2012 NFL Season: Can Eli Manning get his third Super Bowl ring? (Part IV)
Continued from http://www.senore.com/2012-NFL-Season-Can-Eli-Manning-get-his-third-Super-Bowl-ring-Part-III-a173331...
2011 Season
After failing to qualify for the postseason two straight times, it was looking like the New York Giants would miss their third straight postseason qualification in the 2011 season.
However, things turned around in their favour towards the end of the regular season and after barely making it to the playoffs, the Giants did not look behind and went on to win the Super Bowl.
In the regular season, Manning completed 359 passes of 589 attempts for his career-best 4,933 yards. He scored 29 touchdowns and ended up throwing 16 interceptions.
What are the chances now?
After taking a glimpse at Eli’s performance in every season he has played, no one can doubt his talent and abilities. Yet many still believe that Giants will not be able to win the Super Bowl this time. Some even say that the defending champions might not
be able to qualify for the playoffs.
In all the seasons Eli was successful, he had a strong support from his receivers and the story of the last season was no different.
Manning had Hakeem Nicks, Mario Manningham and Victor Cruz as his throw catchers. The trio was considered deadly for every team and their collective performance, especially in the postseason, was certainly commendable.
This time around, Manningham is not going to be at Eli’s receiving end as the receiver has now joined the San Francisco 49ers. Moreover, Nicks’ status is also in jeopardy as he is suffering from a foot injury. His status is going to be clear during training
camp.
As compared to the last season, the receivers might not be very productive and hence Eli’s performance can be affected.
As far as their defence is concerned, Giants have a strong side. It was the defence that started performing well towards the end of the last season, complementing Manning’s efforts on the offence to secure victories.
This was just the team’s situation. A look at the National Football Conference (NFC) East suggests that it will be very tough for the Giants to even qualify for the playoffs this time.
Philadelphia Eagles are strong contenders to win the division and it will be an understatement to say that Dallas Cowboys are not good enough to qualify for the postseason. Also, Washington Redskins have quarterback Robert Griffin III in their squad. He
was selected as the second overall draft pick this year and can surprise many opponents.
Even if Giants manage to qualify for the playoffs, it will not be easy for them to win the NFC championship as San Francisco 49ers, Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints are also rated as threatening units.
Let’s for one moment assume that Giants will win the NFC championship to get a shot at the Super Bowl. Even if it happens, they will not be favourites to win the title as the AFC could be represented by New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens or any other
team. And what if Peyton Manning takes the Denver Broncos to the Super Bowl? Eli will not be able to compete successfully against his brother.
Only time will tell whether Giants are able to defend their title, but the overall situation suggests that they must be thankful even if they qualify for the NFC championship game.
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