The key to this year's offense could be WR V. Cruz. If he recovers to be an 85-1050-7 TD guy, a solid #2 and clear improvement over WR Randle, this offense could truly get to the next level. We need some luck with injuries this year and our #1 hopeful is WR Cruz.
A second key is the TE position. I think we really have some possibilities here with TE W. Tye especially. With OBJ drawing and beating double coverages if our other positional players improve and /or heal this pass offense could be special.
My big question is our running game and who will start at RB. Does Jennings have another year left in him or does Dwarka need to step up? Who runs the ball?
This offense can be special if it stays healthy and the young guys develop.
What players do you think really need to step up?
And yes, I think Shepherd is key too. I have this feeling he'll be solid out of the gates as a 4th WR and develop into our #3 during the season. An effective #3.
if Tye and Donnell stay healthy and produce, if Will Johnson is the multi tool back he appears to be and if Sheppard can earn at least 20 snaps a game and Cruz can be a real participant, and if Perkins and Rainey can push the RB corps -- this will be a top 3 offense and really light it up
I realize these are a lot of ifs -- but everything above is definitely in play
If the line can help offense can expand it's repertoire (incorporate a play-action, long passing attack) ...
If the line can help the running game be more effective (and eat up the clock), the defense will improve because it is better rested
2) Sheppard
3) The TE/FB group producing in all aspects.
I leave Cruz as a bonus, the whipped cream and nuts atop the sundae.
If we get #1 & #3, the running game will fall into place whoever totes the rock.
2) Sheppard
3) The TE/FB group producing in all aspects.
I leave Cruz as a bonus, the whipped cream and nuts atop the sundae.
If we get #1 & #3, the running game will fall into place whoever totes the rock.
Shephard/Cruz will be better than Randle. If, like you said, Cruz has those numbers or anyway close, the league will be in difficult position to stop us. Add Tye and an effective FB/H-Back Johnson and that makes it more difficult to stop us on a continued basis.
If what we are hearing from the coaches/reporters than Williams has been much improved, that would be a wow and it would be extremely nice to have a 1000 yard runner on this team. I do not care who does it.
Of course, there is the line. Weston and Pugh are gold. If Jerry is technically better (didn't he go to some camp?) then the middle three could be solid. Flowers was hurt and played hurt a good chunk of the year, and was out of "position" (he should be on the right side, but we gots what we gots). We can hope Solari tweaks him enough to be good. I am on my knees praying that Newhouse can be good, too. Keeping Eli afloat (that's the Navy in me) and adding a running game conceivably makes us playoff capable.
Again, great thread, and yes there can be a lot of positives on offense this year.
Offensively we could be that good to great and I am more hopeful this year than in the past couple due to the offenses potential.
Then there's the D.....
Shephard/Cruz will be better than Randle. If, like you said, Cruz has those numbers or anyway close, the league will be in the difficult position to stop us. Add Tye and an effective FB/H-Back Johnson and that makes it more difficult to stop us on a continued basis.
If what we are hearing from the coaches/reporters than Williams has been much improved, that would be a wow and it would be extremely nice to have a 1000 yard runner on this team. I do not care who does it.
Of course, there is the line. Weston and Pugh are gold. If Jerry is technically better (didn't he go to some camp?) then the middle three could be solid. Flowers was hurt and played hurt a good chunk of the year, and was out of "position" (he should be on the right side, but we gots what we gots). We can hope Solari tweaks him enough to be good. I am on my knees praying that Newhouse can be good, too. Keeping Eli afloat (that's the Navy in me) and adding a running game conceivably makes us playoff capable.
Again, great thread, and yes there can be a lot of positives on offense this year.
Offensively we could be that good to great and I am more hopeful this year than in the past couple due to the offenses potential.
Then there's the D.....
