New York Giants Training Camp News 7/22/10

July 22, 2010

Hello Giants Fans!

We are now about a week away from the start of the 2010 New York Giants training camp. I’m very excited for the coaches and the players. This must be a very hectic time in their lives because there really is no other break until the season ends. I hope the Giants are relaxing and enjoying some time with the family. Getting prepared mentally to take care of business and stay healthy in 2010. There is going to be some fierce competition for a starting role on defense this year. Still cameras are allowed inside but no camcorders.

Training camp is free and open to the public. There will be a $5.00 daily parking fee (Dutch Quad Parking Lot) and it costs $15.00 for one all-day pass, if there are two-a-day practices.

I saw a couple of interesting dates on the New York Giants training camp schedule and thought I would share them with you all. Some of the fans that go to training camp have kids and it is good to know that the G-Men do something for the kids on a specific date. Most of this information can be found at Giants.com. Remember that the Giants 2010 training camp runs from August 1, 2010 – August 20, 2010 this year. All practices will be held at the University of Albany, New York. The Camp Hotline number is 518-442-7340.

Friday, August 6, 2010 – “Autograph Night” – Following the Giants practice at 4:30 PM EST, the Giants will hold an autograph session with fans. The team does not specify what players will be available to the fans. This is a great opportunity to meet and greet the players and get the next generation of Giants fans interested in the team. This is a wonderful experience that every true Giants fan must do at least once in their lives. There are usually some players signing autographs after each practice but it is entirely up to the player.

Thursday, August 12, 2010 – “Youth Day” – Following the Giants afternoon practice, families and kids are allowed to stay and interact with the players and coaches. This is geared towards the kids and something they will never forget.

Here is a link to the entire 2010 New York Giants training camp schedule:

http://www.giants.com/trainingcamp/practiceschedule.asp

RD – nygreporter.com

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The Autumn of Two Smiths in New Meadowlands Stadium

July 21, 2010

I’m sure the comparison has been done before but guess what? We are going to do it again. I want to take a look at the New York Giants leading WR Steve Smith and compare him with the Carolina Panthers WR Steve Smith. In case you haven’t noticed they share the same name and some might say the same game. Why do I hear a collective groan emerging from my computer, yes I know it is not the most interesting news to those outside of the Giants or Panthers community but some find it interesting.

The two star WR pro bowlers, league leaders, game breakers will meet in New Meadowlands stadium on September 12, 2010 (1:00 PM EST) to do battle. This is going to be a game that Giants fans will be calling for some blood. Without question, the Carolina Panthers have become hated by Giants fans. Almost as much as the teams in their own division. The Panthers seemed to have the Giants number every time they’ve met over the past five or six years. They beat the G-men particularly bad during the end of the 2009 season at the last home game at the old Giants stadium. That one hurt. That one still hurts. The Panthers also crushed the Giants in the 2006 playoffs adding another notch on the rivalry stick. The Giants fans would love nothing more, then to see the Panthers get thoroughly beat, during the New York Giants first home game/opener in the new stadium.

“There will be blood” will not be just a Daniel Day Lewis film come September 12th. The Giants fans will be fit to be tied and the Big Blue player pride will be riding high. I expect the G-men to crush the Panthers by twenty points. The players need to win this one to get that chip off their shoulders. I believe they will christen the new stadium the right way with a victory over John Fox and his boys.

Let’s take a look at the player statistic comparison for the two Steve Smiths.

1. WR Steve Smith – New York Giants – 25 years old – 5’11” 195 pounds – 2009 stats: 107 receptions 1220 yards 7 TD’s –  4 years NFL experience – 2009 Pro Bowl player

2. WR Steve Smith – Carolina Panthers – 31 years old – 5’9″ 185 pounds – 2009 stats: 65 receptions 982 yards 7 TD’s – 10 years NFL experience

RD – nygreporter.com

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Just Talking About New York Giants Football

July 21, 2010

Hello Giants Fans!

