Dec 24th 2008 2:00AM by Will Brinson (author feed)
Filed under: Bears, Giants, Patriots, Vikings, Pressing Issues, NFL Coaching, NFL Real Talk
It’s entirely arguable that the way the New York Giants played in Week 17 against the Patriots, despite losing, propelled them into the postseason and eventually to a Super Bowl win.
Of course, you could also argue that such a discussion is pointless. Whatever. My main point is that Tom Coughlin typically — as he wrote in a book — does not believe in resting players in the final week of the season if there’s nothing at stake.
“It is a difficult decision,” Coughlin wrote after noting that many NFL coaches bench their stars in similar situations. “It becomes clear that the media and fans care more about a playoff game and therefore don’t want our first-teamers to play. But I feel differently.”
Naturally, then, you would expect to see every single Giant — including Justin Tuck and Brandon Jacobs, both recently banged up — playing full games against the Vikings this Sunday. Or perhaps not; it appears, judging by the somewhat hemming nature of a recent statement to the media, that Coughlin might have changed his tune.
“My answer to all of your questions will be that in conjunction with the medical people and with the idea of improving our game, having individuals perform at a higher level than we did in the last game, which is always our theme, we will do the best thing for our football team,” Coughlin said.
“What’s best for the Giants” and “Play every game like it’s win or go home” are two different statements. And while Coughlin isn’t the type of guy to go back on his word, I don’t think, he would be doing exactly that if the Giants don’t pull out all the stops to beat the Vikings on Sunday.Continue Reading