As for the defense, I agree it was our weak point last year and may in fact have been the league's worst defense by far. However, I do believe the DL this year will be better due to signings and return to health of Hankins and JPP. I think Bromley and Wynn will improve as well. A big key is Kennard at LB being a force because he has ability.
Assuming we can do that I love our offense....
We were what? 8th last year? I see us as slightly better across the board with potential to be top 5.
-Cruz/Sheppard easily is much better than Randle/Harris
-Will Johnson should be better than Whitlock
-Our running back stable should be stronger with some real play making ability in Perkins. Vereen should be deadly underneath year two in our system/better WR core.
-Our TE stable has two guys that have now been around the block in this system who are no longer green (Donnel/Tye) and a really solid 3rd TE to groom in Adams.
-Our line should be at LEAST as good as last year. Another year of improvement for Flowers, Pugh, and Richburg. Jerry is supposed to be in fantastic shape. (again I still want another body added though)
The Giants really like Jennings
The Giants really like Jennings
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I see four MAX. Jennings, Vereen, and Perkins are locks. That leaves Williams, Darkwa, and Rainey probably fighting for one spot. I guess it could go to Williams if he's ready to take on a short yardage/endzone type role.
I am NOt sold on Jennings being a lock only because he is 31. There haven't been many runners with big years at age 31. I like Perkins, Vereen, Williams (if reports of developing are true....) and Dwarka. Jennings could be a late cut and told to stay in shape. Just a hunch.
Wow. I would be shocked if Jennings was cut barring some sort of injury in Training camp/Pre-season. He's the likely starter let alone one of their top 4. He might get phased out or replaced as the year moves along but I can't see him cut early if healthy.
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In comment 13035222 ZGiants98 said:
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I see four MAX. Jennings, Vereen, and Perkins are locks. That leaves Williams, Darkwa, and Rainey probably fighting for one spot. I guess it could go to Williams if he's ready to take on a short yardage/endzone type role.
I am NOt sold on Jennings being a lock only because he is 31. There haven't been many runners with big years at age 31. I like Perkins, Vereen, Williams (if reports of developing are true....) and Dwarka. Jennings could be a late cut and told to stay in shape. Just a hunch.
Wow. I would be shocked if Jennings was cut barring some sort of injury in Training camp/Pre-season. He's the likely starter let alone one of their top 4. He might get phased out or replaced as the year moves along but I can't see him cut early if healthy.
Listening to Jennings on NFL Network just, reinforces my feeling on Victor Cruz. I think he will make it back to form to pair with Beckham and Shepard, giving the Giants a lethal WR corps.
Will Johnson will be a terror in run blocking with flexibility in the passing game as an H-back FB or TE.
The stable of TE's may prove to be a strength as well. The competition will be intense this preseason making the final contingent solid.
The RB rotation will be decided during the preseason but, I think Perkins will become impactful as the season evolves, like Bradshaw 2007. Jennings will be the workhorse early but will be complimented will solid depth.
That is one of the parallels to 2007 when major contributions came from draft class: CB Ross 1st round, WR Smith 2nd round, TE Boss 5th round and RB Bradshaw 7th round. 2016 we have CB Apple 1st round, WR Shepard 2nd round, RB Perkins 5th round and TE Adams 6th round.
Last year the O was top 10 with only one true dynamic play-maker. This year Eli will have a plethora of options, with Beckham, Cruz and Shepard single coverage will prove to be a nightmare. Given coach Solari's track record the run blocking should much improved, with the stable of RB's this years Offense may be the Best in franchise history.
Listening to Jennings on NFL Network just, reinforces my feeling on Victor Cruz. I think he will make it back to form to pair with Beckham and Shepard, giving the Giants a lethal WR corps.
Will Johnson will be a terror in run blocking with flexibility in the passing game as an H-back FB or TE.
The stable of TE's may prove to be a strength as well. The competition will be intense this preseason making the final contingent solid.
The RB rotation will be decided during the preseason but, I think Perkins will become impactful as the season evolves, like Bradshaw 2007. Jennings will be the workhorse early but will be complimented will solid depth.
