Eli's Key Targets are Rising

Since the departure of Plaxico Burress during the last quarter of the 2008 season, doubters have questioned who can replace his production. It doesn't help that the Giants chose to move on with out their all time leading receiver Amani Toomer. All throughout the off-season people have counted the Giants out from being a serious Super Bowl contender because of their receiver situation.

Now that the regular season has begun and the real bullets have started to fly, it is becoming obvious after one game who the go to play makers are going to be for Eli Manning and the Giants offense.

This past week against the Redskins, Steve Smith once again set himself apart by making clutch third down catches just like he has done since he came into the NFL. In the end he led the team with 6 catches for 80 yards. You could see, how much Eli trusts and relies on Smith to make the big catches and he didn't back down from the challenge. Though Smith in my opinion will be Eli's main go to guy, there are a few others that are rising fast, as guys Eli can trust to make plays.

Kevin Boss is another key part to the Giants passing game. Growing up in New York I loved watching Mark Bavaro get it done for the Giants in the 80's and early 90's. I enjoy Kevin Boss just as much making what seems like a catch on every ball thrown his way. He has become a great down the field target with his six foot six inch frame and he has a great ability to run after the catch. Though he isn't the fastest player he is able to find spots down field while running to get the most out of every catch. Last season Boss had a career high six touchdown receptions and I wouldn't be surprised if he got 8-10 this season. I see him being a vital part to the Giants red zone offense with his height and great hands.

It was a very nice surprise to also see Mario Manningham break out and have a nice game. Right from the start Eli went to him and Manningham made some plays to keep the chains moving. The thirty yard touchdown catch he made was a great heads up play on his part. Eli said it was supposed to be a run but he noticed that the Redskins were set up for an all out blitz so his was able to improvise with Manningham and make a play that they never even ran before. You could see the chemistry developing on Sunday between Manning and Manningham.

One other guy to look out for will be Hakeem Nicks once he gets back from his sprained foot. overall in my opinion Eli has been looking more and more comfortable since training camp with the young receiving core. As the season goes on the passing game will only excel.