Vintage Manning Leads Giants to First Win

Heading into week three of the 2018 National Football League season, the New York Giants were looking for some glimmer of hope. The G-Men have looked flat thus far, heading into its matchup against quarterback sensation Deshaun Watson and the Houston Texans at 0-2.  Giants 37 year old quarter back Eli Manning proved to be that hope and more for the Big Blue.

Manning came through with a vintage performance against the Texans. Behind Manning, the Giants looked rejuvenated in its 27-22 victory. Manning looked calm and cool in the pocket.

A week after the 2018 number two overall pick Saquon Barkley set a franchise record for receptions with 14, Manning connected with seven different receivers. More importantly, Manning was mobile.

Manning of course is not known to be the fleetest of foot. However, in today’s NFL, in order to be successful, you must be mobile at the quarterback position. Sunday Manning was, which allowed him to extend plays and hit his receivers down field.

After looking deflated and starting from behind the first two weeks of the season, Manning led the Giants downfield for a touch down on the G-Men’s first drive. It was the first time since November 1st of 2015 that the Giants have scored on its first drive on the road.

Eli’s ability to roll out of the pocket and hit receivers all over the field that set apart this performance from the first two games of the season. Manning’s ability to move around sparked the Giants offense.

Manning also utilized his biggest weapon, Odell Beckham Jr. Manning fed OBJ the ball early and often. Beckham was Manning’s main target all game. The duo connected 10 times for  109 yards.

Though the first two games, Manning only had thrown for 503 yards, equating for one touchdown while adding an interception. Manning finished Sunday’s game completing 25 of his 29 pass attempts for 297 yards. Manning also added two touchdown passes and no interceptions. This vintage Eli performance was good for a sparkling 132.3 passer rating.

Despite being sacked four times, Manning looked as comfortable as he’s looked in the pocket all season. The offensive line looked much better blocking for its quarterback in Sunday’s game.

Chad Wheeler, Ereck Flowers replacement, played a significant part in Manning’s success. The Giant’s O-line proved to be a key element in the game, even with its slew of injuries.

Eli Manning came ready to play for the G-Men in Sunday’s matchup against Houston. A loss could have put an end to Big Blue’s playoff hopes for 2018. A big performance from Manning, heading into next week at 1-2 gives the Giants faithful some hope for a playoff appearance.

Eli’s performance provided Giants fans with some serious optimism after an abysmal start to the season. Manning will look for another vintage performance in the Giants next matchup against future Hall of Famer Drew Brees and the Saints.