The benching of New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning has been a topic of concern thus far in 2018, and it seems the players are now making noise.
When an NFL team starts 1-5, there are numerous topics of concerns that surround the organization as a whole. The New York Giants are experiencing just that at the moment.
With a sub-par offense, a lack of competitive aura within the team, and controversial comments from their star wide receiver, the Giants are in a tough spot. However, the biggest concern with Big Blue may be the man who’s been their franchise quarterback since 2004.
Many can agree that Eli Manning’s performance hasn’t been all that bad this year. With a 68.7 completion percentage thus far in 2018, along with 1662 yards and six touchdowns to four picks, it’s not a horrific start. However, there’s definitely a deeper meaning behind it.
According to a report from Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports, players aren’t happy in the locker room with Manning.
“Let’s just say a quarterback change wouldn’t be unwelcome,” a source told La Canfora. This very source has also talked about this concern with numerous players within the organization.
Head coach Pat Shurmur also seemed to voice frustration with the long-time Giants quarterback during their 34-13 loss on Thursday night to the Eagles. After one of the many check-down routes that Eli has thrown this season, Shurmur was caught on TV yelling “throw the ball!”
Shurmur not feeling the checkdowns. Looks like “Throw the ball” to me. pic.twitter.com/2Vpckys7zq
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) October 12, 2018
You can make the argument once again, that yes, Eli isn’t playing terribly. He’s definitely the best option they have at the quarterback position right now, that’s no question. Yes, he can’t move outside the pocket, but he never has been able to his entire career, and it still won the Giants two Super Bowls.
However, each one of the problems from last year has been fixed.
No Odell Beckham Jr.? He’s back from injury. No running game? The Giants now have a stud in Saquon Barkley. No left tackle? The Giants signed Nate Solder in the offseason and released Ereck Flowers. A man not fit to be a head coach in the NFL? Ben McAdoo was fired and they now have a completely revamped coaching staff.
Therefore maybe, just maybe, Eli is the problem?
It’s a tough discussion, but one that the organization so desperately needs to have at this point.
