SBNation.com User Blog: Sean Kerr

Lawrence Taylor and OJ Anderson at the 2012 Fantasy Football Fest

Sean Kerr — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 04:44:35 -0000

Are you a football fanatic? Are you a die hard Giants fan who is experiencing heavy withdrawals during the offseason? If you are reading this, the answer is quite clear. Not to worry Giants fans, we've got the perfect solution, the 2012 Fantasy Football Fest!

The date is August 18-19, 2012. The place is Atlantic City, New Jersey. The experience…phenomenal. The 2012 Fantasy Football Fest will be the biggest football event since Super Bowl XLVI and you will get a chance to meet some of your favorite New York Giants, Lawrence Taylor and O.J. Anderson to name a few. LT and Joe Theisman, back together again under the same roof? Yes! Read on for more information about this unforgettable mega-event and how to meet LT and OJ.

From the Press Release:

New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor and Super Bowl XXV MVP Ottis "O.J." Anderson have teamed up with ReedPOP to help launch the inaugural Fantasy Football Festival in Atlantic City, which expects to bring over 25,000 fans in approximately 300,000 square feet of total experience space in two days, August 18th-19th. The stars will host autograph signings in the Steiner Sports Autographing Area and take part in panel discussions that includes a Q&A session for fans.

While the Fantasy Football Fest focuses on fantasy football including space for leagues to conduct drafts and fantasy experts providing tips and insights to help players’ teams perform at their best, the festival is much more than just fantasy. It promises to be about every aspect of football except strapping on the pads and getting hit. The show features will offer something for every member of the family in addition to an amazing weekend for the hardcore fantasy player.

Activities and special events include a draft day party, athlete and celebrity appearances, sports video game tournaments and free-play, interactive athletic competitions, sports memorabilia, a tailgate party and beer tasting.

In addition to Taylor and Anderson, Philadelphia Eagles stars Michael Vick and LeSean McCoy, former Washington Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann, NFL Hall of Famers Bruce Smith and Chris Doleman and ESPN Fantasy Expert Matthew Berry have been confirmed to attend the show as well.

Tickets for the two day extravaganza can now be purchased at www.FantasyFootballFest.com. For up-to-the-minute info on new announcements and Fantasy Football Fest programming and celebrity athletes follow Fantasy Football Fest on Twitter @FanFootballFest or like Fantasy Football Fest on Facebook www.facebook.com/FantasyFootballFest.

AboutReedPOP:

ReedPOP is a boutique group within Reed Exhibitions which is exclusively devoted to organizing events, launching and acquiring new shows, and partnering with premium brands in the pop culture arena. ReedPOP is dedicated to producing celebrations of popular culture throughout the world that transcend ordinary events by providing unique access and dynamic personal experiences for consumers and fans.

The ReedPOP portfolio includes: New York Comic Con (NYCC), Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2), Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) East & West, Star Wars Celebration and UFC® Fan Expo. The staff at ReedPOP is a fan based group of professionals producing shows for other fans, thus making them uniquely qualified to service those with whom they share a common passion. ReedPOP is focused on bringing its expertise and knowledge to world communities in North America, South America, Asia and Europe.

New York Giants Michael Coe on BBV TV

Sean Kerr — Thu, 24 May 2012 16:00:16 -0000

In this week's episode of BBV TV, we catch up with New York Giants' defensive back, Michael Coe. With Aaron Ross out of the picture, Coe is a prime candidate to step in and take on a more permanent role. We discuss his future with Big Blue, his Super Bowl memories, working under both Coach Tony Dungy and Tom Coughlin and what it means to be a New York Giant. Join us for an insightful look into the Giants organization and Michael Coe.

The BigBlueView: Reel 11 - New York Giants Michael Coe Interview (via sbnbigblueview)

New York Giants' Chase Blackburn Interview: BBV TV Reel 10

Sean Kerr — Wed, 16 May 2012 06:57:54 -0000

He was sitting on his couch while the New York Giants were playing on the grid iron, last season. He was about to start teaching, leaving football behind in his rear view mirror. Then, Chase Blackburn received the phone call that would change his life and we've got the entire Cinderella story, right here on this week's edition of BBV TV.

TheBigBlueView: Reel 10 - New York Giants Chase Blackburn Interview (via sbnbigblueview)

BBV TV: Reel 9 - New York Giants Mitch Petrus Interview

Sean Kerr — Thu, 10 May 2012 13:52:48 -0000

The latest edition of BBV TV is here! I know that some of you BBV loyalists have been dying to see this one. Therefore, I proudly bring to you our interview with Mitch Petrus. This six-foot three-inch, three-hundred and fifteen pound offensive lineman is one of the most promising young prospects of the New York Giants' roster. Join us for a look into the world of Mitch Petrus in this light-hearted, fun filled episode of BBV TV.

TheBigBlueView: Reel 9 - New York Giants Mitch Petrus Interview (via sbnbigblueview)

BBV TV - Reel 8: New York Giants Jake Ballard Interview

Sean Kerr — Thu, 03 May 2012 08:43:19 -0000

In this week's episode of BBV TV we catch up with New York Giants tight end, Jake Ballard at CitiField. We discuss his injury, the offseason acquisitions/departures, Super Bowl XLVI and more. There have been lots of developments with Jake throughout the 2011-2012 season. Join us on BBV TV as we touch on each one.

TheBigBlueView: Reel 8 - New York Giants Jake Ballard Interview (via sbnbigblueview)

**Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel as well as the SB Nation channel.**

Meet The New York Giants - THIS SUNDAY!

Sean Kerr — Wed, 02 May 2012 04:35:22 -0000

This Sunday, May 6th, 2012, the doors will open and a ton of fans will enter to meet some of their favorite New York Giants. The "G-Men Show Of Champions", organized by MJR Sports Integrity and JAG Sports Marketing, will feature the likes of Chase Blackburn, Corey Webster, Jake Ballard and more.

Photo opportunities, autographs, memorabilia and mingling with the Super Bowl Champs are but some of the highlights for this super-charged event. Conveniently located just fifteen-minutes from MetLife Stadium at the Holiday Inn in Secaucus, NJ, this particular "G-Men Show" is one you will definitely want to check out. For more information visit MJR Sports Integrity.

Jake Ballard At Citi Field: 'I'll Definitely Be On The PUP List'

Sean Kerr — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:59:01 -0000

Before the 2012 NFL Draft got underway and before the New York Mets defeated Jose Reyes and the Miami Marlins in a ninth-inning nail-biter yesterday, some modern-day heroes took over Citi Field to share their experience, strength and hope with children from TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program For Survivors), the Wheelchair Sports Federation(WSF) and the United Neighborhood Houses (UNH) in the first Citi Field Kids event of the 2012 season.

Jake Ballard, tight end for the New York Giants, Kari Miller, 2008 Paralympic Games silver medalist in Women's Sitting Volleyball and SNY Anchor and Master Of Ceremonies for Citi Field Kids, Michelle Yu, were on hand to lead by example. Read on.

Citi Field Kids is now in its fourth season. It is an educational and motivational community-based initiative for new York City middle and high school students developed by Citi in collaboration with the Jackie Robinson Foundation, The Mets and various community-based organizations. Citi Field Kids was launched April 15, 2009, in conjunction with Major League Baseball's annual Jackie Robinson Day. The series on in-season events has sought to positively impact students through the nine values and ideals of that Jackie Robinson embodied - courage, integrity, determination, persistence, citizenship, justice, commitment, teamwork and excellence.

SNY anchor, Michelle Yu has certainly come a long way and serves as a power of example for the Citi Field Kids. This was glaringly obvious when I spoke with her yesterday:

"I'm really glad to be a part of it considering I am a CitiKid too. This is why this event is so special to me. I grew up in the Bronx and so I know what these kids go through. Diversity and location is sometimes an uphill battle. It is my honor and my pleasure to be a role model for them.

I feel a connection to these kids. I feel I relate to each and every one of them. I know that each and every one of them has a dream, just like we all do. Sometimes people discourage you. Sometimes people try to doubt you. My message to these kids is just take a look at me. I was you many years ago. If you want to do something that you dream of doing, it's cheesy to say, it's cliche, but it's definitely a possibility and I am a walking example. That's why this event is so important and significant to me.

I think each and every one of us, including me, we walk away from an event like this and we feel inspired no matter how old we are, whether we're five or thirty-five."

New York Giants' Jake Ballard was also quite taken by the event:

"The New York Mets and CitiField wanted to show their appreciation to the kids who have had some difficulties throughout their life; have them come here and listen to a few inspirational stories from some of these great people. We just wanted to have them come out here and have a good day at the ballpark. It's really cool giving back to the kids.

We had a Paralympian (Kari MIller) and myself, we told them our stories and just tried to give them the message that if you chase your dreams anything is possible."

Of course, I did manage to talk about football and the status of Jake's injury with him at Citi Field yesterday. Jake had this to say:

"I'm definitely going to be on the PUP List. I won't be ready for training camp or the beginning of the season."

Jake and I spoke for awhile and more in-depth. However, if you want to catch the rest of that interview you will have to wait for the next edition of BBV TV.

All-in-all, it was an incredibly inspiring day at Citi Field. The message delivered by these living examples was well received and even the Mets were able to take something away from them, defeating the Marlins in clutch ninth-inning style, 3-2.

BBV TV: Reel 7 - Behind The Scenes At The 2012 NFL Draft

Sean Kerr — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:35:37 -0000

With the 2012 NFL Draft just a mere day away, we decided to give you the inside scoop on the new additions and surprises that will be included in this year's Draft. Join us for an all-access tour of the Draft with NFL Director Of Events, Eric Finkelstein. You have never seen the NFL Draft like this!

The BigBlueView: Reel 7 - The 2012 NFL Draft - Behind The Scenes (via sbnbigblueview)

Don't forget, the 2012 NFL Draft coverage can be seen on the NFL Network and online at www.nfl.com/live

It can also be seen on ESPN.

Coverage starts on Thursday, April 26, 2012 at 7:30 ET.

2012 NFL Draft Day Party with Ahmad Bradshaw

Sean Kerr — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 07:15:11 -0000

We're just one week away from the 2012 NFL Draft, folks. All of the mocks will be taken out back and shot or exalted, if indeed the shoe fits. The NFL Draft is truly an event that every football fan should experience at least once in their lifetime. However, not everyone is fortunate enough to make it to Radio City Music Hall and take part in the fan festivities that the NFL provide each year. That does not mean that the local fans are able to enjoy every day of this three-day extravaganza, either. The third day is doable. The second day, a bit harder. The first day - near impossible.

The good news for those Giants fans who will not be able to make it to the first night of the 2012 NFL Draft is that they can spend it with their favorite running back, Ahmad Bradshaw. On April 26, 2012 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Park East in Hazlet, N.J. fans will have the opportunity to hang out with and purchase signed memorabilia from Super Bowl XLVI champion, Ahmad Bradshaw. It should be a great night.

For more information go to http://www.mjrsportsintegrity.com/

Harry Carson and the Atomic Bomb - Q&A With A Legend

Sean Kerr — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:38:11 -0000

On Thursday April 5th, 2012, New York Giants legend Harry Carson will once again be recognized for his accomplishments. The Pro Football Hall Of Fame and Allstate Insurance will honor Carson with the "Hometown Hall Of Famer" award, a national program that acknowledges the hometown roots of football's greatest players.

A nine-time Pro Bowl selection as linebacker for the New York Giants and former high school standout at Wilson High School and McClenaghan High School in Florence, S.C., Carson will be presented with his "Hometown Hall of Famer" plaque during a special ceremony at 2 p.m. ET on Thursday, April 5, at Wilson High School, where the plaque will live permanently to serve as an inspiration for the entire community. The presentation will be made by Carson’s daughter, Aja Carson-Gurley.

I caught up with Harry Carson earlier today to discuss the upcoming ceremony, his political future, the state of the NFL and why he will always be "Captain For Life." What did Harry Carson have to say about the recent "bounty" discoveries, Lawrence Taylor and Joe Theisman's leg? Read on for our exclusive interview.

SK: With the Pro Football Hall Of Fame and Allstate Insurance honoring you with the Hometown Hall Of Famer Award tomorrow at Wilson High School, in your hometown of Florence, SC, it seems as if your career has come full circle. Tell us about your early football days at Wilson High school.

HC: My very earliest football days almost didn't get started because when I first went out for football as a ninth grader I quit the team. It was a bit too much for my system. I was very disappointed with myself that I quit. I went and I played Boys Club football which was a little easier. I went back the next year, which was my tenth grade year. I was determined to stick and stay and I did. Looking back, had I not had that bitter taste of quitting in my gut, we would not be having tomorrow. I would not have had the opportunity to play with the New York Giants for thirteen seasons. I probably would not have had the opportunity to go to college and get a degree.

SK: What position did you play at the time?

HC: I was a defensive end. Actually, I played defensive end in high school and in college and a little nose tackle in my senior year. Then, the Giants drafted me and converted me to a middle linebacker.

