New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning often faces an avalanche of criticism for literally everything he does, which is something that has occurred with regularity dating back to his rookie year of 2004.
However, as the clock winds down on Manning’s playing career, his remarkable success begins to come into focus. And whether you love the man or hate him, there’s no denying that he’s put up some of the best numbers the NFL has ever seen.
It’s for that reason the Giants fared shockingly well in NFL.com’s latest franchise quarterback rankings.
Rank 12. New York Giants
Who qualifies for the Giants?
— Eli Manning (2004-present): 230 starts | 116-114 | 4 Pro Bowls | 84.1 passer rating | 2 SB rings
— Kerry Collins (1999-2003): 68 starts | 35-33 | 0 Pro Bowls | 78.4 passer rating
— Phil Simms (1979-1993): 159 starts | 95-64 | 2 Pro Bowls | 78.5 passer rating | 1 SB ring
— Fran Tarkenton (1967-1971): 69 starts | 33-36 | 4 Pro Bowls | 81.0 passer ratingNone of these Giants QBs can compare with Warner or Brees on their own. Not even close. But collectively, they form a solid QB group that helped bring three Lombardis to the Big Apple — and a fourth was won by Jeff Hostetler in the 1990 season, when Simms compiled an 11-3 record before breaking his foot. Availability plus championships nudges New York ahead.
The San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys understandably and predictably topped the list thanks to players such as Roger Staubach, Troy Aikman, Joe Montana and Steve Young, to name just a few.
Comparatively, and for a little chuckle, the New York Jets checked in at No. 24 overall.
