Like fine wine, Barber gets better with age

By Samuel Groshans  |   Monday, August 28, 2006  |  Comments( 0 )

New York Giants
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When Tiki Barber came into the league, he was looked at as more of a return specialist, maybe a one-down kind of guy. Now, 10 years later, Barber is one of the NFL's most durable and premier backs, and is among the best all-around players in the league.

Last season Barber challenged Shaun Alexander for the rushing title, falling 20 yards short of Alexander's mark. That being said, Barber still rushed for 1,860 yards and nine touchdowns. The nine-year veteran's 5.2 yards per carry average is an extremely impressive number. Some say he can't duplicate or surpass last year's totals, but it's hard not to believe he'll at least come close.

With the return of all five linemen from last year--albeit an injury-prone group--as well as three big-name receivers and a newcomer that the opposing defense must cover (Sinorice Moss), it becomes difficult for any opposing defense to stack up against the run. It doesn't matter if the New York Giants come out in a jumbo set--you know, two tight ends, a fullback and a wide receiver--the defense still must respect the pass.

And the respect these receivers command, along with the fluidity with which the line blocks, is the reason Barber will once again challenge for the NFL rushing title. It wouldn't be surprising if he challenged the 2,000-yard mark, either. By spreading out the defense with a four-receiver set and putting Barber in a single-back formation, it puts a great deal of pressure on the LB lined up opposite. Barber's slashing style, along with his terrific ability to break tackles, allow the 5-foot-10, 220-pounder to outrun said linebacker and run over all but the strongest of safeties.

Watching Barber run this preseason should help put a muzzle on the critics. While it's true that Barber, as a starter, has seen limited time, he has looked strong. A good example of that is the Giants' last game against the Jets, in which Barber ran for 60 yards on 11 carries. That's nearly a six yards per rush average, an impressive number in any game. Barber is maintaining a 5.1 yards per rush average through the preseason (82 yards on 16 carries), but he hasn't found the end zone yet.

Even during limited time, it's important to remember that Barber is going up against the first-team defense of his opponents, as well as the fact that the Giants' offensive line has been a little banged up this season, making what he's done even more impressive.

Of course, there are two sides to every coin, and the second side to this one remains the receivers. The Giants are going to try to run a balanced attack, maybe even edging toward the run. However, if Barber doesn't get a good start early, expect them to go to the air. With names like Plaxico Burress, Jeremy Shockey, Amani Toomer and Moss, it'd be foolish not to pass your way down the field.

Giants fans shouldn't have any worries, though, especially with the RB getting off to a slow start. With the way Barber has blossomed throughout his career, and how he has performed thus far in the preseason, there are no obvious indications of this top-flight back slowing down. He will, more than likely, once again entertain crowds with his dazzling style of running, all while racking up big yardage. Watch for this exciting 31-year-old to push for the rushing title and, if all goes perfectly, eclipse the 2,000-yard mark.

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