I probably start on average one thread a year so here's my 2013 attempt. As I've written in other threads, I really want to see the Giants re-develop a power running game because I consider it to be one of the key ingredients for the success of Eli and the downfield passing game.
I don't know why people have such a strong aversion to Peyton Hillis for personal reasons because I have very little interest in the players when they're off the field. For football reasons, I really like him on the Giants because he represents power running which I believe is critical to success in the Northeast in December.
I'd like to see the Giants feature Andre Brown and Peyton Hillis in the running game with David Wilson in a similar role to Darren Sproles. Both Brown and Hillis run with power and attitude and that's something the Giants have missed since Jacobs left for San Fran.
Yes, I know that Brown gets hurt a lot and that Hillis is as fast as an Olineman but with a couple of new guards to open holes in front of them, it represents a cheap gamble.
With other holes to fill this represents a low cost fix that might actually be productive. It really hinges on Brown being healthy and Wilson returning to something close to his rookie form.
This team needs major work.
Haven't seen it much the past couple years.
Wilson has 6 receptions in 21 games he's played.
Conversely at this point in his career, Sproles averages between 65-70 catches per year.
The other current needs including OL, WR, TE, and on defense are so great that it makes absolutely no sense to invest major picks or dollars in another back until the OL and some of the other positions are significantly reinforced.
It doesn't matter who is carrying the ball if the OL and TE can't open holes for them, and if the receivers aren't enough of a threat to make the defense keep at least four or five men out of the box. And consistently moving the ball on the ground keeps the other offense off the field.
So fix the line, get a couple real TEs who can block, add another receiver who can actually play, and pound the ball down the opponent's throat. When they put 8 in the box to stop it, then throw downfield.
I bet you'd like to see it as well - assuming Wilson can do it.
But his talent and experience should keep him in the mix. Wilson is a wild card, great talent, but used how? And will he ever play again?
To me, Hillis is money in the bank. If the Giants are going to play a power game, absolutely keep him. He can block, he can catch, and most importantly, pick up short yardage. He may often only get a yard or two, but he will almost never lose any. And that's been very rare for Giants backs.
Beyond that, add a decent mid-level RB from the draft. There are always some, and a potential all-purpose RB with some power WILL be there in the 3rd or 4th. Add a couple of UDFA flyers, mix and pour.
If they can sign him,the need for a WR is reduced and the Giants can focus on OL, DE, and CB in the draft.
Gimmee this and I'll be good:
Andre Brown, a mid-round draft pick at RB, Hillis, & Wilson.
Fullback - Conner or Hyno (preferrably Conner after they both compete in training camp).
I do think its interesting that Wilson was not a bad receiver in a college. His pass catching numbers at V. Tech were very similar to Sproles' at Kansas State and even Tiki's at Virginia (the guy whose game I was really hoping he would emulate).
I'm with you though, I would love to see Wilson in that role as well. Personally (and I know some people feel differently), I think he has been completely mishandled by the Giants coaching staff and just hope that perhaps someday he becomes more Tiki than Rocky (Thompson - that is).
While I may not be as sold on Peyton Hillis as you are, and don't think that the Giants can even contemplate a power running game until they shore up their offense line, your point is well taken.
I'm OK with that approach as long as they've got a good line and a power running attack. Eddie Lacy would have been a nice addition to the team in that role but not at the expense of Hankins.
I am a big fan of power running. I think we missed Bradshaw's second and third efforts this year. We need to get this o-line upgraded to push the line of scrimmage and open some holes. A good offensive line can make a good back look fantastic.
This team has to walk away from guys with medical histories.....we may have wasted a #1 pick on a kick returner.....I don't trust Brown to stay healthy......Hillis is slow......The Giants do not have a power running OL.....they don't even have an OL......Cox is a disappointment.....
We need a Fast RB, who can block, and catch passes.....maybe someone becomes a cap casualty......
No thanks. I want a serious talent infusion to the RB spot in 2014. Brown is fine. Wilson can try to show something if he's even allowed to play but Who knows what this guy can do.