With the calendar flipped to July, Giants.com asks 20 important questions heading into the team's 2020 training camp at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center.
For 20 days, a member of the Giants.com crew will answer one question about the roster, coaching staff, schedule, and much more.
No. 19: Who is most likely to make the Pro Bowl for the first time?
Lance Medow: Last season, Evan Engram was on pace for a career year. Through the first five games, he accumulated 33 receptions, 373 yards and two touchdowns. Unfortunately, the injury bug struck and Engram only appeared in three more games before being placed on injured reserve in mid-December. When you look at the Cowboys' offense during Jason Garrett's tenure, the tight end position played a prominent role in the passing game. Just take note of Jason Witten's production and the Giants have been on the wrong end of those numbers over the last decade or so.
Although Witten's stats jump off the page, the same can also be said for Blake Jarwin, who is more comparable to Engram in terms of build and athleticism. With Witten taking a backseat to Jarwin in each of the last two seasons, the latter emerged as a notable playmaker with his targets, receptions and receiving yards increasing from 2018 to 2019. Jarwin's usage and emergence are encouraging signs for Engram. In face, Dallas has an even longer track record at the position. You can go back to Garrett's playing days with the Cowboys when Jay Novacek was a key weapon during their three Super Bowl victories in the 1990s. This is yet another reason why I'm very interested to see how Garrett shapes the offense around Engram's strengths and how heavily he's involved in the passing game.
It can't be overlooked that the Pro Bowl is very much a popularity contest with fans, players and coaches each influencing the vote. That's why in order to fairly evaluate the likelihood of a player making the Pro Bowl for the first time, you have to take into consideration his competition in the conference. Philadelphia's Zach Ertz and San Francisco's George Kittle earned Pro Bowl accolades following the 2019 season and both aren't fading away anytime soon but, behind those two, there's not an overwhelming amount of proven depth. The Saints' Jared Cook is a player to watch, so is the three-headed monster (Rob Gronkowski, Cameron Brate and O.J. Howard) in Tampa Bay. I'm not saying it's going to be easy for Engram because much depends on his health, but it's certainly more plausible compared to other positions where there's stiff competition.
Dan Salomone: At their core, I think Giants fans appreciate linebackers more than any other position, so this offseason was for them. Inside and outside, old and new, the team added several intriguing players to the unit.
In free agency, Blake "The Tackling Machinez" Martinez and Kyler Fackrell, who has a double-digit sack season on his resume, came over from Green Bay. In the draft, the Giants used 40 percent of their 10 picks at the position: Cam Brown (Penn State), Carter Coughlin (Minnesota), TJ Brunson (South Carolina) and Tae Crowder (Georgia). That's six new pieces right there for defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, inside linebackers coach Kevin Sherrer, and outside linebackers coach/senior assistant Bret Bielema.
"I think it says a lot more about how our defensive scheme fits together, that we are going to play with a lot of linebackers throughout the game," coach Joe Judge said. "You build your defense to build two-thirds of your team, that's really your defense and your kicking game for covering kicks. These guys have a lot of impact across the board right there."
While we're on the subject, don't overlook the return of linebacker Ryan Connelly, who was on his way to being the steal of the 2019 draft. The fifth-round pick out of Wisconsin recorded 20 tackles, two interceptions and a sack in the first four games of his rookie year, but then it abruptly ended due to a torn ACL. He was also high school teammates with Coughlin in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Connelly, then the quarterback, helped the school to three Minnesota Class 6A football state championships.
That's not exactly the type of versatility that Judge has spoken about since he took over – I don't think Connelly is throwing a pass anytime soon – but the linebacker corps has a little bit of everything to make it dominant once again.
John Schmeelk: Dominance. I consider myself a realist and try to go out of my way to temper expectations on most things, in general. I'm a "regression to the mean" kind of guy. Give me a bucket and cold water and I'll find something to pour it on. I see no reason to be like this when it comes to Saquon Barkley. He is that talented and capable of putting together a special season.
I'll be so bold as to say that I would be surprised if Barkley doesn't gain 2,000 yards from scrimmage, find a way to score 10 touchdowns, or catch more than 55 passes.
Given the high frequency Jason Garrett made sure Ezekiel Elliott had the ball while they were in Dallas, I expect Barkley to be among the NFL's Top 3 running backs, based on most metrics. He is a special player and should consistently impact the game, either running the ball or catching it.
