from http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/giants/2010/10/kiwanuka-hopes-to-be-back-this-1.html

Kiwanuka hopes to be back this week

By Ralph Vacchiano

UPDATED: 2:30 a.m.

When the Giants learned that Mathias Kiwanuka had the same bulging disc in his neck that cost Antonio Pierce half a season last year, they were privately bracing for the worst.

It turns out, though, they may have reason to hope for the best.

Remarkably, Kiwanuka said late last night that he’s hopeful he can be back in the Giants lineup as soon Sunday. Speaking outside the locker room right after the Giants’ 17-3 win over the Bears, Kiwanuka said that he will seek a second opinion from neck specialists today and has what he calls “a legitimate hope” to join the team on their flight to Houston on Saturday.

“We’ll see the doctors and go from there,” he said. “I am hopeful.”

Kiwanuka was ruled out of last night’s game after a CAT scan late Friday revealed the extent of the bulging disc in his neck. It was eerily similar to the sudden way the Giants found out last year that Pierce had the same injury - - an injury that essentially ended up ending Pierce’s career.

Kiwanuka said he has spoken to Pierce since and said “There is a subtle difference” between the two injuries. “They aren’t exactly the same,” he said.

The Giants have not put a timetable on Kiwanuka’s return. They say it depends on how quickly the disc responds to treatment and rest. Kiwanuka obviously believes his neck will respond well.

“Anything is possible and I’m trying to stay optimistic,” he said. “The way these guys fought out there today, it makes me want to get back a little faster.”