Flashback to Wild Card Weekend victories
While the Giants won't be participating in this weekend's postseason festivities, Wild Card Weekend always brings back some fond memories for Big Blue.
The Giants have played in 11 Wild Card games in franchise history and have a 6-5 record. Their first Wild Card matchup came in 1981 against the Philadelphia Eagles, when Rob Carpenter finished with 193 total yards from scrimmage as the Giants defeated the Eagles 27-21 at Veterans Stadium.
Just a few years later in 1984, the Giants were back in the Wild Card round, traveling to Los Angeles to take on the Rams at Anaheim Stadium. Rams quarterback Jeff Kemp was held to just 109 passing yards while the Giants recovered two fumbles on their way to a 16-13 win.
The following season, the Giants welcomed the San Francisco 49ers to East Rutherford for the franchise's first Wild Card game at Giants Stadium. The Big Blue defense was able to hold Joe Montana, Jerry Rice and the 49ers offense out of the end zone as Joe Morris rushed for 141 yards and Phil Simms threw two touchdowns passes, helping the Giants emerge with an impressive 17-3 victory.
It would be almost a decade before the Giants' next Wild Card game, as the franchise secured a first-round bye in each of their next three trips to the playoffs, including their runs to Super Bowls XXI and XXV.
The Giants won their fourth consecutive Wild Card game at the conclusion of the 1993 season when they defeated the Minnesota Vikings at home, 17-10. Rodney Hampton rushed for a whopping 161 yards and two touchdowns on 33 carries (4.9 avg.) while adding six receptions for an additional 24 yards. The Giants' defense also picked up three sacks and a fumble recovery in the win.
As we all remember, the Giants went on a magical run to the franchise's legendary win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. Tom Coughlin's squad picked up four huge victories that postseason, but it all started with the team's win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium during Wild Card Weekend. Eli Manning completed 74 percent of his passes and threw for two touchdowns, while the defense forced three turnovers, including two interceptions of Bucs QB Jeff Garcia. The win was the first postseason victory of Manning's career.
The franchise's most recent Wild Card win occurred exactly nine years ago today against the Atlanta Falcons. This represented the team's first playoff game at MetLife Stadium, and it was quite a memorable one. The Falcons got the scoring started by forcing Manning into an intentional grounding penalty in the end zone for a safety. But after falling behind 2-0, the Giants went on to score 24 straight points while keeping Atlanta off the scoreboard for the remainder of the game, resulting in a 24-2 win. Of course, this victory sparked the Giants' impressive run to another victory over the Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI.
View photos of the franchise's history of Wild Card wins, dating back to their first appearance in 1981.
Eagles quarterback Ron Jaworski drops the football as he is hit by New York Giants George Martin (75) in wild card playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa.
New York Giant Rob Carpenter, center, eight yards before being stopped by Eagle Randy Logan, (41) in wild card playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 28, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. Carpenter was Giants top ground gainer with 161 yards. Helalso caught four passes good for 32 yards. Giants won the game, 27-21. The rest of the players are unidentified. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Dee Hardison takes a ride on the back of Eagles quarterback Ron Jaworski in wild card playoff game, Dec. 28, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. Jaworski had a tough day as New Yorks defense limited Jaworski to less than 50 percent of pass completions and sacked him three times. Eagles lost, 27-21. Eagles Hubert Oliver (34), Pete Perot (62) and Jerry Sisemore (76) are also shown. (AP Photo)
The football settles into arms of Leon Bright in end zone as New York Giants score first touchdown early in wild card play against the Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 27, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. The play was good for win six points. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Rob Carpenter (26) is chased by Eagle defenders in wild card playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. Carpenter was the Giants top gainer as he rushed for 161 yards in 33 carries and caught four passes good for 32 yards to help beat the Eagles, 27-21. The rest of the players are unidentified. (AP Photo)
Eagles Wally Henry fumbles a kickoff after being hit by New York Giants Mike Dennis (46) in a wild card playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 1981 in Philadelphia, Pa. The ball rolled into end zone and was recovered by Mark Haynes (36) to score the third Giants touchdown to give New York an early 20-0 lead. (AP Photo)
Giants John Mistler rolls into end zone after catching Scott Brunners pass to score New Yorks second touchdown in first period of the wild card playoff game against the Eagles, Dec. 27, 1981, Philadelphia, Pa. Unidentified Eagle defenders tackle was too late to prevent the 10-yard scoring play. (AP Photo)
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)
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)
San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig (33) runs behind guard Bubba Paris (77) as New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall (70) during the 1985 NFC divisional playoff game at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 29, 1985. The Giants defeated the 49ers 17-3 at Giants Stadium. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
San Francisco 49ers tight end Russ Francis (81) tries to elude New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson (53) during the 1985 NFC divisional playoff game at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 29, 1985. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
San Francisco 49ers running back Carl Monroe (32) tries to elude New York Giants linebacker Robbie Jones (51) during the 1985 NFC Divisional playoff game at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 29, 1985. The Giants defeated the 49ers 17-3 at Giants Stadium. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