Barkley should be the centerpiece of everything the Giants do offensively and his numbers should be immense, barring injuries. I predict: 317 carries for 1,462 yards, 64 receptions for 588 yards with 12 total touchdowns.
Photos of Giants running back Saquon Barkley.
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley during week 2 game against the Buffalo Bills in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during a week 8 regular season game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on Sunday October 27th, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a regular season week 3 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James in Tampa, FL.
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a week 7 regular season game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on Sunday October 20th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during week 1 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, TX
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a week 2 regular season game against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium on Sunday September 15th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) participates in Training Camp at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a week 1 regular season game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on Sunday September 8th, 2019 in Arlington, Texas
RB Saquon Barkley (26) New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) catches a pass as Houston Texans linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) defends during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley celebrates a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) and running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate Barkley's touchdown catch on a pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants tight end Kaden Smith, left, celebrates his touchdown catch with running back Saquon Barkley, right, during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown with Giants running back Javorius Allen (37) in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown catch during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
A young fan reacts after New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley gifted him a ball after catching a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley reacts after catching a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday December 15th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, left, runs for a long touchdown as Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson (35) tries to make the tackle during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley catches a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, catches a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, as Washington Redskins strong safety Landon Collins (20) tries to defend during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, looks at Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson (35) while scoring on a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over Washington Redskins cornerback Aaron Colvin for a touchdown ona long run during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown in the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs in a touchdown in the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) reacts after scoring touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Philadelphia Eagles' Daeshon Hall (74) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants' Darius Slayton, left, and Saquon Barkley celebrate after Slayton scored a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the football towards the end zone on his way to scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence (90) dives over the line to tackle New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, NJ. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 38-17. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley scores a touchdown on a four yard reception against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the football towards the end zone on his way to scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday October 20, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, center, celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, score a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
FILE - In this Sept. 15, 2019, file photo, New York Giants' Saquon Barkley celebrates his touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills in East Rutherford, N.J. Barkley has been cleared to return to the Giants' lineup for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 35-17. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, scores a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
FILE - In this Aug. 16, 2019, file photo, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) greets fans before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in East Rutherford, N.J. Barkley set team rookie records for yards rushing (1,307) receptions (91) and total touchdowns (15) playing behind a bad line. With trade acquisition Kevin Zeitler at right guard, free agent Mike Remmers at right tackle and C Jon Halapio back from from a major leg injury, this could be an even bigger year for the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and the league leader in yards from scrimmage (2,028). (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley celebrates his touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley celebrates after a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley breaks away for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over the top to score a touchdown during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) breaks away for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26), right, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, celebrates his touchdown with teammates during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Scott Simonson (82) celebrates a touchdown with running back Saquon Barkley (26), wide receiver Bennie Fowler (18) and wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts in Indianapolis, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
FILE - In this Dec. 23, 2018, file photo, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs in for a touchdown in front of Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Darius Leonard (53) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis. The betting favorite for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year is Barkley, taken No. 2 behind Cleveland’s Baker Mayfield in the draft this past spring. (AP Photo/AJ Mast, File)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley reacts after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for yardage in action against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 9, 2018 in Landover, Md. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a 78-yard touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
