OFFENSE
This is now serious. Eli Manning is no longer in a slump. It’s a full-fledged plummet. Threw 46 times, longest completion for only 16 yards, two interceptions, one lost fumble, no TDs yet again. This time, protection (four sacks) a big issue. Hakeem Nicks (9-75) more in swing of things, but Victor Cruz (3-26) not and also dropped sure-fire TD. One big, fat mess. F
DEFENSE
Blown coverage in first couple of minutes led to painfully easy 56-yard TD for A.J. Green, who was correct about holes in this defense. Andy Dalton turned into right-handed Boomer Esiason with career-high four TD passes and not sacked or breathed on all day. Run-stopping was fine and field position was lousy, but no forced turnovers and no plays made on back end. D
SPECIAL TEAMS
Steve Weatherford hit a great 61-yard punt out of bounds. Perfect. But Justin Tryon was penalized for running out of bounds. Re-punt, 59-yarder down the middle returned 68 yards by Adam Jones. So it goes. There’s no more magic on David Wilson’s kickoff returns. Lawrence Tynes with two more short FGs. C-
COACHING
Tom Coughlin said afterward he has to take a look at himself for the way he prepared his team for this stinker. He won’t like what he sees. Credit Kevin Gilbride for at least changing things up with no-huddle and short passing game. Didn’t work a lick, though. Communication breakdowns still plague Perry Fewell’s defense. F