SK: Was that the decision of Bill Parcells or Marty Schottenheimer?

HC: I was Marty's draft pick. Marty was responsible for drafting me to play for the Giants. He could have chosen any player but he chose me and then I became his project. It was up to me whether I was going to make it or not. I had to come to camp early to learn a very new position and that was the middle linebacker position - pass coverages, zone defenses, man-to-man coverages, it's a total departure from just playing defensive end and rushing the quarterback or going after the running back.

SK: How does it feel to be recognized for your accomplishments in your hometown, where it all started?

HC: This is very special for me. One, it's the Pro Football Hall Of Fame partnered up with Allstate. They're making it possible for folks in my hometown to experience a piece of the Pro Football Hall Of Fame. At the end of the day, you always go back to your base, you always go back to where you come from and that's where I come from. That's where I got my beginnings. It's very special to have the opportunity to go back and be recognized by the Pro Football Hall Of Fame, but also have my town be recognized as well.

SK: Do you still have ties to Florence?

HC: My family is there. I have a home there. My grandkids are there. I was there the last two weekends. This will be the third weekend that I'll be there. I was there two weeks ago for the funeral of one of my best female friends. I would much rather have an event like this and have people come together then to have people come to a funeral service and I'm totally oblivious to who's there. This is for a good reason not a fad reason. I know that there will probably be about one-hundred and seventy-five guests who might be in attendance, many of those will be former coaches, teachers, friends, friends of the family and that's the thing that makes it really special. For me it wasn't just about playing on the field. In essence, I represented all of those people who will be there tomorrow and I continue to represent all of those young people who will be in the high school audience. Wherever I go, whatever I do, I am the reflection of Florence, SC.

SK: Most non-Florence residents wouldn't know this but on March 11, 1958, an atomic bomb was dropped on Florence County by a US Air Force B-47 bomber. You would have been about four years old at the time. The plutonium core never detonated but damage had been caused in a five mile radius. Was your family effected at all by the explosion?

HC: Quite frankly, that's the first time I heard that and I find that disturbing.

SK: I picked that little gem off of the internet last night. Since the core of the bomb never went off, the argument could be made that Harry Carson was more explosive on the field than the Atom Bomb.

HC: You know, I might want to use that at some point.

SK: In 2004, when you were originally placed on the Hall Of Fame ballot, you requested that your name be taken off because the selection process was not performed by players or coaches, but by the media instead. In 2006, you were once again slated in to be inducted into the Hall Of Fame. What transpired in the two years prior to your induction that helped you to warm up to the selection process?

HC: I sent a letter to the Pro Football Hall Of Fame to have my name removed from consideration. It wasn't necessarily about the procedure. It was about regaining my life and just sort of moving on. I was very happy with where I was at that point in my life. The relationships that I have with friends and family are so important to me. I can deal with not getting in and the rejection but there were people around me who, it was very difficult for them because they wanted the best for me. It was difficult for them.

For every year that I didn't make it, they took it very hard. So, I sat down and wrote a very simple letter asking to have my name removed from consideration just to sort of go on with my life. I wasn't angry with anyone. I wasn't disappointed with anyone. I just saw what was happening with those people around me. When I was elected to the Pro Football Hall Of Fame I was a little indifferent about it because I did ask to have my name removed from consideration. It didn't mean anything to me at that time because I separated myself from the situation.

It wasn't until a few days after that my wife and I sat down and were talking about it. She said you have to accept it. It's not all about you. It's about your family. It's about your kids. It's about Mr. Mara, who supported me, year in and year out, in terms of getting into the Hall Of Fame. So, regardless of how I felt there were people who would have been disappointed in me if I had not graciously accepted the honor. I have always felt this way since I was elected, I share it with all of the players who I played with but also the players that I played against, on every level. It's not my honor. It's something that I share with all of them. That's the reason that I used my induction speech as an opportunity to make things better for retired players, by using that as a platform to get the message out.

That was one of the reasons why I accepted the honor. I am a little different now, in that, I am excited about this event tomorrow because I get to share it with people in my hometown. I get to share it with kids in one of the schools that I went to in South Carolina. I sort of look at myself as a role model for many of them, not necessarily to get to the NFL, but to use the Hall Of Fame moniker as something to strive for - whether it's in their daily walk of life, to strive to be the best at whatever you do, whether its in the classroom, whether it's in your occupation, whether it's as a teacher. They may not be Pro Football Hall Of Famers in the future but they can be Hall Of Famers in whatever they choose to do. It's all about giving your all and striving to be the best that they can be.

SK: The Democratic party was recently courting you to run for Congress. You stated that running for office would be too much of a task with the recent passing of your brother. As someone who has been proactive in making changes philanthropically, socially and as an NFL alumnus, do you see politics as your next platform to help initiate change in our society? Will you consider running in the future?

HC: No, I am not going to run in the future. That was something that I gave serious consideration to. I was going to do it. Then, the night before I was to meet with the Democratic Chairman here, I just didn't feel the enthusiasm that I felt I needed and I decided not to do it. You have to feel passionate deep down inside about what you're doing and I didn't feel that passion. So, I decided to take my name out of consideration for that. But I am going to continue to do what I have been doing to make a difference in the lives of people. It might be on a smaller scale but it gives me the opportunity to not have to deal with the political nature of getting things done. I can go out and use my clout or my relationships to get things done, to make a difference. I will continue to do that, especially at the age of fifty-eight. It is something that I am good at doing as supposed to taking on the role of being a freshman Congressman at the age of fifty-eight and not necessarily having a whole lot of clout or a whole lot of power.

SK: As an advocate and member of the New Jersey Advisory Council On Traumatic Brain Injury and the Sports Injury Prevention Council, what is your opinion of the recent "bounties" coming to light?

HC: The reality is, bounty or not, football is a very physical sport. I think that even when I played we didn't have bounties but there were opportunities for guys to make an extra fifty bucks for getting a good shot or an interception or something like that. I have never been a part of a team that actively wanted to take people out and hurt them. We would not have allowed that and I was captain of my team. To be honest with you, we had situations where we wanted players to play. We didn't want them to get hurt because we knew what their weaknesses were. If they played, they gave up a better chance of winning. That was the case with Joe Theisman. We knew everything about Joe and we wanted to keep him in the game. When his leg was broken by Lawrence Taylor we were like, "Wow, why did you do that?" We needed him in the game. That's something that is frowned upon by most players. But if you put ten dollars or five dollars out there for making a big play, it becomes moot as to what you make in terms of your contract. It's just that competitive nature steps in their and you want to win that five dollars. You go out and play extra hard to win that five dollars. Even though your paycheck says half-a-million dollars, at the end of the game you want that five dollars. That's really the competitive nature in most players.

SK: With "bounties", "Spygate", coaching misconduct, like Sal Alosi and the numerous criminal activities conducted by players off the field, are you worried that professional football - coaches, players and officials alike, are sending out the wrong message to kids?

HC: No, I'm not worried. I think that everybody is looking for that edge. Everybody is looking for the best opportunity to win. The pressure is so great on everyone. I think for the most part the game is still pretty good. I think it's up to coaches to help show players what it is all about to play with integrity, character and sportsmanship. Those little blips that you have occasionally, they have the tendency of working themselves out in the long run.

SK: Players are often fined for questionable hits, that quite frankly, could be called either way. There is a great deal of emphasis placed on helmet-to-helmet contact these days and rightly so. But is Roger Goodell overlooking the larger infractions going on around the league? Is Goodell working with an even keeled scale of justice within the NFL?

HC: I don't think he is overlooking it. The reality is he is trying to make the game safer. But at the end of the day, the game is what it is. It's a physical game. So much is made of the helmet-to-helmet hit, whereas no one talks about those micro-concussions that players sustain almost on every play - whether it's linebackers against offensive lineman or defensive lineman against offensive lineman. Nobody pays attention to those hits. But the game is what it is. It's a very physical game. It's a contact game. Unless you change it to something completely different it is going to continue to be the way that it is.

SK: Do you see a difference in the way the game is being played today?

HC: I see a difference in the talent level. I don't think players today are as physical as players from other generations. If you take a look at the pads that players wear, they don't wear thigh pads. They don't wear hip pads or knee pads. They wear small shoulder pads. That tells me that they're not quite as physical on the field. They do a lot of arm tackling and reaching and grabbing. It's not the style of thrusting hits that players may have played with back in the seventies and, to some extent, the eighties.

SK: You were the captain of the New York Giants. You were the sole captain of Super Bowl XXI. With the 25th anniversary of the 1986 championship team, where you were instrumental in getting everyone together for the celebration, did you feel like you were still a captain - as if you were still representing these guys?

HC: Yep. That's the reason why everybody came back. Fifty-one of the fifty-three guys came back. The two guys who didn't come - one had a prior commitment in Africa, he was on a mission. The other one had a campus visit with his son. Otherwise, all fifty-three players would have come. Eight of the eleven or twelve coaches came. The only reason they came was because I told them they were coming and they couldn't say no. I sort of wore my captain hat for the first part of last year, putting the whole thing together. That's the reason why my book is entitled, "Captain For Life." Although it was twenty-five years ago, I am still a captain for most of these guys. When I spoke up at the Hall Of Fame regarding the issues for retired players, I was being a captain.

SK: Excluding yourself, of course, who do you consider to be the best middle linebacker to have ever played the game?

HC: The best? I don't even include myself in that. I think I was decent. I wouldn't call myself the best. There were quite a few guys who were much better than me. Obviously, when you talk about middle linebackers the first name that everybody throws out is Dick Butkus. There are a lot of great players. Willie Lanier was a tremendous player. Tommy Nobis was a tremendous player - Butkus, Ray Nitschke, Ray Lewis, Patrick Willis now - whether he is inside or middle, whatever, he is a tremendous player. We've had all kinds of fantastic players over the years who have played that position.

SK: Of the recent New York Giants, which Super Bowl season was the most unlikely? Which team was least likely to go all the way?

HC: The one that we just won. They were playing like crap mid-season. They were not playing, what I consider to be, playoff caliber football. They just barely inked their way into the playoffs and then they beat the Patriots once again. Whether it was this team or the team before this one, it was sort of an even deal. Both teams played exceptionally well when they had to win. They came up with plays - whether it was the David Tyree catch or the catch by Mario Manningham to keep the drive going, they both made great plays.

SK: Would the 1986 Giants beat the 2011 Giants?

HC: Yeah. The '86 Giants would have beaten all the other teams. They would have beaten the '90 Giants. They would have beaten the 2000 Giants. They would have beaten the 2007 and the 2011 Giants.

SK: What is next for Harry Carson?

HC: I am going to South Carolina to be honored by Allstate Insurance and the Pro Football Hall Of Fame tomorrow. I have a golf tournament coming up in July, where it is going to be an NFC East theme, to benefit the Congressional Medal Of Honor Scholarship Fund. I'm going to have players from the Washington Redskins, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants - guys like Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson, Ed "Too Tall" Jones, Jeremiah Trotter, Art Monk, Lawrence Taylor playing in a golf tournament to benefit a great cause.

For more information about the Pro Football Hall Of Fame visit, www.profootballhof.com

For more information about the many ways that Allstate Insurance is giving back to the community visit, www.allstate.com

BBV TV: Reel 4 - Antrel Rolle Interview

Sean Kerr — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 17:18:35 -0000

The New York Giants Free Agency has been heating up lately. Mario Manningham and Aaron Ross are no more but distant memories now. The need at the tight end position has been one that has caused the front office to re-think their offseason strategy.

In our next edition of BBV TV we will discuss the signing of Martellus Bennett, the Time Tebow-Rex Ryan-Mark Sanchez-Peyton Manning-John Elway love-hate relationship and talk with New York Giant Antrel Rolle. How's THAT for an episode?

TheBigBlueView: Reel 4: New York Giants Antrel Rolle Interview (via sbnbigblueview)

Don't forget to subscribe to our channel and keep those views up! Remember, your arch-rival sites within this network have video channels of their own. Help us make BBV TV the best channel out there.

BBV TV: Reel 3 - St. Patrick's Day and Big Blue Pride

Sean Kerr — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 19:19:26 -0000

The latest edition of BBV TV is up and running. Join us as we take to the streets of Manhattan, during the 2012 St, Patrick's Day Parade, to discuss Irish Pride, Big Blue Pride and how the two go hand in hand.

The St. Patrick's Day Parade was extraordinary this year. The weather was picturesque. The crowds were dressed to the nines and New York Giants fans were everywhere. Yes, there were some other fans in attendance as well.

My apologies to those who did not make it into this edition. We did have some technical difficulties on some of the interviews. However, a huge thank you, nonetheless, to everyone who participated and came out to the parade this year. Go gcuire Dia an t-ádh ort!

BREAKING: Mario Manningham Signs Two-Year Deal With 49ers

Sean Kerr — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 04:34:42 -0000

The Manning-To-Manningham connection is officially over. The San Francisco 49ers signed Mario Manningham to a two-year deal. His days in blue are a thing of the past, sadly.

