**
Shane Vereen will have more pass targets than rush attempts.**
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JOHN SCHMEELK: Fiction -In his most targeted season in New England (2014), Vereen had 77 targets. If he plays in 16 games, that equates to slightly fewer than five per game. If I had to place a bet today, I think Vereen averages closer to six or seven rushes per game this year.
If Rashad Jennings gets hurt again, this will be a fiction, and it won't even be close. The way this becomes a fact is if Jennings and Williams are very effective as runners, and Vereen isn't needed to carry the much.
DAN SALOMONE: Fact -First let's look at his past numbers. In four seasons, Vereen had more targets than rushing attempts in just one of them. That was in 2013 when he had 69 targets compared to 44 carries.
However, he played in just eight games that season with one start for his former team, the New England Patriots. But that was then. Vereen is now with a new team and an offensive coordinator in Ben McAdoo, who is entering his second season. Assuming the running backs stay relatively healthy, Vereen could be a staple in Eli Manning's arsenal a year after the quarterback set a career high in completion percentage.
LANCE MEDOW: Fact -Shane Vereen's career stats don't support my cause so my rationale is simply based on the Giants
depth chart and the distribution of carries versus receptions. In two of the last three seasons, he's had more rushing attempts than targets including 2014 when he had 96 rushes compared to 77 targets. Keep in mind, New England rotated running backs based on matchups, so players were constantly in and out of the lineup and roles changed week to week. Last season, Jonas Gray, Stevan Ridley and Vereen each had at least 89 carries, but Vereen ran away with the targets. The next closest running back had just 23. Unlike the Patriots, the Giants' three running backs, I think, will have more consistent, defined roles with Rashad Jennings and Andre Williams handling most of the first and second down duties…Vereen as the change of pace back.
To put things in perspective, last season, Jennings and Williams combined for 78 targets…Vereen alone had 77. With the latter's versatility, he can play out of the slot as a receiver and should thrive in a system where the quarterback is encouraged to get rid of the ball quickly. As long as Jennings and Williams both stay healthy, I can see them doing a lot of the heavy lifting on the ground while Vereen does most of his damage through the air.
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Johnathan Hankins is the most likely first-time Pro Bowler.**
JOHN SCHMEELK: Fiction -Hankins is number two in my book, but I'm going to go with Prince Amukamara. For a couple seasons, when healthy, Prince has been one of the best cornerbacks in football.
Hankins, meanwhile, has only played on that level for one season. Prince's health, of course, is the real trick. He has only played a full 16-game season once, and he told me the other day that is a huge goal for him this year.
If he can do it, there's a good chance he is in the Pro Bowl.
DAN SALOMONE: Fact -After playing a limited role as a rookie in 2013, Hankins had a breakout campaign last season,
View photos of the all-time history of New York Giants in the Pro Bowl.
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) drops back to pass while the Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) gets set to block him during Pro Bowl Games in Hawaii in 1986. (AP Photo)
NFC New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) chases the action during the NFL Pro Bowl Football game against the AFC on Feb. 6, 2000 in Honolulu. The NFC won the game 51-31. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants Hall of Fame quarterback Fran Tarkenton (10) of the East rolls out to pass as Baltimore Colts defensive tackle Fred Miller (76) of the West applies pressure during the 1968 NFL Pro Bowl in Los Angeles, Calif., Jan. 21, 1968.
Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame linebacker Dave Robinson (89) and Detroit Lions Hall of Fame cornerback Lem Barney (20) pursue New York Giants running back Ernie Koy (24) of the East during the 1968 NFL Pro Bowl in Los Angeles, Calif., Jan. 21, 1968.
New York Giants quarterback Norm Snead (16) of the NFC throws a pass during the 1973 NFL Pro Bowl in Irving, Texas, Jan. 21, 1973. The AFC defeated the NFC 33-28 at Texas Stadium.
New York Giants running back Ron Johnson (30) of the NFC runs away from Houston Oilers defensive end Elvin Bethea (65) of the AFC during the 1973 NFL Pro Bowl in Irving, Texas, Jan. 21, 1973. The AFC defeated the NFC 33-28 at Texas Stadium.
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) takes a defensive stance during the NFL Pro Bowl football game between the AFC and the NFC in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 29, 1984. The NFC won the game 45-3.
