It comes as no surprise that Jim Fassel, for the second time in two years, has changed his special teams coach. He dismissed Fred von Appen yesterday after the Giants once again endured shoddy play in virtually every aspect of special teams.

A year ago, Larry Mac Duff was labeled the culprit as the special teams sagged. His replacement, the well-read, erudite von Appen, did not do any better, as the Giants were last in the league in kickoff returns and kickoff coverage. If he does not land another coaching job, von Appen likely will remain with the Giants as a scout.