One dark horse NFL team for every division

Aug 30, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Ryan Mallett (15) against the New Orleans Saints during the second half of a preseason game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Texans defeated the Saints 27-13. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 28, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) looks to pass against the Philadelphia Eagles during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles defeated the Giants 34-26. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

NFC East: New York Giants

With the disintegration of the Robert Griffin III—Jay Gruden marriage apparently in the offing (per Diana Russini and Adam Schefter at ESPN), and the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys actual contenders, that leaves the New York Giants to fill the dark horse role.

They’d actually have a strong argument anyway even if Washington wasn’t a potential dumpster fire.

Now, saying this necessitates admitting that, yes, the offensive line has some issues. And sure, the secondary is riddled with injuries.

That said, there is a lot to like here.

This is the second year for Eli Manning in offensive coordinator’s Ben McAdoo’s offense but if he is as comfortable as he has looked at times this season, the speed and tempo of the offense will actually go a long way towards helping him avoid sacks and cover up for a rough offensive line.

After all, we’re talking about an offense which helped paint over some pretty shaky offensive lines in Green Bay when McAdoo was with the Packers. Of course, Aaron Rodgers has mobility that Manning doesn’t and is arguably better than Manning has ever been, but that’s not to say it’s impossible for the Giants’ quarterback.

In fact, once Manning gets his head wrapped around the offense, he is quick with a read and decision-making. After a while last season, Manning definitely looked comfortable, so this season should see an even greater improvement.

It also helps that he has Victor Cruz returning. Yes, Odell Beckham Jr is a highlight-reel waiting to happen and Cruz may never be the same receiver he was pre-injury, but overall getting his veteran receiver back will be huge. Also, having someone to pull defenses off of Beckham is also vital.

Of course, all those injured players need to get healthy or their replacements need to step up. The Giants also face a difficult schedule, with the New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, Carolina Panthers and Miami Dolphins on the docket.

However, there’s enough talent on this team that, if they can put it together, could surprise people this season.

Next: NFC North: Minnesota Vikings

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