NFL: Super Bowl XXXV Preview

Giants Offense: Quarterback Kerry Collins started all 16 regular season games and their two playoff victories, so he's prepared well enough for this game. But keeping him healthy is going to be a difficult task. The Ravens' defensive line is punishing, knocking out several quarterbacks during the season. Collins has been sacked 30 including the playoffs but hasn't suffered any major injuries. Running back Tiki Barber had a great season, rushing for over 1,000 yards and catching 70 passes. There's no doubt that Barber is the main focus of the Ravens because he carries the offense. Receivers Amani Toomer and Ike Hilliard proved to be offensive threats, combining for 15 touchdowns.

Ravens Defense: Many are comparing them to some of the best defenses in NFL history such as the 1970's Steelers and 1985 Bears. They allowed only 165 points in the regular season, an NFL record. They're definitely the best defense in the league right now, they're hard-hitting and durable. A great defensive line, the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year Ray Lewis at middle linebacker, and veteran defensive back Rod Woodson make up the core of the squad. They allowed an NFL-single season record 970 rushing yards, so they're going to have to shut down Kerry Collins and his receivers. With Chris McAlister and Duane Starks at the corners, it's going to be a hard job for Collins.

Ravens Offense: Ever since Trent Dilfer took over at quarterback, the Ravens' offense has been doing much better. When Tony Banks started, they only averaged 16.7 points. Including the playoffs with Dilfer they are 11-1 and averaging 21.6 points. At running back, Jamal Lewis has been a pleasant surprise. The rookie from Tennessee rushed for 1,364 yards and six touchdowns. Their leading receiver was veteran Shannon Sharpe, who caught 67 passes for 810 yards and five scores. Qadry Ismail is also a valuable weapon that can make some big plays, so if the Ravens decide to go deep, it'll likely go to him.

Giants Defense: Like the Ravens' defense, the Giants are known to stop the run well. That's bad news for the Ravens, who are generally a running team. Veteran defensive end Michael Strahan had a great season, recording 9 ½ sacks. Linebacker Jessie Armstead was their leading tackler, with 102 total (76 solo), five sacks, and an interception. In the defensive backfield, cornerback Jason Sehorn has been doing a great job. Injuries have plagued him the last few years, but he's back on track. He returned an interception for a touchdown in their blowout win over the Vikings in the NFC Championship game.

Prediction: I think that the Ravens will come out on top 16-7. Kerry Collins and the Giants offense won't be able to move against the Ravens' D, getting their only score off of a Jason Sehorn interception return. Ravens defensive end Michael McCrary will win the MVP award after recording a few sacks, one of them for a safety.