Giants to Make Playoffs Because of Eli or Despite Eli ?

Is the New Giants success because of Eli Manning, or despite of Eli Manning? Playing in his 3rd full year as the starting QB of the New York Giants, there is still uncertainty regarding his performance.

The Giants are just one win away from clinching their 3rd consecutive playoff appearance. At 9-4 they have a two game lead over the Minnesota Vikings (7-6) and at least a 3 game lead over any other wildcard hopeful. Barring a complete melt down and some significant bad luck it's safe to say Eli Manning and the New York Giants are heading for the playoffs three years in a row.

In 2004 the Giants made a block buster deal with the San Diego Chargers obtaining Eli Manning in exchange for:
1) Philip Rivers (2004 4th overall pick)
2) A 2005 first round draft pick (used to obtain Shawne Merriman)
3) A 2004 3rd round pick (used to obtain kicker Nate Kaeding), and
4) A 2005 5th round pick (traded for LT Roben Omen from the Bucs).

In 2005 Eli was in his first year as the starter going into training camp. The Giants went on to become NFC East champions and had an impressive 11-5 record. In 2006 the Giants were 8-8 and made the playoffs for the second year in a row. Now in 2007 the Giants are 9-4 and in good position for their 3rd consecutive playoff run.

With three playoff appearances in row you might think Eli would be covered in praise, on the contrary Eli has been taking a lot of heat. There are still big questions hanging over his performance. If you are one for statistics there are reasons to have your doubts about Eli. In 2005 he ranked 31st in the league with 17 interceptions, 2006 he ranked 28th with 18, and so far in 2007 he ranks 33rd in the league with 17 picks. His QB ratings have been 75.9 in 2005, 77 in 2006, and in 2007 he is sitting at 75, ranking him 23rd in the league. Those numbers are anything but impressive.

Eli has also had the luxury of a consistent supporting cast. Tiki Barber was a rock at running back, and this year Brandon Jacobs, and Derrick Ward have stepped in nicely. Burress, Toomer and Shockey are above average receiving threats in the league, and the offensive line has been over achieving for years.