That is one of the parallels to 2007 when major contributions came from draft class: CB Ross 1st round, WR Smith 2nd round, TE Boss 5th round and RB Bradshaw 7th round. 2016 we have CB Apple 1st round, WR Shepard 2nd round, RB Perkins 5th round and TE Adams 6th round.
Last year the O was top 10 with only one true dynamic play-maker. This year Eli will have a plethora of options, with Beckham, Cruz and Shepard single coverage will prove to be a nightmare. Given coach Solari's track record the run blocking should much improved, with the stable of RB's this years Offense may be the Best in franchise history.
I also wondered before the draft if we'd trade TE Donnell and a pick for an opportunity to move up and draft a RT. I didn't happen.
I really see great production from TE this year. I see us moving the ball on the ground; throwing short; and even surprising with TE Adams later in the year as he has speed but just needs to learn.
Oddly, but I also think TE plus FB Johnson will be the reason our redzone offense will really improve.
TE Donnell is a really big body and if he stays healthy I think he'll key the redzone. When he is in along with FB Johnson teams won't know whether to key on the run or pass.
Also, Cruz is a solid short area receiver when healthy and he appears to be healthy.
I have a good feeling we will produce inside the 20 yard line this year.
His former player swear by his coaching ability, therefore the discerning mind should lean in favor of optimism. I believe he will know fairly quickly what potential they can achieve. One thing I can asure you they will be well prepared and function as a cohesive unit. Sometimes that can make all the difference.
His former player swear by his coaching ability, therefore the discerning mind should lean in favor of optimism. I believe he will know fairly quickly what potential they can achieve. One thing I can asure you they will be well prepared and function as a cohesive unit. Sometimes that can make all the difference.
And Cruz is the reason.....one, until he goes out there and can show he has the same cutting ability and quickness.....two, that, that knee can take a hit......and three, that he can play a full season......we have been let down by him, the last three seasons......to count on him is a mistake....he should be looked at as a bonus, if he indeed does play....
That's why Shepard is the #1 key to this offense.....he has to replace Randle, by game one......That is a lot of pressure to put on a rookie receiver, especially if Cruz fails or comes around slowly......
If Cruz fails, that's OBj, SS, and Harris......we need someone to step up, and be the 3rd or 4th guy.....
It seems that the Giants are prepared to go with the OL that finished the year......these 5 have played together for a year.....I think they will be better...but there is no depth......we have to hope Reese finds someone's outcast, as an upgrade to the backups we have....
It seems to be the same situation with the TE's....they are going with what they have...
We needed a RB, and we were lucky that Perkins was still on the board....but he is a rookie, and while potentially better than what we already have, he is still an unknown.....We will probably ride Jennings as long as we can, but Vereen, Darkwa, Williams, and Co. are not the answer......
This is a team, with no depth on offense or defense.....we have to avoid major injuries.......we can probably tolerate minor injuries to key players.....
If we get lucky with Cruz, if Perkins and Shepard, can work their way into the starting lineup, and if we can avoid the injury bug that has plagued us for several seasons, there is no reason this team can't take the division, and make the playoffs....
And Cruz is the reason.....one, until he goes out there and can show he has the same cutting ability and quickness.....two, that, that knee can take a hit......and three, that he can play a full season......we have been let down by him, the last three seasons......to count on him is a mistake....he should be looked at as a bonus, if he indeed does play....
That's why Shepard is the #1 key to this offense.....he has to replace Randle, by game one......That is a lot of pressure to put on a rookie receiver, especially if Cruz fails or comes around slowly......
If Cruz fails, that's OBj, SS, and Harris......we need someone to step up, and be the 3rd or 4th guy.....
It seems that the Giants are prepared to go with the OL that finished the year......these 5 have played together for a year.....I think they will be better...but there is no depth......we have to hope Reese finds someone's outcast, as an upgrade to the backups we have....