New York Giants fans will long remember his version of "The Catch" in Super Bowl XLVI. Manningham was a frequent deep-ball threat for the G-Men and a clutch player. The 49ers ranked 30th throughout the NFL in receiving yards, third out of last place. Manningham, along with recent acquisition Randy Moss, will add tremendous depth to a team who are not exactly rich with top quality receivers.

With the new potential threats that the 49ers offense present and with their bone crunching defense already in place, the Niners should be a force to be reckoned with in the 2012 season, especially if Peyton Manning climbs on board. The Giants will square off against the 49ers in the upcoming season. The Big Blue defense will have its first opportunity to defend against Mario Manningham at some point during the season. After four years, 2,315 yards and eighteen-touchdowns and a Super Bowl Mario Manningham is on his way to the left-coast to become a thorn in the Big Blue side.

New York Giants Free Agency: Target - The Colts Cuts

Sean Kerr — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 10:28:43 -0000

In the baptism scene of The Godfather, Michael Corleone sets his hit squads loose to trim away the fat, so to speak. On March 9, 2012, the Indianapolis Colts did the very same thing, cutting four veteran players. The Colts' cut list bares a striking resemblance to the needs list of the New York Giants.

Veterans Joseph Addai, running back, Gary Brackett, middle linebacker, Melvin Bullitt, strong safety and Dallas Clark, tight end, were the unfortunate, or fortunate as the case may be, players to have received their pink slips. Each player was, at one time or another, regarded as one of the best at their respective positions. However, years of playing time and mounting injuries may have taken their toll on this bunch. Then again, some of these athletes may prove to be an offseason steal. In either case, you can bet that the eyes of Jerry Reese are looking at this latest bunch of free agents.

First up, we'll discuss Joseph Addai. With the release of Brandon Jacobs, a hard hit for the team and fans to take, there is a definite need at running back. Addai, now going into his seventh-season, has only breached the one-thousand yard mark twice in his career - his first two seasons. Injuries have played a major role, in recent years, for this running back. Two injuries that may have slowed him down are the hamstring issue that he suffered from last season and the knee injury that plagued him in 2008. In 2010, Addai had a nagging shoulder injury that didn't help his performance much.

Now twenty-eight years old, Addai faces the free agent market with a big name. But will his price tag rival that of his notoriety? The Colts were due to pay Addai $3.72 million dollars in the 2012 season. Obviously, their front office did not think his talents matched his due-salary. With that in mind, his price tag should drop in the free agent market, given his age and injury resume. Undoubtedly, he will get picked up by someone for the 2012 season. The question here is if Joseph Addai is worth bringing in to the Giants, even at a significant discount?

With Jake Ballard and Travis Beckum expected to start the 2012 season on the (PUP) physically unable to perform list, the need at the tight end position is critical. Enter Dallas Clark. Heading into his tenth-season in the NFL, at the ripe old age of thirty-three, Clark may be one of the biggest steals of the free agency. Dallas Clark, due $2.2 million bucks from the Colts this year, has long been regarded as one of the better tight ends in the league and he might be available for as little as a song this year.

In 2009, Clark went over the one-thousand yard receiving mark for the first time in his career. At six-foot three-inches, two-hundred and fifty-two pounds, Clark is not an easy guy to bring down, once he is off to the races. However, injuries and a case of the butterfingers have hurt him in years past. The Giants do not need to sign any single tight end to a long term deal. They simply need to fill a void until Ballard or Beckum are healthy enough to get back to work. Could Clark be the answer? A short-term deal at a little bit above the vet-minimum for this tight end could do the trick.

Aaron Ross and Deon Grant, both, hit the market this year. The odds of resigning the two of them are slim. Melvin Bullitt, another one of the Colts discarded, may prove to be worth a look. As a defensive back, he has shown versatility, playing every position in the defensive backfield. The red flags on Bullitt are a lingering shoulder injury that reared its ugly head on the 2010 season. The injury put an abrupt end to his last two seasons, having only played six games over the course of the last two years. Prior to that, the kid showed promise. The questions that surround him are obvious. Can he bounce back from a rather serious injury, that could sideline him again in the future? After two stand-still seasons, the price tag on Bullitt could make him a serious consideration for any team.

Finally, we get to Gary Brackett. The position of middle linebacker seems to be a hot topic around these parts. Having said that, it would be a huge underestimation, for any team that have even the slightest hint of need at this position, not take a serious gander at Brackett. The long-time defensive captain of the Colts, finds himself unemployed for the first time in his nine-season stretch.

There are many reasons that Brackett suiting up in blue would work, one of which is that he is a New Jersey native - but we won't hold that against him. He has prototypical size for the middle linebacker position, five-feet - eleven-inches, two-hundred and thirty-five pounds. Brackett is very Antonio Pierce-like - a good run stopper with a keen read on the ball.

Despite a season ending injury, early in 2011, Brackett might be a tough one to bring in. The Colts were due to pay him $7.2 million clams, smackers, beans, greenbacks, samolians. That, my friends, is serious money. Will last year's injury and the recent release bring his price tag down? Of course. However, it may still be a little steep for the New York Giants, who are currently trimming the salary cap tree. While Brackett may be the best man for the job, at this position, for this team, his salary is definitely not the kind that Jerry Reese is fond of.

BBV TV Reel 2: The New York Mannings and a Boy Named Blue

Sean Kerr — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 15:19:31 -0000

New York, New York - the city so nice they had to name it twice. But can the Big Apple survive the wrath of rival Mannings?

Steve Weatherford becomes the first member of the Super Bowl champions to grab a franchise tag?

The Super Bowl XLVI DVD release and VIP screening accompanied by multiple autograph sessions around the tristate area?

Bobbieblue said what?

It's all in this week's episode of BBV TV! Check it out!

TheBigBlueView: Reel 2 - The New York Mannings and a Boy Named Blue (via sbnbigblueview)

Don't forget to visit the SB Nation video page. Subscribe to BBV TV on YouTube and help us continue to bring you quality content. Do you have something to say? Do you have a nagging curiosity about the NFL or New York Giants? Tweet your questions to @SeanTheGman or #BBVtv and we'll feature them in our upcoming episodes. You can also email me. The address is at the bottom of the page. We have got some great episodes coming up in the near future. Stay tuned Giants fans.

New York Giants Free Agency: Target - FS Brandon Meriweather

Sean Kerr — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 20:47:40 -0000

With Antrel Rolle being frequently burned like the rubber on an Indy car's tires and the status of Deon Grant hitting the free agency market, the need at the safety position could prove eminent. The question here is do the New York Giants have enough talent in their backups to fill the position?

If they did, we probably would have seen them on the field more. The fact remains that Rolle and Grant took the vast majority of the snaps, leaving little room to see who or if there was someone that the Giants could trust to take on the task of safety.

With the salary cap as it is and the Free Agent market having a few steals, the time to bring some talent in, on the cheap, could be at hand. One of the most promising names on the free agency list is Brandon Meriweather. There are some other choice names on the Safety/Defensive Back list, like LaRon Landry and Cortland Finnegan. Given the Giants' situation, Meriweather is definitely the best fit. Let's take a look at why.

First, let's take a gander at LaRon Landry. He was once regarded, and still is for some, to be one of the best safeties in the league. He was drafted in the first round, sixth-overall, by the Washington Redskins in 2007. Last year, ESPN ranked the top ten safeties in the NFL. Landry came in at the bottom of the list, which is still a great place to be considering the amount of safeties in the league. In short, Landry was considered to be one of the elite safeties in the NFL.

Currently, Landry looks like He-Man. If there was a steroid witch-hunt going on right now, he would be the primary suspect. The guy looks Photoshopped. His physique is not in question. His ability to play football is. For the second straight year, his left Achilles injury shut him down. Is that, in and of itself, a cause for his stock value to drop? Perhaps a little. But it is his decision making that leave many wondering if his best days are behind him.

LaRon Landry made the conscious choice to defy the doctors and pass on much needed surgery. Landry hopes that the injury will heal itself, no pun intended. His decision seems to have made the Redskins turn the other cheek, as Landry is currently without a contract. In the open market, he may try for the big dollar, as his history would command. But his health status won't bring about a heavy monetized, lengthy type of deal. He will have to prove himself this year, if he wants to see the all-mighty dollar in future years. The Giants won't gamble the money or the slot on Landry.

Cortland Finnegan would be a fine addition. Again, we find the Giants with the same salary cap issues. Finnegan's performance over the last few years has proved that he is worth some coin. He's a scrappy kid that is not afraid to throw down the gauntlet. Alas, money talks and the Giants front office team will let him walk.

That brings us to Brandon Meriweather. The Chicago Bears are highly unlikely to re-sign Meriweather. Lovie Smith didn't feel that Meriweather fit in with his scheme. Smith may wind up regretting his decision. Meriweather's ranking on ESPN's top ten safety list was in the number-eight position. Granted, the list was analyzed and published before the season began.

Brandon Meriweather was a first round pick of the 2007 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. He is a two-time Pro-Bowler and has been to the Super Bowl, having lost to the New York Giants, of course.

The Bears only started Meriweather four times last season. He played in eleven games and recorded thirty-two combined tackles with two pass deflections. Not staggering numbers. Now, with Lovie Smith ready to cut him loose, Meriweather's price tag will need to drop - making him one of those steals that Jerry Reese loves. The Bears signed him to a one-year, two-and-a-quarter million dollar deal last season.

Meriweather has speed, recording a 4.47 in the 40-yard dash in the 2007 NFL Combine. Speed is something Big Blue's secondary desperately needs. He has prototypical size for his position and is only going into his sixth-season in the league. Even at two-mill, he would be a bargain. But Meriweather's number will most likely be lower than that, especially if the G-Men go after him. With the cuts that the front office will be making, Meriweather can fill a position that may need it and come in at a great price.

The G-Men Show Of Champions: Meet And Greet

Sean Kerr — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 09:01:54 -0000

In Super Bowl XLII there was a little thing known as "The Catch." Fast forward four year to Super Bowl XLVI - once again, there was another immaculate reception. In 2008, "The Catch" belonged to David Tyree. In 2012, it belonged to Mario Manningham. You can debate until your heart is content about which one was the better catch or you can come out to the "G-Men Show Of Champions" and ask David Tyree and Mario Manningham their opinions on the matter.

On Sunday, March 18th at the Holiday Inn in Secaucus, New Jersey, Giants fans will have an opportunity to meet there favorite players. Appearing will be many of your current favorites, such as Brandon Jacobs, Antrel Rolle, Corey Webster, Chris Snee and many more. Also appearing will be some blasts from the past, such as Leonard Marshall.

One of the highlights of this event will be the chance to get limited edition collectibles like "The Catch Collage" autographed by Tyree and Manningham. Door open at 10am. For more information visit MJR Sports Integrity or check them out on Facebook. It should be a great day of Big Blue Pride.

New York Giants Free Agency: Target - MLB Lofa Tatupu

Sean Kerr — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 10:22:46 -0000

Where were we? Oh yes, the 2012 free agency market. If you enjoyed my last addition to this series, you will absolutely love this one. (Cue the theme song from The Celebrity Apprentice - originally recorded by The Ojays) The salary cap is going to be the toughest battle for the New York Giants since the San Francisco 49ers in the 2011 Conference Game. There are some players that we need to re-sign and some that we need to go after, in both cases we will have to throw money at them and see if it sticks.

There are, without a doubt, some stand out positions that need to be filled. Mike Farley and I have been addressing them since the start of this series. The Giants have been lacking at the linebacker position for some time now, more specifically - the middle linebacker slot. I do not see the need to throw a big chunk of money at any free agent linebacker. I think the Giants will be able to pick up a quality LB at the NFL Draft. Most of the free agent linebackers, the ones who are worth their salt, will be looking for a big contract. We are not in a position to comply.

Let me get this out of the way, so as not to offend anyone's delicate sensabilities, Michael Boley, Mathias Kiwanuka and Chase Blackburn really brought it in the offseason. Boley was semi-solid in the regular season, relatively speaking. Kiwanuka's play wasn't too shabby either. However, this has been a spotty area and one that requires some dependability. How does one do that in the free agency market without breaking the bank? Two words: Lofa Tatupu.

Lofa Tatupu entered the NFL in 2005, with the Seattle Seahawks, and immediately made his mark. He was voted to the Pro Bowl from 2005-2007, the first three years of his career. Tatupu would have played in the 2008 Pro Bowl, but, and here is where the plot thickens, injuries kept him from doing so. Tatupu suffered a groin injury in mid-2008 and his production began to decline. Prior to that, he suffered a knee injury in the preseason, which was diagnosed as a "bone bruise."

That "bone bruise" stuck around like an unemployed cousin. Ultimately, it developed into double knee surgery that decreased his value. That, of course, is the short version. Tatupu underwent the aforementioned surgeries in January 2011. It was a long-time coming, as Lofa played with bad knees for years.

