The Eli Manning era appears over. Does that mean the Geno Smith era is officially under way? Probably not, but the New York Giants are hoping to find out by starting the former Jets gunslinger this weekend.

Geno Smith, who was once considered a prize talent coming out of West Virginia, has seen better days. Following a truly sincere stint with the Jets, in which he was inconsistent, Smith landed with the Giants without much hoopla. Fair or not, most people wrote him off as ever being a player who can truly matter in the National Football League.

Nevertheless, the newly named starter admits to being excited over his second-chance at being a starter.

“I’m always excited for an opportunity to play, but there’s no major reaction — didn’t throw a party or anything,” Smith said, via John Healy of the New York Daily News. “Great opportunity to go out there. I’ve had a year to get healthy, learn the system, learn the guys, so it’s a good opportunity and I’m looking forward to it.”

“I understand things happen in this business and you just got to be ready for whatever happens and I’ve been working hard,” Smith said. “I’ve been working behind the scenes, doing all the little things, so I expect them to pay off.”

Listen, you don't have to like the Manning benching or believe that Smith is the answer to all of New York's problems, but it is neat to hear a guy be excited over playing again. Brings back that idea that football is a game first.

As cool as Smith's emotions is that his teammates are as excited for him.

“Guys were kind of fired up,” Smith said. “Guys are giving me hugs, handshakes and I think guys have witnessed my story from afar just seeing how things have kind of played out. So, I think they’re looking forward to that part of it. . .

“They’ve seen me get better throughout the year and I think they’re really eager to get to work during the week and try and go out there and get a victory.”