So to be clear: IYHO, do we get 'Playoff Eli' or 2016 Eli?

!

afterwards! 😜

And it will be good enough.

is myth. 2007 is the only year he elevated his play post-season. In 2011 he was good all year. In '08 and '05 he sucked in the one game he played. In '06 he was decent.

Eli had a bad year, if you can call over 4,000 yards passing and 26 TD passes a bad year, or so most people think. I do not believe that for one instance.

Yes, Eli has a tendency sometimes to throw some bad picks...heck, in 2007, we saw what he did against Minnesota, a non playoff team. And he has done that several times over the course of his career. But we have also seen that Eli knows when it is a big game and he knows what he has to do in those games. He has admitted that with the way the D is playing his job is to not screw it up. So my suspicion is that if the D is once again lights out or thereabouts, he will be smart and conservative. I firmly believe we will take more shots this week than we have but that will also be dependent on how the OL is playing and the situation of the game.

I can virtually guarantee that Eli will not throw a dumb pick or make a stupid play. He will do what he has to do to win. Those who doubt him do so at their own peril. To me, he has already earned his pay by the way he backed his Miami bound teammates yesterday and I believe those guys will go all out for him as a result because he demonstrated he has their back.

Eli is the least of our concerns Sunday...ask Oakland or Houston if they would like Eli this Sunday, or Miami. I firmly believe Eli will have an outstanding game and, if we lose, it will not be due to his play.

In comment 13304014 bluepepper said:

Quote:

is myth. 2007 is the only year he elevated his play post-season. In 2011 he was good all year. In '08 and '05 he sucked in the one game he played. In '06 he was decent.

It's far from a myth..Playoff Eli DID NOT turn the ball over in those tourneys. In fact, iirc he had zero TOs albeit not 100% sure..THAT's Playoff Eli..No egregious mistakes and uber clutch performances

He's a significantly different QB than in his prior playoff runs. His football IQ has increased, amazing because it was always good. But his opportunism has decreased, whether its his arm, accuracy or just choosing different spots to take chances. Its generally good that he doesn't hold onto the ball very long, that cuts down on some opportunities and playmaking.

All this means is that his prior success doesn't really translate into the future. In the Green Bay playoff game in 2011, he shreaded them, and pretty much kept them out of the entire game. Doubt that happens this week. He can definitely win, but it will require a great D, and perhaps some of that Eli "luck" that drive his detractors wild.

Hoping wrong. And this ISN'T hating on eli..as everyone here claims you are if you have the slightest criticism or negative comment about him

I'm very great full of the best ny qb giants have in their storied history.

Plus, I know everyone is banking on what happened about years ago, praying those are right, but I just don't see it with him. He has his spurts now, just hope he hits big key plays or drives on his own doing, but this offense as a WHOLE need to contribute consistently not just eli anymore.

There was that one INT in SB 42, but as I recall, it bounced of Steve Smith's hands, so I don't count that one.

I think you're right, Eli has played very clean playoff games.

Steve Smith's hands

In comment 13304021 Giants_ROK said:

Quote:

There was that one INT in SB 42, but as I recall, it bounced of Steve Smith's hands, so I don't count that one. I think you're right, Eli has played very clean playoff games.

Thanks, forgot about that one

Clean and Clutch

I'm wrong as usual.

Here's a link to Eli's playoff stats. 8 interceptions in 11 games.
Note to self: research before posting. - ( New Window )

he was pretty clean.

In comment 13304028 Giants_ROK said:

Quote:

I'm wrong as usual. Here's a link to Eli's playoff stats. 8 interceptions in 11 games. Note to self: research before posting. - ( New Window )

No, I was referring to 2007 and 2011 when he finally established himself as clutch..We all know about his earlier playoffs..

2016 Eli for $100, Alex.

Quote:

No, I was referring to 2007 and 2011 when he finally established himself as clutch..We all know about his earlier playoffs..

I know. I had put the one and dones out of my mind.

Nuff said ....
Its up to the guys around him to step up there game !!!

In comment 13304028 Giants_ROK said:

Quote:

I'm wrong as usual. Here's a link to Eli's playoff stats. 8 interceptions in 11 games. Note to self: research before posting. - ( New Window )

Wow..didn't realize this..he played above and beyond those runs..I guess it overshadowed those pics. However, those pics were insignificant..or else would've been remembered

He has shown the ability to elevate his game in the postseason, but he is limited by the lack of trust in the line.

He also had a better OL. It's not all Eli. I don't think the Giants passing game will come up to the 2007 and 2011 levels because other than a potential GOAT in Beckham, the sum of the parts is lower today.

