The things that beat the Giants were turnovers and special teams. Defense was dominant until the last drive of the game, where they went into 'prevent defense'.
Opening kickoff: Willie Ponder fumble. Vikings recover.
Vikings return a punt and a kick return for a touchdown. Jay Feely missed one field goal.
Eli was picked off four times, one of which was returned for a touchdown.
The Giants' defense shut down the Minnesota offense until the final drive.
All in all, it's another week of work. However, my father (also a Giants fan) made an observation a few years ago that's still true; if the Giants lose, everyone decries them and labels them as losers (well, almost everyone). If the Giants win, all the fans fall in love with them. But one thing is always constant; no matter whether the Giants win or lose, the sports pundits on ESPN will always find something to nitpick with them. :-P
That's an excellent summation, thanks much, 007. You're good.