In early 2008, Tatupu signed a six-year contract extension with the Seahawks worth, a whopping, forty-two million dollars, with an eighteen-million dollar guarantee. In Week 6 of the 2009 NFL season, Tatupu tore his left pectoral muscle, putting an end to his season. He returned in 2010 and put up some decent numbers. The head honchos at the Seahawks front office asked Lofa Tatupu to take a paycut before the start of the preseason. Tatupu was not a happy camper and asked to be released. Given the nature of his bloated paycheck and questionable health status, the Seahawks obliged.

Tatupu shopped himself around to other teams. But no one seemed willing to offer the six-season veteran the kind of money and lengthy contract that he was seeking. Thus, he sat out the entire 2011 season. Recently, Tatupu has been hitting the streets, trying to find a new home. He has shopped himself out to the Tennessee Titans and New Orleans Saints. Both teams seem concerned about his health - are his knees strong enough to last the entire season? One other thing that could be stalling other teams from signing him, is the dollar amount and length of the contract he is seeking. He is most likely learning that his number and length must drop significantly if he wants to be the bread winner in his family once again.

On his double knee surgeries - this type of procedure is very common these days. The "double" in that sentence can be off-putting. Yet, in 2008, Donald Driver underwent the very same procedure and came back swinging, recording over one-thousand yards in all sixteen games the following season. Tatupu has always been a tough guy. This is why he was one of the highest paid linebackers in all of the NFL.

His strength has never been as a pass rusher. The Giants can manage with the fierce front four that they have. Tatupu's strength is against the run. He also has a keen eye and a highly developed ability to read a play. Tatupu manages to get his hands on the ball quite a bit, as well. In his six-seasons, he recorded thirty-five pass deflections, ten interceptions, two touchdowns, eight-and-a-half sacks and seven forced fumbles. These aren't staggering numbers. Yet, they tell the tale of a solid linebacker who has the ability to defend the pass, stop the run and rush the quarterback. In short, Tatupu is a well-rounded player.

He has had all of the 2011 season to rest his knees and deflate his ego. The Saints and Titans not jumping at the opportunity to sign him has probably hit home. Last season, he expressed interest in playing for a Super Bowl bound team. The problem was that he set his sights on the wrong team, the Philadelphia Eagles. Andy Reid and co. didn't seem as interested in Tatupu as he was in them. Knowing that he will have to drop his price and get more realistic about the type of contract that would make him more attractive to other teams, adding in to the fact that he would prefer to play for a winning team and throwing in to this "Tatupu needs a job" concoction that the New York Giants are the reigning Super Bowl Champs - with a shot at repeating, it makes a great deal of sense for Tatupu to make some concessions and ask his ex-teammate, Deon Grant, to patch him through to Jerry Reese and Tom Coughlin.

Is he the best middle/inside linebacker of the 2012 free agency? Certainly not. Most of the guys that are out there now will be re-signed by their respective teams, like London Fletcher and Curtis Lofton. The others who won't be re-signed would require money that we simply can not afford to spend on this position. Lofa Tatupu could be one of those Jerry Reese "rock solid talent at a rock-bottom price" acquisitions in this offseason. Questionable knees, an entire missed season and two teams already having passed - Tatupu's stock is plummeting. The Giants could use a guy with his abilities, assuming he still has them. One thing is for sure, you get a guy like this, coming off of a missed season and double knee surgeries, he will hit the field with a huge chip on his shoulder knowing that his livelihood and reputation are at stake. He could very well be the steal of this free agency.

New York Giants Free Agency: Target - OG Ben Grubbs

Sean Kerr — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 07:57:48 -0000

"Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in." That magical quote, in case you don't know, was from The Godfather III. Michael Corleone had the misconceived notion that he was out of the Mafia for good. Little did he know that fate had other plans in store for him. The same applies for you guys. Just when we finished up one series of Free Agency, we start another - only this one is geared towards who is out there that would be a good fit for the New York Giants. Mike Farley began this series yesterday. Today, we continue. Pay attention now. There will be a test afterwards.

We have already established that the Giants do not have a lot of money to work with in this offseason. There are some definite cutbacks that have to be made. In doing so, there will be some rather large holes to fill that will effect this team for years to come. Big Blue has been synonymous with the running game for, what seems like, an eternity. That simply was not the case this past season. As I touched on in the first episode of BBV-TV, the reason for the lack of a running game in the 2011 regular season was partially due to the backs and the offensive line.

Hitting the free agency this offseason is twelve-year veteran, Kareem McKenzie. It is becoming more of a lucid reality that McKenzie will most likely be cut. That leaves some very large shoes to fill. The most important thing for this Giants regime is to meet the primary needs of the team, in order to be successful and defend their shiny, new Lombardi Trophy. Right now, there is no need greater than that of the offensive line. Without a solid replacement for McKenzie, Eli Manning's Iron Man Streak is as good as gone.

The New York Giants' offensive line went through a number of shifts throughout the 2011 season. With Rich Seubert and Shaun O'Hara given their walking papers at the start of training camp, it was a necessary evil. Despite injuries and player shuffles, the line did seemingly well. However, there were some major differences. In 2010, the o-line gave up sixteen sacks and fifty-two quarterback hits. Last season, the line gave up twenty-eight sacks and seventy-two hits on Manning. A great Diehl of that came from the left side. "Let's get rid of him, too." That is not the answer.

If this theoretical scenario plays out and Kareem McKenzie gets the boot, who is going to fill his slot? Stacy Andrews is listed as the backup right tackle. Andrews was signed late last season in a desperate attempt to patch up the offensive line. He wound up proving, as in seasons past, that he is a magnet for injury. This time, however, he was sidelined due to health issues, not a physical injury. Andrews is also hitting the free agency market. Re-sign him? That's not the way to go. Getting back to the question, who fills in for McKenzie - in this scenario, we would play "musical linesman" once again. Here we go.

The one guy who was most versatile on the o-line last season was Kevin Boothe. His size, speed and ability parallel Kareem McKenzie's. Shuffle Boothe to fill in for McKenzie. This move makes good sense, as he has played this position before and seems to adapt well wherever you place him. What to do with Double D? Shuffle Diehl back to where he plays best, left tackle. Diehl is very intelligent. He is a true team player and he doesn't become a free agent until 2014. He is not going anywhere. "Who fills in for Diehl?" Enter my targeted free agent.

For this one, we travel down to Baltimore to scout out one of the league's best offensive linesman. Last season, he earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl. With price tags that guys like Ray Lewis are commanding, the chance of Ben Grubbs not getting the money he wants are favorable. Yes, Grubbs will be looking for a nice, juicy contract. But it is highly unlikely that he will be able to snag the bloated deal that McKenzie was getting with Big Blue. McKenzie had a reported seven-year deal at thirty-seven and a half-million bucks. Grubbs' contract, which is over and done with, was a five year contract at eight-million smackeroonies.

In case you didn't realize, the New York Giants' stock just went through the roof. They beat the best of the best to get to the Super Bowl. They came out victorious for the second time in four years. Eli Manning proved to be one of the absolute, top-rate quarterbacks in the NFL. Plus, they have a real nifty stadium that still has that new smell. The allure to play for the reigning Super Bowl champs that have a good chance at repeating is quite hard to resist. Throwing some money at Grubbs would not only be an extremely smart move to make, it would be an investment that would pay dividends for years to come.

Ben Grubbs will be going into his sixth-year in the NFL. He is a six-foot, three-inch - three-hundred and ten-pound, natural left guard. The Giants need a new addition to the left side. Grubbs is the ideal candidate for the job. The scenario would be Kevin Boothe at right tackle, Chris Snee at right guard, David Baas at center, Ben Grubbs at left guard and David Diehl at left tackle. That's a very solid line. It would also bring the age factor down a bit.

To bring Grubbs in would require careful structuring of a multi-million dollar deal. But there are plenty of players sitting around on this team, earning a decent sized paycheck, that could be cut in order to make such a deal possible. There will undoubtedly be some free agents who walk this offseason. Some of them are making a decent dollar.

There are a few key positions that absolutely, positively need some experienced players acquired and thrown into the Big Blue mix. With the possibility of Kareem McKenzie flying the coop, the offensive line is, more than likely, the single, biggest need. After all, the Giants have proved to be a high, flying aerial attack team over the last few years. Someone has to protect Eli Manning. Ben Grubbs is like All-State Insurance. Manning would be in very good hands.

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BigBlueView TV Is Here! Episode 1: Henry Hynoski

Sean Kerr — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:51:41 -0000

Attention BigBlueView readers! We are pleased to announce the launch of something brand new and network-wide - the BigBlueView video channel! SB Nation is partnering with YouTube and Contour+ to bring you high quality video content as it pertains to your team.

Today, we are launching, along with many other sites within the SB Nation network, our very own video channel. You can view the BBV channel here. We're still in the process of customizing it. Please be patient. If you don't have a YouTube or Gmail account, get one started today. This way, you can subscribe, interact, leave comments and be a part of this exciting, new venture.

What will you see on BBV TV? Player interviews, NFL Draft coverage, game breakdowns and recaps, specific interest stories geared towards you, the reader/watcher and much, much more. In our first broadcast, we discuss the state of the New York Giants running game with Big Blue's Henry Hynoski. We will also discuss Super Bowl XLVI, the celebrations and much more. You can view our first video here.

So, start an account with YouTube/Gmail and help support us in this new endeavor. This will be another reason why BigBlueView is the premiere site for all of your New York Giants news. Stay tuned, folks.

-- Many other sites across the SB Nation network are also launching You Tube channels. Sign up for the SB Nation primary channel as well.

TheBigBlueView: Reel 1 - New York Giants Henry Hynoski Interview (via sbnbigblueview)

New York Giants Free Agency: Strut 'Em Or Cut 'Em - Defensive Backs

Sean Kerr — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:48:37 -0000

We've reached the end of our New York Giants free agency adventures. There have been highs. There have been lows. But through it all, I think we have all grown closer as a family..ok…enough of that. This is our final entry into our ongoing series. We have discussed the wide receivers, tight ends, backup quarterback, offensive/defensive lines, safeties and linebackers. Now we'll finish off with the defensive backs..and one other very special dude.

There are so many members of the Giants' defensive backfield set to hit the free agency market that I found it necessary to split them up. Yesterday, we took two safeties out of the equation. That leaves us with six, count 'em, six defensive backs on the chopping block. Arguably, the most significant member of this particular list is Aaron Ross. The Giants took Ross with their first pick of the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft. Ross is a two-time Super Bowl Champion. But is it time to cut ties with this five-year veteran of the New York Giants?

As previously discussed in this series, the Giants must make some concessions in order to come in under the salary cap. Of the six defensive backs on the market, excluding the safeties, no one brings home a bigger paycheck than Aaron Ross. It is almost a prerequisite for a player to express his interest in coming back to play for a team, once his contract has expired. Aaron Ross has done that. But he also made comments that indicate his desire to put some money in his pocket.

Ross is coming off of the best statistical year of his career. That, however, is not saying much. With the G-Men giving up the third-most receiving yards in the NFL, Aaron Ross doesn't have much leverage to work with. The secondary did come together at the end of the season to help bring home another Lombardi Trophy to the Legacy Club.

With the front office pinching pennies, Ross might find himself elsewhere in the 2012 season. With the addition of Prince Amukamara, first round pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, Ross' price tag might be more than the Big Blue management is willing to spend, especially given the fact that the Prince Of New York works for much less. Ross has spent his entire five-year career draped in a Blue jersey. Two Super Bowl rings in five years and an expired contract - do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

The next player up is another reason why Ross might not be back, Terrell Thomas. Sidelined for the entire 2011 season with an acute cruciate ligament tear, Thomas is due for a new contract. I think it is safe to say that this guy will see an increase in wages, despite missing all of last season. The ACL injury, which is about as common in the NFL as turf burn these days, is not as detrimental as it sounds. The advances that have been made with this procedure have come leaps and bounds, largely due to the redundant nature of the injury. Thomas will have no problems bouncing back and continuing a career that was headed for greatness. In 2010, he recorded one-hundred and one tackles, which not only made him the leading tackler for the Giants, it also put him in the top ten throughout the league amongst the defensive backs.