The New York Giants Jim Burt eyes Joe Montana, San Francisco 49ers quarterback, as he closes in for a first quarter sack in NFL playoff game at Giants Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Montana was harried by an aggressive Giants defense and lost 17-3. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana walks from the field in the fourth quarter of NFL playoff game, Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey as New York Giants Jim Burt raises his arms in jubilation. The Giants won the game 17-3 and will play the Chicago Bears next week. (AP Photo)
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)
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 Jerry Rice, left, fumbles his pass catch as he?s hit by the New York Giants Andy Headen in the third quarter of Sunday?s 17-3 Giants win at Giants Stadium on East Rutherford, New Jersey on Dec. 30, 1985. Bryon Hunt of the Giants fell on the ball to kill and another 49ers drive. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Chris Doleman (56) stops New York Giants running back Rodney Hampton (27) during the Vikings 17 - 10 loss in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. ( Al Messerschmid tvia AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) calls signals at the line of scrimmage during a 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) looks for an open receiver during the Giants 17-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on January 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms looks to handoff during the Giants 17-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on January 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants head coach Dan Reeves, left, congratulates linebacker Lawrence Taylor after the last defensive series of the NFC playoff win over the Minnesota Vikings at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, Sunday, Jan. 9, 1994. The Giants won 17-10 and will face the San Francisco 49ers next. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) runs with the football after being flushed out of the pocket during the Giants 17-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on January 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants running back Rodney Hampton (27) carries the football during a 17-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on January 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) calls signals at the line of scrimmage during a 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants' linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) pressures Minnesota Vikings' quarterback Jim McMahon (9) during the third quarter of their wildcard playoff game, Jan. 9, 1994, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Vikings, 17-10, and will play the 49ers in San Francisco next weekend. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants' Ahmad Bradshaw celebrates on the bench during the closing seconds of the fourth quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
FOR USE AS DESIRED WITH SUPER BOWL XLII STORIES New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) carries the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during an NFL wildcard football playoff game in this Jan 6, 2008 photo, in Tampa, Fla. The New England Patriots play the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII in Glendale, Ariz, on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks to pass during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith in action during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw is tackled during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning passes during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks to pass during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs (27) dives past Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Kalvin Pearson (39) to score during the second quarter of an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster reacts after making an interception during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith (12) breaks away from Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Ryan Nece (56) during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning celebrates after throwing a fourth-quarter touchdown pass to teammate Amani Toomer during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10| looks for a receiver as guard Rich Seubert (69) blocks Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Jovan Haye (71) during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin looks on during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants defensive end David Tollefson (71) knocks down Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla.(AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants defensive tackle Fred Robbins (98) pressures Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss is upended carrying the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants' Ahmad Bradshaw (44) loses his helmet as he runs into the pile, including Madison Hedgecock (39), during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) carries the ball as Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Jermaine Phillips (23) moves in during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass a Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Greg Spires (94) pressures during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants linebacker Gerris Wilkinson (59) stops Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Alex Smith during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants defensive end David Tollefson (71) knocks down Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning throws a pass during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants punter Jeff Feagles (18) punts as teammate Madison Hedgecock (39) blocks against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants' Corey Webster (23) celebrates with teammate Aaron Ross (31) after intercepting a Tampa Bay Buccaneers pass in the end zone during the third quarter of an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia (7) throws a pass against the New York Giants during an NFL wildcard football playoff game Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) shouts out at the line of scrimmage during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants' Gary Ruegamer (65) congratulates teammate Amani Toomer (81) after Toomer's touchdown-reception from quarterback Eli Manning during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. New York won, 24-14. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants runn ing back Brandon Jacobs (27) dives for extra yards on an 11-yard reception from quarterback Eli Manning during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. Jacobs scored two touchdowns in a 24-14 win over Tampa Bay. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster, left, intercepts pass intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Joey Galloway, right, during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
