EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The Giants had no players listed as out, doubtful or questionable on their final injury report, all but assuring that cornerback Adoree' Jackson will make his long-awaited return Sunday in Minnesota in the NFC Wild Card Game.
Jackson, the team's best and most experienced cornerback, has been sidelined since injuring his knee against the Detroit Lions on Nov. 20. He was listed as a full practice participant today for the first since then.
"I've been antsy since the Detroit game – since I went out and wanted to go back in, but knew I couldn't," Jackson said Wednesday. "The antsy-ness, I don't think it ever goes away. Even if somebody retired from playing ball, whatever it may be, they're always going to have the urge to go out there. I feel like I'm always going to be antsy, but being smart with it, not wanting to not just hurt myself, but hurt my team in any situation."
Jackson was asked then if he had to pass tests before getting clearance to play.
"Yeah, tests for the coaches," he said. "They always say they don't want to put you out there if you can hurt yourself or hurt the team. So, we just keep going week by week to see how I look and how they feel about me being out there."
Before practice and the release of the injury report, defensive backs coach Jerome Henderson was asked what Jackson would bring to the defense.
"If he does play, his energy, his confidence, his ability to go out there and be on the grass for us is big," Henderson said. "The guys who've played in his absence have played really well, too. So, if we get him back, I'm super excited. But if he's not back, we're going to line up and play and give them our best shot."
A six-year veteran with six postseason starts in his career, Jackson will rejoin a Giants secondary that also includes safety Xavier McKinney, another top player who missed the 27-24 loss to the Vikings three weeks ago. They are vital additions to a group that will be challenged by wide receivers Justin Jefferson, the NFL leader in catches and receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809) and a unanimous first-team All-Pro; Adam Thielen; and K.J. Osborn, plus tight end T.J. Hockenson.
Jefferson and Hockenson combined for 25 receptions and three touchdowns in the first meeting.
"(Jefferson is) a good player, a great player," Jackson said. "I think for us, we just try to control what we can control. It's about your alignment, your technique, doing your job. And you know the other guys will do a good job next to you. It's a collective, a scheme to handling Jefferson. He's a great player."
"I played him in college so I know all the things that he can do," said McKinney, who faced Jefferson when he was at Alabama and the receiver was at LSU. "He can singlehandedly take over a game, I've seen it, I've played against it before in college and I've seen it in the league a lot of times, everybody has. He's just a special route runner, catches a lot of crazy catches as y'all said before, and he's just a tough match up when he's going against anybody. You've got to make sure that you're on your p's and q's when you're facing him. It's going to be a challenge for us, but we'll be prepared and be ready."
Thielen (70) and Osborn and Hockenson (60 each) made Minnesota just the fourth team in NFL history with four receivers with at least 60 catches apiece.
"Hockenson is one of the best tight ends in the league and it showed last time we played him," said McKinney, who missed seven games with a hand injury. "He's a really good tight end, so we've just got to be prepared. I've got to be prepared to be able to have that matchup against him. I'm excited for it, it's going to be fun. I'll be ready."
*In addition to Jackson, five players who were limited yesterday practiced fully today: defensive lineman Leonard Williams (neck), linebacker Azeez Ojulari (ankle), tackle Evan Neal (ankle), safety Jason Pinnock (shoulder) and wide receiver Marcus Johnson (knee).
*The Vikings listed one of their top defenders, safety Harrison Smith, as questionable with a knee injury. He's been limited in practice all week. Running back Kene Nwangwu (illness) and cornerback Cam Dantzler (ankle/personal matter) are also questionable.
*Giants defensive line coach Andre Patterson held the same position with the Vikings from 2014-21. He said "there's no question" Minnesota's ultra-loud domed stadium gives the home team an advantage.
"I think they put on the best show in the league as far as before the game, all of the videos and the horns going off and the 'Skol' chant and all that," he said. "It's almost like a college atmosphere. But if you embrace it as an opponent, it juices you up, too. That's what we've talked to our guys about."
Patterson is looking forward to another return to Minnesota.
"It's great," he said. "The fans. A lot of people in that front office are good friends of mine. A lot of those players I think very highly of. I have no bad thoughts about Minnesota. It's not a revenge game for me. It's just another football game that we've got to go win. But I have a lot of good thoughts and feelings about my time in Minnesota,
"I know the majority of those guys. I was there for eight years. So, all those guys they're putting in there are good players. And if we don't play our best, they'll beat us. That's just the truth of the matter. Most of those guys they drafted, I sat in the draft meetings and heard the write ups on them. I saw them every day in practice. So, they're good players. And they're going to play their best. And if we don't play our best, we won't win."