Of course, the front office could make the argument that Thomas was injured and they don't know how well he will respond to the surgery and rehab. This is a common bargaining chip. Thomas has proved his worth, but he is in a tricky predicament at the same time. He did have the injury and he has some serious competition on who gets paid and who doesn't. With all of the big names on this team, who will be looking for a buck or two more and stay on the team - do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Will Blackmon has been with the Giants for the last two seasons. It is reported that in 2010 he was paid $1.2 million dollars. Last year, the reports say he took a paycut, like many players on the roster. Blackmon reportedly made anywhere from five-hundred to seven-hundred thousand dollars. That is a lot of money to pay someone who only recorded eight combined tackles, never started a game and only played eleven total games - this in the course of two season with the G-Men. He spent the first four years of his career with the Green Bay Packers, only having started two games in that span. He's also had his share of injuries. This, my friends, is good work if you can find it. Will Blackmon, do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Bruce Johnson, Michael Coe and Justin Tryon are the other half of the defensive backs on the chopping block. Coe and Tryon are both going into their fifth season in the league. Johnson is heading into his fourth and is a restricted free agent. Each one of these backs are making a little over half-a-million dollars. Johnson has shown some signs that he can be an effective player. Tryon has done the same. Both of these guys are little more than third stringers. Coe, on the other hand, hasn't shown much of anything. Having to sit out the entire 2008 season with a knee injury and a recurring shoulder injury in his bag of tricks, Coe really hasn't had much of an NFL career to speak of. Which makes one wonder why he still has a spot on this Giants team. Michael Coe, Justin Tryon, Bruce Johnson - do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

And now for that very special dude I mentioned at the beginning of this article - Steve Weatherford. Yes, Giants fans, Steve Weatherford, that motherflippin' Super Bowl champion punter is on the market. I don't need to remind anyone of the horrors of Matt Dodge from 2010. Compared to Dodge, Weatherford is a God. The guy has a leg, a sense of humor and a great team spirit. His directional punting in the postseason was top notch. He quickly became a fan favorite.

Weatherford reportedly earned seven-hundred thousand last season. It goes without saying that he will be looking for a little extra scratch. The irony of this free agency is that some guys will be taking a paycut while others are going to see a bump. Weatherford spent the 2009 and 2010 season with the New York Jets. The safe bet is that he is looking to stay put, having made some roots here already. The question is, does management feel the same way? Steve Weatherford, the planker extraordinaire - do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

New York Giants Free Agency: Strut 'Em Or Cut 'Em - Linebackers/Safeties

Sean Kerr — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 08:34:15 -0000

We now continue with our ongoing series, "As The Salary Cap Turns." Thus far, we have explored the wide receivers, tight ends, backup quarterback and the offensive and defensive lines. Since there are so many Big Blue defensive backs hitting the free agency market this offseason, I will be separating the backs and the safeties. We will also throw the linebackers into this edition, just because we've got it like that.

As mentioned yesterday, the New York Giants are reported to be over the salary cap somewhere in the seven-to-nine million dollar neighborhood, a very expensive 'hood to be in. We talked about some of the heavy hitters, who by cutting them could free up a great deal of money. In this article we will talk about another high paid fat cat, nearing the end of his career. I am referring to Deon Grant, of course.

Deon Grant was brought in with the Giants in 2010. He put together one of the best seasons of his career that year. However, it looked bleak for Grant, as the Giants didn't re-sign him until August of last year. Grant was offered a one-year extension at a hefty, four-million dollars.

One of the problem areas for the G-Men, this past season, was giving up a wealth of receiving yards, the third most in the NFL. Their defensive backfield were able to plug up the holes in the postseason, when it mattered. But the fact still remains, the Giants gave up 4,417 receiving yards in the regular season. Deon Grant, now going into his thirteenth-season in the league, was partially to blame.

As with most NFL athletes, going out on top is the ideal way to go. It is how everyone wants to go out. After four teams and twelve years, will Grant make the decision for the front office by taking his first and only Super Bowl ring and ride off into the sunset? Perhaps.

Deon Grant has never missed a game, because of injury, throughout his entire career. He has been a starter for most of it, aside from these last two seasons with the Giants. Grant started eight games in the 2010 season. This past season, he started nine games and was less effective than the previous year. With the front office having to trim a great deal of fat during this offseason, Grant's four-million dollar salary, along with his age, might be one of the answers. Do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Derrick Martin - we have no salary numbers on this kid. We can assume that he is not making anywhere near top dollar, given his stat sheet. He played in fourteen games this past season and has twelve combined tackles. He spent three years with the Baltimore Ravens and two years with the Green Bay Packers. He only started sixteen games once in his career. The Giants have a knack for hiring the guys that they need to fill the position. They must have seen something in him to have brought him on, even though he wasn't much of a difference maker. With Deon Grant being a possible cut, they might just look to keep this kid around. Do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Moving on to another problematic area for Big Blue this past season, the linebacker corps. Ironically enough, the two linebackers who find themselves as free agents were not to blame for the issues that belong to this particular position. First, let's talk about the guy who sat the entire season out due to injury, Jonathan Goff. After tearing his anterior cruciate ligament, a very common injury these days, Goff was forced to undergo surgery and couch surf his way to a Super Bowl ring.

Prior to that, he was a fifth-round Draft choice by the New York Giants in 2008. He was used minimally that year. In the 2010 season, Goff earned the starting job. He recorded eighty combined tackles, one sack, two pass deflections and one forced fumble. Goff's salary, for the 2011 season, was a reported $555,00, sans bonuses. That number, despite the injury, will most likely look to be increased by the Goff camp. As we have become accustomed to, the front office and salary increases do not a marriage make. Goff is a decent linebacker. But will the Giants be better off looking towards the free agent market or NFL Draft for a solid linebacker that they desperately need? Jonathan Goff, do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

The world loves an underdog story, a fairy tale. New York is no different. That is just what we have here. Chase Blackburn is a modern day Cinderella, although I am certain he might not care for the comparison. He was cut by the Giants, during training camp this past year, to make room for four rookie linebackers who could not get the job done. Blackburn tried out for other teams but received no offers. So, he returned home and started teaching math at a middle-school in Ohio.

Recognizing that help was required, the front office gave Blackburn a call. He gladly accepted the opportunity presented to him. In his first game back, against the Green Bay Packers, he intercepted a pass from Aaron Rodgers and deflected two others. He also recorded five combined tackles. The Giants lossed that game but Blackburn continued to make his mark.

Chase Blackburn found himself living a dream. He was back on the football field, in his old jersey, and helping his team get into the playoffs. Blackburn was instrumental in the Giants becoming Super Bowl XLVI Champions. He had the third-most tackles of all the linebackers in the postseason. He also recorded two pass deflections and intercepted one very significant pass from Tom Brady.

Chase was an undrafted rookie free agent in 2005 when the Giants picked him up. He has spent his entire seven-year (or 6.33 depending on how you look at it) career with the New York Giants. He is a two-time Super Bowl Champion and the front office now has to look at this guy with a wide-angle lens. Blackburn signed a one-year, six-hundred and eighty-five thousand dollar deal this past November. Now what?

The front office cut him in training camp. They called him back. He answers the challenge and goes above and beyond the organization's expectations. There are salary cap issues and a lingering need at the linebacker position. Logic dictates that he will be looking for a raise, for all that he did to help the team win the Super Bowl. The entire Big Blue fan base is routing for Chase Blackburn, the underdog teacher from Ohio. Did he earn his spot back on the roster? Will Jerry Reese do the unthinkable? Well, do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

New York Giants Free Agency: Strut 'Em Or Cut 'Em - Offensive/Defensive Line

Sean Kerr — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 09:16:52 -0000

We interrupt your regularly scheduled programming to forge ahead with our ongoing series. Last week, we covered the wide receivers, tight ends and backup quarterback. To kick things off this week, we'll address a very big issue - a six-foot six-inch, three-hundred and thirty pound issue at that. He is not only big in size but his salary is proportionate to his body mass index.

The New York Giants are reported to be over the salary cap, by as little as seven million and as much as nine million dollars. Of all of the Big Blue Free Agents hitting the market this season, none command the salary of Kareem McKenzie. The reported figure, for this seven-year veteran of the G-Men, is $4.3 million dollars. If the figures are correct, dumping McKenzie would decrease the Giants' salary cap issues by about half. With the offensive line going through a major overhaul last season, is the choice to cut Kareem McKenzie the right way to go?

Soon after the NFL Lockout ended and the preseason preparations began, two of the most well loved members of the Big Blue offensive line, who had a combined total of seventeen years with the organization, came to the Giants facility, only to find out that they were cut. This came as quite a shock to Rich Seubert and Shaun O'Hara, who were the unlucky aforementioned duo. As Giants fans, as well as players learned, no one is safe.

The 2011 season found the offensive line plagued by injury - much like the 2010 wide receiver plague. Tom Coughlin and Kevin Gilbride were forced to juggle the o-line quite a bit this past year. With all of the shuffling and changes made to the offensive line, one of the only constants was Kareem McKenzie. In fact, McKenzie has been a solid member of the New York Giants since 2005, having only missed a total of five games in his his seven-year tenure with Big Blue. He is also widely regarded as one of the best offensive lineman in the league.

We have discussed the obvious problem, greenbacks. What hasn't been mentioned is McKenzie's age. 2012 will be Kareem's twelfth season in the NFL. McKenzie is thirty-two years old. He certainly has more years in him. To delve deeper into something we touched on earlier, McKenize has only missed eight games in his eleven-year career. He is big. He is tough. He knows how to play the game. He has been a great source of protection for Eli Manning and he has two Super Bowl rings.

Unfortunately, the Giants have to rectify their salary cap woes. This turns Kareem Mckenzie into a mountain-like target. The Giants have proved that they do not like to dig too deep into their pockets. There are some some good offensive tackles in the 2012 NFL Draft. The only problem is that the best ones will be gone before the Giants are on the clock. One thing that works in their favor - the Free Agent market is silly with OTs. It is indeed a sad thing to see his head-on the chopping block but…Kareem McKenzie, do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Another dilemma, or possible fix, is Stacy Andrews. In his ninth-season in the NFL, Andrews is another member of the Super Bowl XLVI team to hit the free agent market. I find it ironic that McKenize and Andrews both hit the market at the same time, since they both play the same position on the team. Andrews, however, has not been as physically solid as McKenzie.

In 2008, Andrews tore his anterior cruciate ligament. He wound up being sidelined in 2009 due to a flare up of the very same injury. Stacy Andrews joined the Giants for the 2011 season. Having commanded a franchise-tag and a whopping $7.5 million dollars in his career, the Big Blue front office picked Andrews up for a reported $810,000. In Week 13, Andrews was hospitalized for pulmonary embolisms in his lungs, putting an end to his season.

It is possible that Andrews tries to push his salary to an even million dollars, especially if McKenzie is cut. Then again, Jerry Reese might take a look at this guy's history and see an injury prone, used-to-be who is sopping up a million bucks of salary cap money that could be better used elsewhere. Not to mention that Will Beatty will be back, earns almost half-as-less as Andrews and will be looking to fill the position. I do not like to perpetuate rumors, but there are also grumblings of David Diehl being a possible cut this year, helping to free up another four-million dollars. My gut and business sense tell me that chopping the line up to this extent would be the quickest route to a .500 season or less. The rumors of Diehl going bye-bye just don't seem valid to me. However, the question still remains, Stacy Andrews - do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

On the other side of the line, we have three players who may find themselves wearing different colored jerseys in the 2012 season - that or watching the season from home. Between these three defensive linesman there is twenty-four years of NFL experience. That is not chump change. Rocky Bernard, having just finished up his third year with the Giants, is entering into his eleventh year in the league. He spent the brunt of his career with the Seattle Seahawks. His best days certainly seem to be behind him. However, he does fill in, as a backup, adequately.

Jimmy Kennedy, a New Yorker out of Yonkers, joined the G-Men for the 2011 season. He will be making his way into the tenth-year of his career in 2012. Of the previous nine years in the NFL, he was only used as a starter in the 2006 season, with the St Louis Rams.

The big news on the D-Line, of those who are now free agents, is Dave Tollefson. Tolly had a breakout season, relatively speaking. Tollefson has never been used enough to earn a high price tag. What he did do this past season, given the amount of time that he saw on the field, was showcase his ability to get to the quarterback. Tollefson recorded five sacks in 2011, a personal best. The 2012 season will be Tolly's sixth. The NFL does not credit his time on the practice squad with the Green Bay Packers in 2006 as a year in the NFL. Tollefson was the final Packers pick of the 2006 NFL Draft.

But the really, really, ridiculously big news of this D-line is the re-working, or failure to re-sign, Osi Umenyiora. Osi is not a free agent, of course. However, he was very vocal at the beginning of last season that Jerry Reese promised to re-work his contract, something that did not happen. Now, with another Super Bowl under his belt and an outstanding showing, when he was healthy, Osi is once more looking to get his pay day.

Umenyiora, reportedly, makes $3.125 million a year. Many Giants, including Brandon Jacobs, were asked to take a paycut last year. Behind closed doors, you can just imagine that promises were made that would apply to the following year, i.e. now. The bonuses that were paid out for the postseason were probably also used as a motivator to take the paycuts mentioned. Needless to say, the Giants won the Super Bowl and it is now the following year. Asking these same guys to take a paycut would be an insult. Yet, that just might be the case, once again.

In Umenyiora's case, Jerry Reese would know better than anyone else that Osi's "show me the money" scale is leaning towards getting the raise he has been looking for. Does Umenyiora deserve a raise? Should the Giants re-work his contract and keep him in Blue? Abso-freakin-lutely!

Osi will be reaching his tenth season in the league and as a New York Giant. He has had his share of injuries, even missing out a big part of the 2011 season. If you are having a hard time figuring out if Reese should up a few extra beans for Osi, all you need to know is the following: nine games played in the regular season resulting in nine sacks. Osi, along with Justin Tuck were tied in the postseason with most sacks (3.5). JJ Watt and Brooks Reed also had three-and-a-half sacks.

