NFL

BEAR ESSENTIALS

QUARTERBACKS B

On most days, two interceptions and one lost fumble for three turnovers isn’t going to get it done for Eli Manning (16 of 27, 195 yards, 1 TD). Give him credit for sticking with it and two fourth-quarter drives in a fine bounce-back.

RUNNING BACKS B+

What a shame for Derrick Ward (24-154, 1 TD), who had a career game before breaking his left leg. The guy can’t catch a break with his health.

WIDE RECEIVERS B-

Amani Toomer (6-69) has the tech nique to make that lunging, scooping catch for key TD in fourth quarter. Ailing Plaxico Burress (3-36) made difficult grab to set up winning TD.

TIGHT ENDS C

It took Jeremy Shockey (2-25) into the third quarter to get his first catch. Mi chael Matthews saved Ward by recover ing his fumble.

OFFENSIVE LINE B+

Run blocking superb most of the game, especially getting out to the edge. Can’t argue with 175 rushing yards. Pass protection got better the later it got.

DEFENSIVE LINE A

Constant heat on Rex Grossman, with sacks by Justin Tuck (11/2), Michael Strahan, Osi Umenyiora and Fred Rob bins. Strahan’s ability against the run continues to be exemplary.

LINEBACKERS B-

What a performance by Kawika Mitch ell (12 tackles, ½ sack), who made plenty of plays behind or at the line of scrimmage. TE Desmond Clark (5-76, 1 TD) was a factor.

SECONDARY B-

Injuries during game forced two rook ies, Michael Johnson (five tackles) and Craig Dahl, in at safety. S James Butler lucky that Devin Hester’s hands betrayed him.

SPECIAL TEAMS A

Coverage on Hester was outstanding (16 yards on three punt returns). Some adventures out there on RW McQuart ers returns.

KICKING GAME A-

What a marvel is Jeff Feagles, who dominated in his five punts vs. Hester. Lawrence Tynes vs. Hester sent two kickoffs out of bounds, which isn’t advisable, but defense bailed him out.

COACHING B

Thank goodness Kevin Gilbride stuck with the running game on the last two drives, that made all the difference. Tom Coughlin won key replay challenge and es chewed kneel-downs and FG try to go for deci sive TD.