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Bradshaw Putting His Troubles Behind

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 31, 2008

GLENDALE, Ariz. - The knock on Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw coming out of college was he could not avoid adding to his rap sheet.

Bradshaw began his college career at Virginia and was kicked out of school after being charged with underage alcohol possession and obstruction of justice before ever stepping on the field. He then transferred to Marshall his freshman season, but in January 2006, Bradshaw was arrested for stealing a PlayStation 2 console from an unlocked dorm room and placed on two years' probation.

That is why despite rushing for 2,981 yards and 31 touchdowns in three seasons, Bradshaw was drafted in the seventh round (250th of 255 players) by the Giants in 2007.

"We certainly were aware of the circumstances," Giants coach Tom Coughlin said. "We had a discussion with Ahmad when he came in. Ahmad was very much aware that he would have to prove himself in a lot of different areas, not only on the field, but off the field. He's responded very well."

Despite being rarely used in the regular season, Bradshaw has emerged into a speedy running back that complements Brandon Jacobs, New York's bruising carrier.

Bradshaw ran for a team-high 66 yards against Tampa Bay in an NFC wild-card game and has 163 yards and one touchdown during the playoffs.

"No one could be here, regardless, if it wasn't for the grace of God," Bradshaw said. "I give it all to Him. It's just an opportunity people don't have every day. You've got to take advantage of it."

STRAHAN RETIRES SPECULATION: There has been speculation Giants DE Michael Strahan would retire after this season, especially if New York defeats New England.

Strahan is currently in his 15th NFL season, and has appeared in seven of the last nine Pro Bowls, but sacked the notion of retiring any time soon.

"I didn't talk to anybody in the organization about it. Heck, I didn't tell them that I was coming to training camp until the day of his return. So you know that I am not talking about retirement until I'm ready," Strahan said. "I didn't have any discussions with them organization about that. I'm not thinking about it. If you start to think like that, it takes away from your season, your preparation for the year and especially for a game like this."

ELI HAS HIS OWN SPY: Indianapolis QB Peyton Manning has faced New England numerous times throughout his career, which is why his younger brother sought his expertise before the playoffs.

"I talked to him before the first time we played the Patriots a 38-35 New England victory and all he really said was that the more film you watch on them can get you a pretty good feel for what they do. They don't change up all that much," Giants QB Eli Manning said. "They do what they do. They don't make many mistakes. They are smart players. There will be a new look in the game, a new blitz or coverage, but a lot of it is just they play sound defense."

GIANTS BITS: WR Plaxico Burress (ankle) did not participate in Wednesday's practice, while CB Kevin Dockery (hip) was limited. ... Giants starting T David Diehl, offensive linemen Grey Ruegamer and Guy Whimper and long snapper Jay Alford will wear ION 4D helmets, which are designed by Schutt Sports and supposed to be 40-55 percent more effective at reducing the force of an impact than helmets with traditional foam padding.

Anwar S. Richardson

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