Profile of the 2006 New York Giants

The New York Giants stunned the NFC East with an unexpected division title last season. That didn’t make the Giants’ 23-0 playoff loss to the Carolina Panthers any less heartbreaking. Still, New York is excited about the 2006-07 season, as QB Eli Manning begins to shine as the franchise’s newest on-field general. Here is a Profile of the 2006 New York Giants.

At Quarterback, Eli Manning must improve his completion percentage and continue to hit receivers using the entire field. His ability to see all receivers last year was impressive, though there was still many a play where Shockey or Burress was open and Eli wasn’t looking their way. As good as Eli was last season, I think we’ll see tremendous improvement over the course of 2006.

At Running Back, Tiki Barber had a career season, and came very close to being the league’s MVP. Tiki is tough, and he is running behind a solid line. If the line stays healthy, there is no reason Tiki Barber can’t be the league’s leading rusher this season. Watch for Tiki Barber to continue as a playmaker in 2006.

For third and short situations, the Giants will continue to use RB Brandon Jacobs. But Coach Tom Coughlin should not completely discount the element of surprise. No, Jacobs should not be used on all downs one through four at the one yard line. Jacobs may eventually get into the endzone, but it may be without the football. Jacobs is an exciting player to watch.

Wide Receivers Plaxico Burress and Armani Toomer are vital to the Giants’ offense. Burress’s height adds so much to this team. Especially on third down. Look for more jump balls for Plaxico near the sidelines and in the endzone this season.

You have got to love what Tight End Jeremy Shockey does after he catches the ball. He just doesn’t want to go down. Look for him to have even more receptions this season. Eli and Shock love to connect. Backup TE Visanthe Shiancoe is a great alternative when Shockey needs a breather.