Yes, cutting Osi will free up three-mill. But it will also take away one of the most respected and feared defensive lineman in the game. It will also decrease the fierceness of this all-too-dominating defensive front.

Unfortunately, we do not have any salary figures to work with regarding the three backup d-linesman who are on the cutting board. One can only imagine that Bernard, en route to his eleventh-season and Kennedy, approaching season ten, are making more than minimum wage at their position. With Jerry Reese's Draft and offseason bargain hunting expertise, would it be safe to say that he could find a better price tag on some younger, equally talented players as these two? Has Tollefson proved to be indispensable enough to keep his roster spot? Dave Tollefson, Rocky Bernard and Jimmy Kennedy - do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

New York Giants Free Agency: Strut 'Em Or Cut 'Em - Tight Ends

Sean Kerr — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:47:10 -0000

Next up on our ongoing Free Agency series are the Tight Ends. So far, we have covered the Wide Receivers. The New York Giants find themselves with a bit of a conundrum at this position. Last season, the front office watched the six-foot six-inch behemoth, more familiarly known as Kevin Boss, ride off into the sunset, after four seasons with Big Blue. The decision not to retain Boss seemed questionable, to say the least. As Giants fans are learning, however, Jerry Reese has an unrivaled eye for rock-solid talent at rock-bottom prices.

There are two very familiar names in the 2012 NFL Free Agency market, Visanthe Shiancoe and Jeremy Shockey. Both of these tight ends used to call the Meadowlands home. One of the first things Jerry Reese did when brought on board, in 2007, was release Shiancoe. The following year, he said farewell to Shockey. Boss made it a few years more than his positional predecessors. But Reese, the mild-mannered savant, filled the position, last season, with an athlete who has outperformed all three of the former-Giants since their release. That member of the Super Bowl XLVI Championship team, now finds himself with the, not-so-endearing scenario of - take it or leave it. Let's take a look.

Jake Ballard, who seemed to have materialized from thin air, made an immediate impact on the Giants organization. It wasn't long into the 2011 season that fans started to ask the question, "Kevin who?" Most people didn't know where he came from and weren't too concerned. He was producing in a big way and that is all anyone could ever hope for.

Ballard had some pretty big shoes to fill. Seeing as how he outweighed Boss by twenty-pounds and equaled his height, stepping into those shoes was not a difficult task. Ballard proved to be a tough competitor on the field, taking hits over the middle, getting back up and off to the races on the very next play. Those big, pounding hits wound up taking their toll. Jake injured his right knee against the Washington Redskins in Week 15.

Ballard did not return until the Wild-Card game against the Atlanta Falcons. He was not a major factor in the offensive game plan, as he typically was throughout the season. He only caught two-passes for sixteen-yards. it was obvious that his injury was not fully healed.

The following week, in the Divisional game against the Green Bay Packers, Jake was targeted eight times, having only caught one-pass. This, of course, was uncharacteristic of Ballard's performance in the regular season. In the Conference game against the San Francisco 49ers, Ballard was targeted once, but did not come down with the ball. In the Super Bowl, he was hit two-out-of-three times for a total of ten yards - and a long of nine.

It was in the fourth quarter in Super Bowl XLVI that Ballard's knee finally gave out. Coincidentally, backup tight end, Travis Beckum, injured his right knee in the first half of the game, leaving the Giants virtually depleted at the tight end position. Both of these individuals have since undergone knee surgery. But only Ballard is a free agent this year.

Jake Ballard is not just a free agent. He is an Exclusive Rights Free Agent. What does that mean? To put it simply, because Ballard only has two years of NFL experience, the Giants can offer him the three-year minimum salary for a veteran. Jake doesn't have to take it. If he doesn't, however, he will be have to leave the NFL. To further simplify it, he has to take it or leave it. You can guess what his choice will be.

Reports have already gone out that he and Travis Beckum will start on the PUP (Physically Unable To Perform) List at the start of the 2012 season. Ballard finds himself between a rock and a hard place. His performance, up until his injury, certainly warrants a few extra dollars. But he will not see them. If Jake Ballard were a three-year man in the NFL and wanted to add those extra shekels to his fanny pack, would you strut 'em or cut 'em?

With Beckum and Ballard starting the season off on the bench, that leaves Bear Pascoe to…um…bear the brunt of the load. The problem here is that he is a free agent. But wait. There's still more. He is actually a restricted free agent, meaning that if another team throws money at him, the Giants would have the opportunity to match it - providing they want to keep him. There are some other things that come into play with the restricted free agent, such as a team giving up a draft pick for a player, if they want him bad enough. But this is not likely to happen.

Bear Pascoe certainly proved that he can play. He is a good blocker. But the Giants haven't used him enough to truly showcase all of his abilities. Thus, he has not warranted any sort of interest from other teams around the league. Being that the G-Men are a bit short supplied in the tight end department, they will be forced to look around and acquire another tight end, either in the Free Agent market or in the Draft. Pascoe doesn't seem to hold enough stock to trade up in the Draft or for another player in the NFL. But one never knows what Jerry Reese has up his sleeve. If all things were equal, would you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Here's a little bonus, since there is only one player at this position. David Carr, the ten-year veteran, is on the market. Carr currently is the backup quarterback to Eli Manning. Carr spent five years as a starter for the Houston Texans, with mild success. With Eli Manning's iron man streak in full force, it is highly unlikely that we will see Carr doing any "Discount Double Checks" in the near future. However, as we witnessed this past season with the injury of Peyton Manning, having a primo backup quarterback could make or break a season.

Can David Carr step in and lead the New York Giants to a winning season? There is no other backup quarterback after Carr. If Manning and Carr were injured, "at the end of the day" you might see Antrel Rolle throwing the ball. Carr is no spring chicken. Is it in the Giants best interest to seek out a quality backup? Is it time for another "Hefty Lefty?" It will be interesting to see how this plays out. David Carr, do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Meet The Super Bowl XLVI Champions, The New York Giants

Sean Kerr — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:32:22 -0000

That's right. You read correctly, folks. In an incredible two-day event that begins this Thursday (Feb. 23), New York Giants fans, like you, will be able to meet their favorite players. Not only will you be able to meet the Super Bowl champs, but "at the end of the day" you will walk away with pictures, autographs, inscriptions, footballs, authentic signed helmets and memories that will last a lifetime.

Dream Team Productions and MAB Celebrity Services have put together, quite possibly, the biggest array of superstars from the SB XLVI New York Giants. This is a rare opportunity to get your hands on some collectibles that will easily skyrocket in value. With free agency and contract re-negotiations upon us, this may very well be the last time fans will get to see this particular gathering again. Read on.

Who will be there? Osi Umenyiora, Hakeem Nicks, Mario Manningham, Antrel Rolle, Steve Weatherford, Michael Boley, Mathias Kiwanuka and many more. The festivities kickoff this Thursday in Franklin Lakes, N.J. Franklin Lakes is just thirty minutes from MetLife Stadium.

What's better than having the New York Giants win the Super Bowl? Getting to meet them, of course! For more information about this event and how to attend please visit MAB Celebrity Services. Visit Dream Team Productions for more info.

New York Giants Free Agency: Strut 'Em Or Cut 'Em - Wide Receivers

Sean Kerr — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:59:17 -0000

To everything, there is a season. For the New York Giants and its fan base, the season has been magnificent. The offseason, however, may prove to be somewhat of a double edged sword. There are some very key players who are now Free Agents and they just might find themselves in different colored jerseys in the 2012 NFL season - about the same time that they receive their Super Bowl rings.

In this edition, we will take a look at the wide receivers whom we stand to lose, if the price is not right. Interestingly enough, two Free Agents on the market this offseason are two of the best receivers that Big Blue have had on their roster, Plaxico Burress and Steve Smith. Is it likely that these used-to-be fan favorites will find themselves catching a pass from Eli Manning in the 2012 season? Not unless they're playing safety for the opposition. Let's take a look at the receivers who may or may not be on the chopping block.

First up, and probably the biggest FA question of the New York Giants offseason, is Mario Manningham. Mario was the G-Men's third-round draft pick in 2008. Manningham came from the Michigan Wolverines where he put together 137 receptions for 2,310 yards and 27 touchdowns. The Wolverines list him as one of the members of their "Team Of The Decade."

Manningham has played his entire four-year NFL career with the New York Giants. He was used minimally in his first year, having only caught four passes. In 2009, his second year, he had the second most receiving yards on the team. His impact on the Giants' passing game was undeniable from that season on.

In 2010, Manningham maintained his second place status as a Giants receiver. But with only three more receptions than the previous year, he managed to surpass his reception yardage best by one-hundred and twenty-two yards. He was and is, without a doubt, a serious deep ball threat and a clutch receiver. The "Man2Man Connection" (Manning to Mannigham) is something to behold.

This past season, Mario was not utilized as in years past, largely due to Victor Cruz. But would the Giants have made the playoffs, survived the run to Indianapolis and come out champions of Super Bowl XLVI if it were not for mario Manningham? The short and undeniable answer, no. The "Man2Man Connection" late in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVI, will forever go down in history as one of the most perfectly executed plays in the NFL. Football scholars could endlessly dispute about which was the more crucial and graceful portion, Eli Manning's pass or Mario Manningham's catch.

There is no doubt that Mario Manningham has been an instrumental part of the New York Giants, since being thrown full force into the fray. He is a receiver who can do it all. The same could have been said about Steve Smith, who the front office somehow let slip through their fingers last offseason. That move proved to be the best thing for the G-men, of course. So, the question could be raised - does Eli Manning make his receivers look better than they actually are? With Mario Manningham's contract up, a guy who has only fumbled twice in his entire career, one half of the "Man2Man Connection" - do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Next up is Domenik Hixon. Hixon is in his sixth season in the NFL, fourth with the Giants. Domenik sat out all of the 2010 season due to an injury he suffered in the first Christening practice of MetLife Stadium. Hixon has no stats for 2006 and only a fumble for 2007 (as a Denver Bronco). He was acquired from the Denver Broncos in the 2007 season, in which he recorded one reception for five yards and one rushing attempt for negative-eight yards. Of his six years in the league, Hixon has only started ten games. Giants fans are certainly familiar with his receiving skills. His season ending injury against the St Louis Rams showcased his playmaking ability and that he would go to any lengths for his team.

In the three full years that Hixon put in with the Giants, he established himself as the best kickoff returner in franchise history, something the G-Men have been lacking ever since. He holds the franchise record for most kickoff return yards in a season, 1,291 and most returns in a season, 57. Hixon's back-to-back seasons ending injuries leave plenty of room for questions. Since he sat out all of 2010 and just about all of 2011, there is no way, by any stretch of the imagination, that he could honestly expect more money if contract negotiations are to be had between him and the front office. That could leave the Giants with a hell of a steal..or a soon-to-be name on the pup/IR list. Domenik Hixon, do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Lastly, we have a player who was one of the reasons that the Giants made it to the Super Bowl, Devin Thomas. Without the famed strip from Jacquain Williams, near game's end against the San Francisco 49ers, and Devin Thomas' recovery, the G-Men may never have been singing "I Got A Ring" on the way back home from the Super Bowl. This guy was definitely "All In" when it mattered and fought his way down field, every step of the way, to make that recovery. But is that enough to save him?

The Giants picked up Thomas in 2010, after the Washington Redskins and Carolina Panthers released him. Three teams in one year - that's got to be a record. As a receiver, he only had three receptions, this past season, for thirty-seven yards. But it was his ability to return the ball that made him useful. The return game for Big Blue was not what one would call effective last season. In fact, special teams was a huge hinderance. Matt Dodge, 'nuff said.

Devin Thomas had four more kick returns than last year's leaders, D.J. Ware and Darius Reynaud, who were both tied at twenty-one. What Thomas did with those four more returns was surpass Ware and Reynaud by one-hundred and seventy-five yards. To sum up, Devin Thomas is the best return man that the Giants have had since, guess who, Domenik Hixon. You have to appreciate what Thomas did this season as a return man. Giants fans will have to keep a special place in their heart for his game cinching fumble recovery. But, as the saying goes, you don't have to go home but you can't stay here. Do you strut 'em or cut 'em?

Celebrating The New York Giants: An In-Depth Recap Of Big Blue Pride

Sean Kerr — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:09:58 -0000

Has it set in yet, folks? Have you truly had enough time to soak in the undeniable fact that your New York Giants are the champions of Super Bowl XLVI? If the answer to either question is yes, I have another one for you - are you ready to do away with all of this pesky pomp and circumstance, all of the glory basking that thirty-one other teams and fandoms would give their left arm for right now?

By now, we are all well versed in the who's, how's and outcome of Super Bowl XLVI. I, personally, could (not to mention am inspired to) write one-hundred different articles on the fairy tale season and outcome of this New York Giants team. However, this is not one of them. This particular article is about the homecoming of heroes and the fans that love them.

