But the Giants' offense has plenty of weapons that the Patriots need to be concerned about heading into next Sunday's game. Those weapons make Manning's job that much easier, and they'll be tough for New England's inconsistent defense to contain.
The Giants were last in the NFL when it came to rushing yards per game this season, which is mostly a reflection of Manning's tendency to air it out. But with a healthy Ahmad Bradshaw in the mix, and the always bruising Brandon Jacobs still getting carries, the Giants could look to establish the run early in order to open up the passing game.
If that's the case, the Patriots will have their work cut out for them. Bradshaw missed four games this season, but he still had nine rushing touchdowns, and his body of work speaks for itself. The 25-year-old running back racked up 1,235 yards last season, and despite taking a step back this season, he remains a threat.
Jacobs, meanwhile, is always tough to bring down because of his 260-pound-plus frame. He hit the end zone on the ground seven times this season, and you can bet the Giants will try to control the line of scrimmage with a heavy dose of running between the tackles.
When Manning does air it out, watch out. He has an impressive receiving corps to throw to, including a pair of 1,000-yard receivers.
Victor Cruz, a UMass alum, exploded onto the scene this season, racking up 1,536 yards and nine touchdowns. Few teams have been able to contain the 25-year-old this season, as he compiled 96 yards per game during the regular season — success that's translated into further success in the playoffs. Cruz caught 10 passes for 142 yards in the Giants' NFC Championship win over the 49ers.
Hakeem Nicks is New York's other 1,000-yard receiver, totaling 1,192 receiving yards during the regular season. In the postseason, he's been even more of a force for Tom Coughlin's bunch, catching two touchdowns in each of the Giant's first two postseason games. He totaled 115 receiving yards and 165 receiving yards, respectively, in those two games.
And don't sleep on wide receiver Mario Manningham. His numbers don't jump off the page quite as much, but he's more than capable of giving the Patriots' secondary some fits.