Things have been extremely quiet in the football world lately, not including the usual Brett Favre chatter of course. I took a little mini-break during this quiet time and figured I’d enjoy the peace while it lasts. We haven’t heard any New York Giants news in a week but I anticipate this week to heat up by Friday. The Giants first round pick, DE Jason Pierre-Paul, still hasn’t signed with the team and that is something that can happen at any moment. Their second round pick, Linval Joseph has yet to sign also. The team is now only 10 days away from the beginning of training camp in Albany, New York.

Kenny, Kenny, Kenny. What is going on with Giants star safety Kenny Phillips? This is a question that has been lingering, like a thorn in my mind. I cannot overemphasize how important having Kenny Phillips on the field would be for Big Blue. He is a game changer and a very good athlete. If the front office has been coy about his status and he returns full boar, then the Giants have quietly put together the best safety tandem in the NFL.

Time heals all wounds they say, so I’m anxious to see how pro bowl DE Osi Umenyiora performs in 2010. The front office has clearly made a statement by drafting rookie DE Jason Pierre-Paul. I’m not sure why Giants writers feel the need to include this fact when Osi’s name is brought up. I think I understand why. Osi if you’re reading this, tell me if it makes sense to you. Giants fans still have Osi ranked the number one DE in their minds. Not everyone feels this way but a good portion of them do. The writers and fans haven’t given DE Justin Tuck the reigns completely yet and still know what you’re capable of. Osi is young and has had ample time to recover from his injury a couple of years ago.

I’m extremely curious to learn what defense new DC Perry Fewell intends to use. I found it promising that he was experimenting during minicamp this year. Some have mentioned a tampa 2 defense and others have said he will switch to a 3-4 defense. I’m not sure about those drastic changes but I would anticipate those scenarios to all be a part of the arsenal Fewell intends to employ. This guy looks like he mixes it up and keeps opposing offenses guessing. I do however expect him to be more aggressive then former DC Sheridan was. You cannot blame a guy for attacking when his back is against the wall and I think if Sheridan had done that a few times, he might still have his job. Probably not but you never know.

What I’m about to tell you is extremely disturbing, parental discretion is advised. Former Giants safety CC “Can’t Cover” Brown has come out in the news and said that the New York media controls the New York Giants. Really CC? Why would you want to go there? We understand your fighting to put food on the table in Detroit but let’s be honest, you had a poor year in 2009. In fact, the entire team has a poor year and yes, you were a part of that team. The New York Giants are one of the classiest organizations in all of sports with a deep history and tradition. You owe the team, front office, owners and the coaches an apology. I could have taken a very mean angle on this topic but I want to give CC the benefit of the doubt, because a lot of what happened last season was not his fault.

That’s all for now, let us know what you think in the comment area below. Be sure to check out the NYG Reporter “LIVE FROM NYG TRAINING CAMP” special in the near future.

RD – nygreporter.com

PLEASE SUPPORT THE WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT!!!


Giants Waive WR Hixon, Sign WR Adam Jennings

July 15, 2010

The New York Giants continued to work on their roster today by making a couple of moves. The Giants cut WR Domenik Hixon and have signed WR Adam Jennings. Domenik Hixon would have missed the entire 2010 NFL season with a torn ACL injury he suffered during this years minicamp. Hixon was used primarily for special teams and served as a backup WR with the team. He ranked among the best in the NFL in 2009 for punt returns. Getting cut is not exactly a motivator to endure the painful rehab process but I’m sure he will be ok. I doubt that this is the last we will see of Domenik Hixon.

The entire Giants nation wishes Hixon a speedy recovery and best wishes in all of his future ventures. Hixon spent four years with the New York Giants and has a Super Bowl ring as a nice parting gift from Big Blue.

There isn’t much news on new WR Adam Jennings (5’9″ 176 pounds), except to say that he was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 2006 and has not seen much NFL action. He played college ball at Fresno State and was drafted in the sixth round. He was particularly good as a kick returner and signed with the Detroit Lions in 2008. With the loss of Chad Jones, Domenik Hixon and Chris Davis it’s nice to see the team getting some muscle added to the special teams. Welcome to New York Adam.

