It’s hump day. And the Giants hope that all the touchdowns that Number 18 threw last Thursday will cause some noodle-arm on Sunday.
A Prodigal Running Back Returns: The cumulative result of David Wilson’s fumbling problem and Da’Rel Scott’s lack of experience brought Brandon Jacobs back to the Big Blue. While Wilson likely remains the starter out of basic depth necessity, Jacobs will give the Giants some comfort in that he knows the offense inside and out, as well as clearly being the better pass-blocker of the three guys. And with Jacobs back into the fold, Wilson might be getting a tad cranky.
The simple fact of the matter is this: Wilson is a tremendously talented athlete, but he hasn’t earned the trust of the coaches and teammates. It’s very similar to Tiki Barber’s early years, so no one is writing Wilson off just yet, nor is it an indictment of him. But it is in his best interests to take “high and tight” to heart. This is a move that most expect (myself included) will ultimately be beneficial for Wilson. While Jacobs has had some ridiculous moments in his first tenure, no one ever questioned his standing within the locker room. Both Wilson and Scott will benefit greatly from his mentoring.
And it’s possible that Jacobs will be completely revitalized by returning to the only place he really wanted to be. It’s a good deal for both sides. To make room for Jacobs, t he Giants said goodbye to Ramses Barden in an injury settlement. Barden is now a free-agent.
And Now For the Ridiculousness of the Week: The Cowboys believe the Giants are floppers. Jason Witten was caught on camera complaining to an official on Sunday. Jerry Jones thought it was hilariously obvious. Hopefully, Dan Connor was exempt from their claims.
It’s a slippery slope. After all, Jones found himself in hot water, along with Redskins owner Dan Snyder, accused (rightly or wrongly depending on your side of the fence) two seasons ago of blatantly circumventing the salary cap. On-field shenanigans are a thing, Jerry. And if you think your own players are above it, you’re crazier in your old age than anyone realizes.
The league has sided with the Giants, as officials could find no evidence of tomfoolery. It also blurs the line between free speech and slander. In the neverending rivalry between the Cowboys and Giants, it always seems to find new ways to spice things up. November 24 has suddenly gotten much more entertaining.
Final Word: The Giants are licking their wounds after a disappointing outcome Sunday night. Manning family jitters aside, Peyton is not the ideal guy for the Giants to face at this juncture of the season and I have them losing 38-28. But this has quickly become a near must win for the Giants, so let’s see if they prove me wrong.
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