Tonight’s Five Keys To Success
On the last practice before Super Bowl 42, David Tyree had “one of the all time worst practices,” according to Eli Manning. Tyree dropped balls left and right, and when the practice ended, he complained that fumes emanating from his helmet were affecting his concentration.
It turned out that one of the equipment managers decided to re-paint all of the helmets, seeing as the game would be watched on millions of HD televisions. He used acrylic urethane enamel paint, known for its weather resistance, glossy finish and excellent adhesiveness.
The equipment manager assured Tyree that when the paint dried, the fumes would disappear and that their new glistening blue helmets would lead them all to victory. The equipment manager was fired and never heard from again.
While this story is not technically accurate, and cannot be verified by fact, it goes to show that it is often the little things, the overlooked aspects, that factor into determining the outcome of football games. I now bring you my five little keys to the game that will get the Giants off on the right foot on their road to repeat.
1) Don’t use Reuben Droughns as a short yardage guy
For some reason, Reuben Droughns was often used in short yardage situations while Brandon Jacobs sat on the bench. I get it; Coughlin has stated that he wants to get more than just three backs involved, and Droughns was once a tough, bruising back. But at this point, Danny Ware might be more of an asset.
2) Get Domenik Hixon involved
It almost sounds like a cliche at this point for Giants fans to rave about Hixon. But the truth is, with his size and speed, he may be a better fit to take over as the #2 receiver when/if Amani Toomer ever retires, with Steve Smith manning the slot. This all hinges on Hixon playing like he did in the pre-season, which is why it’s not a bad idea to test him early and see if they’ve got a keeper.
3) Watch out for Jason Taylor dropping into coverage
Defensive End/Dancing Star Jason Taylor is the Redskins’ annual big addition. If healthy, he is one of the top ends in the game, and has especially great hands. The last thing Eli wants to do is give Taylor a reason to show off his dance moves in the end zone.
4) Don’t rely on Carney’s leg
Newly signed kicker John Carney does not have a strong leg, and has attempted only 1 field goal of 50 or more yards over his last 3 seasons (although he did make it). He is pretty accurate from closer in, but he also struggles on kick-offs. The defense may have to overcome some field position issues.
5) Show lots of Super Bowl clips on the video screens
Especially if the Giants face an early deficit, nothing will inspire the players like clips from their miraculous Super Bowl victory. Except maybe clips from Gladiator.
