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The Rumble

Last Updated: 5:58 PM, February 5, 2012

Posted: 12:56 AM, February 5, 2012

The Rumble has obtained behind-the-scenes exclusive photos of Giants players after Friday practice happily wolfing down the 15 pizza pies brought to them from New York courtesy of Gaetano Corteo of Umberto’s in New Hyde Park.

The tradition, started four years ago by Rich “Big Daddy” Salgado — insurance consultant to pro athletes, entertainers, coaches and general managers (www.coastaladvisorsllc.com) — is expected to bring Big Blue good luck in Super Bowl XLVI tonight against the Patriots.

Everyone from co-owner Steve Tisch, who loved the Buffalo slice, to Eli Manning, Chris Snee, David Diehl and Jason Pierre-Paul to Justin Tuck, Victor Cruz, Osi Umenyiora to Jerry Reese indulged.

EAT IT UP: Giants Jason Pierre-Paul wolfs down pizza, a Friday tradition before games. The pies were delivered to Indianapolis from Umberto’s in New York.
David Diehl

“They just destroyed the pies!” Corteo told The Post. “In seven-to-eight minutes, they were gone.”

Torres overcomes ‘Gigante’ obstacle

When Andres Torres takes the field on Feb. 27 for the first day of Mets’ full-team workouts in Port St. Lucie, a film crew will be following his every step. Torres, a 34-year old switch-hitter who was acquired from the Giants in a three-player trade last December, is expected to be the Mets starting center fielder this year. He also suffers from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The crew will be shooting a film called “Gigante,” the title of which could change because of the trade. It is expected to be released sometime in the spring. The movie deals with Andrew’s continued struggles with the disease.

5K Bowl bet has twist

Super Bowl XLVI features a “running” bet between Boston Athletic Association executive director Tom Grilk and New York Road Runners president and CEO Mary Wittenberg. If the Patriots win, Wittenberg will wear a Tom Brady jersey during the 2012 B.A.A. 5K on April 15, during Boston Marathon weekend. If the Giants prevail, Grilk will don an Eli Manning jersey during the 2012 NYRR Dash to the Finish Line 5K on Nov. 3, during ING New York City Marathon weekend. ... Past Giants Super Bowl champions Andy Headen, Curtis McGriff and Byron Hunt are hosting a Super Bowl party today from 6-11 p.m. at the Social Bar and Grill at 795 8th Avenue, between 48th and 49th streets. The $50 VIP package includes premium bar drinks and a buffet.

Carson surprises at Munson dinner

Other than the honorees themselves, the biggest roar at last Tuesday’s Thurman Munson Awards Dinner was for a late surprise guest, Giants Super Bowl champion and Hall of Famer Harry Carson. The former All-Pro linebacker and previous Thurman recipient had a crack-of-dawn flight to Indianapolis but wanted to stop by to support AHRC New York City Foundation and Diana Munson. Carson’s Big Blue teammate Karl Nelson and Jets Super Bowl champ Emerson Boozer delighted the 500 strong as well.

Fordham’s Super connection

Fordham University president Fr. Joseph McShane is hoping for an assist from above for the Giants in today’s battle against the Patriots.

“The Super Bowl is always a momentous occasion at Fordham since the Lombardi Trophy bears the name of our iconic sporting alumnus, the legendary Vince Lombardi,” the reverend said. “Today’s game, as it did in 2008, takes on added significance with the Giants participating in the championship, since Wellington Mara, the late, outstanding owner of the Giants, is yet another distinguished Fordham grad. We of course are praying for divine intervention.”

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