FILE - In this Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018 file photo,New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates his 78-yard touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins in Landover, Md. How popular is Saquon Barkley? Well, lots of fans want to look like him. Enough so that Barkley tops the DICK'S Sporting Goods Jersey report for sales. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) is picked up offensive guard Jamon Brown (78) as they celebrate his 78-yard touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 14 NFL football game against the Washington Redskins on Sunday December 9, 2018 in Landover Md. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, top, leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, top, leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley reacts to his touchdown with quarterback Eli Manning during the first half of the NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. The Eagles won 25-22. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown with Bennie Fowler during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates a touchdown score by Saquon Barkley (26) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown as Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Chandon Sullivan (39) and outside linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill (54) try to stop him during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants rookie running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during a week 11 NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. New York won 38-35. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, scores a touchdown as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul attempts to tackle him and Buccaneers linebackers Riley Bullough (49) and Adarius Taylor (53) look on during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) jumps past San Francisco 49ers defensive back K'Waun Williams during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, scores a touchdown as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul attempts to tackle him during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, celebrates his touchdown with Evan Engram during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26), center, celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball for a touchdown during a week 6 NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. Philadelphia won 34-13. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs uncontested for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half of an NFL football game Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, celebrates his touchdown with Evan Engram during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 6 NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. Philadelphia won 34-13. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball for a touchdown after making a reception during an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, October 7, 2018, in Charlotte, Nc. The Panthers won 33-31. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs in for a touchdown during the second half of the team's NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) makes a leaping catch during a week 3 NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday September 23, 2018 in Houston (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the second half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jason E. Miczek)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during a game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018 in Charlotte,N.C. (Logan Bowles via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the second half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) makes a leaping catch during a week 3 NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday September 23, 2018 in Houston (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) catches a touchdown pass against the Carolina Panthers in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs past Carolina Panthers' Jermaine Carter (56) for a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) makes a leaping catch during a week 3 NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday September 23, 2018 in Houston (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers' Jermaine Carter (56) in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley jumps over defenders for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates his touchdown with quarterback Eli Manning (10) during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018 in Houston. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) breaks a tackle by Jacksonville Jaguars' Tashaun Gipson (39) to run for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) smiles and celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley evades a tackle by New York Jets' Harvey Langi (44), Marcus Maye (20) and Brandon Copeland (51) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steven Ryan)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs down field during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball past Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Robert Davis (14) in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) hands off ball to running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown with Giants running back Javorius Allen (37) in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, catches a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, as Washington Redskins strong safety Landon Collins (20) tries to defend during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley works out prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over Washington Redskins cornerback Aaron Colvin for a touchdown ona long run during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball as Miami Dolphins defensive back Nik Needham (40) holds on in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) is tackled by Washington Redskins cornerback Aaron Colvin (47) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) walks off the field during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks on before a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) breaks free from a tackle during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) prior to an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball up the field during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks on before a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) flips over Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley watches against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
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Lance Medow: I'll never choose a NFC East game because the Giants play their divisional rivals twice each season and you can essentially flip a coin when it comes to those games - every one is important and the team records make no difference. Of the 10 other games to choose from, there's one that jumps off the page for many reasons: Week 8, at home, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday Night Football.
It's a NFC game which means it carries a bit more weight when it comes to the playoff race, plus it's one of the three prime time contests on the Giants' schedule. In addition, the Giants will be coming off a lengthy rest period since their previous game is on Thursday Night Football in Philadelphia on Oct. 22. That means it will be New York's first game in 11 days. Whether that turns out to be good or bad remains to be seen. This contest also marks the midpoint of the season - the Giants will have played eight games by the time the clock expires and it will provide a solid sample size to see where the team stands.
In addition to all those factors, here's the main course. The Giants will be facing one of the best offenses in the league, led by Tom Brady, who just joined the Bucs in free agency. New York's history with Brady already provides for some intrigue, although it doesn't hurt that he'll be surrounded by a plethora of weapons, including 1,000-yard receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, versatile tight ends Rob Gronkowski, Cameron Brate and O.J. Howard, and dual-threat running back Ronald Jones. You also can't overlook receivers Justin Watson and rookie Tyler Johnson - and I haven't even brought up the defense. Shaq Barrett led the NFL in sacks in 2019 with 19.5, Jason Pierre-Paul is still a dangerous force and the defensive line features big bruisers Ndamukong Suh and Vita Vea. Add in linebackers Devin White and Lavonte David ... and Tampa Bay boasts one of the best front sevens in the league.
This will be quite the test for the Giants on both sides of the ball, and if last season's Week 3 matchup is any indication, the rematch shouldn't disappoint. In 2019, the Bucs ranked third in total offense (398 yard avg.), first in passing yards per game (303) and tied for third, with the Saints, in points (28.6) - all with Jameis Winston under center. Now, they've upgraded to Brady. I rest my case. Circle November 2nd.
View iconic photos from the all-time series between the Giants and their 2020 opponents.
