The New York Giants have the makings to be a top Super Bowl XLIII contender, but it's hard for a team to repeat as champion. Eli Manning has become an elite quarterback with four playoff wins, including Super Bowl XLII on Sunday. And as long as the Giants don't lose Steve Spagnuolo as defensive coordinator, their defense should improve. In addition, the offense has a great running attack that complements Manning's passing. But bad things happen to Super Bowl champions. The Indianapolis Colts lost left tackle Tarik Glenn to retirement after Super Bowl XLI. And injuries tend to increase after a Super Bowl season. So who are the top five contenders to earn a trip to Tampa, Fla. for a Super Bowl XLIII berth? 1. New England Patriots: The Patriots should be no worse than 14-2. Why? They have the easiest schedule in football. In fact, their .387 opponents' winning percentage for the 2008 schedule is one of the easiest slates in the modern era. Their division is easy, and they play the AFC West and NFC West. Coach Bill Belichick has to keep the receiving corps together, and that starts with re-signing Randy Moss. The team also has to decide if it wants to keep Donte' Stallworth. Tom Brady wants Moss, so you figure he will be back. On the downside, five trips to the West Coast could wear down the team. Another concern could be "Spygate." If former team employee Matt Walsh has proof of video spying during past Super Bowls, Belichick could be in trouble. Source: John Clayton
