Six days to Super Bowl XLVI! The teams are in Indiana getting prepared for the rematch of Super Bowl XLII. Actually, I should say that the same teams from Super Bowl XLII are appearing in Super Bowl XLVI because it is not truly a rematch. Vince Wilfork is the only defensive player who was on the team in 2007. On the offensive side of the ball, Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer are no longer Giants receivers. However, the game should be just as exciting as the championship game five years ago.
To start our preview of the big game, let’s look at the Giants’ offense. The Giants offense has a great passing game. Led by quarterback Eli Manning, they have a trio of wide receivers who are quick. They were able to beat the Patriots during the regular season without several starters. The key to the offense’s performance will be how the offensive line plays. They really struggled to protect Eli during the regular season. He was sacked 28 times.
Here are the potential starters and key players on the Giants offense.
Quarterback
Eli Manning (#10) – NFL quarterbacking is in his blood. Dad Archie Manning is a former NFL quarterback (played most of his career with New Orleans Saints) and brother is Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning. He was the MVP of Super Bowl XLII.
Center
David Baas (#64) – Struggled with injuries during the regular season. Suffered another injury during the NFC championship game.
Guards and Tackles – Need to block and allow Eli time to get the ball to his receivers.
David Diehl (#66, Left Tackle) - Moved from guard to tackle and replaced Will Beatty.
Kevin Boothe (#65, Left Guard) – Replaced David Diehl.
Chris Snee (#76, Right Guard) – Head Coach Coughlin’s son.
Kareem McKenzie (#67, Right Tackle) – Veteran tackle who needs to step up and protect Eli.
Tight End
Jake Ballard (#85) – Had the winning touchdown when they played the Patriots during the regular season.
Wide Receivers
Victor Cruz (#80) – Small and fast. Third in receiving yards (1536) during the regular season.
Hakeem Nicks (#88) – Did not play the Patriots during the regular season.
Mario Manningham (#82) – Started while Nicks was out. Had a touchdown in the regular season matchup.
Running Back
Henry Hynoski (#45, Full) – Did not play in the regular season game against the Patriots. Strong blocker and should help Bradshaw get some yards.
Ahmad Bradshaw (#44) – Did not play in the regular season game against the Patriots. Keeps running after taking a hit.
Tomorrow we will look at the Patriots defense. We’ll see if they can take down Eli and stop those quick receivers.
Ciao!
Heels & Helmets®
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