The Giants finally parted ways with Plaxico Burress this offseason. Burress was a distraction, but still a top No. 1 receiver, living a void for the Giants to fill. New York used the draft to nab a couple receivers, though, hoping to find their next No. 1 receiver. Hakeem Nicks has the best shot to serve that role with the Giants. He is big receiver with good hands and big-play ability. The Giants also selected Ramses Barden, who has a lot of talent but probably is more of a project than Nicks.

The other big loss for the Giants came at running back. Derrick Ward left, looking for a chance to be a No. 1 back. Ward was a 1,000-yard rusher last season in a reserve role, so his loss will be felt. The Giants made a couple big additions defensively, though, adding tackle Rocky Bernard and linebacker Michael Boley. Both should move into starting roles and Bernard should be a big addition to the Giants rush defense.

Even with the loss of Ward, the Giants are deep at running back. Brandon Jacobs is the starter and a productive back. But behind him, the Giants have Ahmad Bradshaw, Danny Ware and Andre Brown. All three of those guys can start if needed and should provide a spark off the bench. The Giants should have success running the ball, using their quality options.

New York can really get after the quarterback. Ends Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora are great speed rushers with power. And tackles Chris Canty and Barry Cofield do a good job of getting a push up the middle. Linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka also is a good blitzer and spot pass rusher at end if needed. The Giants have all sorts of options to rush the passer with on the defensive side of the ball.

The Giants are a little thin at receiver. They have a lot of decent options, but as mentioned, lack that true No. 1 receiver. Right now, their starters are likely Domenik Hixon and rookie Hakeem Nicks. And after those guys, the Giants have Steve Smith, Sinorce Moss and Mario Manningham. These guys are serviceable, but won't be among the elite in the league, which could hold the Giants passing game back some and limit Eli Manning.

The Giants have the defense and running game to make a Super Bowl run. This team has playoff talent. Our only concern is the passing game, which could suffer because of a lack of top options. Teams could start ganging up on their running game.