Training camp begins in two weeks and you can be sure that the special teams will be under the proverbial microscope the entire time.

What do you think about the G-Men cutting WR Domenik Hixon? Do you know anything about new WR Adam Jennings?

RD – nygreporter.com


Giants\Yankees announcer Bob Sheppard dies at 99

July 11, 2010

The New York community will mourn one of their favorite sons today, as reports confirm the passing of legendary announcer Bob Sheppard. The “Voice of God” began his announcer career with the New York Yankees in 1951. Sheppard called his first Yankee game on April 17, 1951 (Yankees beat Boston 5-0) and his final Yankees game on September 7, 2007. He is famous for his classy style and mannerisms.

Personally, I can remember Mr. Sheppard calling both Yankee games and Giants games. There was something warm, familiar and comforting about Mr. Sheppards voice. He had a voice that sounded like home.

A lot of people outside of the New York area might not realize he was also the New York Giants announcer from 1956 to 2006.

The old man had an undeniable charm and eloquence in his tone and might have the most recognizable voice in Major League baseball. The sports world has lost a legend and a person who is woven into the very fabric of our national pastime. He could have easily earned the moniker of “New York’s Grandfather” or “The Voice of New York” but for a man with the unique style, the “Voice of God” was chosen by the players (Reggie Jackson) and continued by his peers (Derek Jeter). The name stayed with him throughout his career.

Sheppard, originally from Queens, New York called over 4,500 Yankee games in the Bronx and saw the Bombers win 13 Championships. He is one of only two people (Oakland’s Bill King is the other) who have both a World Series ring (from the Yankees) and a Super Bowl ring (from the New York Giants). He was a WWII veteran and his microphone was enshrined in Cooperstown in 2000.

Rest in Peace: Bob Sheppard, October 20, 1910 – July 11, 2010.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

New York Giants spokesman Pat Hanlon released the following video in memory of Bob Sheppard:

How will you remember Bob “The Voice of God” Sheppard?

RD – nygreporter.com


2010 New York Giants: NYG Notes 07-10-10

July 10, 2010

Hello Giants Fans, I thought we could take a look back on a busy week and make some notes. We are now only 3 weeks away from the beginning of training camp in Albany and still questions remain. Big questions. Like the annoying fly buzzing around a room, the middle linebacker position continues to evoke concern in Giants fans. The team has talked about LB’s Goff and Blackburn taking over for AP and have also mentioned rookie LB Phillip Dillard. Speaking of Antonio Pierce (AP), our former defensive general has officially retired from the NFL to work a gig at ESPN. Good Luck from the NYG Reporter AP!

We are now on the cusp of beginning training camp and the football news world is dead. This cruel summer dead zone happens every year. The floodgates will open for writers in three weeks, when the 2010 training camp starts. Until then, we will have the Pierre-Paul and Joseph contracts to discuss. We may have some roster moves to work with too. I expect the team to bring in another WR or CB before camp begins.

Another question people aren’t really discussing is, how will all of those 2009 injured players come back from their ailments? The G-men had a ton of players who were banged up and almost a dozen who landed on season ending IR. Two players that I’m very interested in seeing are DT Jay Alford and RB Andre Brown. Hopefully, they have both completely healed from their injuries and can contribute in 2010.

Let’s take a look at some of the recent summer news about the New York Giants.

– The 2010 New York Giants training camp begins in 3 weeks.

– Antonio Pierce officially retires from the NFL to join the ESPN TV crew.

– Rookie safety Chad Jones continues to recover from his season ending car accident. Get well soon Chad.

– Giants LT David Diehl rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange on Friday 7-9-10.

– The New York Giants have signed five of seven 2010 draft picks so far.

-The Giants still haven’t signed their first round pick DE Jason Pierre-Paul.

