Manning Can't Afford A Slow Start Against Eagles

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ -- After a poor opening week performance, Eli Manning didn't exactly start out on fire before finally settling in to lead the New York Giants to Monday's 28-16 win over the St. Louis Rams at MetLife Stadium.

If the Giants expect to be competitive in Sunday's matchup at Lincoln Financial Field against the Eagles, Manning has to but an entire consistent game together.

In New York's opening 28-14 loss at Washington, Manning completed 18 of 32 passes for 267 yards, no touchdown, one interceptions and just a 70.8 passer rating.

Then against St. Louis, he completed just 2 of his first 11 passes before rebounding. Manning's final statistics were 18 of 29 passing for 200 yards two touchdowns, one interceptions and a 91.2 rating.

What isn't helping the situation is that Manning's receivers continue to go down.

Hakeem Nicks played, although he has a sore knee. Against St. Louis fellow receiver Mario Manningham suffered a concussion and wideout Domenik Hixon hurt his knee.

Afterwards, coach Tom Coughlin was asked if he felt Manning will find his rhythm this week.

"I'm sure he will; I'm sure that will happen," Coughlin said. "He was doing everytbing that he could do to turn it around on the field. He was able to do that. That will help."

Was this wishful thinking, or true confidence?

The Giants have a strong running game, although they averaged just 3.1 yards per carry against the Rams, who were daring them to pass.

If Manning isn't up to the challenge against the Eagles, then it will be along day for the Giants.

This is Manning's eighth season and his lack of consistency keeps him from being among the elite quarterbacks.

He likely can't afford the same type of start against the Eagles that he has vs. the Rams.

Manning credited St. Louis for applying the heat on him early in the game.

"They had a good plan and they got some pressure early on," he said. "I settled down and got a few completions under my belt."

A similar start against the Eagles could prove disastrous, whether Michael Vick plays or not.