It seems to be the same situation with the TE's....they are going with what they have...
We needed a RB, and we were lucky that Perkins was still on the board....but he is a rookie, and while potentially better than what we already have, he is still an unknown.....We will probably ride Jennings as long as we can, but Vereen, Darkwa, Williams, and Co. are not the answer......
This is a team, with no depth on offense or defense.....we have to avoid major injuries.......we can probably tolerate minor injuries to key players.....
If we get lucky with Cruz, if Perkins and Shepard, can work their way into the starting lineup, and if we can avoid the injury bug that has plagued us for several seasons, there is no reason this team can't take the division, and make the playoffs....
And yes Shepherd could indeed end up being a key piece to the offense should Cruz falter.
New Coaching for Williams - ( New Window )
Anyone know how developed Perkins is? Is he sort of NFL ready with the ability to pick up the blitz and so forth?
I am really hoping Dwarka, Perkins, Vereen are all ready out the gates. I know Vereeen is but he isn't a regular back.
So for 2016, Shepard showing up as the guy he's been purported to be is the biggest key to this offense. Randle had his flaws, but he also scored a lot of touchdowns. We need someone to offer similar production. If Shepard even copies the production and doesn't make the mental errors that would be a huge plus. And I think that would guarantee a potential repeat of Eli's production last year.
Secondly, a RB coming out behind Jennings proving to be a future starter would also be a huge boon. Either Williams or Perkins, if they can carry the ball over a hundred times for near 4.5 yards a carry, that too would be a huge pick up for our offense. (This is obviously assuming Rashad starts the whole season.)
Lastly, while Tye produced good numbers, he's not a threatening offensive weapon. If he or Donnell can show some consistency at that position that would give the team some stability. Even if it's not those two, a consistent starter from the TE position would really help this offense going forward. If Adams can get off the line and make some catches, that duel threat - like with the RB position - would give Eli a lot of flexibility and defenses a lot of difficulty with trying to plan for Eli's attack.
So for 2016, Shepard showing up as the guy he's been purported to be is the biggest key to this offense. Randle had his flaws, but he also scored a lot of touchdowns. We need someone to offer similar production. If Shepard even copies the production and doesn't make the mental errors that would be a huge plus. And I think that would guarantee a potential repeat of Eli's production last year.
Secondly, a RB coming out behind Jennings proving to be a future starter would also be a huge boon. Either Williams or Perkins, if they can carry the ball over a hundred times for near 4.5 yards a carry, that too would be a huge pick up for our offense. (This is obviously assuming Rashad starts the whole season.)
Lastly, while Tye produced good numbers, he's not a threatening offensive weapon. If he or Donnell can show some consistency at that position that would give the team some stability. Even if it's not those two, a consistent starter from the TE position would really help this offense going forward. If Adams can get off the line and make some catches, that duel threat - like with the RB position - would give Eli a lot of flexibility and defenses a lot of difficulty with trying to plan for Eli's attack.
I thought Te was pretty nifty last year and improved. I think Adams has the most physical talent and upside. I also believe the OL, if healthy and together through camp, will be better due to experience and coach Solari. Good reply and I appreciate much of what you say.
I like Tye, but I think his height limits his use in certain situations. I also think Donnell is better at contested grabs. Both together offer options that are valuable. But, yeah, is Adams can become Donnell like in his offensive value, that would be a huge option for Eli.
I agree about the OL getting better with experience, but I think we may draft a RT next year and I think that would be a good thing. I don't dislike Newhouse, but I think we could use a more solid run blocker on the right side though. Newhouse as depth would be fantastic.
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I thought Te was pretty nifty last year and improved. I think Adams has the most physical talent and upside. I also believe the OL, if healthy and together through camp, will be better due to experience and coach Solari. Good reply and I appreciate much of what you say.