Incredible that in two of his greatest games, NFC chamionship in GB 2008 and SF 2012, his passer ratings were 72 and 82.

Speaks to the accuracy of the metric

Reasonably expect Eli's play to significantly improve in the playoffs? I'm sure we will see the same Eli or perhaps a little bit more careful with the ball Eli but don't expect more than that. Hopefully it will be enough. If this line can give him a slightly better pocket we will likely see better production but Eli won't magically improve just because were in the post season.

We get an in-between. Eli picks up his game for the playoffs, the offense does as well. He doesn't return to vintage 2011 Eli because let's face it, it's been 5 years and time stands still for nobody, not to mention his WRs (outside of Beckham) were overall better.

Eli just has to play smart - the running game is heating up, work off of that, get the short passing game working, take the occasional shot downfield, and don't turn the ball over. Let the D do the heavy lifting, and the O play a support role.

To that week s game we have seen posts expressing that perhaps this is the week the Giants offense will find itself. My reaction to this sentiment has been consistent......... Why?

The team has played 16 games, that s a pretty good sample to support the idea that they are what they are. The deficiencies that have impacted Eli s play are still there. If the Giants need Eli to out score an opponent they are probably going to lose. If the Giants win it will be because of defense.

Expecting This offense to find itself because it is the playoffs is magical thinking spawned by fan enthusiasm.

As much as I want him to, I just don't see him playing "lights out" or mistake free football. Limit the TO's score 20 points a game and we will win it all.

then we get Playoff Eli.

If he doesn't, it will be 2016 Eli.

That seems to be the trend...

in the first half.

I think that the combination of limited pocket time and predictable plays (not to mention a couple of huge hits) has made him less effective this year. I guess it's possible for him to overcome the weaknesses in pass protection (a la SF in the 2011 post season), but I still don't see the offense being suddenly very productive.

But that doesn't mean I don't expect to see Playoff Eli.

BRING IT, ELI!!!

Greater than 20 points this game to have a chance.

And Game Manager Eli can be enough. Keep them in favorable plays, no turnovers, make some clutch 3rd downs.

Eli has to feel comfortable in the pocket and has to be able to set his feet and throw properly. When he's rushed, especially this year, he's been extremely erratic. I certainly hope weather this time doesn't affect our passing game! Ball is hard and becomes slick-like in the extreme cold. We don't need Eli dropping another ball in this game. He wore a glove on his non-throwing hand last time they were in this game in extreme temps. Let's hope Mac is making him practice with frozen balls this week!

In comment 13304043 WideRight said:

Quote:

Incredible that in two of his greatest games, NFC chamionship in GB 2008 and SF 2012, his passer ratings were 72 and 82. Speaks to the accuracy of the metric

Weird that people still use this as a ...metric like you said, in 2016. I remember the days when everyone was obsessed with passer ratings, 09-11. Yes, those were his two best games.

so I'm going to say 2016 Eli.

I also think that the negative connotation that is "2016 Eli" is a bit overblown. I'd call it "2016 Offense". I think Eli is the same as he is pretty much every year, albeit a bit older. If guys get open (other than Beckham), he'll find them.

...

Tara Sullivan weighs in...
Sullivan: Is there such a thing as 'Playoff Eli?' You bet there is - ( New Window )

If the Giants go with Perkins the rest of the way at RB, I think we have a shot to see the Giants offense play a wee bit better. I'm so sick of watching Jennings have a hole and him hesitate. Bring Jennings in only if you have the lead and are milking the clock for a vet to hold onto the ball.

In comment 13304099 Route 9 said:

Quote:

...

We're fortunate that NBC doesn't have the Super Bowl. No PFF rankings to sift through.

is that it isn't all Eli, or even mostly Eli. No TE to keep safeties in the middle of the field, lack of depth at WR, and a leaky OL. On top of that, Mac has a propensity to take the air out of the ball with even a slight lead. That might work if you have a plus running game, but even given the running game's recent success, I don't think it's strong enough to be effective when defenses are expecting it.

There is not much Mac can do about personnel at this point, but he can loosen up the playcalling in the 2nd half. Run more PA, take some shots downfield.

