Hey everyone:

   All settled into the press box here at Giants Stadium high, high, high above the playing field. Not sure we could really be much higher without hitting heaven. Anyway, here's some early pre-game news:

   1. Among those who will not play for the Panthers include defensive end Mike Rucker, linebacker Na'il Diggs, receivers Dwayne Jarrett and Justin McCullum and running back Alex Haynes. The Giants will be without starting wide receivers Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer, among others.

   2. Dan Morgan is listed on the handout as being deactivated. However, Morgan is on the field for warmups. Nonetheless, we're told Morgan will not play. But the Panthers better keep an eye on him because Morgan might be apt to sneak on the field without coaches knowing. Looks like we'll have to wait at least another week for his return.

   3. You want leadership? Here's leadership -- Julius Peppers led the Panthers on to the practice field for tonight's game. He had this to say to reporters: "--------" OK, thanks Julius.

   4. Folks, I don't want to rub this in, but the temperature here is a "pleasant" 81 degrees.

   5. The Panthers enter tonight's game having won 15 of 17 preseason games.

   Check back for more blogs updates as the game progresses...