I like Tye, but I think his height limits his use in certain situations. I also think Donnell is better at contested grabs. Both together offer options that are valuable. But, yeah, is Adams can become Donnell like in his offensive value, that would be a huge option for Eli.
I agree about the OL getting better with experience, but I think we may draft a RT next year and I think that would be a good thing. I don't dislike Newhouse, but I think we could use a more solid run blocker on the right side though. Newhouse as depth would be fantastic.
But if you want a "key" to the O, it's run blocking. We have a nice stable of backs. No real game breakers, but Jennings is reliable as an every down back as long as he's healthy, Vereen changes things as a receiving threat where they can split him out and Perkins as apparently our future full timer will be a dynamic back when giving Jennings a break assuming he can block. Who knows what Williams is gonna do. I'd like to believe he can thrive behind some good run blocking because him getting to the 2nd and 3rd levels sounds scary to me for other teams to have to deal with.
If we can get a viable, and consistent running game to go with what we can do through the air, we will be a top five offense in the league with arguably the most clutch an. You give Eli options to audible in and out of, he is literally the best an in the game. Then, it's all up to the defense.
Man I have a very good feeling about this year.
Link - ( New Window )
Agree with this.
We know about Cruz and Shepard, so I won't discuss them.
I do think they want to make Shane Vereen a bigger part of the offense and we saw glympses of what he is capable of, at times. Similarly, there is potential in this group of young TEs. If someone outside of the receivers emerged as a legitimate pass catching threat, it could have a big impact on the offense.
With that said, if I had to state one key, I would propably point to the running game. The erratic running game has been holding the offense back for years. For the reasons I stated above, the offense is challenged to overcome unfavorable down and distance situations, and they have found themselves in those situations far too often at the hands of ineffective runs for no gains or losses.
We saw some signs of hope at the end of the season last year. Whatever it was, if they can find a way to build off of that and get some legitimacy to the running game, this could have a major impact to the offense, especially if in conjunction with one of the other adds mentioned. But a running game is transformative, meaning this offense is a whole different animal if they can run on you.
And if he feels he has a bit more time in pocket, he can hold for another second and see if one breaks free. If not, the WCO options should be available.
I don't think we can expect much more than just moderate improvements in the O-line (at best), but I do expect Defenses to be wary of our passing game which might just create the time Eli needs to light em' up.
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If an OT gets injured we could be in trouble unless we sign someone before the season begins.
Flowers must improve for sure and stay healthy. We do lack OL depth as do many teams. My hope is Hart shows enough to be a RT. I mean, if injuries hit we'd have to move Pugh to OT for sure.
And yes, I think Shepherd is key too. I have this feeling he'll be solid out of the gates as a 4th WR and develop into our #3 during the season. An effective #3.
Shepard is NOT going to be the #4 WR in game 1. He's the #2 from the get go and the ONLY question is if Cruz can be the #3 or whether he is damaged goods in which case he splits his time with Harris.
But if you want a "key" to the O, it's run blocking. We have a nice stable of backs. No real game breakers, but Jennings is reliable as an every down back as long as he's healthy, Vereen changes things as a receiving threat where they can split him out and Perkins as apparently our future full timer will be a dynamic back when giving Jennings a break assuming he can block. Who knows what Williams is gonna do. I'd like to believe he can thrive behind some good run blocking because him getting to the 2nd and 3rd levels sounds scary to me for other teams to have to deal with.
If we can get a viable, and consistent running game to go with what we can do through the air, we will be a top five offense in the league with arguably the most clutch an. You give Eli options to audible in and out of, he is literally the best an in the game. Then, it's all up to the defense.
Man I have a very good feeling about this year.
The right side of the OL will likely maybe only improve a shade because of coach Solari and just the fact that they have played together in this offense for more than just a year. Experience and continuity are big. I also wonder how much OG Hart develops. If this kid does come on maybe he does start at RT at some point. I doubt he does out of the gates this year as he is only 22 with one game under his belt but I'm hopeful he can show in spots, maybe be our short yardage tackle or guard.
