Injured Andrews hopes to get OK to face ex-mates

Shawn Andrews' words, mannerisms and smile said it all:

"I definitely want to play."

The former Eagle and current Giants left tackle is questionable for Sunday night's NFC East showdown because of a back ailment. He hasn't practiced all week except for what he called "mental reps" and a walk-through Friday.

But Andrews will be extremely disappointed if the Giants' medical staff doesn't clear him and if coach Tom Coughlin doesn't let him start - two things that might not be decided until Sunday afternoon.

"That's going to be a tough one," Andrews said. "I'm working and prayerful. This is a big one right here."

Andrews, who has had two back surgeries, played in two games in 2008 and missed the 2009 season. He also has battled depression. The two-time Pro Bowl guard was released in March and it wasn't a fond farewell.

Andrews said there are no hard feelings. Maybe. But there are feelings. "I don't really want to make it a personal thing," he said. "No bad blood. I'm just extra amped. I don't know."

If he is able to make his third consecutive start, Andrews will have to deal with his emotions, something Coughlin has discussed with him.

"I think he can handle it," Coughlin said. "We'll spend a little time on it. I talked to him a little bit [Wednesday] morning, but he seems to have a real good demeanor. I'm sure the emotion will grow for him."

Andrews already was emotional about the second chance the Giants have given him. Asked if he could play if the game were Friday night, he said: "For my G-men? Hell, yeah, I would . . . They took a chance. Everybody said, 'That was a bad move by the Giants.' I owe them."

Eagles coach Andy Reid had nothing but positive things to say about Andrews this week.

"I'm proud of him and to come back from what he had," he said. "What a tribute to hard work right there. I said this often when he was with us, that I had never seen an offensive lineman that was as talented as Shawn Andrews, and I've seen a few offensive linemen. I've played the position, I've coached it, I'm very familiar with the guys that have come through the league.''

If Andrews can't play, Will Beatty will make his first start of the season on the Giants' injury-plagued line. Beatty played in the season opener but broke a bone in his foot. He returned last week against the Cowboys and was flagged for a few key penalties, including one that negated Brandon Jacobs' touchdown run.

Notes & quotes: CB Corey Webster (toe) and TE Kevin Boss (back) returned to practice.