We've all enjoyed the ride since the first second ticked off the clock in the first playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2007. With a lot of Giants fans skeptical and holding the breath, wishing Big Blue could pull of
just one playoff victory under Head Coach Tom Coughlin, we had the honor of observing the best season in New York Giants history. The plowing over of the Bucs, the "gift that keeps on giving" Cowboys game, the last game of Brett Favre's career and finally the Super Bowl itself...it was amazing, phenomenal, EPIC...but now it's over and it's time to move on.
The New York Giants have unfortunately lost a number of key players this off-season. First and foremost, the Giants have lost the legendary, Michael Strahan. On top of him, Big Blue will kickoff the 2008 season without Reggie Torbor, Kawika Mitchell and Gibril Wilson. While all four players will be missed, some personnel losses will have a greater impact than others.
Are the Giants capable of having a year that will rival their success in 2007?
Early reports are mixed. While it's too early to even make legitimate predictions about Punters and Gunners, many NYC beat reporters have noted that the Giants seem to be gelling early in the off-season. Perhaps the most comforting and reassuring report is that of Eli Manning's progress. Manning has always been labeled a hard-worker and dedicated QB, but his spot-on passing, especially with veteran Amanin Toomer, is cause for cautious optimism...at least on the offensive side of the ball.
Additionally, as I noted in my offensive breakdown a couple weeks ago, the Giants offense hosts substantial depth at the Running Back position...possibly the best place to have quality backups. Offensive Coordinator Kevin Gilbride should be having a field day planning next season with four highly capable RBs, a proven QB, a squadron of high-caliber WRs, two TEs that are cause enough for Linebackers to tremble and an OL that has had enough time together to play an entire game blindfolded.
Similarly, the defense is poised to have another terrific year as there are a number of young players desperately hoping to get a chance to prove themselves and enough veterans to keep the over-desperate youngins in line. The DL, which also touts quality depth, remains a powerhouse despite the loss of Michael Strahan. The defensive secondary has all the tools to be an even better unit than last year with new acquisitions and former Giants acting as a cohesive unit. In fact, the only uncertain position defensively is the LB corps and with Pierce and Kiwanuka, it's safe to say that the team is in good hands.
However, there is drama. Jeremy Shockey, despite his recent comments, has caused reason to question his loyalty and dedication. Plaxico Burress, although "not worried" about his "situation," has drawn attention away from playing ball and only to himself. The team lost a major emotional component in Michael Strahan. And more than anything, the team must remain humble, yet confident.
My take on the situation is that this team can come out and play better than last year. They have all the tools necessary to win 12+ games, improve their home-field play and make another solid run in the playoffs. I'm not referring to the theory that "any given Sunday" any team has the tools to win. This New York Giants team is talented, well-balanced age-wise and has the right coaching staff to take advantage of said talent.
Furthermore, the schedule (knock on wood) is not horrible. The AFC North will be a challenge and, as always, the intra-division play will be competitive, but the Giants can handle their opponents.
You know what else? The Giants, despite an incredible season in 2007 and despite all they have going for them, are still not being respected by the media. NFL.com is already listing the top fantasy picks for 2008. The Giants defense (as a unit) is listed as #6. Not horrible, but better than say, the Steelers, if you ask me. What about QB? NFL.com has Manning listed as #12 under Marc Bulger and David Garrard. Plaxico Burress is #11 overall.
These are not horrible grades, but certainly not those reflective of the reigning Super Bowl champions.
If this team clicks as they did at the end of 2007, remains humble and keeps their eye on the prize, they are more than capable of making another run at the title. If they get disgruntled early, stir up drama and play sloppy, they could begin to slip quickly...especially without Ole' Gaptooth back there keeping them unified and fired up.
However, as I said, I believe they will do some exciting things in 2008. Just you wait.