*U.S. Bank Stadium is not a favorite of visiting teams, but you'll never hear Graham Gano complain about it.
"I never hate kicking in a dome," Gano said. "I love kicking in domes. It's perfect conditions, especially when it's freezing cold outside, being able to go in there and know it's going to be consistently the same temperature. It's exciting for a specialist. At the end of the day, you've just got to go out there and perform. Whether it's outside in MetLife or in a dome, you have to be at your best."
*Saquon Barkley will be among the 30 or so Giants who will make their postseason debuts Sunday. Running backs coach DeAndre Smith said Barkley's excitement has been conspicuous this week.
"He can't sit still, which is awesome to see," Smith said. "He understands the moment, taking advantage of it. Those are the things that I can see from the very second that we got back on the field on Wednesday to just kind of get around him. And we didn't have to say a whole lot. Once they got on the field, you could just feel it. They had a little bit extra pep in their step, which is understandable, because it's a great accomplishment that those guys are taking advantage of. Now, we're just going to keep it going."
View rare photos of the Giants' history playing on Wild Card Weekend in the NFL Playoffs.
Eagles quarterback Ron Jaworski drops the football as he is hit by New York Giants George Martin (75) in wild card playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. The fumble was not allowed, but Jaworski lost nine yards on the sack play. The rest of the players are unidentified. (AP Photo)
Giants John Mistler rolls into end zone after catching Scott Brunners pass to score New Yorks second touchdown in first period of the wild card playoff game against the Eagles, Dec. 27, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. Unidentified Eagle defenders tackle was too late to prevent the 10-yard scoring play. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Dee Hardison takes a ride on the back of Eagles quarterback Ron Jaworski in wild card playoff game, Dec. 28, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. Jaworski had a tough day as New Yorks defense limited Jaworski to less than 50 percent of pass completions and sacked him three times. Eagles lost, 27-21. Eagles Hubert Oliver (34), Pete Perot (62) and Jerry Sisemore (76) are also shown. (AP Photo)
Eagles Wally Henry fumbles a kickoff after being hit by New York Giants Mike Dennis (46) in a wild card playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 1981 in Philadelphia, Pa. The ball rolled into end zone and was recovered by Mark Haynes (36) to score the third Giants touchdown to give New York an early 20-0 lead. (AP Photo)
The football settles into arms of Leon Bright in end zone as New York Giants score first touchdown early in wild card play against the Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 27, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. The play was good for win six points. (AP Photo)
New York Giant Rob Carpenter, center, eight yards before being stopped by Eagle Randy Logan, (41) in wild card playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 28, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. Carpenter was Giants top ground gainer with 161 yards. Helalso caught four passes good for 32 yards. Giants won the game, 27-21. The rest of the players are unidentified. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Rob Carpenter (26) is chased by Eagle defenders in wild card playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. Carpenter was the Giants top gainer as he rushed for 161 yards in 33 carries and caught four passes good for 32 yards to help beat the Eagles, 27-21. The rest of the players are unidentified. (AP Photo)
The New York Giants Jim Burt eyes Joe Montana, San Francisco 49ers quarterback, as he closes in for a first quarter sack in NFL playoff game at Giants Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Montana was harried by an aggressive Giants defense and lost 17-3. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall (70) looks on during the NFL NFC Wild Card playoff football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Dec. 29, 1985 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 17-3. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
San Francisco 49ers safety Ronnie Lott (42) gives chase as New York Giants tight end Mark Bavaro (89) catches an 18 yard second quarter touchdown pass during the NFL NFC Wild Card playoff football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Dec. 29, 1985 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 17-3. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana (16) talks to Hall of Fame head coach Bill Walsh while quarterback Matt Cavanaugh (6) listens during the 1985 NFC divisional playoff game against the New York Giants at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 29, 1985. The Giants defeated the 49ers 17-3 at Giants Stadium. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig (33) runs behind guard Bubba Paris (77) as New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall (70) during the 1985 NFC divisional playoff game at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 29, 1985. The Giants defeated the 49ers 17-3 at Giants Stadium. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
A general view of the interior of Giants Stadium home field of the New York Giants during a game against the San Francisco 49ers on December 29 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants beat the 49ers 17-3 to win the Wild Card Playoff game.(AP Photo/David Durochik)
A group of ticket-holders pose with the rewards of a long wait in line at Brendan Byrne Arena in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 27, 1985. The tickets are for Sunday's wildcard playoff game between the New York Giants and the San Francisco 49ers. (AP Photo/Rick Maiman)
Four football fans wave tickets they got after a long wait in line at Brendan Byrne Arena in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 27, 1985. The tickets are for wildcard playoff game between the New York Giants and the San Francisco 49ers. (AP Photo/Rick Maiman)
San Francisco 49ers running back Carl Monroe (32) tries to elude New York Giants linebacker Robbie Jones (51) during the 1985 NFC Divisional playoff game at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 29, 1985. The Giants defeated the 49ers 17-3 at Giants Stadium. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
San Francisco 49ers tight end Russ Francis (81) tries to get past New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (53) during the NFC Wildcard Playoff, a 17-3 Giants victory on Dec. 28, 1985, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
San Francisco 49ers Jerry Rice, left, fumbles his pass catch as he?s hit by the New York Giants Andy Headen in the third quarter of Sunday?s 17-3 Giants win at Giants Stadium on East Rutherford, New Jersey on Dec. 30, 1985. Bryon Hunt of the Giants fell on the ball to kill and another 49ers drive. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
