Out With The Old, in With The New: The Giants Offense

The discussion during the second half of the 2008-09 season was how would the Giants offensive play calling change without Plaxico Burress out there.

While they struggled last year going just 1-4 down the stretch of the season, expect a different type of season for Eli Manning and the rest of the offense.

The answer is simple—they'll utilize a lot of quick hit passes rather than trying to throw the deep ball.

With a receiving core of Hakeem Nicks, Steve Smith, Dominik Hixon, Sinorce Moss and Mario Manningham, the Giants will rely on a lot of slants and quick routes this season.

However, there will be a new red zone weapon—6’6” Ramses Barden from Cal Poly Tech. While there he had 36 receptions in the last two years, and turned heads while Cal Poly Tech took on Wisconsin in 2008.

Barden finished with six catches for 83 yards and a touchdown—including a 31-yard reception in a 36-35 overtime loss.

While he is known as a big target in the red zone, he made others—particularly NFL scouts, who now had him on their radar— take notice after he proved he could run quick routes against the Badgers too.

The departure of running back Derrick Ward could also prove to change the play calling for Kevin Gilbride. When Ward was in the backfield, Gilbride had the option to call more passing plays for his running backs. The Giants are hoping Ahmad Bradshaw can fill that role like he did two years ago as a rookie.

Giants fans should expect a heavy dose of Brandon Jacobs in the backfield, and expect to see a smash mouth team this year. They should also expect quick 10-12 yard routes and passes, with the occasional deep ball. One thing is certain, the new look Giant offense will be nothing like it was when Burress was on the team.

Is it a bad thing? No, it's just something new.