Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
To say that Eli Manning‘s play this season has been absolutely abysmal would still quite possibly be the understatement of the century. I don’t believe there are any words in the English language that can truly paint the proper picture and fully capture the essence of his ineptitude.
Through the first four games of the season, Manning has thrown six touchdowns, four of which came in one game alone. More notable than the touchdowns, however, are the turnovers he’s committed — a staggering nine interceptions and two lost fumbles already. He’s on pace for 24 touchdowns and 36 interceptions, more picks than he had in the last two seasons combined.
Right now, he’s making a very strong case for being forever banished from disgruntled owners’ lineups as he continues racing towards the worst season of his career.
It’s not all Manning’s fault; his offensive line couldn’t protect him if their lives depended on it. He’s getting no time to throw the ball, and he’s crumbling every time defenses close in on him. He’s been sacked 14 times, half of which came in Week 3 alone when the New York Giants got dismantled by the Carolina Panthers and shockingly put zero points on the scoreboard.
If this poor fellow is going to turn his season around, it has to start this weekend against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles’ secondary is as generous as they come, currently giving up 325 yards and 2.25 touchdowns per game to signal-callers, which amounts to an average of 21.75 fantasy points in standard leagues (including interceptions).
Manning has to step up in this one big-time. The Giants are 0-4 and now face a division rival in a non-negotiable, must-win situation. Every quarterback would love to have all the time in the world to throw, but he has to face reality here and get the ball out as quickly as possible. The Eagles’ D is certain to provide him with ample opportunities to make plays, but it’ll be up to him to keep his composure and get it done.
It’s now or never for Eli. If he can pull himself together and turn things around with a strong performance against the Eagles, there may just be hope for him and his fantasy owners. But if he can’t come through against a truly terrible pass defense like the one he’s about to face, he won’t be a reliable option against any other opponent. This is his last chance before he’s declared a full-blown fantasy ship-sinker.
Dan Freeman is a Fantasy football writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @DanFreeman88.
