Not only was strongside linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka likely lost for the season with a broken left leg in the 16-10 win over the Detroit Lions yesterday, starting halfback Brandon Jacobs was knocked out with a pulled left hamstring.

While the Giants (7-3) have opened a little cushion in the playoff chase, the downside is that it was injuries to Michael Strahan, Osi Umenyiora and Amani Toomer that led to New York's collapse in the second half of last season.

Kiwanuka's injury is the first major one for the Giants since the season started. He had surgery to stabilize his leg and ankle yesterday. Coughlin said doctors don't think there is enough time for the second-year pro to recover and play again this season.

Reggie Torbor replaced Kiwanuka at the linebacker spot, but Coughlin must replace him in third-down dime package where he played tackle, and in some other scenarios where he played a roving pass rusher.

Tackle Fred Robbins got most of the work in the dime package yesterday, but Coughlin plans to consider other options to keep the "joker" (roving rusher) active.

The halfback position might be more of a challenge because backup Derrick Ward has missed the last three games with ankle and groin injuries.

Ward filled in admirably after the big, bruising Jacobs sprained a knee in the season opener and missed the next three weeks. However, he was banged up during that stint and has been slow to return.

With Jacobs and Ward out, veteran Reuben Droughns would start against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, backed up by rookie Ahmad Bradshaw.