But I disagree on Cruz. I think his coming back to form would put this offense over the top. If Eli has a short underneath wideout that he can trust and rely on more than Randle we'll see less turnovers and more 3rd and short conversions. I'm not sure how many interceptions Randle cost Eli but it was a lot more than should ever be. Cruz's comeback, if it does happen and reports are he has healed, would be huge.
As for Shepherd, I do believe he'll play right out of the gates and produce but as a #4 wideout. No way he starts over a healthy Cruz due to experience. Harris also will be year two in this offense and he is in his prime so he'll see the field as a wideout.
I think as the season progresses we'll hopefully see more of the youth out there producing: Perkins, Shepherd, Adams and so forth. That is the key to late season success as it changes up game film and just produces results. Young guys who step up and surprise, we need that kind of year. Amen.
This year, I think he'll spread the ball around like never before. As for those that believe Shepherd is the #2 WR out of the gates I hope he shows enough to be that but he is a rookie and that is asking a lot.
This team is gonna rock if the OL improves.
I think the starting DL will be strong against the run. I think Vernon, Hankins and JPP will put pressure on the QB.
But a big key is how much the young guys develop as all good defenses rotate the DL's and use situational matchups.
We have to hope Bromley, Wynn and OWA produce. These guys have to be there to rotate in and be effective. Not just bodies. As a season goes on DL's can wear down but if you rotate or have backups that are almost as good as some of your starters you are in a much better position to beat teams down in the the last 10 minutes of a game.
Call me crazy, but I have this feeling that FB Whitlock, who has beefed up and had good pass rush in college and in flashes last year, well that he makes the team and becomes a defacto pass rusher. We need someone to surprise and be a superb pass rusher if even for 3rd and long and spot duty.
I'm not sure how you hold a roster spot for Whitlock given the numbers game but if this kid shows he can rush the passer no way he gets cut. If you can put pressure on a QB in this league you have a shot in every game. Can Whitlock at 250 pounds this year be a surprise guy? A guy who gets those 10 to 15 pass rush snaps a game? A guy who makes the team as the backup FB and special teamer plus pass rusher?
I have a good feeling about Whitlock. Anyone else?
You also want to see the ability to pop a few long runs. Giants were tied for 22nd in the league in runs of 20 yards or more and had zero runs of 40 yards. That has to improve. More often than not, big runs = momentum and translate directly into points.
You also want to see the ability to pop a few long runs. Giants were tied for 22nd in the league in runs of 20 yards or more and had zero runs of 40 yards. That has to improve. More often than not, big runs = momentum and translate directly into points.
It sucks that we could not sign UFA RT Penn as I think he still has a good year or two left in him and he can run block but you can't have everything.
I believe in coach Solari based on what I've read about him on this site. He has produced his whole career. He can motivate and is a great teacher.
If Newhouse and Jerry (who is so big) improve just a shade this offense will in fact run the ball well. I have a good feeling that RB Williams will run well behind a FB like Johnson. I also have a good feeling about RB Dwarka. Call me crazy but he looked good in spots last year and now he will know the offense.
My points are that this offense is now "mature" and has better blocking than any of the previous McAdoo offenses. If we are effective on the ground, and we will be, there is no doubt in my mind that things will be better for our passing game. And vice versa really.
I mean, if Eli is effective throwing things get easier for the run game. Keep moving the chains and getting first downs. Control the ball 35-38 minutes a game or something like that and don't turn it over. We just need that redzone offense to come alive. I think that happens this year with the addition of Johnson at FB; return of Cruz; and, development of TE position. Plus we have to hope a guy like Shepherd or even WR G. Davis or WR Dable (big guys) develop.
The Giants just need to stay healthy and for our youth to develop. I think it can happen and will happen this year. This will be our best offense of the Eli era, at least potentially.
