Around the League editor Gregg Rosenthal has his takeaways from the game:
From Around the League:
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Lessons from Wednesday's preseason games
» Giants starting receiver Hakeem Nicks returned for the first time since undergoing foot surgery and will be ready for Week 1. Nicks caught one pass over the middle for six yards. He took some criticism from the New York broadcasters for bracing for contact rather early on the play, but the only thing that matters is if Nicks is healthy. His foot surgery was just over three months ago.
» The New England Patriots also had a key return. Starting right tackle Sebastian Vollmer played for the first time since coming off the PUP list.
» Eli Manning and the Giants' starting offense actually played into the second quarter. They picked up one first down in four drives. Tom Coughlin wanted to get something positive going before taking out the starters, but it never happened despite facing the Patriots' backups.
» We're not sure what it means that New England started Ryan Mallett over Brian Hoyer at quarterback. It's uncertain who New England's backup to Tom Brady will be in the season opener. Mallett has not looked very comfortable in the preseason and reportedly struggled in practices.
» New England rested almost all starters on both sides of the football. The Patriots used four different centers in the first half. We have no clue who the team's starting center will be in Week 1.
» Giants defensive lineman Marcus Thomas helped prevent overtime with a late fumble recovery and rumble. Maybe the "Madden" guys will learn who he is now.
