QB Manning likely to be game-time decision vs. Packers

Sep 13, 2007 - 8:05 PM EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (Ticker) - New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin watched quarterback Eli Manning do some light work in practice Thursday, but still expects a decision on whether his quarterback will start Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers to be made at the last minute.

Manning suffered a bruised right shoulder in last weekend's opening loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Initial reports that he could miss a month were wide of the mark, but he remains questionable for Sunday's game.

"He is getting better," Coughlin said of Manning. "It is encouraging. He is doing a little bit more on the side. He didn't take snaps or anything. He did some center-quarterback exchange on the side. He will be better and it is encouraging each day."

Asked if Manning's availability was likely to be a game-time decision, Coughlin said "probably".

For his own part, Manning said he was able to throw pain free, but admitted there was still a way to go to prove he is ready.

"I'm feeling better," he said. "Better than I did on Monday and Tuesday. So that is the good news. I'm improving but still have some work to do."

If Manning can't play, third-year quarterback Jared Lorenzen will be the man under center.

The 26-year-old has only appeared in three NFL games in his career, but has the confidence of his team.

"Jared will be fine (if he plays)" Manning said. "He knows what he is doing. He has been here long enough."

Manning's potential absence would end a run of 40 consecutive starts, the fourth longest streak in the NFL.

Such a number helps put into focus the achievement of Sunday's opponent, Packers quarterback Brett Favre, who will make 259th consecutive start - including playoff games - as he looks to become the winningest quarterback in NFL history. He is currently tied with former Denver Broncos star John Elway on 148 career wins.

"I think it is just an incredible run that he has had," Coughlin said. "Just goes to, again, the quality of the player and the idea that he has been able to play through some things. I know he has been injured and he has played with the injuries. You have to take you hat off to him."

Manning agreed.

"It is an incredible feat what he has done, just hard work and dedication," he said. "It is a tough thing to do, so hopefully I can keep my streak going."

While Manning's inclusion remains in question, the Giants already know they will be without running back Brandon Jacobs. The 25-year-old, tabbed to feature strongly in the post-Tiki Barber era, could miss a month with a knee injury.

Derrick Ward will now step up as the partner to Reuben Droughns in the Giants backfield.

"We have been confident in Derrick because of the preseason," Coughlin said. "And of course he played well the other night, too. He is excited about playing and we are excited about it as well."