New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes (9) celebrates with holder Steve Weatherford (5) after kicking the game-winning field goal during overtime of the NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won 20-17 to advance to Super Bowl XLVI. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Week 1 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Week 2 at Chicago Bears
Week 3 vs. San Francisco 49ers
Week 4 at Los Angeles Rams
Week 5 at Dallas Cowboys
Week 6 vs. Washington Redskins
Week 7 at Philadelphia Eagles
Week 8 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Week 9 at Washington Redskins
Week 10 vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Week 11 - BYE
Week 12 at Cincinnati Bengals
Week 13 at Seattle Seahawks
Week 14 vs. Arizona Cardinals
Week 15 vs. Cleveland Browns
Week 16 vs. Baltimore Ravens
Week 17 vs Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) breaks away from Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Levon Kirkland (99) and Scott Chad (30) as he runs for 23 yards in the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 10, 2000, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants linebacker Abraham (51) hits Pittsburgh Steelers running back Walter Abercrombie (34) in the air as he stops the back near the line of scrimmage during the NFL preseason football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Aug. 20, 1988 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Giants won the game 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giant Tommy Crutcher (56) face masks two players from the Pittsburgh Steelers at the same time during a game on October 12,1969 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The New York Giant beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 10-7. Tommy Crutcherr played for 8 season with 2 different teams.(David Durochik via AP)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) visit after an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. The Steelers won 24-14. (AP Photo/Jared Wickerham)
FILE - In this Sept. 20, 1964, file photo, New York Giants' Y.A. Tittle squats on the field after being hit hard while passing during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, in Pittsburgh. Football is diminished without Y.A. Tittle, the star 49ers and Giants quarterback whose 1964 photo of him bleeding and slumped on both knees came to embody the sport's fierce combat. Tittle died in 2017. (AP Photo/Dozier Mobley, File)
Harry Carson of the New York Giants chases Pittsburgh Steelers' running back Franco Harris (32) in first quarter action in Pittsburgh, Aug. 11, 1979. (AP Photo)
New York Giants' Damontre Moore blocks a punt by Pittsburgh Steelers' Drew Butler (9) in the first quarter of an NFL preseason football game on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2013, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants Eli Manning (10) throws a touchdown pass over Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Larry Foote (50) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. The Giants won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
Frank Gifford, New York Giant halfback is brought down by bevy of Pittsburgh Steelers after taking pass good for 11-yard gain in second period at Yankee Stadium, New York City, on Nov. 15, 1959. Pass was from Giant quarterback Don Heinrich. Identifiable Steelers are Jack McCall (20, left), Dean Derby (27) and Dick Campbell (66). Steelers won 14-9 in last two minutes to drop Giants into first place tie with Cleveland in eastern conference of National Football League. (AP Photo)
Frank Gifford of the New York Giant (16) reaches for a pass thrown by Y.A. Tittle in the third quarter of game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sept. 30, 1962. Gifford caught the pass and went over for a touchdown to give the Giants a 24-20 lead it never relinquished. The play covered 27 yards. The Steelers defender is Clendon Thomas. New York won 31-27. (AP Photo/Dozier Mobley)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20), breaks past Pittsburgh Steelers Robin Cole (56) at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 21, 1985. Giants won 28-10. (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle (14) is shown in action during game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Yankee Stadium in New York City on Dec. 15, 1963. The Giants won the game 33-17 to take the Eastern Conference Championship of the National Football League. (AP Photo)
Del Shofner, (85), New York Giants' end, grabs Y.A. Tittles' pass for touchdown at 41st-yard line in first quarter of game with Steelers at New York's Yankee Stadium on Dec. 15, 1963. At left is Willie Daniels, defensive halfback of Pittsburgh Steelers. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Lawrence Taylor, (56), is hauled down by Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster, (52), after recovering a fumble by Steeler quarterback Mark Malone during the third quarter of NFL exhibition game in Pittsburgh at night on Friday, August 31, 1985. The Giants won the game 24-14. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
An unidentified New York Giants player changes from cleats to athletic shoes during a 30 to 13 New York Giants victory over the Bears in the NFL Championship game played at the Polo Grounds on Dec. 9, 1934 in New York.(Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
Giants' Mel Triplett (33) picks up a block and then charges past Chicago Bears players and over umpire Sam Wilson for 17 yards and a touchdown - first of the game - at Yankee Stadium in New York City, Dec. 30, 1956. Giants routed Bears 47-7 to take the NFL championship. Identifiable players are: Jack Stroud (66), Alex Webster (29), Stan Wallace (40), McNeil Moore (29), and J.C. Caroline. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) flips over Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) pushes off Chicago Bears strong safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (21) after a catch during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
