Quarterback Eli Manning has had an inconsistent season for the NY Giants, but he had a solid and error-free game when it counted Sunday against Tampa Bay. The Giants beat the Bucanneers 24-14 to advance in the playoffs for the first time since 2007.

Previously this season Manning had been plagued by interceptions and fumbles, and his receivers had often dropped easy passes. But Sunday it was Tampa Bay that was making miscues, helped by the aggressive Giants defense that forced three turnovers.

Cornerback Corey Webster had an interception and a fumble recovery, and Giants defensive leader Michael Strahan had a strong performance that included nine tackles and one sack.

The Giants started out slowly. They were down 7-0 at one point but then came back to score 24 straight points before the Bucs responded with a touchdown in the third quarter.

Amani Toomer and Brandon Jacobs had TD receptions for the Giants.

This was Eli Manning's first playoff win after two previous defeats.