Nw York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, left, shakes hands with Tampa bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden after the Giants defeated the Buccaneers, 24-14, during an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday, Jan 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants' Dave Tollefson (71) levels Tampa Bay buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia as he throws a fourth quarter pass during an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia (7) is hit by New York Giants' Osi Umenyiora (72) after throwing a second quarter pass during an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday, Jan 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster (23) intercepts a pass intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Joey Golloway (84) in the end zone during the fourth quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff football game Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants' Corey Webster (23), right, runs with an interception intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Joey Galloway (84) during the third quarter of an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. Blocking for Webster is teammate Gibril Wilson (28). (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara))
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs (27) dives past Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Kalvin Pearson (39) to score during the second quarter of an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants receiver Steve Smith (12) is sent flying by Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Brian Kelly (25), left, and Kalvin Parson (39), right, during the second quarter of an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning celebrates after throwing a second-quarter touchdown pass to teammate Brandon Jacobs during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) runs the ball against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) runs with the ball for a big gain during the NFL wildcard playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday January 8, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Giants won the game 24-2. (AP Photo/Paul Jasienski)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ- JANUARY 8: Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants drops back to pass the football against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFC Wild Card Playoff game at MetLife Stadium on January 8, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brent Grimes, left, attempts to tackle New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) attempts to stop New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, right, breaks away from Atlanta Falcons safety William Moore during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ- JANUARY 8: Chris Snee #76 of the New York Giants runs against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFC Wild Card Playoff game at MetLife Stadium on January 8, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants offensive tackle Kareem McKenzie (67) blocks during the NFL wildcard playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday January 8, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Giants won the game 24-2. (AP Photo/Paul Jasienski)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) leaps in the air to catch a 4-yard touchdown pass over Atlanta Falcons defensive back Dominique Franks (24) during the second quarter of the NFL wildcard playoff football game, Sunday January 8, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Giants won the game 24-2. (AP Photo/Paul Jasienski)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ- JANUARY 8: Brandon Jacobs #27 of the New York Giants runs with the football against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFC Wild Card Playoff game at MetLife Stadium on January 8, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants defensive tackle Rocky Bernard reacts during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL wild card playoff football game the on Sunday January 8, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants offensive tackle David Diehl (66) blocks during the NFL wildcard playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday January 8, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Giants won the game 24-2. (AP Photo/Paul Jasienski)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) runs over Atlanta Falcons safety James Sanders during an NFL wild card playoff football game on Sunday January 8, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants safety Antrel Rolle (26) looks to make a tackle during an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday January 8, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants quaterback Eli Manning (10) looks for an open receiver during an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday January 8, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a catch during an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday January 8, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants quaterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass during an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday January 8, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) carries the ball during an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday January 8, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) stiff arms Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28) during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) moves in to hit Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 24-2. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, chats with Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan after their NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants guard David Diehl (66) hugs Eli Manning after his 27-yard touchdown pass to Mario Manningham during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Hakeem Nicks (88), wide receiver de los Giants de Nueva York, se escapa a la defensiva de los Falcons de Atlanta para anotar en pase de 72 yardas, en la segunda mitad de su juego de comodines en la postemporada de la NFL, el domingo 8 de enero del 2012, en East Rutherford, Nueva Jersey. (Foto AP/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) is brought down by Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28) after a 30-yard run during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) catches a 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson (23) and AJames Sanders during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) celebrates his 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons with teammate Hakeem Nicks during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks runs into the end zone to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) pulls in a 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons strong safety James Sanders (36) and Dunta Robinson during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) evades a tackle by Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons defenders to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. Left is Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann (71). (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Fans cheer as New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) runs into the end zone to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. right is Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks indicates a first down after a 19-yard reception against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28) tries to stop New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw on a 30-yard run during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks as he takes the ball on a running play against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) evades tackles by Atlanta Falcons defensive end Ray Edwards (93) and Sean Weatherspoon during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants defensive lineman Rocky Bernard (95) sacks Atlanta Falcons quaterback Matt Ryan (2) during an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday January 8, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) evades a tackle by Atlanta Falcons middle linebacker Curtis Lofton (50) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes (9) kicks a 22-yard field goal against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) catches a 19-yard pass against Atlanta Falcons defensive back Chris Owens (21) for a first down during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) pulls down a four yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) pass against defender Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann (71) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants guard Chris Snee (76) stops Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux (95) from reaching Eli Manning during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) pulls down a four yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Atlanta Falcons running back Michael Turner (33) is tackled by New York Giants defensive tackle Chris Canty (99) and Aaron Ross during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) is chased by Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Sean Weatherspoon (56) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants cornerback Aaron Ross (31) tackles Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Atlanta Falcons strong safety William Moore (25) tries to stop New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. Left is Atlanta Falcons defensive end John Abraham (55). (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Jerrel Jernigan (12) flips in the air after getting hit during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. Right is Atlanta Falcons defensive back Chris Owens (21). (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud tackles New York Giants running back D.J. Ware (28) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Time flies: One year since Joe Judge's introductory press conference
Believe it or not, tomorrow will be exactly one year since Joe Judge was first introduced as the 21st head coach in the history of the New York Giants.
A lot has happened over the last year since Judge took the stage at the EY Coaches Club at MetLife Stadium to face the New York media for the first time. However, despite all of the difficult challenges that arose over the past 12 months, both on and off the field, Judge's message never veered from his opening remarks.
Below is a small portion of Coach's comments from his first day with the Giants:
"Now, there is a question out there that I'm sure a lot of people are asking, and that's number one – who am I? Well, maybe I can explain that a little bit better, but instead of saying, 'Who am I,' by telling you what's relevant in this conversation with being the coach of the New York Giants— what I'm about. What I'm about is an old school physical mentality. We're going to put a product on the field that the people of this city and region are going to be proud of because this team will represent this area. We will play fast, we will play downhill, we will play aggressive. We will punch you in the nose for 60 minutes, we will play every play like it has a history and a life of its own, with a relentless, competitive attitude. We will play fundamentally sound, we will not beat ourselves. That is our mission right here. I'm about caring for the players in the locker room. Let's not forget there's a human element to this game. Let's not think that in professional sports that paying a pay check to somebody makes it absent of empathy. We need to make sure that we take care of the players in our locker room, that we treat them the right way, that we teach them the correct techniques, and that we put them in the right situations to be successful. We're going to ask these men to come in and give everything they have every day. We're going to demand it, and we appreciate everything they give us. It's our responsibility to take care of them on a daily basis and make sure that when they are done with our game, they are better furthered for the rest of their career as a father, a husband, and a professional in whatever avenue they take.
Top 10 plays of Giants' 2020 season
The Giants had some memorable moments during the 2020 season.
Check out the video below to watch the top 10 plays from Big Blue's 2020 campaign.
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