In this photo taken Oct. 3, 2010 in East Rutherford, N.J., Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck, during the second quarter of an NFL football game. Cutler took several hard hits while getting sacked nine times in the game and suffering a concussion. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Giants backfield coach Vince Lombardi, left, admiring watch presented to Mel Triplett, right, for his play football title game against the Chicago Bears in New York, Dec. 31, 1956. (AP Photo/Tom Fitzsimmons)
Ward Cuff, New York Giants halfback, gets off a 42-yard goal against the Chicago Bears Oct. 31, 1937 at the Polo Grounds in New York City. The Bears and Giants played to a 3-3 tie. (AP Photo)
Bleak Wrigley Field, covered with new snow, gets a warm-up crew in Chicago, Dec. 23, 1963. They're unloading devices which provide a hot air flow calculated to soften frozen playing field, now under tarpaulins, upper left. The New York Giants and the Chicago Bears will play for the NFL championship. (AP Photo/Charles Knoblock)
New York Giants head coach Bill Parcells receives a cooler full of Gatorade over his head by Giants players Everson Walls (28) and Carl Banks (58) as time runs out in the Giants 31-3 victory over the Chicago Bears at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Jan. 13, 1991. To right of Parcells are Giants Pepper Johnson (52) and Lawrence Taylor (56). (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
Pro Football Hall of Fame Chicago Bears fullback Bronko Nagurski is tackled by fellow hall of famer Mel Hein of the Giants during a 30 to 13 New York Giants victory over the Bears in the NFL Championship game played at the Polo Grounds on Dec. 9, 1934 in New York. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
William Beattie "Big Chief" Feathers (48) of the Chicago Bears is off on an end run that resulted in no gain during a game against the New York Giants at the Polo Grounds in New York City Nov., 8, 1936. Number 3 of the Bears running interference is Bronislau "Bronko" Nagurski Bears won, 25-7. (AP Photo)
Hall of Fame Chicago Bears end Bill Hewitt (56) laterals the football to Billy Karr (22) for the winning touchdown in a 23 to 17 Bears win over the New York Giants in the 1933 NFL Championship Game on Dec. 17, 1933 at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois. The NFL's first championship game played. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
Chicago Bears back Carl Brumbaugh pitches the football out to Pro Football Hall of Fame fullback Bronko Nagurski during a 30 to 13 New York Giants victory over the Bears in the NFL Championship game played at the Polo Grounds on Dec. 9, 1934 in New York. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
New York Giants' half back Frank Gifford carries the ball during pro exhibition game with the San Francisco 49ers, Aug. 20, 1955. Others are New York's Jack Stroud (66), on ground, and 49er George Maderos (40). (AP Photo)
New York Giants guards Roy Simmons (69) and Billy Ad (67) and tackle Brad Benson (60) huddle in the endzone before an 1981 NFC Divisional NFL playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers on January 3, 1982. The 49ers defeated the Giants 38-24. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
San Francisco 49ers safety Ronnie Lott (42) gives chase as New York Giants tight end Mark Bavaro (89) catches an 18 yard second quarter touchdown pass during the NFL NFC Wild Card playoff football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Dec. 29, 1985 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 17-3. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants Ronnie Blye (22) during a game against the San Francisco 49ers on October 20, 1968 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The San Francisco 49ers beat the New York Giants 26-10. Ronnie Blye played for 2 season, with 2 different teams.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (53), elected to the NFL Hall of Fame Class of 2006, sets for play in a 10-17 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on November 29, 1981, at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, California. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JANUARY 22: Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants after the game against the San Francisco 49ers during the NFC Championship game at Candlestick Park on January 22, 2012 in San Francisco, California. The Giants defeated the 49ers in overtime20-17.(AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) gets low fives from teammates during player introductions at the NFL 1986 season NFC Wild Card playoff football game against the San Francisco 49ers on January 4, 1987 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 49-3. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants' Eli Manning throws with San Francisco 49ers' Tarell Brown (25) and Aldon Smith (99) rushing during the second half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig (33) is tackled during an NFL football game by New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) on Sunday, Jan. 15, 1994, in San Francisco. The 49ers won the game, 44-3. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana (16), fired off the ball before New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56), can reach him during the first quarter of their NFL game in Candlestick Park, San Francisco, Monday, Dec. 1, 1986. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