-The Giants second round selection in the 2010 NFL Draft Linval Joseph remains unsigned as well.

– The Giants Special Teams have lost two players for the season already.

– The Manning family held their annual passing camp in Louisiana.

– Giants WR Steve Smith has asked for a new contract. He is scheduled to make $550,000 in 2010.

– The 18 game expansion for regular season games is still a hot topic in New York.

– Questions still remain about safety Kenny Phillips’ status and condition. Get well soon Kenny.

– Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has been putting in some extra work during the offseason.

– New defensive coordinator Perry Fewell continues to win the respect of his players and earn praise from the front office.

When do you think rookie DE Jason Pierre-Paul will sign his contract? Do you think he could be a possible hold out?

RD – nygreporter.com

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Former Giants MLB Antonio Pierce Officially Retires

July 8, 2010

Former New York Giants MLB, Antonio Pierce, has officially retired from the NFL today. Pierce was the defensive general of Big Blue for a number of years. He has apparently joined the ESPN crew and will do an episode of NFL LIVE tonight on ESPN at 4:00 PM EST. Some Giants fans, fell out of love with AP during the end of his days with New York. I for one, have always liked and respected Pierce. I wish him nothing but the best in his future ventures. You can say what you want about AP but he is a Super Bowl Champion and pro bowl football player. Nothing can ever change those facts or make his ring shine less.

Antonio Pierce played nine years in the NFL and had his season end mid-stream last year due to a neck injury. I’m thankful that he joins Michael Strahan, as a pair of former Giants defensive players who will now be on TV. Most Giants fans are sick of hearing Troy Aikman or Moose Johnston call their Giants games, so this will at least alleviate some of the pain from the LIVE game calling.

AP will go down in Giants history as a tremendous leader on the field and true student of the game. He was a terrific team mate and someone the players could trust. Things start to break down when you get older and such is the case with Pierce in my opinion. The heart and mind are willing and able but the body just can’t take anymore. It’s a shame that we all have to get old someday but father time catches up to all of us sooner or later. Give a shout out to the Giants Nation when you’re on the tube tonight AP.

How do you think Antonio Pierce will be remembered in New York? Who do you think will become his successor in 2010?

RD – nygreporter.com

SUPPORT THE WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT!!


Giants Should Look Into These Free Agent Players

July 6, 2010

The New York Giants are going to have to bring in a player at some point, before the 2010 training camp begins in three weeks. I found a few interesting names that were on the free agent list. If these players are somehow signed or have a status change by the time you read this, then check my words and leave a comment.

What I am trying to do here, is list players who might be a very useful backup at their position but used mostly on special teams. As we all painfully know by now, the Big Blue special teams have a few issues. I say strike now and get the team a impact player. You never know how these things are going to turn out. Sam Madison and RW McQuarters served the G-Men well and they aren’t exactly spring chickens (no offense guys) but they are Super Bowl Champions.

I have reserved my opinions/picks for only two positions and they are the cornerbacks and the wide receivers. I will list four free agent players from both of those positions. Hopefully, the Giants can afford to pick up one of these players from the list and if they get two players, then thats even better. I feel that these two positions will serve the team best as far as having backups. These are two crucial positions and quite frankly, the Giants need some special teams help right now.

Check out the list of players and feel free to leave a comment on who you can see on the New York Giants in 2010.

2010 Free Agents (still unsigned)

– CB Samari Rolle – 6’0″ 175 pounds – 12 years NFL experience – 33 years old (one year deal IMO)

– CB Will Allen – 5’10” 195 pounds – 9 years NFL experience – 31 years old (two year deal IMO)

– CB Frank Walker – 5’11” 200 pounds – 7 years NFL experience – 28 years old (two year deal IMO)

– CB Fred Smoot – 5’11” 185 pounds – 9 years NFL experience – 31 years old (two year deal)

– WR David Tyree – 6’0″ 200 pounds – 7 years NFL experience – 30 years old (one year deal IMO)

– WR Kelley Washington – 6’3″ 217 pounds – 7 years NFL experience – 30 years old (one year deal IMO)

– WR Justin Jenkins – 6’0″ 207 pounds – 3 years NFL experience – 29 years old (one year deal IMO)

– WR Roy Hall – 6’3″ 240 pounds – 3 years NFL experience – 26 years old (two year deal IMO)

* I also like CB Philip Buchanon, 5’11” 186 pounds 29 years old 9 NFL seasons, who was released this off season too.