San Francisco 49ers tackle Bubba Paris (77) leads the blocking for running back Roger Craig (33) as New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall (70) pursues from behind during the NFC Wildcard Playoff, a 17-3 Giants victory on December 28, 1985, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
New York Giants player Bart Oates (65), Conrad Goode (62) and an unidentified teammate, hug after the Giants pulled ahead of the San Francisco 49ers during the third quarter, Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985 at Giant Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants advanced in the NFL playoffs by beating San Francisco 49ers 17--3 and will play the Chicago Bears Jan. 5th. (AP Photo)
New York Giant Phil McConkey (80) celebrates a touchdown by teammate Mark Bavaro, left, with Joe Morris, background, in the second period of NFC wildcard playoff action against the San Francisco 49ers in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985. The Giants won the game 17-3. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana is knocked down after making a pass by New York Giants George Martin in the fourth quarter of play in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana pulls off his chin strap and leaves the field as New York Giants defensive players celebrate after his fourth quarter pass fell incomplete on fourth down to end the Super Bowl champs chances repeating. The Giants won 17-3, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey at Giants Stadium. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana walks from the field in the fourth quarter of NFL playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey as New York Giants Jim Burt raises his arms in jubilation. The Giants won the game 17-3 and will play the Chicago Bears next week. (AP Photo)
New York Giants' linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) pressures Minnesota Vikings' quarterback Jim McMahon (9) during the third quarter of their wildcard playoff game, Jan. 9, 1994, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Vikings, 17-10, and will play the 49ers in San Francisco next weekend. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) calls signals at the line of scrimmage during a 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms looks to handoff during the Giants 17-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on January 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) calls signals at the line of scrimmage during a 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets to pass during a 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants head coach Dan Reeves during the Giants 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
Minnesota Vikings running back Roger Craig (33) talks with injured Giants wide receiver Mike Sherrard, both former teammates with the 49ers, before the Vikings 17-10 loss to the New York Giants in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on January 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) calls signals at the line of scrimmage during the Giants 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Chris Doleman (56) stops New York Giants running back Rodney Hampton (27) during the Vikings 17 - 10 loss in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. ( Al Messerschmid tvia AP)
A member of the NFL Films crew captures a shot of Minnesota Vikings head coach Dennis Green before the Vikings 17-10 loss to the New York Giants in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants head coach Dan Reeves, left, congratulates linebacker Lawrence Taylor after the last defensive series of the NFC playoff win over the Minnesota Vikings at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, Sunday, Jan. 9, 1994. The Giants won 17-10 and will face the San Francisco 49ers next. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) looks to handoff during a 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Warren Moon carries the ball in first quarter action of their game with the New York Giants at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Monday, Oct. 10, 1994. Moon led his team to a 27-10 victory over the Giants. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Minnesota Vikings running back Terry Allen (21) is set to recover a fumble by Vikings quarterback Warren Moon, right, as New York Giants left end Keith Hamilton (75) watches during first period action of their NFL game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Monday, Oct. 10, 1994. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Warren Moon, left, fights New York Giants right end Michael Strahan, center, after Moon fumbled during first period action of their NFL game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Monday, Oct. 10, 1994. Giants cornerback Phillippi Sparks (22) is at right. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cris Carter (80) runs upfield with the ball during a post season NFL game against the New York Giants Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Danny Kanell (13) is seen in action during a post season NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Jason Sehorn (31) is seen in action during a post season NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants head coach Jim Fassel looks on from the sideline during a post season NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) is seen in action during a post season NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants kicker Brad Daluiso (3) is seen in action during a post season NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Randall Cunningham (7) is seen in action during a post season NFL game against the New York Giants Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Jessie Armstead (98) is seen in action during a post season NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants kicker Brad Daluiso (3) celebrates after scoring during a post season NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
Minnesota Vikings running back Robert Smith (26) is seen in action during a post season NFL game against the New York Giants Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Chris Calloway (80) is seen in action during a post season NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
Minnesota Vikings running back Robert Smith (26) is tackled by New York Giants Rodney Hampton (27) during a post season NFL game against the New York Giants Dec. 27, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
