It wasn’t too long ago that Eli Manning created a media hullabaloo when he deemed himself a top 10 quarterback. After last year’s 25 interception performance, it seemed rather odd that Peyton’s younger brother could see himself in such a light, particularly after a Giant second half collapse landed them firmly on the outside of the playoffs for the second time in as many years. Many of those completions to guys in the wrong colored jerseys can be put on his inexperienced, inconsistent, and somewhat butter-fingered receivers. However, there still remained a fair amount of bad decisions and errant throws that Eli had to improve upon.
The 2010 season was a year in which Eli was sacked just 16 times, the fewest amount since his rookie season; a year, in which, he participated in just 9 games. It was apparent to Eli, the coaching staff and the blogging elite; he had to start taking some sacks and stop throwing the ball up for grabs.
For Eli to be consider amongst the QB elite, he needed to stake his claim as the leader of the team, he needed to take this young group of receivers under his wing and he needed to be more consistent with the ball. It was apparent Eli needed a supporting cast, but to expect youngsters, Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks to see the field, read the defenses and react to situations the same way a seasoned, former Super Bowl MVP in Eli Manning does, may be putting the cart before the horse.
Fast forward to January 2012, Eli’s sacks are up (28) and interceptions are down (16), yet he threw for 4,933 yards ranking him 5th all time. A true indication he’s making better decisions with the ball. This is Eli’s team and he is directly responsible for the success of Cruz and Nicks who have turned in two of the most prolific offensive seasons in New York Giants history.
The maturation of Eli, ironically enough, may get him back to every toddler’s dream vacation spot; Disney World.
Manning has firmly placed himself amongst the elite quarterbacks in the NFL today. His ascension to elite status has also removed the title of “Peyton’s Little Brother”. Has he proven to be a top 5 quarterback this season? Heading into the NFC Championship Game against the 49ers this Sunday hints at the fact, he may have done just that.