* Giants quarterback Eli Manning does not have the standing to criticize former teammate Tiki Barber, but Barber has more than enough standing to criticize Manning. Manning still has to earn his stripes. To date he has demonstrated neither leadership nor consistency on the gridiron. Barber is the Giants’ all-time leader in rushing yards and receptions and single-handedly won many games by stepping up in crucial situations. Manning? He’s still learning – in his fourth season. Manning’s biggest concern should be that the Giants do not have another disappointing season. After this season, the brass won’t be able to make the excuse that Manning is still learning. Do your talking on the field, Eli.
ELIO VALENTI
Brooklyn
* So, Little Eli Manning’s going to be “The Man?” The photo on the back page of Wednesday’s paper shows the same spoiled-brat look he had when he was drafted by the Chargers – who he was too good to play for. That says it all. Let’s see: four draft choices and Kerry Collins for this? The Giants can’t dump him soon enough. Although I didn’t like Tiki Barber’s act last year, he’s still one of the best Giants ever. Please, Jerry Reese, send Ernie Accorsi’s folly packing now. At least Jared Lorenzen, the Hefty Lefty, plays with passion and some fire.
DAVID EMERICK
Uxbridge, Mass.
* Eli Manning says Tiki Barber never played with heart? If Manning played with half the heart that Barber played with, the Giants would be a perennial playoff team. Barber was not only the Giants’ halfback, but also their best receiver because Manning lacked the ability to throw the ball deep to Plaxico Burress, Amani Toomer and Jeremy Shockey. I say we give him this year and next, and if by the end of next year, Manning doesn’t show himself to be outstanding, the Giants should cut him.
EDWARD DROSSMAN
Manhattan