NFC defensive back Mark Haynes (36) of the New York Giants runs with the football after intercepting a pass during the NFC's 45-3 victory over the AFC in the 1984 NFL Pro Bowl played on January 29, 1984 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo)
NFC linebacker Brad Van Pelt (10) of the New York Giants in action during the NFC's 21-7 victory over the AFC in the 1981 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1981 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson (53) at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 16-13 AFC victory on January 31, 1982, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC quarterback Joe Theismann (7) of the Washington Redskins congratulates Giants place kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) after kicking a 23-yard field goal during the NFC's 45-3 victory over the AFC in the 1984 NFL Pro Bowl played on January 29, 1984 at Aloha S
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) drops back to pass while the Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) gets set to block him during Pro Bowl Games in Hawaii in 1986.
NFC running back Joe Morris of the New York Giants carries the football during the NFC's 28-24 victory over the AFC in the 1986 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 2, 1986 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC New York Giants nose tackle Jim Burt (64) looks on during the 1987 NFL Pro Bowl football game between the AFC and the NFC on February 1, 1987 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC won the game 10-6. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (Hall of Fame Class of 2004) has his pass batted down by Giants defensive tackle Leonard Marshall (70) during the AFC's 10-6 victory over the NFC in the 1987 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1987 at Aloha Stadium.
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson signs autographs for fans at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 15-6 AFC victory on February 7, 1988, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC linebacker Carl Banks of the New York Giants during the NFC's 15-6 loss to the AFC in the 1988 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 7, 1988 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants safety Terry Kinard (43) picks off a pass during the NFL Pro Bowl, a 34-3 NFC victory on January 29, 1989, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor (57) at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 27-21 NFC victory on February 4, 1990, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC center Bart Oates of the New York Giants signs autographs for fans before the NFC's 23-21 loss to the AFC in the 1991 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 3, 1991 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC punter Sean Landeta (5) of the New York Giants kicks the football away during the NFC's 23-21 loss to the AFC in the 1991 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 3, 1991 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC tackle William Roberts of the New York Giants during the NFC's 23-21 loss to the AFC in the 1991 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 3, 1991 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC cornerback Reyna Thompson (22) of the New York Giants and safety Mark Carrier (24) of the Chicago Bears line up opposite AFC punt team gunner Steve Tasker (89) of the Buffalo Bills during the NFC's 23-21 loss to the AFC in the 1991 NFL Pro Bowl.
NFC center Bart Oates (65) of the New York Giants sets to snap the football during the NFC's 21-15 victory over the AFC in the 1992 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 2, 1992 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Giants running back Rodney Hampton on Pro Bowl Media Day before the AFC's 23-20 overtime victory over the NFC in the 1993 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 7, 1993 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC running back Rodney Hampton (27) of the New York Giants carries the football during the NFC's 17-3 victory over the AFC in the 1994 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 6, 1994 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan at photo day for the NFL Pro Bowl on January 31, 1998, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC defensive end Michael Strahan (92) of the New York Giants in action during the AFC's 29-24 victory over the NFC in the 1998 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1998 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
AFC head coach Bill Belichick (facing camera) and NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, who is retiring from pro football, embrace on the field following the Pro Bowl football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007.
Antonio Pierce #58 and Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants during pregame introductions as the AFC and NFC All-Stars compete in the 2007 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 10, 2007 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 31-28. (AP Photo)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72), of the NFC team, is introduced as the lone Super Bowl champion Giants player before the Pro Bowl football game in Honolulu, Sunday, Feb. 10, 2008.
New York Giants football players from left to right, Zak DeOssie (51), Eli Manning (10), Chris Snee (76), Justin Tuck (91), John Carney (5), Shaun O'Hara (60), and Jeff Feagles (18) pose for photos with hula dancers before an NFC practice.
