, opposing batters still get chills when they hear the “Enter Sandman” song blasting out over the speakers. I am so glad that I was able to watch his entire career from start to finish. Guys like Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada, Bernie Williams and Andy Pettitte were my generations Mickey Mantle, Thurman Munson, Lou Gehrig and Joe D. Rivera is also the last player allowed to wear the #42 jersey which has been retired throughout baseball in honor of Jackie Robinson.

It seems like just yesterday, when the Yankees debuted a right hander named Mo but it was actually 16 years ago in May of 1995. Since then, there has been no better closer in baseball and fans were able to see a legend perform on the field every summer in ballparks across America. For most Yankee fans, Rivera will forever be remembered for his cutter, for breaking bats and his cool demeanor. He was always more concerned about winning games then he was about personal achievements. I have an authentic Mariano Rivera baseball jersey in my closet. It takes a lot for me to go out and buy an authentic jersey in any sport because they cost so much. A player must also be exceptional for me to want to wear their name or number on my back. Rivera is one of those players and I wish he could play the game for another 20 years. He is truly a New York Legend.

I have my own personal story about Rivera to share with you now. Actually, I have dozens of stories about seeing Mo get saves LIVE in front of me but one stands out most of all. It was October 27, 1999 and I was in the Bronx for Game 4 of the World Series. You may remember, the Yankees beat the Braves 4-1 in Game 4 that year and I was in the House that Ruth Built when it happened. Roger Clemens was on the mound and beat John Smoltz (both Cy Young winners) while Mariano Rivera closed out the game for the save and sweep of the Braves. Rivera was also named the Series MVP. It is without a doubt the greatest single LIVE sports moment of my life. To be there for “the moment” my favorite baseball team won a Championship is the stuff we all dream about as kids. Thanks for the memories!

Do you think Mariano Rivera is the best closer to ever play baseball?

RD – nygreporter.com

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2 Comments | 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Regular Season, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Front Office, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Hamps Camp, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, MetLife Stadium, MLB, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL New York Giants, NFL Schedule, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Exclusive, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Reporter Sports Special, NYG Story, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Steve Tisch, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

Giants Need to Break Out the Ugly Stick Against Rams

September 19, 2011

NEW YORK – It doesn’t matter how the Giants win tonight against the Rams, they just have to win. All that matters is that they avoid the dreaded 0-2 start and build some confidence going into their second divisional battle next Sunday against the Eagles. I’m not advocating any dirty play by Big Blue mind you, I am simply saying they need to man handle those guys and take the victory. I have already said that I believe the team needs to win every game from here on out leading up to the bye week (week seven). If the Giants lose tonight, things are going to get very interesting in New York.

The Giants are still dealing with a ton of injuries and will need the younger players to step up. This is your wake up call, you are an NFL player now and the team needs you. I believe the team has enough talent to win this game but there a few factors that need to come together. First, the special teams group needs to play better. They need to play like their jobs are on the line because they should be at this point. Second, the offensive play calling needs to be more aggressive and less predictable. Third, QB Eli Manning needs to get out of the funk he has been in since the preseason and get back to the player we all know he can be. I’m beginning to wonder if he is getting enough rest at home after having his first child. He seems sluggish and unfocused at times out there. If the three factors I’ve mentioned here can come together, I think the Giants will win the game tonight and get back on the right track for the season.

I recommend that all Giants fans watch this game tonight. I’m sure I do not need to tell the “true blue” fans that but there is an extra incentive for fans to check it out. The Giants will be honoring the 25th anniversary of the 1986 New York Giants Championship team that won Super Bowl XXI. That 86′ team is widely considered one of the best NFL teams ever. It is without question a top three all-time team and some may argue they are number one overall. The Giants will have a special halftime ceremony to honor the players and fans can even grab an autograph if they attend the game. Former Giants players will be located at all four entrances and available for autographs from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EST. Be prepared for long lines and additional security measures.

The game itself starts at 8:30 PM EST and the weather is expected to be clear and around 60 degrees. If you have kids, you might want to bring a jacket for them (and yourself) if you plan on attending the game. My final score prediction is Giants 27 – Rams 21.

What is your final score prediction for the Rams game tonight? Leave comments below.

RD – nygreporter.com

Please Support George Martin’s “A Journey for 9/11” Charity Walk. Never Forget!

5 Comments | 1986 New York Giants, 2010 NFL Pro Bowl, 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Draft, 2011 NFL Lockout, 2011 NFL Minicamp, 2011 NFL Playoffs, 2011 NFL Regular Season, A Journey for 9/11, Big Blue, Bill Parcells, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, Ernie Accorsi, G-Men, George Martin, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Giants Super Bowl History, Giants Transactions, Hamps Camp, Interviews, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, MetLife Stadium, MLB, Monday Night Football, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL New York Giants, NFL Schedule, NFL Super Bowl, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG All-Time Records, NYG Blog, NYG Charity, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Hall Of Fame, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Reporter Sports Special, NYG Schedule, NYG Site News, NYG Story, NYG Super Bowl, NYG Top Ten, NYG Trade News, NYG Training Camp, NYG Update, NYG Website, nygreporter, Padua's Time Out, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Roger Goodell, Steve Tisch, Sunday Night Football, Super Bowl XXI, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn, Wellington Mara | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

