The last time Hakeem Nicks had a game like he did in Week 1, he scored five touchdowns over the next three weeks, all in must-win games.
In the Giants’ season-opening loss to the Cowboys, the Giants’ No. 1 wideout managed just four catches for 38 yards, his lowest totals since last year’s Week 16 start against Jets shutdown cornerback Darrelle Revis (one catch, 20 yards).
The week after Revis Island, though, Nicks racked up five grabs for 76 yards and a touchdown against Dallas, then had six catches for 116 yards and two touchdowns in a playoff game versus Atlanta. He followed that with seven catches for 165 yards and two more scores in a playoff upset in Green Bay.
Nicks (foot) did not practice yesterday and is officially listed as questionable (he practiced in a limited capacity Thursday) for tomorrow’s game against the Bucs.
As he was leaving the locker room yesterday, Nicks said, “I’m good.”
* Linebacker Keith Rivers (hamstring) is listed as doubtful, meaning Jacquian Williams or Spencer Paysinger may see more snaps or starter Michael Boley may end up playing more.
“I’ve been able to practice, so we’ll see what happens,” Rivers said.
In the season opener, Rivers started for Boley, who played but was dealing with a hamstring issue.
Boley said his hamstring is fine and he expects to start.
* Victor Cruz was excused from practice because of his grandmother’s funeral.
Center David Baas (hip) did not practice, but is probable. “I’m ready for Sunday,” he said.
Cornerback Prince Amukamara (ankle) is questionable, but said he believes he can play. CB Michael Coe (hamstring) is probable. “I feel real good,” he said.
DL Adewale Ojomo (hamstring) is out.
* Tom Coughlin on paralyzed former Rutgers player Eric LeGrand — whose former coach, Greg Schiano, now runs the Bucs — handling tomorrow’s coin toss: “God bless Eric. We all wish Eric the very, very best, and I’ve had the pleasure of seeing him on a couple of occasions on television. He’s done a great job. I think it’ll be very nice that he’s with us.”