New York Giants v. Tampa Bay Bucs 2008 NFL Playoff Predictions
June 10, 2008
Even though New York Giants are once again in the NFL playoffs, the fans in New York have continued to question this team every step of the way. Even though this team comes in at 10-6, a Week 17 loss to the Patriots was looked at as a positive for the Giants. With New York heading down to Tampa this weekend to take on the Buccaneers, the NFL odds have the Giants are three-point road dogs. In order for them to win this game, New York is going to have to keep Tampa’s pass rush from getting to their quarterback, Eli Manning.
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NFL Wild Card Playoff: Sunday, January 6, 2008 at 1 p.m. EST
New York Giants
+3 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
–3
When Tiki Barber decided to up and retire at the end of last season, everyone though the team’s ground game would suffer. However, that has not been the case with Brandon Jacobs and a very good offensive line with strong guards in Seubert and Snee helping the Giants pound it down the throat of opponents. One thing that could stall the rushing attack this week or at least Jacobs’ straight up the middle running game, is the loss of center Shaun O’Hara to injury in the game against the Pats. He’s a game time decision and will be missed if forced to sit out. As of late Thursday, he was still sitting out of practice, but he had begun some light jogging.
When Jacobs comes out, Ahmad Bradshaw comes in. Bradshaw is a good change of pace that will keep the Bucs defense on their toes with his speed and agility. Both Jacobs and Bradshaw are going to have to play very well for the Giants to have a chance at moving the ball since Tampa Bay’s run defenders are very disciplined. You won’t find this team out of position or over pursuing the back.
The Bucs feel like they will only need to rush four defenders at Manning to get pressure, but if they don’t then Eli will have time to find his receivers and get them the ball. The down side is he will be throwing down a jammed field clogged with seven defenders and that will be next to impossible if he is hurried. The back seven for the Bucs are great at jumping routes and will be waiting for Manning to make a mistake. Eli will have to show a mental toughness that he has lacked at times so if you are doing any NFL betting this weekend and take the Giants, it means that you trust Eli will get it done for New York. Of course if you don’t know who to take in this one then you should sign up for the NFL picks from Larry Cook. We’ll give you our take on who covers and that means you’ll more than likely be cashing in on another winner from our team.