Many experts and fans may have the Dallas Cowboys listed as the number one seed in the NFC, even after losing their first two preseason games, but it is the NY Giants who are the defending Super Bowl Champions.  The New York Giants were able to get all of their problems corrected to secure a wild card spot in the playoffs, and from there make it to the Super Bowl.

Filling the Gaps

Several players stepped up huge in the final games of the season, and they will need to continue to step up this season to pick up the slack after losing two key veteran during this off season.  Kevin Boss, who had several big games in the playoffs and in the Super Bowl while filling in for an injured Jeremy Shockey.  With Jeremy Shockey now gone to the New Orleans Saints, he will be filling that slot permanently.  Justin Tuck will also be receiving a lot more playing time this year as he attempts to fill the big shoes that Michael Strahan left behind in the locker room.  While it isn't certain that Justin Tuck is anywhere near the same level of player Strahan was, the NY Giants have been a defensive giant in years past and will know how to play him to his strengths.

What to Expect

With the majority of the veterans coming back this season, and the help of added depth on the team's roster, this team will not be under estimated again.  Eli Manning should not allow the praise he has been getting this off season get to his head too much, he still has to perform at a high level, but if he continues to perform as he has in the preseason, and also the end of last season it shouldn't be a problem.  Look for this team to be ranked high in the NFC, and could potentially take the NFC East as well.