New York Giants offensive is about to take a major step forward

New York Giants, Eli Manning, Saquon Barkley
Sep 16, 2018; Arlington, TX, USA; New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) and quarterback Eli Manning (10) on the field before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

After New York Giants general manager Dave Gettleman traded away star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. it immediately changed the entire dynamic of the offense led by head coach Pat Shurmur.

Beckham was no longer considered the best player on the unit and his influence against opposing defenses instantly disappeared. However, the Giants have played an entire season without Beckham over the past two seasons, which only attests to their ability to succeed without him.

Running back Saquon Barkley will now be the leader and featured playmaker on the team, and that is a good thing. Focusing on a running back over a wideout allows the offense to not only be more diverse, but more efficient.

Utilizing the run game, play action, and screens will all be a part of the plan for the Giants as they look to succeed post-OBJ era. There’s no question they can achieve even more after his departure, as the offensive line has received reinforcements and they have several capable pass-catchers in Sterling Shepard and Golden Tate.

The New York Giants can trust their star player:

Barkley’s ability to make the right decision on the field and off it instantly makes him the best player and most significant threat. He will draw more defenders to the box which will open up the field for Tate and Shep – both are great in open space and create separation.

It will take constant efforts to stop the three options. Add in Evan Engram running up the seam and you have a very unpredictable offense that’s capable of dominating in all facets of the game. Again, though, it comes down to Eli Manning and if he’s capable of performing at a high level.

This will be his final opportunity to show he can be the player he once was. The offensive line receiving help should give him more time in the pocket, allowing him to move through his progressions. It will be interesting to see how the offense changes and progresses in its second year under Shurmur.