The Giants weren’t supposed to blow Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers out. They weren’t even supposed to win missing four of their top players in running back Ahmad Bradshaw, tackle David Diehl, and wide receivers Hakeem Nicks and Domenik Hixon. However, thanks to huge nights by wide receiver Ramses Barden and budding star Andre Brown that is just what happened. Of course, a lot of credit can go to the Giants’ defense who looked as good as they did as their playoff run last year.
Newton threw three interceptions and just looked lost out on the field. The athletic quarterback just couldn’t make anything happen last night. While on the other side, everything seemed to click perfectly for New York. Eli Manning’s throws were on point, the running game that has been non-existant for a few years emerged, and the defense never slacked. The biggest surprise last night had to be the offensive line. This is normally the Giants’ biggest weakness, however, the line gave Manning enough time to get off those great throws and created running lanes for the backs. Manning, of course, had another stellar performance on the field, but that has come to be expected of him.
It wouldn’t be the Giants, if someone didn’t get injured. Cornerback Jayron Hosley, who caught his first interception in a regular season game, left in the fourth quarter with a hamstring injury, but it was said to be nothing major. Giants’ other cornerback Corey Webster broke his hand during the game, but also expects to play next week against the Eagles. He actually got an X-ray during the game and still came back in. That’s true dedication and heart. Webster appeared to get into a wrestling match with Steve Smith which somehow the refs just let happen…. no comment on that. Antrel Rolle got into a fight of his own, but he lost to a camera and ended up with a pretty nasty bruise on his knee. Again, it was nothing serious except it was quite embarrassing.
Someone who made a surprise appearance in the game? Eli Manning’s backup David Carr. Yes, Manning didn’t even play the entire game. Ouch, now THAT is embarrassing.