In comment 13304101 Eric from BBI said:

Quote:

Tara Sullivan weighs in... Sullivan: Is there such a thing as 'Playoff Eli?' You bet there is - ( New Window )

Quote:

Manning is the author of two of the most memorable runs in franchise history, taking them both straight through the frigid Green Bay air. In beating Brett Favre’s Packers in the 2007 NFC Championship game and Aaron Rodgers’ Packers four years later in a divisional game, Manning established the legend now known as “Playoff Eli,” in which the understated star with the famously contorted facial expressions flips his internal switch and becomes the steadiest, most unflappable quarterback the playoffs has ever known. “It doesn’t matter where, you can pick Green Bay, you can go back to 43 seconds left in Dallas [in the 2007 divisional game], he broke their backs too, you’re talking about incredible focus, game management and awareness, opportunity and taking advantage,” former Giants coach Tom Coughlin recalled in a phone conversation with The Record on Tuesday night. “Whatever the circumstances, Eli is unflappable. He’ll play through it. This is what’s presented, it’s minus-27 degrees, whatever, there’s no use talking about it."

We shall see

the flip side is counter-intuitive, and it's sum of the parts for the offense as well, not just an Eli that's showing some signs of age.

If the Giants win, it will be playing traditional Giants football. Stifling D, win the field position battle, and don't do anything stupid on offense.

2016 Eli is very skittish compared to the Prime Eli of 2011..

In comment 13304122 Big Blue '56 said:

Quote:

In comment 13304101 Eric from BBI said: Quote: Tara Sullivan weighs in... Sullivan: Is there such a thing as 'Playoff Eli?' You bet there is - ( New Window ) We shall see

Not for nothing, but Tara Sullivan is absolutely awful.

shows up, i hope it's a better version of the one that played in lambeau in early October.

I'm going to go with 2016 Eli.

and head says 2016 Eli. I think something in between is good enough for this team to make a run with Beckham and this defense.

there was merely 2011 Eli. He was absolutely fantastic all year. I agree with JonC, that guy is gone. Not to say Eli still can't be effective, but I don't think we'll ever see that extended level of play.

In comment 13304043 WideRight said:

Quote:

Incredible that in two of his greatest games, NFC chamionship in GB 2008 and SF 2012, his passer ratings were 72 and 82. Speaks to the accuracy of the metric

The passer ratings don't account for the bad weather.. People forget how bad the weather was in SF.. Our WR were killing their secondary until it started pouring like the monsoon out there and none of Wr were able to make the cuts needed to run their routes and their DL wasn't giving us the time to run seam routes.. Media never accounts for the extreme weather when discussing Eli's numbers in those game.. the SF game was the single best game of Eli's life.. he has never played a better game and probably never will.. That SF defense in those weather conditions was ferocious and would've killed every other QB in the league..

I think we will see Eli play the way he has for most of 2016. I think he will play well, but he will not put the team on his back and carry them because the Oline and the receivers/running game aren't yet good enough for that to happen.

If Eli goes 20/35 for 210 yds, 2 TDs but is picked off midway through the 4th quarter that leads the Packers to a field goal and a 9 point lead with 2 mins left, which Eli did we get? Some will say we got careless 2016 Eli who cost us the game. Others will say he was about to drive us for the game winning TD until a) Shepard ran the wrong route; b) Donnell was in the wrong spot; c) Flowers got beat so he couldn't step into the throw. It wasn't Eli's fault.

There are not sides, and there is no "which one did we get." There is a team with a flawed offense that has to do enough to help the defense win the game.

I've consistently said that he has not played like himself, that the OL isn't entirely to blame for his poor play and that he has taken a dramatic downward turn in his career.

That said, I have expected him to "flip the switch" each and every week this year. He just hasn't done it. But I expect the same this weekend. This is the playoffs, and that's usually a good motivator.

Coverts 3rd downs, hits open guys, and doesnt turn it over.

he doesnt need to be superman. He doesnt need to be 2011 Eli. We dont have those players. I just want him to hit OBJ if he is open down the field. I want him to hit Tye for those first downs on 3rd and 5. I want him to audible into a run play when its there.

If people are expecting him to complete every pass or him to throw some clunkers during the game, you are going to be massively disappointed.

In comment 13304015 That’s Gold, Jerry said:

Quote:

Eli had a bad year, if you can call over 4,000 yards passing and 26 TD passes a bad year, or so most people think. I do not believe that for one instance. Yes, Eli has a tendency sometimes to throw some bad picks...heck, in 2007, we saw what he did against Minnesota, a non playoff team. And he has done that several times over the course of his career. But we have also seen that Eli knows when it is a big game and he knows what he has to do in those games. He has admitted that with the way the D is playing his job is to not screw it up. So my suspicion is that if the D is once again lights out or thereabouts, he will be smart and conservative. I firmly believe we will take more shots this week than we have but that will also be dependent on how the OL is playing and the situation of the game. I can virtually guarantee that Eli will not throw a dumb pick or make a stupid play. He will do what he has to do to win. Those who doubt him do so at their own peril. To me, he has already earned his pay by the way he backed his Miami bound teammates yesterday and I believe those guys will go all out for him as a result because he demonstrated he has their back. Eli is the least of our concerns Sunday...ask Oakland or Houston if they would like Eli this Sunday, or Miami. I firmly believe Eli will have an outstanding game and, if we lose, it will not be due to his play.

