One of the things that drives Giants fans nuts about Eli Manning is that he always seems on the verge of offering someone an apology. And during an exclusive interview with Hashmarks, Giants general manager Jerry Reese said it's something the Giants have talked to Manning about this offseason.
"Guys have to be themselves," said Reese, "but we've talked to him about that hang dog look. It's not a good profile and it's exaggerated by this market. Just like the cameras are always going to find Tom when he has some kind of sideline antic, everyone's looking at Eli. He sort of views himself as a silent assassin, and he'd rather his teammates get the credit. But I think you'll see a little different demeanor from him this season."
Listening to Reese, who comes across as almost shockingly unassuming, lets you know how this is truly a make-or-break season for Manning. He seems to play his best in two-minute situations, when he has to rely on his instincts. I watched him make some great throws today, but I've just never sensed that he's the type of person capable of inspiring confidence in his teammates. You don't have to be a rah-rah guy to command respect.
But it scares me when I start hearing people talk about changing a guy's demeanor.
Back with practice notes in a few minutes.