FILE - In this Jan. 5, 2003, file photo, New York Giants' Rich Seubert (69), Luke Petitgout (77), Tam Hopkins (65) and Marcellus Rivers (83) look for a pass interference call after a botched field goal attempt against the San Francisco 49ers in the closing moments of an NFL football playoff game in San Francisco. A bad snap by Trey Junkin led to holder Matt Allen tossing an incomplete pass to Seubert and the 49ers won 39-38. The two teams meet in the NFC championship on Sunday, Jan 22 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants' Tiki Barber (21) is tackled by the Caroline Panthers' Chris Gamble (20) and Dan Morgan (55) after a one yard gain in the second quarter of their NFC wild card playoff football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. N.J., Sunday, Jan. 8, 2006. (Julie Jacobson/AP Photos)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress pulls down a touchdown pass in the first quarter as Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Lito Sheppard watches during the NFL wild card football game in Philadelphia Sunday, Jan. 7, 2007. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber heads down field during the second quarter of the NFL wild card football game in Philadelphia Sunday, Jan. 7, 2007. (AP Photo/Tom Mihalek)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress pulls down a touchdown pass in the first quarter as Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Lito Sheppard looks on during the NFL wild card football game in Philadelphia Sunday, Jan. 7, 2007. (AP Photo/George Widman)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey looses his helmet when he collides with Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Omar Gaither during the second quarter of the NFL wild card football game in Philadelphia Sunday, Jan. 7, 2007. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber is stopped by Philadelphia Eagles safety Brian Dawkins and Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Mike Patterson during the first quarter of the NFL wild card football game in Philadelphia Sunday, Jan. 7, 2007. (AP Photo/George Widman)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber slips through the reach of Philadelphia Eagles safety Brian Dawkins during the second quarter of the NFL wild card football game in Philadelphia Sunday, Jan. 7, 2007. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, yells while celebrating his touchdown pass with teammate Guy Whimper during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks to pass during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw is tackled during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants fans during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw is tackled during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning passes during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants' Kevin Boothe during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning celebrates after throwing a fourth-quarter touchdown pass to teammate Amani Toomer during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster reacts after making an interception during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin looks on during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin looks on during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) looks for a receiver as guard Rich Seubert (69) blocks Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Jovan Haye (71) during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks with offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks with offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster, left, intercepts pass intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Joey Galloway, right, during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Florida.(AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) carries the ball as Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Jermaine Phillips (23) moves in during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride talks with quarterback Eli Manning (10) during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla.(AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning throws a pass during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates with teammate Guy Whimper (79) after throwing a fourth quarter touchdown pass during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants linebacker Gerris Wilkinson (59) stops Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Alex Smith during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning throws a pass during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass a Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Greg Spires (94) pressures during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) as quarterback Eli Manning looks on during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer (81) reacts after catching a touchdown pass with teammate Steve Smith (12) during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning shouts down the line of scrimmage against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning throws a pass during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning reacts during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith carries the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning celebrates after throwing a fourth-quarter touchdown pass to teammate Amani Toomer during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants defensive end David Tollefson (71) knocks down Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) shouts out at the line of scrimmage during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants' Corey Webster (23) celebrates with teammate Aaron Ross (31) after intercepting a Tampa Bay Buccaneers pass in the end zone during the third quarter of an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants' Eli Manning (10) throws a third-quarter pass despite the defensive efforts of Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Ryan Nece (56), Kevin Carter (93), and Jovan Haye (71) during an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday, Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates after throwing a fourth quarter touchdown pass during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla.. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants' Gary Ruegamer (65) congratulates teammate Amani Toomer (81) after Toomer's touchdown-reception from quarterback Eli Manning during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. New York won, 24-14. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster, left, intercepts pass intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Joey Galloway, right, during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster celebrates after intercepting a pass intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Joey Galloway during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants' Ahmad Bradshaw celebrates on the bench during the closing seconds of the fourth quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, celebrates his touchdown pass with teammate Rich Seubert during the fourth quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants receiver Steve Smith (12) is sent flying by Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Brian Kelly (25), left, and Kalvin Parson (39), right, during the second quarter of an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster (23) intercepts a pass intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Joey Golloway (84) in the end zone during the fourth quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff football game Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