Great post

To answer the OP, playoff Eli. Although to me Eli is Eli and has been since 2005. I read all the time how he is inconsisent, I think I am watching a different player. Eli to me has been a model of consistency. He is a great football player, a franchise QB who has been leading the offense for over a decade. He can make any throw, will do it under duress,never gives up and will operate home or away good weather or bad. Giants can beat anyone with him at the helm.

I do not expect Eli will come out and start playing like a top 3 QB. My hope is that we can get a clean, efficient game from him with no killer TO's.

Make the 2-3 big throws when they are available and otherwise, keep moving the chains.

will equal "playoff Eli":

Will Tye Drop in Green Bay earlier this season - ( New Window )

He didn't just "flip a switch" in 2011-12.. it was the best season of his career. He was excellent the entire time. Yes, he had a couple of crappy games.. but overall, Eli was the best player on the team that year.

In 2007-8, he was in his mid-20's and hadn't even hit his peak yet. Having flashes of brilliance wasn't the craziest thing.

"Playoff" Eli was also pretty terrible in 2005-6 and 2008-9... the 2006-7 game against the Eagles wasn't much better.

I love Eli. I really do. He's the best QB in the history of the franchise. But people who are just expecting him to transform into this magical QB because it's January now are probably going to be disappointed.

This Giants team is going to win by playing excellent defense, hitting on a couple big plays and hopefully running the football effectively. Eli isn't going to carry us like he did the last time.

In comment 13304168 Mike from Ohio said:

Quote:

I think we will see Eli play the way he has for most of 2016. I think he will play well, but he will not put the team on his back and carry them because the Oline and the receivers/running game aren't yet good enough for that to happen. If Eli goes 20/35 for 210 yds, 2 TDs but is picked off midway through the 4th quarter that leads the Packers to a field goal and a 9 point lead with 2 mins left, which Eli did we get? Some will say we got careless 2016 Eli who cost us the game. Others will say he was about to drive us for the game winning TD until a) Shepard ran the wrong route; b) Donnell was in the wrong spot; c) Flowers got beat so he couldn't step into the throw. It wasn't Eli's fault. There are not sides, and there is no "which one did we get." There is a team with a flawed offense that has to do enough to help the defense win the game.

Playoff Eli does NOT necessarily mean he doesn't throw sn INT or fumble or both. He doesn't have to be '08 and '12 clean he just has to manage and clutch his way to a win in conjunction with an opportunistic D..I expect him to carry us through to a win when and if it comes down to the final moments..That's playoff Eli to me

Eli... and that would be big!!!!

Will a lot of great statistics and video...

How the Giants' offense was shut down in Week 5 loss to Packers | Film review - ( New Window )

.

In comment 13304193 Britt in VA said:

Quote:

Will a lot of great statistics and video... How the Giants' offense was shut down in Week 5 loss to Packers | Film review - ( New Window )

However it breaks down is irrelevant TO ME as both teams are quite different, even if our O appeared to be the same..If Apple and DRC play, do we lose that game? Just adkin'

In comment 13304187 Big Blue '56 said:

Quote:

In comment 13304168 Mike from Ohio said: Quote: I think we will see Eli play the way he has for most of 2016. I think he will play well, but he will not put the team on his back and carry them because the Oline and the receivers/running game aren't yet good enough for that to happen. If Eli goes 20/35 for 210 yds, 2 TDs but is picked off midway through the 4th quarter that leads the Packers to a field goal and a 9 point lead with 2 mins left, which Eli did we get? Some will say we got careless 2016 Eli who cost us the game. Others will say he was about to drive us for the game winning TD until a) Shepard ran the wrong route; b) Donnell was in the wrong spot; c) Flowers got beat so he couldn't step into the throw. It wasn't Eli's fault. There are not sides, and there is no "which one did we get." There is a team with a flawed offense that has to do enough to help the defense win the game. Playoff Eli does NOT necessarily mean he doesn't throw sn INT or fumble or both. He doesn't have to be '08 and '12 clean he just has to manage and clutch his way to a win in conjunction with an opportunistic D..I expect him to carry us through to a win when and if it comes down to the final moments..That's playoff Eli to me

So do we measure whether we got 'Playoff Eli' or '2016 Eli' based only on whether or not it's a close game with a chance to win late? That scenario existed in the second Eagles game this year, and Eli was one of the main reasons we lost that game. Do we call that 'Playoff Eli?'