NFC All-Stars Tiki Barber #21, Osi Umenyiora #72, David Tyree #85, and Michael Strahan #92 pose for a team photo
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith (12) celebrates a touchdown catch with tackle David Diehl (66) during first quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in Miami. (AP Photo/J. Pat Carter)
New York Giants tackle David Diehl (66) talks to center Shaun O'Hara (60) during the NFL football Pro Bowl Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in Miami. (AP Photo/J. Pat Carter)
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning, left, and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, pose for photos with their dad Archie Manning, center, before Pro Bowl football practice in Kapolei, Hawaii, Friday Feb. 6, 200
NFC All-Stars quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants throws a pass against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars punter Jeff Feagles #18 of the New York Giants punts the ball to the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars place kicker John Carney #5 of the New York Giants kicks a fourth quarter field goal to give his team a 30-21 lead against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck flashes a Hawaiian "shaka" sign on the field before Pro Bowl NFL football game at Aloha Stadium, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
New York Giants tackle David Diehl (66) points to a first down during the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, in Miami. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants center Shaun O'Hara (60) of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars during the 2010 NFL Pro Bowl, January 31, 2010 in Miami, Florida. The AFC won the game 41-34. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants guard Chris Snee (76) of the NFC plays in the NFL Pro Bowl Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011 in Honolulu.
New York Giants long snapper Zak DeOssie (51) comes out on the field prior to the NFL AFC/NFC 2011 Pro Bowl on Sunday January 30, 2011 in Honolulu, HI. The NFC won the game 55-41. (AP Photo/ Jim Mahoney)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, left,, New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, center, and Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) share a laugh before the NFC team photo at the NFL Football Pro Bowl in Kapolei, Hawaii, Friday, Jan. 25, 2013.
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) of the NFC breaks away from Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Robert Mathis (98) and Houston Texans cornerback Johnathan Joseph (24) of the AFC to score a touchdown in the second quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl game in Honolulu, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2013.
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) of the NFC celebrates a touchdown reception by doing the salsa during the NFL Pro Bowl all-star football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 27, 2013. The NFC defeated the AFC 62-35.
Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) of the AFC pulls down New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) of the NFC after Pierre-Paul made an interception during the forth quarter of the NFL Pro Bowl football game in Honolulu, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2013. The NFC beat the AFC 62-35.
New York Giants offensive lineman Chris Snee (76) of the NFC blocks at the line of scrimmage during the NFL Pro Bowl all-star football game, Sunday, January 27, 2013 in Honolulu. The NFC defeated the AFC 62-35.
New York Giants safety Antrel Rolle (26) of Team Rice before the start of the NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2014, in Honolulu.
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) hugs Michael Irvin after being selected by Team Irvin during the Pro Bowl draft at the Arizona Biltmore on Wednesday, January 21, 2015 in Phoenix, Arizona.
New York Giants' Odell Beckham shakes hands with young spectators before the NFL Football Pro Bowl Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015, in Glendale, Ariz.
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) of Team Irvin runs the ball as Denver Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib (21) of Team Carter defends during the 2015 NFL Pro Bowl game at the University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, January 25, 2015 in Glendale, AZ.
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. (13), of Team Rice, makes a one handed catch following practice on Friday, Jan. 29, 2016, in Kahuku, Hawaii.
New York Giants Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) intercepts a pass intended for New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. (13) during the NFL Pro Bowl football game, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu.
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) looks to pass during the NFL Pro Bowl football game, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu.
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10), of Team Rice, celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass during an NFL Pro Bowl football game against Team Irvin on, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu.
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) of Team Irvin returns an interception during an NFL Pro Bowl Game against Team Rice on January 31, 2016. Team Irvin defeated Team Rice 49-27.
New York Giants safety Landon Collins (21) runs upfield during the NFC football practice for the NFL Pro Bowl, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017 at Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
New York Giants Odell Beckham Jr. (13) competes in the Drone Drop event at the 2017 Pro Bowl Skills Challenge on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
AFC fullback Kyle Juszczyk (44), of the Baltimore Ravens, is tackled by NFC linebacker Anthony Barr (55), of the Minnesota Vikings, and defensive back Janoris Jenkins (20), of the New York Giants, after catching a pass during the first half of the NFL Pro Bowl football game in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017.
New York Giants strong safety Landon Collins (21) lines up during the NFL Pro Bowl football game Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017, in Orlando, Fla.
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. (13) and his teammates pose in the end zone before the 2017 NFL Pro Bowl football game Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017 in Orlando. The AFC won 20 - 13.
