James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
David Cutcliffe expresses mixed emotions over Giants quarterback news
Duke University head coach David Cutcliffe, who tutored both Giants quarterbacks Eli Manning and Daniel Jones, said the news of Jones' promotion ahead of Manning is one that is "an emotional time" for him personally.
"I'm excited for Daniel. I'm praying that Daniel gets off to a great start--that's important in your career, but I know he's tough enough to take what comes, and so he'll be just fine," Cutcliffe said in a videotaped message shared by the Duke University Sports Information Office.
At the same time, the legendary football coach and quarterbacks guru expressed surprise and remorse over what appears to be the sudden and abrupt ending to Manning's 16-year career.
Cutcliffe, who coached Manning at Ole Miss from 1998–2004, said of the veteran quarterback, "I'm certainly more concerned at this point for Eli. I don't know the circumstances (behind his benching).
"I know that he has been the face of that franchise and I think probably knowing Eli and his preparation and his commitment to that organization and how many times he's been down here with his receivers in the off-season where it's not being paid by the Giants, what a great competitor and a great worker."
Under Cutcliffe, Manning completed 829 of 1,363 passes for 10,119 yards, 81 touchdowns and 35 interceptions for a 137.7 passer rating.
Cutcliffe, who has been the head football coach at Duke University since 2008 and who coached Jones to a four-year career that saw him complete 764 of 1,275 passes for 8,201 yards, 52 touchdowns and 29 interceptions for a 122.9 passer rating.
The veteran coach praised Manning, whose in the final year of his contract with the Giants.
"He's been in a great person," Cutcliffe said of Manning. "If this is the end--and I have no idea what's next for Eli Manning--I hope he focuses on all the great things that he's accomplished."