My point is, when the game is over, the people who picked 'Playoff Eli' will likely claim they were right, and the people that picked '2016 Eli' will likely claim they were right. It's an opinion, not a measurable fact.

In comment 13304216 Mike from Ohio said:

Quote:

In comment 13304187 Big Blue '56 said: Quote: In comment 13304168 Mike from Ohio said: Quote: I think we will see Eli play the way he has for most of 2016. I think he will play well, but he will not put the team on his back and carry them because the Oline and the receivers/running game aren't yet good enough for that to happen. If Eli goes 20/35 for 210 yds, 2 TDs but is picked off midway through the 4th quarter that leads the Packers to a field goal and a 9 point lead with 2 mins left, which Eli did we get? Some will say we got careless 2016 Eli who cost us the game. Others will say he was about to drive us for the game winning TD until a) Shepard ran the wrong route; b) Donnell was in the wrong spot; c) Flowers got beat so he couldn't step into the throw. It wasn't Eli's fault. There are not sides, and there is no "which one did we get." There is a team with a flawed offense that has to do enough to help the defense win the game. Playoff Eli does NOT necessarily mean he doesn't throw sn INT or fumble or both. He doesn't have to be '08 and '12 clean he just has to manage and clutch his way to a win in conjunction with an opportunistic D..I expect him to carry us through to a win when and if it comes down to the final moments..That's playoff Eli to me So do we measure whether we got 'Playoff Eli' or '2016 Eli' based only on whether or not it's a close game with a chance to win late? That scenario existed in the second Eagles game this year, and Eli was one of the main reasons we lost that game. Do we call that 'Playoff Eli?' My point is, when the game is over, the people who picked 'Playoff Eli' will likely claim they were right, and the people that picked '2016 Eli' will likely claim they were right. It's an opinion, not a measurable fact.

If Eli plays like much of 2016, I will not in any way claim to have been right. I would easily acknowledge that I was wrong..I expect him to turn on that switch. Others don't. That's the point of asking what people feel they'll see..And yes, sometimes it may not be black or white. We may see a mixture of both. I expect a mostly, if not total, mistake free performance regardless of the elements

In comment 13304181 Britt in VA said:

Quote:

will equal "playoff Eli": Will Tye Drop in Green Bay earlier this season - ( New Window )

yup, Eli is going to show up and lead the offense. He has for a decade and two titles. Guys have to make plays. Honestly, it is up to the o line what Eli" shows up".
If it is jailbreak pressure on every play the offense will struggle. If the Giants can not gain any traction in the ground game the offense will struggle. Key match up in this one is the Giants o line against their front, imv.

He could complete 80% of his throws for 400 yards and 5 TDs in a loss, and people will crucify him for the two throws he didn't make. Similarly, he could complete 40% of his passes and throw 3 pick sixes and others will come on here and explain how each throw was good, but someone else's fault.

In comment 13304228 Mike from Ohio said:

Quote:

He could complete 80% of his throws for 400 yards and 5 TDs in a loss, and people will crucify him for the two throws he didn't make. Similarly, he could complete 40% of his passes and throw 3 pick sixes and others will come on here and explain how each throw was good, but someone else's fault.

Our posts crossed

I believe Flowers has improved a bit since earlier in the season, especially with his run blocking.

I believe B. Hart has improved by just a shade as well. I do, however, think RT Marshall Newhouse gets the nod this week and if he holds his ground he'll start the rest of the way. He is a UFA we should keep, if possible, cause of his versatility and knowledge of our system and OL scheme.

I believe our running game has improved and will be the biggest factor for our offenses improvement in the playoffs.

Finally, if our young wideouts can get deep a few times a game (20 + yards in the air followed by YAC) and we can score off play action finally we'll be well on our way.

If we averaged 19 during the season I'm hoping for 23 - 24 during the playoffs. It is more of a wish and is also based on the ability of our run game to open things up more. We haven't had many opportunities to use play action cause we sucked until of late (3 games).

I await the injury reports from practice today to make a judgment. Assuming there are injury reports? Not sure really when they come out.

In comment 13304227 rocco8112 said:

Quote:

In comment 13304181 Britt in VA said: Quote: will equal "playoff Eli": Will Tye Drop in Green Bay earlier this season - ( New Window ) yup, Eli is going to show up and lead the offense. He has for a decade and two titles. Guys have to make plays. Honestly, it is up to the o line what Eli" shows up". If it is jailbreak pressure on every play the offense will struggle. If the Giants can not gain any traction in the ground game the offense will struggle. Key match up in this one is the Giants o line against their front, imv.

