The 4th time being "Defending Champs"

With all its ups and downs, the 2011 Giants season was the most satisfying and fulfilling season that I've ever followed, in any sport.  It stands alone, complete and special, no matter what happens in 2012.  But what I welcome most regarding the 2012 Giants, is the opportunity to defend their title. 

How did the Giants fare in their previous 3 chances?

1987 - Started 0-5, including the players' strike that lasted 3 weeks, during which the Giants replacement players went 0-3.  They finished 6-9 and missed the playoffs.

1991 - Bill Parcells quit (I'm not calling it a retirement as he returned to coach 3 more teams) - and the head coaching job was given to Ray Handley, a name that makes just about any Giants fan cringe.  They finished 8-8, and again, missed the playoffs following a Super Bowl win.

2008 - With most of the miracle 2007 team minus Michael Strahan back for another run, they started 11-1, and looked unbeatable at times.  But then Plaxico Burress shot himself and the team wasn't the same.  They went 1-3 in their last 4 regular season games, finishing 12-4, and still earning 1st round bye...but came out flat in the divisional round and suffered a brutal 23-11 home loss to the Eagles.

So, needless to say, the Giants haven't fared well in title defenses their previous 3 tries.  But, I'm really looking forward to seeing what they do with the opportunity this year.  And when it comes to the Giants, title defense season or not, we should be prepared to expect the unexpected.