The wildcard for the right side is OG Hart, at least for short yardage offense since Jerry ain't much of a run blocker.
As for Cruz, yes he is a wildcard and I am betting he bounces back. Not like the guy he was in 2011-2012 but the Giants can maybe expect a good "get open" guy who feeds off OBJ. If he improves the #2 wideout spot in terms of making 3rd down conversions and not costing Eli interceptions like Randle did, we've upgraded.
I also think Eli should stick with the 3 step drops and work the field. We should have better and more varied passing options and that means we will move the ball better and hold it longer every game. This is kind of what the Patriots do.
We have one advantage as well: more speed with OBJ and now Shepherd in the passing game. If we run the ball effectively, and we will, even a 3 step drop and throw could lead to big plays down field. And if Eli has time and wants to hold it another half second cause he knows he can look for big plays.
I'm truly stoked for this season's offense.
I'm sorry to say that I think it unlikely that Darkwa makes the team -- his current injury may even make the choice moot.
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My only major contention is that I actually like Dwarka at RB. In spots he flashed last year and now he knows the offense.
I'm sorry to say that I think it unlikely that Darkwa makes the team -- his current injury may even make the choice moot.
I wonder if he recovers in time for camp? I like the guy, saw flashes last year and figure he now knows the offense well so it gives him an advantage.
In truth, my hope is that Perkins really flashes in camp and gets carries right away. I mean, we could use one of those "drafts" where all the picks produce year #1, especially Apple, Shepherd and Perkins with Adams coming through as the year moves on to.
And the reason he'll be the #2 is pretty obvious. If not Shepard (and ignoring Cruz for the moment), then who? If there is any WR on this roster better than Shepard (other than Cruz), then this team is in deep doo doo.
If it isn't Beckham - Shepard - Cruz then it is Cruz who won't be part of the trio - Shepard is a given (and as I said, if he is the #4 as OP suggests (not due to injury), then there is a serious, serious problem. The question isn't Shepard - it's Cruz.
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As for those that believe Shepherd is the #2 WR out of the gates I hope he shows enough to be that but he is a rookie and that is asking a lot.
And the reason he'll be the #2 is pretty obvious. If not Shepard (and ignoring Cruz for the moment), then who? If there is any WR on this roster better than Shepard (other than Cruz), then this team is in deep doo doo.
If it isn't Beckham - Shepard - Cruz then it is Cruz who won't be part of the trio - Shepard is a given (and as I said, if he is the #4 as OP suggests (not due to injury), then there is a serious, serious problem. The question isn't Shepard - it's Cruz.
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In comment 13035618 SGMen said:
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As for those that believe Shepherd is the #2 WR out of the gates I hope he shows enough to be that but he is a rookie and that is asking a lot.
And the reason he'll be the #2 is pretty obvious. If not Shepard (and ignoring Cruz for the moment), then who? If there is any WR on this roster better than Shepard (other than Cruz), then this team is in deep doo doo.
If it isn't Beckham - Shepard - Cruz then it is Cruz who won't be part of the trio - Shepard is a given (and as I said, if he is the #4 as OP suggests (not due to injury), then there is a serious, serious problem. The question isn't Shepard - it's Cruz.
I just am never sold on rookies starting. I figure work your way into the lineup. But I'm reading from another thread how good Shepherd looks so maybe at worst he is the #3 should Crz in fact bounce back nicely. Bottom line: I pray Shepherd is legit, a "mini OBJ" in the sense that he flourishes as a rookie wideout. We need some serious luck.
But that really isn't the point. There isn't another WR on the roster that would start for any team in the league. As I said - if not Shepard, then who? There is ZERO legitimate competition.
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In comment 13035986 baadbill said:
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In comment 13035618 SGMen said:
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As for those that believe Shepherd is the #2 WR out of the gates I hope he shows enough to be that but he is a rookie and that is asking a lot.
