Wednesday, July 04, 2007

New York Giants season preview


Last years record:8-8 (wildcard)
Coach: Tom Coughlin
Key Additions: Reuben Droughns RB: Droughns is a similar back to Brandon Jacobs but he has very good character and could be a good leader in the locker room. He could also start a few games early in the season in case the team doesn't think Jacobs is ready.
Key Loss: Tiki Barber RB: Barber is one of the few backs who actually got better with age as he had one of the best seasons in his career. The only good thing for the Giants is they don't have to worry about a team cancer as he criticized the coaching staff many times. It's now Matt Lauer's problem.
Draft: This could be a very good draft for The Giants as they should get at least 3 future starters out of it. Corner Aaron Ross out of Texas could end up being a solid corner but should help immediately in the return game. Receiver Steve Smith out of USC should become an impact player next year as he will get lots of good experience this year from Amani Toomer and Plaxico Burress. The sleeper is running back Ahmad Bradshaw out of Marshall who has potential to be a great 3rd down back and could start in the next couple years.
Offense: This could be the last chance for Eli Manning in New York as he has not lived up to the expectations of a number 1 overall pick. If he plays poorly the team could be in for a long year. Brandon Jacobs could end up being a solid all around back as he was utilized as a goal line back the first 2 years of his career. If Manning is consistent this year it could be a big year for Plaxico Burress and Jeremy Shockey. Burress is a great deep threat and could should easily get over 1000 yards while Shockey should catch around 80 balls. If the offensive line also holds up without injuries like last year the offense could be pretty good.
Defense: Antonio Pierce leads this defense which was 26th in total defense. The main downfall was the cornerback position as Sam Madison is getting old and Corey Webster isn't starter material yet. The Defensive line should be very solid as Osi Umenyiora is still young and could be dominant at times. Fred Robbins could also be dominant and was a pro bowl snub last year. While Michael Strahan isn't getting older he could still be a presence at defensive end.
Fantasy Studs:
Eli Manning QB: If you pay attention to the matchups, Manning could be a solid play but be careful because some times he can be very inconsistent . If you have him make sure you have another solid quarterback on your roster but Manning could be a solid starter if he doesn't underachieve or as a bye week replacement.
Brandon Jacobs RB: Jacobs should get you a ton of touchdowns as now he will actually get the majority of the carries. The yards will come later but for now enjoy the double digit touchdowns.
Plaxico Burress: Burress should be a solid number 2 receiver as he could put up big yard numbers but the only guarantee should be at least 8 touchdowns and 1000 yards.
Prediction: It should be a long and possibly last year for Tom Coughlin as the Giants don't look as deep as they were in years past. If Eli Manning has a good year they could have a decent year. But if he has another poor season like last year it could be the end for both Coughlin and him in New York. My predicted record is 6-10 and last place in the division.

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