Nw York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, left, shakes hands with Tampa bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden after the Giants defeated the Buccaneers, 24-14, during an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday, Jan 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs (27) dives past Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Kalvin Pearson (39) to score during the second quarter of an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
Nw York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, left, shakes hands with Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden after the Giants defeated the Buccaneers, 24-14, during an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday, Jan 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning celebrates after throwing a fourth-quarter touchdown pass to teammate Amani Toomer during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin chats with quarterback Eli Manning before an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Raw File New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks runs into the end zone to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants' Jason Pierre-Paul, left, tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Michael Turner during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants linebacker Chase Blackburn reacts during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive tackle Rocky Bernard reacts during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin, right, reacts during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning runs off the field after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, right, reacts after scoring a touchdown as tight end Jake Ballard looks on during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning waves to spectators after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) and teammate Justin Tuck run off the field after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, right, breaks away from Atlanta Falcons safety William Moore during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw raises his helmet after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) chats with Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan after their NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, chats with Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan after their NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
El wiide receiver de los Giants de Nueva York Víctor Cruz (80) esquiva al cornerback de los Falcons de Atlanta Dominique Franks (24) durante el segundo tiempo del partido de playoff de la NFL el domingo 8 de enero de 2012 en East Rutherford, Nueva Jersey, EE.UU. (AP Foto/Matt Slocum)
Hakeem Nicks (88), wide receiver de los Giants de Nueva York, se escapa a la defensiva de los Falcons de Atlanta para anotar en pase de 72 yardas, en la segunda mitad de su juego de comodines en la postemporada de la NFL, el domingo 8 de enero del 2012, en East Rutherford, Nueva Jersey. (Foto AP/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) moves in to hit Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 24-2. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) celebrates with teammate Bear Pascoe after a 30-yard run during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. Bradshaw was stopped by Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28). (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) celebrates his 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons with teammate Hakeem Nicks during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) is congratulated by Jake Ballard after his 27-yard touchdown pass to Mario Manningham during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) pulls in a 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons strong safety James Sanders (36) and Dunta Robinson during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks runs into the end zone to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants guard David Diehl (66) hugs Eli Manning after his 27-yard touchdown pass to Mario Manningham during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. Left is Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann (71). (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Fans cheer as New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) runs into the end zone to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. right is Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) pulls down a four yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) as teammate James Sanders (36) looks on during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28) tries to stop New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw on a 30-yard run during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) is chased by Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Sean Weatherspoon (56) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks indicates a first down after a 19-yard reception against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning scrambles to pass during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) pulls down a four yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons running back Michael Turner (33) is tackled by New York Giants defensive tackle Chris Canty (99) and Aaron Ross during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) pulls down a four yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants fans cheer during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the New York Giants Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) pass against defender Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann (71) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) prepares to pass during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. Left is Atlanta Falcons defensive end John Abraham (55). (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) runs the ball against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants defensive back Derrick Martin cheers before his team runs onto the field for an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz sign autographs for fans before an NFL wild card football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann (71) takes down New York Giants wide receiver Jerrel Jernigan (12) after a reception during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin watches his team's warm up before an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants outside linebacker Michael Boley, left, shakes hands with teammate Chase Blackburn before an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith, right, shakes hands with New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin before their NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) runs onto the field before an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) runs against Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Julius Peppers (56) during the second half of an NFC wild-card NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers won 38-13. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) greet each other after an NFC wild-card NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers won 38-13. (AP Photo/Mike Roemer)
