Safety Kenny Phillips has been down this road before, saying he is going to make a return, only to find himself on the inactive list on Sunday. It happened three weeks ago before the game against the Steelers. This time, Phillips says it’s different.
“I feel a whole lot better than I did two weeks ago, a week ago,’’ Phillips said yesterday. “Still I don’t feel 100 percent but I feel I’m good enough to play at this point.’’
Phillips has missed the past six games dealing with a strained MCL. He was able to practice on a limited basis yesterday and said getting through the mental barrier is the next hurdle.
“I think it’s more mental, believing in my ability, basically,’’ he said. “Knowing when I see something telling my mind I’m healthy enough to go get it. That’s kind of where I’m at right now. Hopefully by Sunday I’ll have my confidence back.’’
* Back in the summer, Packers Pro Bowl LB Clay Matthews said the Giants didn’t beat his team in last year’s NFC playoff game, but that the Packers gave it to them.
“As far as his opinion, he’ll have a chance to support that claim this coming Sunday with his performance,’’ Giants defensive tackle Chris Canty said.
Packers coach Mike McCarthy said Matthews (hamstring) is doubtful. Two starters in the secondary, Charles Woodson (collarbone) and Sam Shields (ankle) already have been ruled out.
* With his team mired in a two-game losing streak and another November swoon, coach Tom Coughlin expressed frustration with what he has been hearing.
“I’m not saying that it isn’t the way it should be, but I’m really tired about answering all the questions about what’s wrong,’’ Coughlin said, “and I’d rather we play a game and play it well and answer the questions that way.’’
* WR Domenik Hixon (ankle) and DT Linval Joseph (knee) and RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) did not practice. Joseph said his knee swelled up while he was getting some therapy. … LB J
acquian Williams (knee) has a legitimate shot to return after missing four games. He practiced on a limited basis, as did LB Keith Rivers (knee/calf).
* The production of Packers TE Jermichael Finley (32 catches, 337 yards, two TDs) is down this season. Asked if he’s picked up what defenses are doing to contain Finley, Giants LB Chase Blackburn said “I’m not gonna report on that.’’… OL Selvish Capers was signed off the practice squad to take the roster spot that belonged to DT Markus Kuhn, who was put on IR with a torn ACL. … The Giants had been a man down as far as depth on the offensive line ever since they waived Mitch Petrus. … OL Stephen Goodin was signed to the practice squad. …WR David Douglas was signed by the Buccaneers off of the Giants’ practice squad.