The Giants haven’t won a playoff game since 2007 and have missed the playoffs entirely the last two years. Somewhere along the way, the Giants have lost their identity. They have gone from a ground and pound ball control offense with an effective opportunistic passing attack, to an all out gun slinging passing offense with an opportunistic rushing threat. Behind an aging and often banged up offensive line, the run game that was so effective in the past has been inconsistent, and the passing game has looked sloppy at times which put the Giants in a tough spot when their receivers started to go down. It is time for the Giants to re-establish their identity and find some balance on offense. In order to do this, they are going to have to beef up their offensive line.It is no secret that offensive tackle is going to be a priority this off-season with Diehl moving back to guard and Kareem McKenzie on his way out. Shaun O’Hara couldn’t keep himself on the field (despite being elected to the pro bowl…which has become a disgrace and shouldn’t even be played) and Rich Seubertis still putting his knee back together. It is time for the Giants to add depth both through free agency, and the draft. With the CBA dispute holding up free agency, it is time to focus on the draft.
With David Diehl and Chris Snee being the Giants most reliable and effective offensive lineman locking up both guard spots, the Giants must address the tackle position as well as an eventual replacement at center. Anthony Costanzo from Boston College looks like he will be the top rated offensive lineman available when the Giants pick at the nineteenth spot. Castonzo is a converted TE and has an extremely athletic build for a guy that is 6”7” 305 lbs . (the guy has a 6-pack…don’t get excited Steve…Luca probably hit on him already) Castonzo started all 4 years at BC and even has a connection to the Giants. Giants assistant offensive line coach Jack Bicknell coached Castonzo during the 2007-2008 season in which Castonzo became the first true freshman lineman to start in a decade for BC. The film overall is impressive, as he shows quick feet in pass protection, and a channeled aggression in the running game, combo-ing off his blocks and getting to the second level. You will find more info and game footage on Castonzo by clicking on the link:
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