Tom Coughlin Publicly Defends Eli Manning

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — With an 0-6 record, Tom Coughlin is considering a lot of things to improve the New York Giants.

Changing quarterbacks isn't one of them.

Coughlin on Thursday said Eli Manning has led the Giants to many victories in his 10-year career and he fully expects the two-time Super Bowl MVP to do it again.

The 67-year-old coach was asked about benching the struggling Manning in a conference call with the Minnesota media in advance of Monday night's game against the Vikings (1-4) at MetLife Stadium. He quickly dismissed the idea.

His view had not changed on Thursday.

Manning seemed surprised when asked about his status Thursday when the Giants returned for practice. He said he is working to correct his mistakes and hoping to make the plays to get a win.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.