5 NFL teams that will surprise in 2018

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JANUARY 01: Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) signals a receiver during the NFL game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts on January 1, 2017, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 31: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants reacts after throwing a touchdown pass in the first half against the Washington Redskins on December 31, 2017 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the Redskins 18-10. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

3. New York Giants

Dave Gettleman is determined to remake this Giants team in his own image. That’s why he spent the team’s first two draft picks on running back Saquon Barkley and offensive guard Will Hernandez. The addition of those two players is going to give Eli Manning a strong chance to improve on a disastrous 2017 season.

Similar to the Cardinals, the Giants don’t have what it takes to be true Super Bowl contenders. There’s a reason Vegas gives them 50/1 odds to lift the Lombardi Trophy. They do, however, have the pieces in place to make the playoffs and potentially win one game.

Much of the Giants’ potential success is going to rest on the team’s ability to run the football effectively. In addition to their two high draft picks, the signing of Nate Solder in free agency should also be a big factor. He may not be an elite left tackle, but he’s well above average at the crucial position.

In truth, Giants fans should be more concerned about their defense. They have some talent on that side of the ball, but their secondary is a major question. Getting Janoris Jenkins healthy should give them a boost. Eli Apple is a major question on the other side.

The formula for New York to succeed is pretty simple. They need to run the football effectively and control possession. If Barkley has a breakout season on the ground it could be enough to earn the Giants a surprise playoff berth.