Michael Strahan of the New York Giants laughs as he answers a question during a press conference to promote the Pro Bowl during festivities for Super Bowl XL in Detroit Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2006. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
NFC linebacker Kevin Greene of the Carolina Panthers looks innocent enough after getting Michael Strahan, Reggie White, and John Randle to crack up on Pro Bowl Media Day before the AFC's 23-10 victory over the NFC in the 1999 NFL Pro Bowl played on Februa (Paul Spinelli via AP)
HONOLULU, HI - FEBRUARY 9: New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the NFC runs in pursuit against the AFC in the 2002 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 9, 2002 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-30. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan at photo day for the NFL Pro Bowl on January 31, 1998, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
HONOLULU, HI - FEBRUARY 9: New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the NFC tries to beat a block against the AFC in the 2002 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 9, 2002 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-30. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
Left to right, Barry Sanders, who retired from the Detroit Lions, Michael Strahan of the New York Giants, Tony Gonzalez of the Kansas City Chiefs, and Antonio Gates of the San Diego Chargers speaks during a press conference to promote the Pro Bowl during festivities for Super Bowl XL in Detroit Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2006. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
New York Giants' Osi Umenyiora, center left, and Michael Strahan, center right, clown around as they get ready for a team photo with hula dancers Anreana Tseu, left, and Liana Green, right, prior to NFC practice for the Pro Bowl Friday, Feb. 10, 2006, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
HONOLULU, HI - FEBRUARY 9: Kansas City Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez #87 of the AFC runs a pass pattern against New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the NFC in the 2000 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 6, 2000 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 51-31. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
Michael Strahan, left, of the New York Giants, and Tony Gonzalez of the Kansas City Chiefs, take questions during a press conference to promote the Pro Bowl during festivities for Super Bowl XL in Detroit Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2006. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
NFC Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Ronde Barber, left, greets his twin brother NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber following the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
A detail view of the gold chain worn by New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) following an NFC Team Practice prior to an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Friday, Jan. 25, 2019 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
NFC defensive back Michael Thomas (31), of the New York Giants, runs onto the field during player introductions before the NFL Pro Bowl football game against the AFC Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during the NFL Pro Bowl Football Game, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. The AFC beat the NFC 26-7. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) and New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate after a play during the NFL Pro Bowl Football Game, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. The AFC beat the NFC 26-7. (Matt Patterson via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 in Orlando, Fla. The AFC team won 26-7. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks on following an NFC Team Practice prior to an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Friday, Jan. 25, 2019 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
NFC running back Saquon Barkley (26), of the New York Giants, runs onto the field during player introductions before the NFL Pro Bowl football game against the AFC Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during the NFL Pro Bowl Football Game, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. The AFC beat the NFC 26-7. (Matt Patterson via AP)
New York Giants tight end Mark Bavaro (89) looks on from the sideline during the NFL Pro Bowl football game between the NFC National Football Conference and the AFC American Football Conference on Sunday, Feb. 1, 1987 in Honolulu. The AFC won the game 10-6. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jarvis Landry (80) talks with New York Giants outside linebacker Olivier Vernon (54) during an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 in Orlando, Fla. The AFC team won 26-7. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants defensive back Michael Thomas (31) catches a pass during practice for the 2019 Pro Bowl, Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019 in Kissimmee, Fla. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) is seen during practice for the 2019 Pro Bowl, Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019 in Kissimmee, Fla. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
NFC safety Landon Collins (21), of the New York Giants, watches from the sideline during the second half of the NFL Pro Bowl football game against the AFC in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017. The AFC won 20-13. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
NFC quarterback Russell Wilson (3), of the Seattle Seahawks, hands off to running back Saquon Barkley (26), of the New York Giants, before the NFL Pro Bowl football game Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) jokes around with New York Jets center Nick Mangold (74) at the NFL Pro Bowl football draft at Wheeler Army Airfield, Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016, in Wahiawa, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10), of Team Rice, celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass during an NFL Pro Bowl football game against Team Irvin on, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 27-21 NFC victory on February 4, 1990, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