Indeed:
Link - ( New Window )

All they need Eli to do is hit on the plays when they're there. He doesn't need to throw for 300+ and 3 scores for us to win these games.

Protect the football, make the throws when they're there and we will win this game. That's really all it comes down to. He doesn't need to be superman.

In comment 13304241 arcarsenal said:

Quote:

All they need Eli to do is hit on the plays when they're there. He doesn't need to throw for 300+ and 3 scores for us to win these games. Protect the football, make the throws when they're there and we will win this game. That's really all it comes down to. He doesn't need to be superman.

+1

In comment 13304241 arcarsenal said:

Quote:

All they need Eli to do is hit on the plays when they're there. He doesn't need to throw for 300+ and 3 scores for us to win these games. Protect the football, make the throws when they're there and we will win this game. That's really all it comes down to. He doesn't need to be superman.

Agreed. He also needs guys not named Beckham to also get open, and catch the ball.

In comment 13304241 arcarsenal said:

Quote:

All they need Eli to do is hit on the plays when they're there. He doesn't need to throw for 300+ and 3 scores for us to win these games. Protect the football, make the throws when they're there and we will win this game. That's really all it comes down to. He doesn't need to be superman.

Not sure if he threw for 300 with 3 TDs those entire runs..He just did what your last paragraph just stated. Stats don't mean all that much to me. Protect the ball, make good decisions, make the clutch throw when absolutely needed. That's Playoff Eli to me. I don't recall ever endorsing the Superman talk. He never was. What he was is one of the top 5 clutch QBs I have ever seen..

Quote:

It’s actually amazing that at this stage in his career, at age 36, after 108 regular-season victories and 210 consecutive starts (playoffs included) and, by the way, TWO Super Bowl championships, that there still seems to be, in many eyes, a referendum attached every time Eli makes an important start. It’s hard to remember another prominent athlete with a championship track record who so consistently finds himself under both microscope and interrogation lamp.

I expect Eli to play similarly to the way he played in Detroit and Washington (before Beckham left the game), so put me in the high end of the "2016 Eli" spectrum.

Eli Manning must come to same playoff realization as Peyton - ( New Window )

Strong posts.

In comment 13304255 Big Blue '56 said:

Quote:

In comment 13304241 arcarsenal said: Quote: All they need Eli to do is hit on the plays when they're there. He doesn't need to throw for 300+ and 3 scores for us to win these games. Protect the football, make the throws when they're there and we will win this game. That's really all it comes down to. He doesn't need to be superman. Not sure if he threw for 300 with 3 TDs those entire runs..He just did what your last paragraph just stated. Stats don't mean all that much to me. Protect the ball, make good decisions, make the clutch throw when absolutely needed. That's Playoff Eli to me. I don't recall ever endorsing the Superman talk. He never was. What he was is one of the top 5 clutch QBs I have ever seen..

330 and 3 TD's @ Lambeau in 2012
316 and 2 TD's @ SF in 2012

Eli was the best player on the team in 2011-12.

He's not now, but that's okay. He doesn't need to be.

and hit the plays that present themselves. Eli's missed quite a few this year, many that he'd normally hit. In addition to lacking some weapons this year. Good stuff, arc.

2007 Eli. Don't force throws. Be efficient. And win the damn game. He doesn't have to be all world with this defense.

In comment 13304394 arcarsenal said:

Quote:

In comment 13304255 Big Blue '56 said: Quote: In comment 13304241 arcarsenal said: Quote: All they need Eli to do is hit on the plays when they're there. He doesn't need to throw for 300+ and 3 scores for us to win these games. Protect the football, make the throws when they're there and we will win this game. That's really all it comes down to. He doesn't need to be superman. Not sure if he threw for 300 with 3 TDs those entire runs..He just did what your last paragraph just stated. Stats don't mean all that much to me. Protect the ball, make good decisions, make the clutch throw when absolutely needed. That's Playoff Eli to me. I don't recall ever endorsing the Superman talk. He never was. What he was is one of the top 5 clutch QBs I have ever seen.. 330 and 3 TD's @ Lambeau in 2012 316 and 2 TD's @ SF in 2012

Cool, thanks

as unequivocally stating Playoffs Eli is there any other postseason Eli??

And it's the 2016 offense until it proves otherwise.