San Francisco 49ers Ken Willard (40) is shown in a tangle of New York Giants on a wet field in San Francisco, 1973. Other players unidentified. (AP Photo)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) is congregated by Mark Collins (25) and Carl Banks (58) after his interception and touchdown run on a Joe Montana pass in the second quarter on Sunday, Jan. 4, 1986 in East Rutherford, N.J. at Giants stadium. The interception helped the Giants beat the San Francisco 49 ers 49-3 in their NFL playoff game. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
San Francisco 49ers Kyle Williams fumbles as New York Giants Jacquian Williams (57) strips him from the ball in the overtime period during the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won in overtime, 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10 ) celebrates with offensive lineman David Diehl (66) after an NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won the game, 20-17. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes (9) celebrates with holder Steve Weatherford (5) after kicking the game-winning field goal during overtime of the NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won 20-17 to advance to Super Bowl XLVI. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, November 27, 1989. 49ers Beat Giants 34-24. Giants linebacker Pepper Johnson (52) and defensive back Mark Collins (25) combine to stop 49er running back Roger Craig (33). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro catches a 24-yard first quarter pass from quarterback Phil Simms to score the first touchdown of the game as San Francisco 49ers Tim McKyer defends on Sunday, Jan. 4, 1987 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. (AP Photo/David Fields)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, December 3, 1990. 49ers beat Giants 7-3. 49er defensive back Ronnie Lott (42) and Giants running back Ottis Anderson (24) after game. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants Phil McConkey hauls in a 28-yard pass from quarterback Phil Simms in the end zone as San Francisco 49ers Tim McKyer hangs on during third quarter action at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Jan. 5, 1987. The touchdown helped lift the Giants to a 49-3 win in the NFL playoff game. (AP Photo/Susan Ragan)
New York Giant Phil McConkey (80) celebrates a touchdown by teammate Mark Bavaro, left, with Joe Morris, background, in the second period of NFC wildcard playoff action against the San Francisco 49ers in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985. The Giants won the game 17-3. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana is knocked down after making a pass by New York Giants George Martin in the fourth quarter of play in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) sacks San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana (16) during the NFL 1984 NFC Divisional playoff game on December 29, 1984 in San Francisco, California. The 49ers won the game 21-10. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (53) drags San Francisco 49ers running back Wendell Tyler (behind) into the end zone for a New York touchdown in NFC first-round playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1984 in San Francisco, Calif. Carson intercepted a Joe Montana pass and returned it all the way for the score. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
New York Giants player Bart Oates (65), Conrad Goode (62) and an unidentified teammate, hug after the Giants pulled ahead of the San Francisco 49ers during the third quarter, Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985 at Giant Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants advanced in the NFL playoffs by beating San Francisco 49ers 17--3 and will play the Chicago Bears Jan. 5th. (AP Photo)
San Francisco 49ers running back Wendell Tyler (26) is sandwiched between New York Giants safeties Bill Currier (right) and Terry Kinard in the first quarter of NFC first-round playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1984 in San Francisco. Tyler picked up 10 yards on the pass play from quarterback Joe Montana. (AP Photo/Jeff Reinking)
New York Giants' Frank Gifford tucks in quarterback Y.A. Tittle's pass for 20 yard gain in first quarter at Kezar Stadium football game on August 19, 1962 between New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers. Coming in to make stop is 49ers line backer Matt Hazeltine (55). San Francisco won exhibition contest, 42-10. (AP Photo/Ernest Bennett)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Sunday, January 3. 1982. 49ers beat Giants 38-24 for Division Playoff. San Francisco 49er Running Back Earl Cooper (49) leaps to make ground over New York Defensive back Mark Haynes (36). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers defensive end Fred Dean (74), gets a hand on New York Giants running back Tony Galbreath (30) during the fourth quarter of the 49ers 21-10 win over the Giants, during the first round of the NFC playoff game at Candlestick Park, Dec. 31, 1984 in San Francisco, Calif. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Michael Strahan hits St. Louis Quarterback Kurt warner after he releases the ball in the third quarter Sunday, October 14, 2001 at the Dome at Americas Center in St. Louis.(AP Photo/Tom Gannam)
