In the midst of his fourth season in the NFL, Southern Columbia grad Henry Hynoski and the New York Giants are in one of their toughest stretches.
Despite a five-game losing streak and a minimal chance at playoffs, Hynoski still only has strong expectations for the rest of the season.
"Obviously, we're a little disappointed," Hynoski told The News-Item. "We're giving effort, we're competing, but we can make a run if we sweep these last games out.
"We're having trouble putting a full game together. ... Playing great for three quarters, then can't put the fourth quarter together. We just need to find a way to get it done."
While the Giants may be experiencing a rough season, it has been a fairly productive one for Hynoski.
First, he beat out fellow fullback John Connor for a roster spot. Hynoski did that through a successful training camp and preseason, including a three-yard touchdown reception in the fourth exhibition game against the New York Jets.
He's followed that up for three carries in the regular season for seven yards - both good for second-highest in Hynoski's season records.
"It feels good," Hynoski said. "Anyway I can be more involved in the offense, any way I can help the team win, whether it's a big block or a big catch. I give it my all in every game."
On a one-year deal, having a good season should help Hynoski earn a contract next season, whether that's with the Giants or not.
However, that's not something the former Pitt Panther is thinking about at all.
"I'm just worried about this next game against the Cowboys," Hynoski said. "I'm not looking past that. You can't look ahead, just look at the time in hand."
One other thing that's been on Hynoski's side is health.
After needing surgery in May of 2013 to repair an MCL and missing all but three games last season with a shoulder injury, Hynoski has stayed healthy this season, playing in every game.
"I'm doing okay," Hynoski said. "In the final preseason game, I actualy left with minor injury to that shoulder, but the MRI showed it was just a strain, so I was able to play the next week."
While Hynoski is mainly concerned with his next game, he already has plans on making stops back to his hometown during the offseason - particularly for a second go at his Hyno Camp, which Southern Columbia held last year in June.
"Absolutely," Hynoski said on hosting the camp again. "That depends a lot on my situation and where I am. Last year went great. It's a great cause and it got some kids out before the start of summer football."