Be sure to go back and read the article again and remember we are talking about reliable depth at the CB and/or WR positions. These players would see a ton of time on special teams if they made the roster.

RD – nygreporter.com


2010 Fantasy Football: New York Giants Breakdown

May 23, 2010

Hello Giants Fans, I’ve noticed that the 2010 Fantasy Football Mock Draft rooms have been heating up. I know it is difficult to believe but ESPN already has their mock draft rooms up and running. It’s the same story with CBS Sports and their fantasy mock drafts. We are almost into June now and things are sure to heat up over the summer. The real 2010 NFL Draft has been over a couple of months now and the next significant time period will be training camp. There hasn’t been a release of those dates and locations as of yet but we know that the G-Men will be attending Albany this season for certain.

I am going to give you a list of the New York Giants players that will be worth having on your fantasy roster for the 2010 NFL season. I believe that the Giants wide receivers offer the best shot at making a difference on your team. I expect Easy Eli to have an improved year in 2010 and make the Pro Bowl. Clearly, the wide receiver group will benefit the most from Manning’s production on the field. I think drafters can get the New York Giants defense as a steal in the mid-to-late rounds. I expect the Giants defense to finish in the top ten for 2010. These are simply my thoughts on the 2010 possibilities for Big Blue. I’m sure this will help someone who reads this and decides they want to take a shot on some of these guys. Remember, this is designed to be a fun game, so don’t take it too seriously and enjoy yourself.

2010 Fantasy Football players on the New York Giants.

1. WR Steve Smith Smith is coming off a career season with Big Blue and he also made the pro Bowl in 2009. He is going to lose some passes to Hakeem Nicks but will still get enough to build on his numbers from last year. Look for 1,200 plus receiving yards and 10 TD’s from Smith in 2010.

2. QB Eli Manning – Manning is also coming off of a career year and I expect him to outperform 2009’s numbers and also make it to the Pro Bowl in 2010. I expect 4,000 plus yards and at least 30 TD’s from Manning in 2010.

3. WR Hakeem Nicks – I expect Hakeem Nicks to have a breakout season, by setting a new Giants record for receiving yards in a single season (currently 1,343 yards by Amani Toomer in 2002). This is another guy who could prove to be a steal around the 5th or 6th round of your draft.

4. RB Brandon Jacobs – Look for Brandon the Bull to return to form in 2010 with 1,000 yards rushing and 10 TD’s. You can easily get Jacobs in the 5th round in most drafts, I suggest you grab him or pay later.

5. RB Ahmad Bradshaw – Bradshaw will prove to have the skills to be a number one running back on any team. I predict he will have a 200 plus yard game during the 2010 NFL Season. I’m predicting 1,000 plus rushing yards and 5 TD’s in 2010.

6. TE Kevin Boss – Boss is about to have surgery on his ankle but should be ready for training camp. He is working his way up a short ladder of NFL tight ends. I’m guessing 600 receiving yards and 5 TD’s in 2010 for Boss.

7. New York Giants Defense/Special Teams – I am predicting the New York Giants defense will finish the 2010 NFL season in the top 10.

8. Wild Card Players – WR Mario Manningham, WR Ramses Barden, RB Andre Brown WR Victor Cruz and TE Travis Beckum.

Which New York Giants players do you deem worthy of a fantasy football roster spot? Do you play fantasy football? Check out the link in the comment area for a brand new fantasy sports site.

RD – NYGReporter.com