What they are saying is that he's not a good regular season QB, but steps his game up in the playoffs. I don't agree with that assessment. He is very streaky and has some brutally bad games each season, but "good Eli" comes out plenty in the regular season.

That being said, I think we will see much of the same in the playoffs. I don't think we are a very good offense for a multitude of reasons and I don't see that changing much.

What will make the difference? Paul Perkins. Give him 75% of the touches and our running game will get better which will make it easier for Eli and the passing game.

Lets get the "know it alls (after the fact)" to put up now.

I expect Eli to play well. I guess the question is - QB rating over/under 100?

I'm not sure. I hope it's over!

2007 - QB Rating of 95.7 average for all 4 games
2011 - QB Rating of 103.3 average for all 4 games

Maybe we should set the bar at: QB Rating of 95 or above for all X games?

And, no stupid pick 6 passes?

Biggest difference this time around vs. GB will be Perkins and the run game I think.

They're going to do exactly what they did last time. They're going to play a ton of two high so we're going to have to get them out of that by running the football. We didn't do it well in October but I think we will be able to chew up 4-5 yards on enough carries to suck one of their safeties up into the box.

If Eli can get them into single high and get Beckham isolated on the right side, we're in the money.

So to me, the run game is really THE key to this football game.

I think Paul Perkins is emerging at the perfect time and is ready to handle a large role in this offense. I really like running behind big Ereck Flowers and Pugh on the left side. Perkins' is an excellent cutback runner and he does a really nice job finding a hole and turning in positive plays.

Completely agree about Perkins, and your general take on Eli.

I'm actually more concerned about how the defense plays this week. I think the offense will do its job, but I worry about how they are going to generate a pass rush.

a lot. Hopefully, he keeps his focus in his first playoff game. Green Bay doesn't blitz a whole lot so it would be nice to find Perkins as well on a few outlet passes to keep drives going.

Need a little more from Shepard and Tye/Adams just to make Green Bay defend the whole field and

we'll win...

In comment 13304533 Go Terps said:

Quote:

Completely agree about Perkins, and your general take on Eli. I'm actually more concerned about how the defense plays this week. I think the offense will do its job, but I worry about how they are going to generate a pass rush.

Spagnuolo is going to have to pick his spots as far as how and when he sends pressure. Rodgers is exceptional against the blitz so I'd be careful about how often we send extra rushers. I do think we'll see a heathy dose of fire zone blitzes.

The key is to keep them coming from different spots and keep Rodgers guessing. We can also show blitz in some spots (i.e. from the slot) and make him think he'll have a hot read uncovered but drop a LB right into that zone so that he has nowhere to go.

We won't play a straight M2M but I feel exceptionally confident about the 3 CB's we have and their ability to matchup with the GB WR's. I'd have Jenkins spend most of his time on Nelson, I'd have DRC in the slot on Cobb and I'd have Apple deal with Adams when we leave them 1 on 1.

I'd love to see Vernon wreak havoc in this game. I think he'll be up for it.

.

In comment 13304553 arcarsenal said:

Quote:

In comment 13304533 Go Terps said: Quote: Completely agree about Perkins, and your general take on Eli. I'm actually more concerned about how the defense plays this week. I think the offense will do its job, but I worry about how they are going to generate a pass rush. Spagnuolo is going to have to pick his spots as far as how and when he sends pressure. Rodgers is exceptional against the blitz so I'd be careful about how often we send extra rushers. I do think we'll see a heathy dose of fire zone blitzes. The key is to keep them coming from different spots and keep Rodgers guessing. We can also show blitz in some spots (i.e. from the slot) and make him think he'll have a hot read uncovered but drop a LB right into that zone so that he has nowhere to go. We won't play a straight M2M but I feel exceptionally confident about the 3 CB's we have and their ability to matchup with the GB WR's. I'd have Jenkins spend most of his time on Nelson, I'd have DRC in the slot on Cobb and I'd have Apple deal with Adams when we leave them 1 on 1. I'd love to see Vernon wreak havoc in this game. I think he'll be up for it.

Without JPP, I expect OV to be doubled up..That leaves Okwara and Wynn to get their job done. That's crucial, imv

It just doesn't seem to be the type of player he is. He comes to play every game, he plays the run well, he plays a lot of snaps, all good things. He doesn't wreck games, or at least he hasn't yet.

If he wrecks this one I will never say a peep about his money again that's for damn sure.

what is your opinion based on? What is the analysis that leads to it?

In comment 13304582 chris r said:

Quote:

what is your opinion based on? What is the analysis that leads to it?

I think what he's trying to say is....link?