Perhaps I am a little slow in getting this piece out there. Unfortunately, I found myself feeling more than just a little bit under the weather come Super Bowl Sunday. Whatever it was/is lingers still. Regardless, I was not about to let anything keep me from taking part in the monumental days that have just squeaked by. And yes fans, there was more than one day.

Day 1: Welcome Home!

Monday, February 6, 2012 - MetLife Stadium was relatively quiet, aside from a small staff and the employees in the Flagship Store. It was as it should be. Yet, just a few hundred yards away was the Timex Performance Center, where the New York Giants hold their practices. Things were brimming with activity, excitement and vehement anticipation at the Timex Performance Center because on this very day, the Super Bowl XLVI Champions would be coming home.

A cavalcade of news vans lined the curb, opposite the entrance to the staff/player's parking lot. Name a television station, they were there. Also in attendance were the New Jersey State Troopers. What party is complete without them? On either side of the the large, barred gate of the player's lot, was a significantly large sea of blue jerseys.

The occasional air horn would let out, rejuvenating the crowd's enthusiasm as they waited in joyful hope. The collective choir would chant for the cameras as they recorded their pan shots to accompany their individual news pieces which would be aired later that evening. Smartphone enthusiasts would break out their links to the internet, keeping a close eye on the Twitter accounts of those Giants players and staff who were avid users, waiting to catch an update of when they would be arriving. As Tom Petty said, "The waiting is the hardest parts."

Finally, at around 2pm ET, the Tweets started to roll in - "Giants just landed back In NY/NJ. Let's the celebration begin. Can't wait to share this with the best fans in the world. World Champions!!" That one came from the man with the iron leg, Steve Weatherford. The fans' excitement swelled.

It wasn't too long after that when it became parent that the Giants were close by. A slew of helicopters began to appear in the sky above, hovering at times, following the group of charter buses along the NJ Turnpike from Newark Airport to the Timex Center.

It wouldn't have been very hard to deduce when the first bus was in site. The cheers from the crowd were more than indicative as the first bus turned the corner and came into view. The mob erupted with cheers, air horns and noisemakers of every shape and size. Even though the windows of the buses were tinted, one could still make out that the players on board had their phones out, recording every second of their big welcome home.

Three over-sized buses made their way into the parking lot, with the gate being shut behind them. not a split-second later, the gates were swarmed - everyone hoping to get a glimpse of their favorites players. One by one they exited the bus. Justin Tuck was the first to get off. He made his way over to the gate and with great effecting for his Giants fans, began to high five everyone that were fortunate enough to swarm up on the gate of the parking lot entry. Players exited the bus and entered their vehicles, some driving up to the gate to wave to the fans. It soon became apparent that this would not turn out to be an autograph session. Instead, fans resigned themselves to the fact that they did their best to welcome home the guys who brought them home the hardware.

Day 2 - Part I: The Canyon Of Heroes

Tuesday, February 7, 2012 - Trying to maneuver to Broadway was quite a task. The streets were filled with those shuffling off to work intermingled with a trail of people decked out in their finest team colors. It was safe to say that on this day, for those who were in lower Manhattan and not attending the parade, there were no warm, fuzzy feelings for Giants fans. Swarms of Giants fans took to the streets, making it next to impossible for work goers to get to where they needed to be with even the slightest degree of urgency.

The parade route went from Bowling Green to City Hall. The masses started piling in as early as 5AM and continued until the NYPD cut fans off from entering up the side streets. There was no shortage of people, on either side of Broadway. Unable to contain their enthusiasm, the crowd would randomly start chanting, "Let's Go Giants." One brave soul, daring enough to adorn a certain other team's green jersey, received boos the likes he will never forget.

The world's largest game of toilet paper catch broke between both sides of Broadway. The traffic was still moving down Broadway up until a half hour before the parade actually started. This made for some interesting times. Some came riding down with their Big Blue flags swaying in the breeze, evoking chants and cheers from the adoring crowd. Others, for whatever reason, came chugging down, after having been bombed with wet balls of toilet paper. There were even some tourist buses that came down, fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the madness. There is one thing for sure, New Yorker's know how to keep themselves busy and entertained.

The construction workers from buildings being gutted and/or erected took time to put up "Go Giants" banners, causing the crowd to erupt in favorable frenzies. Office workers in the tall buildings that line the Canyon Of Heroes would intermittently throw out confetti, to get a rise out of the crowd. The weather was as perfect as one could hope for in a New York City winter. The breeze was virtually nil. It was great to see New Yorkers coming together with such a prideful purpose.

After hours of "TP Toss" the first float was in sight. As it drew nearer, we could see that Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks lead the way. Naturally, the crowd broke out into the ever popular, "Cruuuuz" chant.

It was difficult to make everyone out on each, individual float. The ticker tape, aka confetti/shredded paper, didn't make tinges any easier. But on the second one was definitely Giants alumnus, Carl Banks. There were marching bands in between floats, those big, red tourist buses packed with Giants staff and family - not to mention bag pipers. It was a parade fit for a king!

The next Big Blue float that came up Broadway had Brandon Jacobs leading the way. Kevin Gilbride was right next to him. Ironic how Gilbride has ben jeered so much in the last few years, only to find himself plastered with confetti in the Giants' Super Bowl XLVI ticker tape parade.

Next up was Mitch Petrus, Chis Snee, Kareem McKenzie and other G-Men. Right behind them was another red, tourist bus. Only this one had, the prodigy of PR, Pat Hanlon. Pat had on his Big Blue fedora and tipped it to those who sent him a smile or gesture of recognition. Pat was in rare form.

The next float was the biggie. It was center stage for a slow, moving Broadway show. The Lombardi Trophy, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Governor Andrew Cuomo, Eli Manning, Coach Tom Coughlin, Justin Tuck and Steve Tisch were just a few of the people occupying Broadway on this one. As the floats kept coming, the crowd kept cheering, getting their phones high up in the air to capture each moment.

Osi Umenyiora, Deon Grant, Jason Pierre-Paul, Antrel Rolle, Chase Blackburn - they all came rolling up Broadway that day, en route to pick up the keys to New York City. For those fans in attendance, a poison had to be chosen. You either line up on Broadway and experience the ticker tape parade or you get down to City Hall and hope to get a spot near enough to enjoy the ceremony there. For most, the choice was clear. After the last float passed by on Broadway, the crowd disbursed. For some it was the cherry on the top of another fabled season. For others, it was just part one of the day's festivities.

Day 2 - Part II: Lombardi #4 Meets Snoopy

The celebration at MetLife Stadium was set for approximately 3 PM ET. That didn't stop fans from gathering hours beforehand. it was announced that tailgating in the parking lots got the green light and that is exactly what transpired. Season regulars broke out their Hibachi grills and all other party goods and got things started, waiting for their hometown heroes to arrive.

The footballs were flying in the lots. The jerseys were definitely adorned and pride was abundant. On the Monolith-like, LED boards outside of the stadium, were rotating pictures of various Giants players all displaying the Super Bowl XLVI Champions logo. The Giant organization had definitely put together a celebration for the ages.

As someone who has been to every Super Bowl celebration, aside from the one in 1991, at Giants Stadium (and now MetLife Stadium) I can tell you that the turnout was quite impressive. In 2008, there were many who came to Giants Stadium to partake in the festivities. However, this particular celebration turned out, easily, a crowd quadruple in size. There were people sitting in every tier, every section as far up as the stadium went.

The concession stands were open and Budweiser, official sponsor of the New York Giants, put out a limited edition bottle that had the New York Giants logo on it, congratulating them on their Super Bowl victory. The music was pumping and the graphics on the big screens was enough to bring a tear to the eye.

The place was decked out and things started to get under way. Native New Jersians, Naughty By Nature, got things kicked into full gear - revamping their songs to fit the theme of the Super Bowl champion New York Giants. "You Down Wit' NYG? Yeah, you know me!"

When the Giants held their first Super Bowl celebration on january 27, 1987, the entertainment was a bit lacking. The weather was even worse. There was snow on the ground, the field and on the seats. It was freezing. The headliner was Ben E. King. Also performing was Tiny Tim. Unfortunately for the late, great ukulele icon, the crowd was not very receptive. They used what was available to express their discord - snow. Tiny Tim was met with boos and snowballs and quickly ended his set. Naughty By Nature received a far better response.

Once the rappers from Orange, NJ finished their set, the voice of the New York Giant took front and center. Bob Papa began to rile up the crowd and welcome each Big Blue member by name. One by one they came out of their tunnel, steam shooting up in the air, fireworks shooting off. They all took their seat on the stage. Once everyone was in, Papa directed our attention to the big screens to watch a video montage of another fairy tale season.

The video highlighted some of the key plays and games that put the Giants in the position they were in. It stirred up many a cheer and chant. It cured many a dry eye. Clearly, there was a tremendous staff effort to make the Giants feel welcomed and appreciated for a season well played. The sentiment was certainly not lost.

After the video ran its course, Papa brought up a few key players and staff to say a few words, much like at the City Hall ceremony in Manhattan. The most prolific thing said came from defensive end, Justin Tuck. Tuck referred to the stadium as MetLife Stadium, to which the crowd responded with tier displeasure in the name. Tuck affirmed that it was MetLife Stadium with the following, "No, no. This is MetLife Stadium. But we all know whose house this is." For me, that meant that Rex Ryan may have won the first ever "Snoopy Bowl Trophy." But the Giants christened the stadium, after on two years of being erected, with its first Lombardi.

To close out the days events, Brandon Jacobs took hold of the Lombardi, ran around the entire stadium barrier and let the fans touch their brand new, championships trophy. if we do not see Jacobs back in a Blue jersey next season, at least his last act as a Giant will have been one that he can remember fondly for the rest of his life.

It was an incredibly emotional few days. As in the 2007 season, the Giants pulled off another underdog run to secure a Super Bowl victory that could not have been scripted any better. They became the only 9-7 team to have won the big game. Eli Manning put to rest the elite controversy and has the world of professional football media debating on whether his induction into the hall of fame is a lock or not. it also has them speaking out saying the Eli is the better Manning. Regardless of the various ongoing media hypes, the New York Giants have done what most thought impossible and that is something that Giants fans everywhere should not be so quick to abandon.

Take some time to let it all soak in. Celebrate your team's achievements, for they were astronomically overwhelming. Remember Aaron Rodgers? Remember the the 49ers defense? Remember all of those must win situations that the Giants were faced with…and overcame? Yes, fans - take some time. Digest it all. Relish in the fact that your team is the reigning Super Bowl Champions. These are the days that a team, its staff and fan base live for. Don't be too quick in breezing by the glory. It doesn't come around very often. Just ask Tom Brady.

The New York Giants: Super Bowl XLVI Champions - Game Recap

Sean Kerr — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 03:21:35 -0000

Ladies and gentleman, boys and girls - your New York Giants, champions of Super Bowl XLVI! It has been the most unlikely of journeys. The Giants were 7-7 only five games ago. No one can actually say why or how they were able to come together as they did. They had their backs against the wall and were in must win situations since Week 15. Today, they won their fourth Super Bowl. Emotions are high and accolades are certainly due to many individuals within the Giants franchise. However, without question, this was a team win, first and foremost, with a ticker tape parade to follow.

For the first time since Super Bowl XXI, an AFC team won the coin toss. New England opted to receive the ball to open the second-half. The New York Giants dominated the first half, holding the Patriots to a scoreless first-quarter. Read on.

Kevin Gilbride called a well balanced mix of ground and air to open up the game. The Giants converted the ball four times, ultimately ending their drive with a Steve Weatherford punt. That punt backed the patriots up to their own six-yard line. Two plays later, the G-Men had two points and the ball back. Giants 2, Patriots 0.

On second-and-10, Justin Tuck and the rest of the defensive line brought a blitz package that forced Tom Brady to throw the ball away, in order to avoid a sack and safety. It didn't do much good as the referees called him for intentional grounding. To clarify, when a quarterback is backed up in his own end zone, under pressure and throws the ball into an area where there is no receiver, the resulting intentional grounding penalty becomes a safety.

The Giants got the ball back and began a five minute-twenty-eight second drive resulting in seven. With New England keeping their shadows on Hakeem Nicks, Victor Cruz and mario Manningham, Manning was pressed to switch things up a bit. Henry Hynoski, DJ Ware, Bear Pascoe were some of the recipients of Eli's passes to help drive them down the field. Ahmad Bradshaw had some success running the ball down field during that drive, adding twenty-eight rushing yards to his Super Bowl XLVI resume. Ultimately, it was Victor Cruz who wound up with the touchdown in the end zone, doing his very welcomed salsa dance. Giants 9, Patriots 0.

On the next drive, Tom Brady began to march his troops downfield, for the first time of the game. But the Giants defense was not about to make things easy. Brady ran his team down to the New York eleven-yard line. On a critical third-and-four, Brady faded back to pass, released the ball, only to have Jason Pierre-Paul bat it down and hold the patriots to a field goal attempt. Stephen Gostkowski nailed it through the uprights. Giants 9, Patriots 3.

