Quick Take: Giants vs. Lions

Keep your eye on ...

1. The Lions unsettled backfield: Rookie Kevin Smith has every opportunity to win the starting job and his first chance to do so will come in the preseason opener against the Giants. If he looks sharp, he could be on his way to claiming the lead role, leaving veteran Tatum Bell as the backup.

2. Jim Colletto's new offensive scheme: Coach Rod Marinelli grew tired of former offensive coordinator Mike Martz's pass-happy ways and replaced him with the more run-oriented Colletto in the offseason. Colletto's first impression will be in the preseason opener, and eyes will be focused on him to see if his play calling is more balanced.

3. Who's the Boss? By trading Jeremy Shockey, the Giants professed their faith in young tight end Kevin Boss. The second-year player showed flashes of his potential down the stretch last season, but he needs to show that he can handle the duties of being the unquestioned starter.

4. The emergence of Kenny Phillips: The rookie safety from Miami (Fla.) was reportedly very impressive early in training camp and during offseason practices. If he is able to play against the Lions the way he has in practice, he could supplant Michael Lewis as a starting safety.