With Eli Manning playing some of the best football of his career heading into Super Bowl XLVI, it should come as no surprise that he and his elite receiving core has had no issues moving the ball against the struggling New England Patriots secondary. Thanks to a couple key plays from the defense, as well as the excellent play of Manning, the Giants lead 9-3 early in the second quarter.
The opening score of the game came in surprising fashion, with Tom Brady being flagged for intentional grounding while standing in the end zone. This resulted in a safety, which gave the Giants the early lead. On the next possession, New York put together an impressive drive, which finished with Manning throwing a touchdown pass to Victor Cruz.
On their first extended drive of the game, the Patriots were able to move the ball down the field, but ultimately had to settle for a field goal. Tom Brady hooked up with Wes Welker and Deion Branch for two big connections on the drive. However, the drive concluded with a 29-yard field goal form Stephen Gostkowski.
For more on the Patriots and their Super Bowl run, check out SB Nation's Patriots blog,Pats Pulpit as well as SB Nation Boston. For more on the Giants and their Super Bowl appearance, visit Giants blog Big Blue View and SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding Super Bowl XLVI, please stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated Super Bowl hub.