In what was expected to be a high scoring game, both defenses held up and kept the other's offense from letting the game get away. Jason Pierre-Paul added another batted down pass to his Super Bowl stat sheet in the second-quarter. What has been an all too familiar theme this season, the Giants had a tremendously bad call throw their way. Brandon Jacobs had barreled his way through the Patriots defensive line for ten yards, converting the first down. Enter the questionable officiating. Kevin Boothe was called for a non-existent hold, negating Jacobs' run and forcing a third-and-long. The Giants were unable to convert, Weatherford punted the ball out of bounds at the Patriots' four-yard line.

The time-of-possession had been all Giants, up until that point. As good as Big Blue's defense has been this postseason, it was only a matter of time before Bill Belichik, the evil genius, made some adjustments to help get some more points on the board. The obvious thinking from the New England sideline, on declining to receive the ball first in the first quarter, despite wining the toss, was to score at the end of the half, get the ball back at the beginning of the third-quarter and score again.

In the last four-minutes of the second-quarter, Tom Brady began a fourteen-play drive that ended with a touchdown, from the most unlikely of Patriots players, Danny Woodhead. The drive spanned ninety-six yards and tied an NFL Super Bowl record. The Giants got the ball back with eight-seconds left of the clock. They took a knee to end the first half. Patriots 10, Giants 9.

Piggybacking on their last scoring drive, New England came out swinging in the third-quarter. Brady opened up the second-half with a twenty-one yard pass to Chad Ochocinco, who has had a very quiet year. Working on our safeties, Brady continued to air it out. Eight plays later, Brady found Aaron Hernandez in the end zone for a twelve-yard touchdown. Patriots 17, Giants 9.

Jerrel Jernigan handled the return and took it out for thirty-four yards, giving the Giants good starting position. Eli Manning started off on the thirty-five yard line. Gilbride continued to mix in the run, with Jacobs and Bradshaw having mild success. The Patriots' defense was ranked second-to-last in the regular season. But you wouldn't know it by the way they played today. Their defensive line kept pressure on Eli Manning while the secondary was able to limit the all-star receiving corps of the New York Giants. Manning was able to move his team down field on their opening drive of the third quarter. The Patriots, however, held the G-Men to a field goal. Patriots 17, Giants 12.

The Big Blue Wrecking Crew held the Patriots to a four-and-out on the next drive and began to work on cutting down the New England lead. The Giants, who had been playing mistake free football up until that point, began to regress into old form. On the second play of the drive, manning connected with Nicks for seventeen yards. Nicks fumbled the ball. Fortunately for them, Henry Hynoski recovered. The drive continued down to the Patriots' eleven-yard line. On first down, they handed the ball off to Bradshaw for two-yards. Bradhsaw got the snap again on second-down for no gain. On a third-and-eight, Rob Ninkovich broke through the line and put Eli Manning to the ground, forcing the Lawrence Tynes to come on the field. Tynes' golden leg put another New York three on the board. Patriots 17, Giants 15.

Bill Belichik was looking to increase the Patriots lead, as was Tom Brady. To the air they took on the next drive, looking to exploit the New York secondary and cause mismatches. The Patriot offense converted a few, made their way towards the middle of the field - only to be met with a storm of Giants defense. On a first-and-ten, at the New England forty-three, Jason Pierre-Paul chased down Tom Brady and knocked him to the turf. But not before Brady threw the ball downfield to Rob Gronkowski. JPP, forcing a bad decision, caused brady to throw the ball into the hands of Chase Blackburn, who has been having an incredible postseason. The Giants took over at their own eight-yard line.

The G-Men took over with just over fourteen-minutes left in the fourth quarter and began a time eating drive - to nowhere. Eli Manning, using the pass and the run, worked his way down to the New England forty-three yard line. One a third-and-ten, the officiating kicked in, or didn't rather. Manning threw to Manningham and would have converted, had the officials called the passing interference penalty that they should have. Alas, they didn't and the Giants were forced to give the ball back.

Brady came back swinging on the next drive, to no avail. The Pats ate up nine-and-a-half minutes on that drive. The Big Blue Wall was put up and the Patriots were forced to punt the ball.

With just under four-minutes, in typical Eli Manning fashion, the game wining drive was orchestrated. Mario Manningham was able to make some huge catches to bring this destiny bound team within scoring range. On a confused, "do I run into the end zone or don't I" play, Ahmad Bradshaw fell backwards into the end zone to record the game winning touchdown on the board. The G-Men went for a two-point conversion but failed. Giants 21, Patriots 17.

It seemed as if the Bradshaw touchdown was a mistake. Tom Brady was left with fifty-seven seconds to work with - more than enough time for him to take the lead back. The Giants' defensive line brought the pressure and kept Brady off of his rhythm. However, he was still able to convert and get to mid-field. The game came down to the very last second, in where Brady threw a Hail mary into the end zone, almost connecting with Rob Gronkowski - almost.

There was mistakes, on both sides of the ball and field. There were many highlights to match. A game that I predicted to be a run away for the Giants, turned into another nail biter that left all of America on the edge of its seat.

The Big Blue defense scored the first points of the game and they were responsible for stopping the last points. They did so in high fashion. It was another fairy tale season. Once again, the New York Giants organization taught us that anything is possible if you want it bad enough. Eli proved that he is, indeed, elite. Tom Coughlin proved that he is one of the best coaches in NFL history. The 2011 New York Giants proved that they were absolutely, unequivocally, all in! Congratulations to the New York Giants and all of it's fans.

New York Giants Inactives for Super Bowl XLVI

Sean Kerr — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 22:17:50 -0000

We're just over an hour away from the kickoff of Super Bowl XLVI. Recently released, is the inactives report for the New York Giants and the New England Patriots. Here are the respective lists below:

The New York Giants inactive players are:

Ramses Barden (WR)

Da’Rel Scott (RB)

Mark Herzlich (LB)

Jim Cordle (OL)

Justin Trattou (DE)

Jimmy Kennedy (DT)

James Brewer (OL)

The New England Patriots inactives are:

Ryan Mallett (QB)

Kevin Faulk (RB)

Shane Vereen (RB)

Gary Guyton (LB)

Donald Thomas

Nick McDonald (C)

Ron Brace (DT)

Across Enemy Lines: Super Bowl XLVI Edition

Sean Kerr — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:38:51 -0000

Editor's note: Big Blue View and NESN.com are teaming up for a Super Bowl edition of Across Enemy Lines. Jeff Howe of NESN.com answered my New England Patriots questions. In kind, I answered their questions about the New York Giants. Here is an excerpt of my Q&A with Jeff.

Q2. Tom Coughlin seemingly gets fired by the fans or media every season. Why does he get such a tough shake?

A2. The New York fans and media didn't just fire Coughlin. They had Perry Fewell and Kevin Gilbride six-feet under right next to him. New York can be a very unforgiving town. I think the expectations are quite high, considering the history of this team. The frustration level, since 2007, has been staggering. The talent has been on this team all along. The Giants had a tremendous season in 2008, only to lose in the first-round of the playoffs. In 2009, they got off to a 5-0 start, but finished 8-8. Last season, they had their destiny in their own hands and let it slip through their fingers. When you have a wealth of talent on a team and their performance is not up to snuff, the questions start to brew. The fingers start to point and the call for pink slips begin to get patched through. Luckily, the front office of the Giants organization have a little more insight. This New York team would not be where it is today, one win away from the Lombardi Trophy, if it weren't for this particular coaching staff.

For all of my Q&A with NESN.com, click here.

Read on for Jeff Howe's Q&A with us.

INDIANAPOLIS -- It's been a wild week here in Indy, but it has started to calm down the day before Super Bowl XLVI.

The Patriots have accomplished a lot, so much so that Bill Belichick canceled Saturday's walkthrough because they made enough progress throughout the course of the week. Now, it's just a matter of execution.

I've had it covered all week for NESN.com, so check out everything we've got to offer.

Q1. In Week 9, the Patriots and Giants met each other for the first time in the regular season since 2007. While New England's defense did have some success getting to the quarterback in that game, they could not record a sack. What kind of success in the pass rush do you think the Patriots will have on Sunday? Do you think that Vince Wilfork, Rob Ninkovich or any other member of the defense will be able to add an Eli Manning sack to their postseason stat sheet?

Howe: The pressure has been better in the postseason, and the Patriots have done an excellent job with their adjustments later in the season, which makes me think Bill Belichick will construct a solid plan of attack with the Week 9 game tape available for use. Wilfork has been the Patriots' best defensive player, and he probably played the best game of his eight-year career in the AFC Championship. I don't know if he'll record a sack, but he'll be tough for the Giants to contain.

The Patriots' best defensive front has involved Kyle Love at the nose, Wilfork and Brandon Deaderick as defensive ends and Mark Anderson as a rush linebacker. That group has been better of late, and I'm sure they'll cause problems for Manning.

Q2. Obviously, the big question this week has been whether or not Rob Gronkowski will play. With an injury such as the high ankle sprain, which can have long, lingering effects, is it reasonable to conclude that he will not be as effective as he has been throughout the playoffs and regular season, if in fact he plays? Has this offense been dramatically altered because of his injury?

Howe: Gronkowski will play, so it hasn't really been a question. The Patriots' concern will be his effectiveness, particularly since Tom Coughlin will have his front seven getting extra physical with Gronkowski at the line, both in run blocking and when he tries to release into a route. I'd expect him to have a good first half, but I wouldn't be surprised if he wore down in the second half.

The offense won't be dramatically altered because it's still going to revolve around Tom Brady and the passing game. Naturally, if Gronkowski is ineffective, it would be a huge blow to the Patriots' chances of winning, but Brady still has a lot of trust in Wes Welker, Aaron Hernandez and Deion Branch. If Gronkowski is off, the Patriots will use even more three-tackle sets in the run game. While he's an elite pass catcher, it's overlooked how valuable he's been in the running game. Keep an eye on how often the Patriots run to his side Sunday, and if it's less than 50 percent of their runs, you'll know they're not confident with his health.

Q3. With Gronkowski's questionable status, Bill Belichick is likely to be making some adjustments to compensate, a "Plan B" if you will. Chad Ochocinco has been having a very quiet year. What is the likelihood of him becoming a major factor in the offensive game plan on Sunday? Will he be the "wild card" in Belichick's trick deck?

Howe: No chance. Ochocinco has been ineffective all season, and it's because Brady doesn't trust him to be in the right spot because Ochocinco doesn't read defenses well enough. This isn't going to suddenly come together in the two weeks of prep work for the Super Bowl.

Ochocinco hasn't caught more than two passes in a game all season, and his only touchdown came due to a horribly blown assignment in the Broncos' secondary. If Ochocinco produces in the Super Bowl, it won't be because he was being consciously hidden all season. Belichick deserves a lot of credit for a lot of things, but the theory that Ochocinco has been sidelined to save him for the Super Bowl doesn't hold any water.

Q4. Seven pass deflections, two interceptions, three quarterback hits and one sack. All of these helped add to the 57.5 QB Rating that Tom Brady put together against the Baltimore Ravens two weeks ago. Over the last three games, in the postseason, the New York Giants have only given up thirteen points per-game. Will Tom Brady be able to overcome the pressure of a fierce front four and find his receivers through a secondary who have been shadowing the opposition?

Howe: That's the area where the game will be won or lost. If the Giants pressure Brady consistently, he'll have a tough game, and I don't think the Patriots can win back-to-back games when Brady struggles. When Brady gets hit on a continuous basis, he gets a lot more erratic with his throws, and that was a huge issue during the Patriots' playoff loss to the Jets last year.

The Giants will get pressure on Brady, no doubt, but the Patriots' offensive line has to really step up and keep him comfortable. They've had a good season, and I'm sure they're ticked about hearing about the Giants' defensive front for two weeks. This is a show-me battle if there ever was one.

Q5. In your opinion, what area(s) of the New York Giants can the Patriots exploit in order to come out on top of this game? What are the weaknesses of the Giants? Will the Patriots win?

Howe: The knock on the Giants is their receivers will struggle when they're hit hard, and that can lead to some drops over the course of the game. The Patriots will definitely be physical in that area. Also, Manning has had a terrific season, but he can still be erratic, which was on display during a poor end-zone interception in Week 9. If the Patriots force the Giants to slowly work their way down the field, rather than giving up big chunks of yards, they'll hope Manning will make a costly mistake.

And while the Giants are playing better in their back seven, I still don't think they'll be able to contain the Patriots' passing attack if Brady can stay clean.

Lastly, I expect it to be a one-possession game, regardless of the victor. And in a close game, it's tough to pick against Brady. I'm taking the Patriots, 27-24.

Q5-b. Are Tom Brady's best days behind him?

Howe: Last season, he was the first unanimous MVP in NFL history. This season, he threw for the second most yards in league history and became the second quarterback to rack up a second season with 39 touchdown passes. So, in a word, no.

Have a question for Jeff Howe? Send it to him via Twitter at @jeffphowe or send it here. He will pick a few questions to answer every week for his mailbag.