NFC linebacker Jessie Armstead (98) of the New York Giants in action during the AFC's 29-24 victory over the NFC in the 1998 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1998 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) of the NFC is introduced during the NFL Pro Bowl all-star football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 27, 2013. The NFC defeated the AFC 62-35. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen (69) of the NFC talks with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) of the NFC during Pro Bowl practice at Joint Base Pearl Habor-Hickam in Honolulu, Hawaii on Thursday, January 24, 2013. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Running back Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball while chased by AFC safety Troy Polamalu #43 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2005 NFL Pro Bowl All-Stars game on February 13, 2005 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-27. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC linebacker Jessie Armstead (98) of the New York Giants in action during the AFC's 29-24 victory over the NFC in the 1998 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1998 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
NFC New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) and Chicago Bears head coach Mike Ditka wear leis as they pose for a team photograph during the week of the 1989 NFL Pro Bowl football game against the AFC on Jan. 24, 1989 in Honolulu. The NFC won the game 34-3. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Jessie Armstead at photo day for the NFL Pro Bowl on January 31, 1998, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
NFC running back Rodney Hampton of the New York Giants during Pro Bowl Media Day before the NFC's 17-3 victory over the AFC in the 1994 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 6, 1994 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan at photo day for the NFL Pro Bowl on January 31, 1998, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10), New York Jets center Nick Mangold (74), Buffalo Bills center Eric Wood (70), Tampa Bay Buccaneers guard Logan Mankins (70) are seen at the NFL Pro Bowl football draft at Wheeler Army Airfield, Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016, in Wahiawa, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
NFC running back Rodney Hampton of the New York Giants carries the football during the NFC's 23-20 overtime loss to the AFC in the 1993 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 7, 1993 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) of the NFC team catches punts in a sumo suit during a NFC Team Practice on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
New York Giants safety Terry Kinard (43) picks off a pass during the NFL Pro Bowl, a 34-3 NFC victory on January 29, 1989, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson signs autographs for fans at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 15-6 AFC victory on February 7, 1988, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor shakes hands with then-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Alan Page at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 15-6 AFC victory on February 7, 1988, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) of the NFC makes a touchdown reception during the NFL Pro Bowl all-star football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 27, 2013. The NFC defeated the AFC 62-35. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) of the NFC signs autographs after NFC Pro Bowl practice at Kapolei High School in Kapolei, Hawaii on Wednesday, January 23, 2013. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) of Team Rice throws a pass during the NFL Pro Bowl football game against Team Irvin on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016 in Honolulu. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) of Team Rice makes a play during the first quarter of the NFL Pro Bowl football game, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
NFC All-Stars punter Jeff Feagles #18 of the New York Giants punts the ball to the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. of Team Rice catches a pass with one hand during NFL Pro Bowl football practice, Friday, Jan. 29, 2016, in Kahuku, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Eugene Tanner) Team Rice
New York Giants safety Antrel Rolle (26) of Team Rice during the third quarter at the NFL Pro Bowl football game at Aloha Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2014, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) of the NFC team dunks a football during a NFC Team Practice on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) of the NFC signs autographs after NFC Pro Bowl practice at Kapolei High School in Kapolei, Hawaii on Wednesday, January 23, 2013. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
NFC free safety Antrel Rolle, of the New York Giants, and linebacker Jon Beason (52), of the Carolina Panthers, celebrate during the first quarter against the AFC in the Pro Bowl NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/ Marco Garcia)
(L-R) NBC Sports game analyst Al Michaels poses for a photo with quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants and father Archie Manning prior to the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl against the AFC All-Stars at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars place kicker John Carney #5 of the New York Giants kicks a fourth quarter field goal to give his team a 30-21 lead against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars guard Chris Snee #76 of the New York Giants blocks AFC All-Stars defensive tackle Shaun Rogers #92 of the Cleveland Browns in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants tackle David Diehl (66) points to a first down during the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, in Miami. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars New York Giants drops back to pass at practice the day before the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 7, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants looks to hand off the ball on a running play against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars punter Jeff Feagles #18 of the New York Giants punts the ball to the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Hula girls flank members of the NFC All-Stars (L-R) Zak DeOssie #51, Eli Manning #10, Chris Snee #76, Justin Tuck #91, John Carney #5, Shaun O'Hara #60, and Jeff Feagles #18 of the New York Giants at team photo day the week of the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at the Ihilani Resort and Spa on February 6, 2009 in Kapolei, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars New York Giants drops back to pass during practice the week of the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at the Ihilani Resort and Spa on February 6, 2009 in Kapolei, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants