Dodge, special-teams coach take it hard

Although there were plenty of moments that could have turned things around in the final eight minutes against the Eagles on Sunday, the two that have drawn the most scrutiny probably have been the failure of the Giants to recognize and prevent an onside kick and the game-winning punt return.

"It's been a tough week for everybody," special-teams coordinator Tom Quinn said yesterday. "It was right there for us to make two plays and we don't make the two plays, so you feel very responsible for it."

Quinn said he exchanged texts with Matt Dodge on Sunday night regarding the punt that was supposed to go out of bounds but wound up returned 65 yards by DeSean Jackson for a touchdown as time expired.

"It's a tough, tough situation," Quinn said. "You feel like you've let the whole city down. That's the thing he said. I said, 'Matt, I feel the same way.' You let your family down, you let the ownership down, you let the fans down. So we take it very personally. This is our job, this is how we make our money, and when you don't succeed, it's out there for everyone to see."

Blackmon's knee an issue

The Giants might have another special-teams concern this week. Punt returner Will Blackmon missed practice with a knee injury. Tom Coughlin said it did not stem from any particular play but was just "wear and tear." If Blackmon cannot return punts, Darius Reynaud or Aaron Ross likely will take over the job.

Giant steps

The Giants practiced in their field house but opened the barn doors to get them used to the cold they'll experience in Green Bay on Sunday. Coughlin said it was about 45 degrees during the workout. . . . T David Diehl (illness) and WR Mario Manningham (heel) practiced fully. . . . The players will be dismissed early Friday and will not have to return until later than usual Saturday so they can spend Christmas with their families before flying to Green Bay Saturday afternoon.