Will the Giants Repeat As Super Bowl Champions?

Will the Giants repeat as Super Bowl Champions? No way! To many teams have vastly improved (see Saints) and in my opinion they got lucky in the playoffs last year anyway. However, the major reason that they will not repeat is because their defensive line is considerably worse than last season. With the retirement of Michael Strahan and now the season-ending knee injury to Osi Umenyiora, the Giants are in a very difficult position of filling the void that was one of, if not the best, defensive lines in football. Now without their two sack leaders, Justin Tuck and Mathias Kiwanuka have to step in and fill those Shaq sized shoes in order for Big Blue to be successful. Those are mighty shoes to fill and in my opinion, the Giants will not make the playoffs because they will have trouble doing that. Their offense is not the issue, as Eli Manning is back to lead the attack with WRs Plaxico Burress, Steve Smith, Amani Toomer and rookie Mario Manningham leading the way, along with up-and-coming TE Kevin Boss. Their line should be able to stabilize their offense as well with mainstays David Diehl, Rich Seubert, Chris Snee and Kareem McKenzie in there clearing paths for Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs (who for the record should not be a starting runningback) and blocking relentless pass rushes from defenses. Their defense could be the deal breaker though, as their secondary is not so great nor are they very deep there or at linebacker. However, standout 2007 rookie, Aaron Ross will be a difference maker from the cornerback position, as will 2008 1st round pick Kenny Phillips from the safety position. Look for those two to step up and provide a spark in the Giants defense. And let's not forget about defensive captain Antonio Pierce, as he has big shoes to fill as well as the leader of the Giants defense without Umenyiora and Strahan. Final Analysis: The Giants will only make the playoffs if Justin Tuck and Mathias Kiwanuka can fill in appropriately for Strahan and Umenyiora. Realistically, I don't think it will happen because those are two of the best in football and the Giants will suffer. Also, if Eli can be the 2007 Playoffs Eli, the Giants will be fine. Prediction: 3rd in the NFC East behind the Cowboys and Eagles, no playoffs and a record of 7-9.