hands off the ball on a running play against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Long snapper Zak DeOssie #51 of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars New York Giants works out at practice the day before the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 7, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants tackle David Diehl (66) talks to center Shaun O'Hara (60) during the NFL football Pro Bowl Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in Miami. (AP Photo/J. Pat Carter)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars New York Giants has some fun on the field with guard Chris Snee #76 of the New York Giants during practice the week of the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at the Ihilani Resort and Spa on February 6, 2009 in Kapolei, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Antonio Pierce #58 and Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants during pregame introductions as the AFC and NFC All-Stars compete in the 2007 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 10, 2007 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 31-28. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC and New York Giants' Tiki Barber waves to the crowd at the end of the Pro Bowl football game, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007. (AP Photo/Ronen Zilberman)
AFC head coach Bill Belichick (facing camera) and NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, who is retiring from pro football, embrace on the field following the Pro Bowl football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007. The AFC won, 31-28. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith (12) celebrates a touchdown catch with tackle David Diehl (66) during first quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in Miami. (AP Photo/J. Pat Carter)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber heads for an NFC touchdown in the second quarter of the Pro Bowl football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007. (AP Photo/Ronen Zilberman)
Running back Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants National Football Conference NFC All-Stars gets upended by Champ Bailey #24 of the Denver Broncos at the 2006 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 12, 2006 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 23-17. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) of the NFC is introduced during the Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 27, 2013. The NFC won 62-35. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
Running back Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball while chased by AFC safety Troy Polamalu #43 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2005 NFL Pro Bowl All-Stars game on February 13, 2005 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-27. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) dodges a tackle from AFC Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) in the first quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
Running back Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball during the 2005 NFL Pro Bowl All-Stars game on February 13, 2005 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-27. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) has the ball knocked loose as he is tackled by AFC Pittsburgh Steelers strong safety Tro Polamalu, right, as AFC Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Deltha O'Neal (24) looks on in the first quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu. The ball was fumbled out of bounds and the NFC retained possession.(AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) participates in the Lightning Round — Splash Catch during the 2023 Pro Bowl Skills Showdown on Thursday, February 2, 2023 in Henderson, Nevada. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) throws the ball during the 2023 Pro Bowl Skills Showdown on Thursday, February 2, 2023 in Henderson, Nevada. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
NFC head coach Eli Manning holds the trophy alongside NFC captain Pete Davidson, right, and assistant coach DeMarcus Ware, left, after the NFC defeated AFC at the NFL Pro Bowl games, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker)
NFC running back Saquon Barkley (26) of the New York Giants attempts to run the ball past AFC outside linebacker Matt Milano (58) of the Buffalo Bills during the flag football event at the Pro Bowl Games, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, in Las Vegas. (Doug Benc/AP Images for NFL)
NFC head coach Eli Manning interacts with AFC head coach Peyton Manning after the Pro Bowl Games, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, in Las Vegas. (Doug Benc/AP Images for NFL)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) is seen during player intros prior to the 2023 Pro Bowl Games on Sunday, February 5, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks to avoid getting hit by a dodgeball during the 2023 Pro Bowl Skills Showdown on Thursday, February 2, 2023 in Henderson, Nevada. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
NFC Coach and former quarterback Eli Manning celebrates with Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) and Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell (58) during the 2023 Pro Bowl Games on Sunday, February 5, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) arrives prior to the 2023 Pro Bowl Games on Sunday, February 5, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) participates in Epic Pro Bowl Dodgeball during the 2023 Pro Bowl Skills Showdown on Thursday, February 2, 2023 in Henderson, Nevada. (Ben Liebenberg/NFL)
NFC Coach Eli Manning and AFC Coach Peyton Manning are seen with an NFL Flag official during the 2023 Pro Bowl Games on Sunday, February 5, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
NFC defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) of the New York Giants films a Blue Man during the flag football event at the NFL Pro Bowl, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker)
setting the stage for a chance to separate himself on the NFL landscape this year.
His 7.0 sacks were right there with, if not better than, the defensive tackles who played in the Pro Bowl this past January.
LANCE MEDOW: Fact -Johnathan Hankins is coming off a breakout campaign in 2014. After appearing in 11 games as a rookie, he took over for Linval Joseph, who left for the Vikings in free agency, and started all 16 games last season taking full advantage of his extended playing time. Hankins recorded 51 tackles and emerged as a pass rusher with seven sacks, finishing second on the team behind Jason Pierre-Paul.