Giants Need to Win Five Games Before the Bye Week

September 17, 2011

NEW YORK – I was talking about the season with one of our readers here and expressed how I thought the Giants needed to win five games before the bye week in order to make it back to the playoffs. Which pretty much means winning the next five games in a row. I am sticking by what I said and I truly think it is an important benchmark, because we all know the second half of the schedule is brutal. I understand that any NFL team can win on any given Sunday but this schedule is ridiculous. If the G-Men fail to win five of their first six games, I think there is a real possibility of becoming a 500 team or maybe even falling below the dreaded sub-500 mark. Fans can dilute themselves with pep talks but reality bites hard. Of course, I hope that none of this happens and Big Blue makes the postseason.

Giants fans will have to wait until the Monday Night Football game is over to find out if the team will start the season at 1-1 or 0-2. Everyone seems to assume that the Rams are an easy win for some reason. They have a pretty good football team in St. Louis and I hope I don’t have to remind fans about how easy a win the Redskins were. The Redskins kicked our butts all over the field last weekend in a game that fans chalked up as an early victory. Do not get overconfident and take each game week by week, until you start building some momentum. Face reality and understand that the Giants are in last place right now and need to battle out of the basement in a very tough division. After the bye week, the Giants schedule transforms into the toughest in the NFL in my opinion.

The Giants signed WR Brandon Stokley this week in an attempt to bolster their WR corps. I wish Brandon well and hope that he can stay healthy this year. He has only participated in 3 full seasons during his 13 year NFL career, which makes his signing suspicious considering the team has been plagued with injury prone players. He was clearly brought in to help out in the slot and to try and give Manning another Steve Smith type of WR. DE Justin Trattou was waived in order to make room for Stokley and WR Chris Hogan was added to the practice squad. I also question why so much emphasis is being placed on the WR position when the TE, CB and LB positions are clearly in need of some help. All we can do is sit back and have faith that GM Jerry Reese has a plan. The Giants play their home opener against the Rams on Monday night at 8:30 PM EST.

Do you agree with the title of this article? Do you think the G-Men need to win five games before the bye week?

RD – nygreporter.com

Please Support The Wounded Warrior Project by Clicking Here, You Are Not Forgotten!!

11 Comments | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Draft, 2011 NFL Playoffs, 2011 NFL Regular Season, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Injuries, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Giants Transactions, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, MetLife Stadium, Monday Night Football, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL New York Giants, NFL Playoffs, NFL Schedule, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Playoffs, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Schedule, NYG Story, NYG Training Camp, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Steve Tisch, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn, Wounded Warrior Project | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

Scuttlebutt Swirls Around Giants Nation About Teams Future

September 14, 2011

NEW YORK – The Giants lost to the Redskins for their season opener. We are all well aware of that. However, since that loss, the rumors and worry warts have come out in full view and have begun a campaign of shame about Big Blue. It seems like prior to the Redskins game, everyone was full of positivity despite the gargantuan amount of injuries the team had suffered. The latest being star WR Hakeem Nicks and DE Justin Tuck who may miss his 2nd straight game this week. When does it end? Some fans have started to panic causing a mutiny between the true blue fans and fair weather fans. Things could get very ugly if something isn’t done to stop the “sub-500” talk which has become rampant.

There is no doubt that there is cause to be concerned. It is simple math at this point and when you add up all of the first string talent that has been lost for the season (particularly on defense) it becomes hard to argue with the numbers. The Giants are in serious trouble unless these second string players perform like first string players. I need not remind the fans about what Redskins QB Rex Grossman did to our secondary last weekend. What do you think will happen when we play QB Drew Brees, QB Tom Brady or QB Aaron Rodgers this year? Are you starting to get the picture? I’m a positive guy and not one for pep talks, rather I prefer action and seeing results. The Giants need to fix a lot of problems and there is no time left on the clock. QB Eli Manning has his own issues to work out because he has not been himself this entire year. Fans are waiting for him to break out of this funk that seems to be plaguing him despite all of the “everything is fine” talk.

There is no theory or discussion that can replace talent on the field. For three years in a row now, the Giants have fallen victim to the injury bug and there is nothing they can do about it. There is no quick fix for this problem. There is no pep talk that will cover WR DeSean Jackson or WR Dez Bryant. You simply need the best possible personnel on the field to battle with the opposing teams pro bowl players. The Giants do not have their best squad on the field and will have to deal with it. Head Coach Tom Coughlin knows this but must remain the rock for both the team nd the fans. It is amazing how a team with so much talent can remain so mediocre on the scales of progress due to injuries. There needs to be some changes made and GM Jerry Reese knows it. The Giants will face the St. Louis Rams next on Monday Night Football at 8:30 PM EST.

What are your thoughts about the Giants future this season? Can they make it back to the playoffs?

RD – nygreporter.com

Please visit www.hampscamp.com and donate/contribute to Rodney Hampton’s charity for the kids!

