Fewell isn't afraid of Vick, Eagles

Most defensive coordinators would be losing sleep over having to face the Eagles this week, drowsily walking the hallways of the complex muttering to themselves about coverages and schemes.

Perry Fewell? He was the most animated he's been at a news conference since he arrived in New York last winter. "I like our defense," he said Thursday with a knowing smile.

Fewell wouldn't go into specifics on his game plan to stop Michael Vick and the Eagles. And he made sure to adequately compliment the multitalented quarterback. But he made it very clear what his intentions are Sunday night in Philadelphia.

"Hey, we're going down to win a football game," Fewell said. "That's the only reason we're going down there. We're taking that crew down and we're going to go and win a football game."

Getting used to doubles

Hakeem Nicks had five receptions for 82 yards Sunday in his first game without Steve Smith on the other side of the offense. That doesn't include the 48-yard touchdown that was called back because of a penalty. How was it different for him being the number one receiver and drawing the attention of the defense?

"When Eli is going through his reads, a lot of times that takes me out, if I'm split wide, depending on what route I've got," he said. "It takes me out of the play. Once he goes through his reads, he doesn't want to throw into double coverage."

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The Eagles, though, like to send pressure at the quarterback and have their corners cover receivers man-to-man.

"Once we get those chances," Nicks said, "we have to take advantage of them."

Giant steps

DE Justin Tuck said Vick is the most challenging player the Giants have faced. "We haven't had that type of monster to deal with this year," he said . . . DE Osi Umenyiora (hip/knee) was limited in practice in keeping with his usual schedule . . . Umenyiora had his sack of Jon Kitna taken away after the Elias Sports Bureau reviewed the play.