Unsung Giants produce the big plays

By Larry Fine

GLENDALE, Arizona (Reuters) - Little-known receivers David Tyree and Kevin Boss came up with two of the biggest plays for the underdog New York Giants in their 17-14 Super Bowl triumph over the New England Patriots on Sunday.

Boss, filling in for injured tight end Jeremy Shockey, made a 45-yard reception of an improvised play in the first of two fourth-quarter drives that propelled the Giants to victory.

Tyree, a back-up wide receiver, finished the first TD drive with a five-yard touchdown catch from quarterback Eli Manning, and set up the winning score with a spectacular leaping catch that put New York in striking distance of the end zone.

On a third-and-five from the Giants' 44-yard line with 1:15 remaining and New York trailing 14-10, Manning twisted away from what looked like a sure sack, rolled right and flung the ball down the middle of the field to Tyree.

With two defenders draped on him, Tyree trapped the ball against the top of his helmet and hung on to give the Giants a first down at the New England 24. Four plays later, Manning hit Plaxico Burress with a 13-yard TD strike for the winning score with 35 seconds left.

"Honestly, I think every receiver has to think that they are the best guy out there," said Tyree, who normally makes his contribution on special teams, covering kicks.

"There is a reason why I am out here. I am out here to make plays. Whenever they call my number, that is my opportunity. If I don't make the most of those opportunities, then I don't deserve to be out there. That is the way I approach it."

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