2011 Eli. Championship game Eli. The protect the ball,take the sack throw it away, don't take risks Eli.
He'll make at least 2 big plays one to Odell book it!

No QB can throw when given 2 seconds

...

Game manager. Perkins goes for 100+ and we score 24 which is enough to win in the playoffs.

2016-17 Eli is better than last year's incarnation of his brother.

And we know how his brother's season ended.

We can do it in similar fashion.

And we go on a run

I can virtually guarantee that Eli will not throw a dumb pick or make a stupid play. He will do what he has to do to win. Those who doubt him do so at their own peril. To me, he has already earned his pay by the way he backed his Miami bound teammates yesterday and I believe those guys will go all out for him as a result because he demonstrated he has their back.


Eli is the least of our concerns Sunday...ask Oakland or Houston if they would like Eli this Sunday, or Miami.

I guarantee that Oakland would rather have Carr....

is that Peyton's team had a first round bye and home field advantage. Two home wins to get to the Super Bowl is a whole lot different (obviously) than three road wins, but hey, one week at a time!

But my point is... Denver didn't need Peyton to be prime Peyton to win it all last year. They needed him to make the plays that were there to be made and protect the football. The Denver defense was the strength of that football team much like the Giants defense is the strength of this one. Denver leaned on their run and won the turnover battle.

Peyton was at the very end last year. I don't think he was even capable of being much more than a game manager. Eli is still capable of rising to the occasion. We just don't need him to carry us and shouldn't play the game like we do. Ben knows what the strength of this football team is and he's been managing games brilliantly because he understands that.

In 12 season, Eli has only had two seasons where he won playoff games.....

In 2007, Eli became more conservative for the playoffs, and let his defense do most of the talking.....

In 2011, Eli was at his Zenith....his greatest season.....he gave his team mates the confidence that, if they were within a score of the lead, that somehow he would do it....

2016 Eli, is neither of those guys....5 seasons of running for his life have taken their toll on him......give him time, and he can look good, and make those throws.....if he is pressured consistently, he is prone to mistakes, bad judgement, and bad throws....

He has to take what the defense gives him....he can't miss on big plays, when the opportunities are there....,this defense has to shut down Rogers, so Eli is not forced to put up 30 points in a game, when he has trouble scoring just 20....

But when we talk about the offense, the QB gets the glory when they win, and he gets the shaft when they lose, and it's quite possible, it's really not his fault in either scenario.....the OL is the key to this game.....limit the penalties, limit the pressures, convert short yardage situations on the ground.....take advantage of the Defense's turnovers......keep Rogers off the field....

Eli is a just a part of this offense.....unfortunately, this offense has made too many mistakes, and at times is it's own worst enemy....they need to play a clean game to complement the defense......and ST's has to rise to the occasion also....

In comment 13304787 Doomster said:

Quote:

In 12 season, Eli has only had two seasons where he won playoff games..... In 2007, Eli became more conservative for the playoffs, and let his defense do most of the talking..... In 2011, Eli was at his Zenith....his greatest season.....he gave his team mates the confidence that, if they were within a score of the lead, that somehow he would do it.... 2016 Eli, is neither of those guys....5 seasons of running for his life have taken their toll on him......give him time, and he can look good, and make those throws.....if he is pressured consistently, he is prone to mistakes, bad judgement, and bad throws.... He has to take what the defense gives him....he can't miss on big plays, when the opportunities are there....,this defense has to shut down Rogers, so Eli is not forced to put up 30 points in a game, when he has trouble scoring just 20.... But when we talk about the offense, the QB gets the glory when they win, and he gets the shaft when they lose, and it's quite possible, it's really not his fault in either scenario.....the OL is the key to this game.....limit the penalties, limit the pressures, convert short yardage situations on the ground.....take advantage of the Defense's turnovers......keep Rogers off the field.... Eli is a just a part of this offense.....unfortunately, this offense has made too many mistakes, and at times is it's own worst enemy....they need to play a clean game to complement the defense......and ST's has to rise to the occasion also....

Certainly some points are valid, but most here would acknowledge that Eli came of age, became the ice in the veins player starting with the 2007 and 2011 runs..That's where 'Playoff Eli' evolved from, during those 8 game championship performances..No one in their right mind would be referring to his playoff appearances prior to 2007 as his clutchness had not evolved before than..

Why didn't he switch it on vs philly to clinch a spot than to wait for help? Why can't he "switch" it on all the time?

Is it because those time he didn't pay his "playoff power switch" bill?

Why keep the "switch" on off position til January? ;-)

2016 Eli.
Under 250yds passing in this one.
He just hasn't shown it this year.