If the former Ohio State standout can build off those numbers in 2015, he'll put himself in a strong position for a Pro Bowl invite. Two other candidates would be Prince Amukumara, who has improved each and every season since his rookie year in 2011 and Devon Kennard, coming off an impressive rookie campaign. But, Prince has struggled to stay healthy (he's only played in 16 games once in his four years in the league) and Kennard is learning a new defense for the second time in as many years and it still remains to be seen what type of a role he'll play in Steve Spagnuolo's scheme.
The most important stretch on the schedule is: PHI, DAL, NO, and TB beginning Week 6.
JOHN SCHMEELK: Fact -I hesitate to label any four-game stretch more important than any other because all the games count in the final standings.
This four-game stretch, however, is the only one where there are two division games and four conference games, three of which are on the road. If the Giants could ever go 3-1 or 4-0 during those four games, they will be in great position for a playoff run.
DAN SALOMONE: Fiction - I know in football it's typically not about how you start; it's about how you finish. But over the last three seasons of missing the playoffs, the Giants haven't been in position to finish because of the way they started. In 2012, they began 2-2. In 2013, they lost their first six games. Last season, they lost the first two, marking the fourth-straight year of losing the opener. So if we're talking in four-game increments, I'm going with the first quarter of the season to get the ball rolling.
LANCE MEDOW: Fact -The old cliché in the NFL is that every game, every stretch of the season, is important and that's 100 percent true especially considering how the last three seasons have played out for the Giants. In 2012, they started strong only to struggle down the stretch. The following season, a slow start proved costly, and last season a mid-season skid came back to haunt them.
Based on those results, I'm hesitant to say any specific group of games is more important than the others, but considering this stretch includes four games against NFC opponents, including two division rivals, this has a little bit more substance. The easiest way to win your division is by beating your rivals, and tie-breakers usually come down to NFC games more so than AFC ones. Plus, this stretch has three road games. In each of the last three seasons, the Giants have posted a 3-5 record away from MetLife Stadium. Consistency on the road is a big key in making the postseason.
Check out the Giants 2015 Opponents in photos
Giants @ Cowboys, Sunday 9/13
Giants vs. Falcons, Sunday 9/20
Giants vs. Washington, Thursday, 9/24
Giants vs. Bills, Sunday 10/4
Giants vs. 49ers, Sunday 10/11
Giants @ Eagles, Monday 10/19
Giants vs. Cowboys, Sunday 10/25
Giants @ Saints, Sunday 11/1
Giants @ Buccaneers, Sunday 11/8
Giants vs. Patriots, Sunday 9/6
Giants @ Washington, Sunday 11/29
Giants vs. Jets, Sunday 12/6
Giants @ Dolphins, Monday 12/14
Giants vs. Panthers, Sunday 12/20
Giants @ Vikings, Sunday 12/27
Giants vs. Eagles, Sunday 1/3
A no-hitter is more impressive than a perfect passer rating.
JOHN SCHMEELK: Fact -Depending on how a football game goes, the quarterback may not have to do a lot to win the game. Defensive touchdowns, special teams scores or a great running game could make a quarterback's job easy in any given week. A pitcher, however, always has to get 27 outs without allowing a hit, no matter what the score is. Therefore, a no-hitter is more impressive. I also give Dan Salomone a lot of credit for a creative question. For just a moment, I forgot he attended Ohio State.
**
DAN SALOMONE: Fiction - ** I was all set to say "fact" until I looked into it further. You get a couple no-hitters every season in the majors, but that's not the case with perfect passer ratings. There have been only 26 in the Super Bowl era.
LANCE MEDOW: Fact -In order to achieve a no-hitter the standard is the same across the board: no hits in 27 outs. When it comes to a perfect passer rating that standard varies. This is why I have to go with a no-hitter. For example, Robert Griffin III posted a perfect passer rating in 2012 when he went 14 of 15 for 200 yards and four touchdowns.
A year later, Nick Foles also accomplished that feat against the Raiders but he completed 22 of 28 passes for 406 yards and seven touchdowns. To show even more of a variance, Eli Manning finished with a perfect passer rating in 2009 against the Raiders without even playing in the second half. They're both rare but a quarterback has much more leeway than a pitcher does.
