One of the problems with the New York Giants of the past several years is that former G.M. Ernie Accorsi compiled too many loud-mouth players, and that coach Tom Coughlin hasn’t been able to get them to act contrary to their nature.  (Okay, that’s two problems.  Sorry.)

But while the departure of smiling malcontent Tiki Barber and the absence due to injury of scowling malignancy Jeremy Schockey arguably has opened the door for a talented team to get to the Super Bowl, the tendency of other players to flap their gums will only continue to provide the Patriots with more motivation to dismantle the NFC champs.

Most recently, receiver Plaxico Burress twisted the tiger’s tail by claiming that the Giants’ receivers might better than the Pats’ pass-catchers.

It’s a claim that no one can make with a straight face.  Though Burress has had a great year, the receiving corps in New England is top-to-bottom superior; it’s not even a subject for reasonable debate.  Randy Moss set the single-season touchdown reception record in 2007, and Wes Welker took full advantage of the futile efforts to slow down Moss, catching 112 passes in his first season with the Pats.  Beyond the starters, the Pats boast guys like Donte’ Stallworth and Jabar Gaffney and Kelley Washington.  All three could compete to be featured receivers elsewhere.

And even if Burress or any other members of the Giants believe that their receivers are better, saying so serves no purpose.  It will only get the Pats more riled up for the Super Bowl — as if an 18-0 team needs any extra reason to bring their best game to Arizona.

We’re still not ready to make our game pick, but we still think that, while everyone wants to see a competitive game, the planets are lining up for a blowout.