New York Giants Hall of Fame running back Larry Csonka (39) runs upfield after taking a handoff from quarterback Craig Morton (15) during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Coliseum on September 26, 1976. The Rams defeated the Giants 24-10. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants running back Rodney Hampton (27) celebrates after a touchdown during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams Nov. 11, 1990 in Anaheim, Calif. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) moves in the pocket to avoid Rams linebacker Kevin Greene (91) during the Giants 19-13 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the 1989 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on January 7, 1990 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants running back Doug Kotar (44) leaps as he runs upfield during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Coliseum on September 26, 1976. The Rams defeated the Giants 24-10. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants tight end Mark Bavaro (89) is seen in action during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams Nov. 11, 1990, in Los Angeles. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets up to pass during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sept. 30, 1984. The Rams defeated the Giants 33-12. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
Les Josephson (34) of the Los Angeles Rams runs into a driving tackle by New York Giants Tom Longo (44) after a short gain in the first period of their game at Yankee Stadium, Dec. 20, 1970, New York. Giants Spider Lockhart (43) got a piece of the tackle. Coming up to help are Giants Scott Eaton (20) and Willie Williams (41). (AP Photo)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) catches a pass for a touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the St. Louis Rams on Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, in East Rutherford, N.J. Defending are Rams' Craig Dahl, right, and Quintin Mikell. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls out a play during an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Tom Gannam)
The crowd reacts as New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning leaves the field after beating the St. Louis Rams 44-24 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 2, 2005. Manning threw for 296 yards and a career-high four touchdowns against the Rams. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Anthony Wright (2) hits the ground after being sacked by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan in the fourth quarater Sunday, Dec. 17, 2000 in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass in the second half of a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro, left, grabs a Phil Simms pass in front of the Dallas Cowboys Vince Albritt in the first quarter of the game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 2, 1986. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) meet at midfield after an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys won 37-18. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
El jugador de los Giants de Nueva York, Saquon Barkley, anota un touchdown durante la segunda mitad del partido de la NFL contra los Cowboys de Dallas, el domingo 30 de diciembre de 2018, en East Rutherford, Nueva Jersey. (AP Foto/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) catches a pass for a touchdown as Dallas Cowboys free safety J.J. Wilcox (27) and Anthony Brown (30) defend in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday Sept. 11, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
IRVING, TX - OCTOBER 23: Linebacker LaVar Arrington #55 of the New York Giants sacks quarterback Drew Bledsoe #11 of the Dallas Cowboys for a safety at Texas Stadium on October 23, 2006 in Irving, Texas. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 36-22. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
Lawrence Taylor of the New York Giants holds up the ball he recovered after it was fumbled by Tony Dorsett of the Dallas Cowboys, slumped in the foreground, during their game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 21, 1981. Celebrating the fumble recovery, which occurred during overtime, are Bill Neill, left, and George Martin. The Giants won a shot at an NFL playoff berth with a 13-10 victory. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) catches a pass during an NFL game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys in Dallas, Texas Sunday, October. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a 18-yard touchdown as Dallas Cowboys safety Will Allen (26) loses his helmet during the second half of aN NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2013, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck, right, and Osi Umenyiora celebrate after Tuck sacked Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) reaches out to catch a four-yard touchdown pass against Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys cornerback Terence Newman (41) chases New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) as he runs down the sideline to score on a 74-yard touchdown pass during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. Teammate Mitch Petrus (62) urges Cruz on. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
The New York Giants celebrate after Dallas Cowboys' Dan Bailey, center, had his field goal attempt blocked during the final seconds of an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. New York won 37-34. (AP Photo/Sharon Ellman)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a 10-yard touchdown reception as Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) defends during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2013, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants guard David Diehl (66) blocks Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware during an NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) scores a touchdown as Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) pursues during the second quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terrell Owens gets emotional during a postgame news conference after losing to the New York Giants 21-17 in an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, and Amani Toomer, back center, celebrate the Giants 21-17 win over the Dallas Cowboys in an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)