10 Comments | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Draft, 2011 NFL Regular Season, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Giants Transactions, Hamps Camp, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, MetLife Stadium, Monday Night Football, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL New York Giants, NFL Schedule, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Schedule, NYG Story, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Steve Tisch, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

NFL Week 1: Giants vs. Redskins, Game Notes

September 11, 2011

NEW YORK – The 2011 NFL season has officially started Giants fans. I’m sure that most of you watched the Giants play the Redskins in DC today. Some football fans scrambled this morning to make sure their fantasy football teams had the proper lineups set and that there were no last minute injury updates. Some football fans broke out their lucky jerseys or made their favorite food before the games. All football fans honored the fallen of 9/11 in some way today, even if it were a small prayer or by attending a ceremony. America remembered the military and the fallen today. Never forget!

The Giants lost 28-14 to the Redskins in a game that was hard to watch at times. There were so many sloppy plays, after a very promising start, that I do not know where to begin. The best thing for Giants fans to do is just put this game behind us and look forward to next week when they play the Rams. Yes, it was that bad against a Redskins team that 99% of the experts said would lose today. The Giants start the season 0-1 and they have not even started the hard part of their schedule yet. After wins by the Eagles and Redskins, the G-men are officially in last place until we see what happens with the Cowboys game. The first half of the game saw a lot of back and forth action and it seemed pretty competitive, albeit sloppy. Big Blue went into the locker room at halftime tied up 14-14 and seemed to be building momentum.

Then the second half started and it all went down hill from there. One thing after another went wrong. The Giants were completely shut out in the second half and seemed to be playing tired football. I saw a lot of guys who appeared to be playing in slow motion. The Giants special teams are absolutely atrocious and need serious changes immediately. I have said that they might be the worst special teams in the entire NFL and I stand by that comment until they play better. The biggest surprise of the day was Redskins QB Rex Grossman balling on Big Blue for 305 yards and 2 TD’s. Nobody could have seen that coming. Giants QB Eli Manning had a rough day and was sacked 4 times with 1 INT. Manning has not seemed himself at all this year in the preseason or the regular season game tonight. I’m not sure what is bothering him but I hope he can focus on football and get back to the QB we all know he can be. The Giants also had way too many penalties in this game, finishing with 8 total.

Let’s take a look at some of my notes from the game.

QB Eli Manning – Eli did not have a very good game and finished 18/32 with 268 yards 0 TD’s and 1 INT. However, he did score on a 2 yard rushing TD.

RB Ahmad Bradshaw – Bradshaw had a decent game and ran hard as usual. He finished with 44 yards and 1 TD.

WR Hakeem Nicks – Nicks had a great game and he gets my offensive game ball. He finished with 122 yards 0 TD’s.

DE Justin Tuck – Tuck was on the sidelines and missed the game while he is recovering from an injury. Get well soon Justin!

CB Aaron Ross – Ross had a pretty good game but doesn’t look 100% comfortable back there yet.

S Kenny Phillips – KP had a really nice game and was all over the field. He is going to have a solid year.

RB Brandon Jacobs – Jacobs ran hard but finished with only 29 yards. I expect a big year from the Bull this year.

LB Mathias Kiwanuka – Kiwi had a good game and finished 5th on the defense in tackles.

S Antrel Rolle – Rolle led the defense in tackles and had some very hard hits in the game.

DE Jason Pierre-Paul – JPP gets my defensive game ball for his outstanding game. He finished with 2 sacks and 1 forced fumble.

LB Michael Boley – Boley had a good game and finished with a fumble recovery.

WR Mario Manningham – Super Mario had some big catches and finished the game with 49 yards 0 TD’s.

TE Jake Ballard – Ballard had a nice game despite getting banged up before halftime. He finished with 59 yards.

CB Corey Webster – Webster had a relatively quiet night but did his job.

LB Greg Jones – Jones had a pretty good night for a rookie being thrown into the fire. I like this kid.

WR Domenik Hixon – Hixon was a busy man tonight returning punts and seeing some time at WR.

K Lawrence Tynes – Tynes was 0-1 on FG’s due to a blocked FG attempt and made both of his two extra point attempts.

P Steve Weatherford – The “Weatherman” had a nice game I thought and fans must feel better with a veteran back there.

Giants Defense – The Giants D gave up 28 points to an inferior Redskins team but still finished with 4 sacks, 0 INT’s and 1 forced fumble.

Giants Offense – The Giants offense has some work to do and it starts with the play calling.

Giants Special Teams – Simply the worst special teams I can ever remember for the New York Giants.

Coach Coughlin – Coach Coughlin and his staff are making do with a depleted team and a young roster. There will be growing pains for certain.

What do you think about the Giants performance against the Redskins?

RD – nygreporter.com

Never Forget 9/11

Please Support The Wounded Warrior Project by Clicking Here, You Are Not Forgotten!!

5 Comments | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Draft, 2011 NFL Regular Season, Big Blue, Chris Mara, Eli Manning, Ernie Accorsi, G-Men, George Martin, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Roster, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, New Jersey, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL New York Giants, NFL Schedule, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Schedule, NYG Story, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Roger Goodell, Steve Tisch, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn, Wellington Mara, Wounded Warrior Project | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

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