Survivor I - Eli Manning Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Recent Stats

YR	CMP	ATT	PYD	PTD	INT	RSH	RSHYD	RSHTD	FPT	RANK
2004	95	197	1043	6	9	6	35	0	70.7	36

Positives - Manning was able to get about half of a season under his belt last year and get used to the speed of the pro game. He showed marked improvement over the final 3 games completing 61% of his passes and throwing for 5 of his 6 TDs. Manning has a top rated RB & TE to rely on and take pressure off of him. The Giants also signed Plaxico Burress to come in and stretch the field. The Giants also beefed up their offensive line bringing in former Jet Kareem McKenzie.

Negatives - Even with a strong final 3 games, Manning only finished the year completing 48% of his passes. He did not throw for over 200 yards in any game and was sacked the second most times in the league. Manning still has a lot to learn and unfortunately must do all his learning on the fly.

Draft Strategy - Once I was left with Tom Brady as my starter I decided to employ a QBBC philosophy and thus was looking for a 3rd starter. I really wanted that person to be Bledsoe who has the potential to put up big numbers a few times during the year. Left with Manning or Rex Grossman, it was easy to choose Manning based on his lineage and the fact he’ll have more weapons at his disposal. I have now filled out depth at all key positions and can concentrate on filling out remainder of roster.