Pat Shurmur hints at potentially benching Eli Manning

New York Giants coach Pat Shurmur is opening the door on potentially benching quarterback Eli Manning.

Manning turned in another poor performance Sunday, going 26-of-45 for 250 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in a losing effort against the Buffalo Bills. On Monday, when asked if Manning is still his starter, Shurmur essentially deferred on the question and acknowledged that it would lead to speculation.

“He’s been our starter to this point. I’m not ready to talk about that.” – Pat Shurmur on whether Eli is his starter.
Told that will lead to speculation, Shurmur said: “I understand.”#NYG

— Kimberly Jones (@KimJonesSports) September 16, 2019

The Giants have been firmly committed to Manning this year. He was bad last year and has started bad this year, and first-round pick Daniel Jones was impressive during training camp. It certainly seems as though Shurmur may be laying the groundwork for an early season quarterback change.