HOF Game Countdown: The Giants Unexceptional 19

The New York Giants preseason opener in Canton, Ohio is 19 days away… and unfortunately, there are no real impact players in Giants lore that trace back to this number. No Johnny Unitas, no Joe Montana… not even a Keyshawn Johnson.

#19 was worn by quarterback Gary Wood, who played with the Giants from 1964-1966 and again from 1968-1969. Wood retired with a career completion percentage of 46.5%, throwing 14 touchdowns against 23 interceptions. He started nine games in New York, claiming victory in just one of them. On a brighter note, Wood successfully kicked an extra point in 1965.

The historic 1-9 was also adorned by 5’9 166 lb. kicker Joe Danelo from 1976-1982. Danelo made 104 field goals during his stint with the Giants, including an at the time record 55-yarder in 1981. Overall, he knocked through a less than impressive 10/35 from 50+. But it was a different era…

25-year old UDFA Julian Talley has been wearing #19 on the practice squad. Talley, who like Victor Cruz attended the University of Massachusetts, suited up for his first NFL game last season during week 17. He saw two targets, but his stat sheet remains bare.

Other significance of “19”? The Giants held the Buffalo Bills — their Hall of Fame Game opponent — to 19 points in Super Bowl XXV. Pepper Johnson, the Giants 2nd round draft choice in 1986, sacked the QB 19 times during his seven-year tenure with the Jints. A stay that included a pair of Super Bowl trophies…

Is it football season yet?