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As we continue our position-by-position comparison of the 2007 and 2011 Super Bowl-winning New York Giants teams we turn our attention to the wide receiver position. This is a glamorous spot, of course and should provide for some excellent discussion.
The 2007 squad has much to boast about at this spot. There is, of course, Plaxico Burress. Whatever else you think of Burress, and whatever the statistics say, there is an argument to be made that Burress is the most physically gifted receiver to ever wear a Giants uniform.
Amani Toomer was part of that team, and he is only far and away the franchise's all-time leader in receptions (668), yards receviving (9,497) and receiving touchdowns (54). Toomer is tied with Victor Cruz for single-season receptions with 82, behind Steve Smith (107 in 2009).
Smith was also a part of that '07 team, but was a rookie who played a bit part. David Tyree is also part of that team, of course. The helmet catch in the Super Bowl being his historic contribution to Giants history, and to this discussion.
The 2011 receiving corps is the most prolific in Giants history. The duo of Cruz (a franchise record 1,536 yards receving) and Nicks (1,192 yards receiving) were unlike any receiving combination the Giants have ever had. Toss in Mario Manningham's 39 catches, and his brilliant catch that started the game-winning drive in the Super Bowl, and the 2011 crew was at the least deeper, if not more talented.
2007 Regular Season
Plaxico Burress -- 70 receptions, 1,025 yards, 12 TDs
Amani Toomer -- 59 receptions, 760 yards, 3 TDs
Sinorice Moss -- 21 receptions, 225 yards
Steve Smith -- 8 catches
David Tyree -- 4 catches
2011 Regular Season
Victor Cruz -- 82 receptions, 1,536 yards, 9 TDs
Hakeem Nicks -- 76 receptions, 1,192 yards, 7 TDs
Mario Manningham -- 39 receptions, 523 yards, 4 TDs
Ramses Barden -- 9 receptions
Conclusion
I have to give this nod to the 2011 group, based on the overall numbers and the fact that Manningham was far superior to Moss as the third target.
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