And the reason he'll be the #2 is pretty obvious. If not Shepard (and ignoring Cruz for the moment), then who? If there is any WR on this roster better than Shepard (other than Cruz), then this team is in deep doo doo.
If it isn't Beckham - Shepard - Cruz then it is Cruz who won't be part of the trio - Shepard is a given (and as I said, if he is the #4 as OP suggests (not due to injury), then there is a serious, serious problem. The question isn't Shepard - it's Cruz.
I just am never sold on rookies starting. I figure work your way into the lineup. But I'm reading from another thread how good Shepherd looks so maybe at worst he is the #3 should Crz in fact bounce back nicely. Bottom line: I pray Shepherd is legit, a "mini OBJ" in the sense that he flourishes as a rookie wideout. We need some serious luck.
But that really isn't the point. There isn't another WR on the roster that would start for any team in the league. As I said - if not Shepard, then who? There is ZERO legitimate competition.
I'm being overly optimistic with Cruz given his injuriies but I have to believe. I just have to believe.
Not to beat a dead horse over and over but I still think we need WR Cruz to win the #2 role. If Cruz is healthy enough to be the #2 and is an upgrade to Randle due to route running creating less turnovers this offense is going to be special.
Let Shepherd learn in the #3 role this year.
Finally, we still have WR and ST ace Harris at #4 wideout. The potential is there we just have to hope for quick learners and health.
Not to beat a dead horse over and over but I still think we need WR Cruz to win the #2 role. If Cruz is healthy enough to be the #2 and is an upgrade to Randle due to route running creating less turnovers this offense is going to be special.
Let Shepherd learn in the #3 role this year.
Finally, we still have WR and ST ace Harris at #4 wideout. The potential is there we just have to hope for quick learners and health.
In today's NFL and with this Giant's offense, I just don't think in terms of a #1, 2 or 3 WR. The Giants are likely to have 3 WR on the field for the overwhelming percentage of snaps - and who gets the ball will be a function of how the D is playing them. All 3 WR will be equally critical to the success of each other. The Guants have 2 of the 3 in Beckham and Shepard. The only open question is whether Cruz can complete the starting trio. If not - there's a huge drop off to Harris.
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He has tools indeed and looked good in mini-camp. When you hear chatter that a rookie may be your #2 that is good news. It says he has talent and just needs to learn on the field.
Not to beat a dead horse over and over but I still think we need WR Cruz to win the #2 role. If Cruz is healthy enough to be the #2 and is an upgrade to Randle due to route running creating less turnovers this offense is going to be special.
Let Shepherd learn in the #3 role this year.
Finally, we still have WR and ST ace Harris at #4 wideout. The potential is there we just have to hope for quick learners and health.
In today's NFL and with this Giant's offense, I just don't think in terms of a #1, 2 or 3 WR. The Giants are likely to have 3 WR on the field for the overwhelming percentage of snaps - and who gets the ball will be a function of how the D is playing them. All 3 WR will be equally critical to the success of each other. The Guants have 2 of the 3 in Beckham and Shepard. The only open question is whether Cruz can complete the starting trio. If not - there's a huge drop off to Harris.
But the reality is that Harris is on this team for his superb special teams ability. That is a fact.
Anyone know anything about him in terms of whether he sticks as the #2 OC and possibly play OG in a pinch?
Anyone know anything about him in terms of whether he sticks as the #2 OC and possibly play OG in a pinch?
Yeah - he wasn't running with the first or second team this spring
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The ex Canadian league superstar bulked up this off-season. He now has a training camp under his belt and an off-season to learn how OL is played in the NFL. He was so dominant in Canada that when we signed him I thought for sure he'd be no worse than a #1 backup center with serviceable starter ability in the NFL.
Anyone know anything about him in terms of whether he sticks as the #2 OC and possibly play OG in a pinch?
Yeah - he wasn't running with the first or second team this spring
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