The New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons, both 2-2, came in with a sense of desperation in their attempt to push themselves above the .500 mark. It showed in a back-and-forth first 30 minutes, where an Eli Manning touchdown pass to Rueben Randle was quickly countered by a 10-yard TD run by Falcons running back Steven Jackson. Things would continue to stay tight, with the teams trading field goals until a late Atlanta boot handed them a 13-10 lead at the break.
Biggest Play: Giants kick returner Preston Parker's fumble of a Matt Bosher kickoff was swallowed up by Atlanta's Eric Weems with the game tied at 7. What could have turned out to be a crucial turning point for the Falcons turned into a minor win for the Giants, as they held Eli Manning and crew out of the end zone on a 3rd-and-4 from the Atlanta 4 - forcing a short field goal.
Biggest Surprise: The Giants offense, much maligned in the first two weeks of the season, matched the Falcons step for step in the first half. The teams were almost dead even in every offensive category for most of the opening two frames (including total plays). This only further amplifies the fact that New York's offense has turned a major corner.
Falcons Key Player: QB Matt Ryan (17-for-23, 166 yards) continues to prove himself as one of the elite signal callers in the league. Today has been all about his second-sense connection with WR Julio Jones (8 catches, 88 yards) and his ability to step up in the pocket and deliver the right throws time in and time out.
Giants Key Player: QB Eli Manning was just as impressive (10-of-15, 110 yards, 1 TD) His early 3-yard TD strike to Rueben Randle highlighted another efficient first half for Manning, who had been left for dead by many a critic after the team's 0-2 start. If he continues to build a relationship with WR Preston Parker (3 catches, 61 yards), those critics will be silenced for good.
Who Has The Edge? Atlanta's late field goal drive to close the first half with a three-point lead gives them a slight advantage heading into the break. But, don't count out the veteran Manning and his suddenly potent offensive weaponry, along with the undeniable victory of another Giants defensive hold inside their own red zone.
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