EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Judge's Chambers, an exclusive weekly interview with Giants head coach Joe Judge:
Q: You're not a believer in momentum. But if you win your last two games, how would that improve the frame of mind of the team going into the offseason and the 2022 season?
Judge: "You really just want these guys who have come out and worked very hard throughout the year for us, dealt with a lot of adversity throughout the year and stuck together very well as a team, to experience success, and we've talked a lot as a team. You just want these guys to go out and feel the rewards for their work. They've done everything we've asked them to do. There's been a number of things that they had to overcome this year as a team and a number of changes and different things that we've had to work through. But ultimately, I really love and respect the way they show up every week and empty the tank for us."
Q: Saquon (Barkley) said you mentioned in the team meeting on Wednesday that you never know when your last opportunity is going to come. Is that what you're stressing to the players, like you don't get to play football forever?
Judge: "I always stress that with the players. I stress that to every player and every coach, and I take that to heart myself every day of the year that I come out here. One thing I learned at a young age was the most valuable thing in life is opportunity because no one has to give you one, and you don't know if you'll get another one. You have to make sure you take advantage of every single one you get every day. I was talking with the team and I said, 'Hey listen, the unfortunate reality is there's people in this room right now that will never play football again after this year, and we don't know who that will be or why that'll be, but that's the reality.' This team will never actually be together again as this team after two weeks, and that's just the sad reality of what it is. You want to make sure that you finish strong as a team. You go out there and you play for each other. You work hard, and you enjoy every moment you get together."
Q: I've never seen a roster change as frequently as this one because of COVID and injuries. How do you manage that daily? Do you have to check every day who is available for practice or who might be able to play in the game?
Judge: "Absolutely. Went through that (Thursday) morning. We had a couple more guys pop on the COVID list this morning, so that will alter your game plan and preparation. It alters the way you practice sometimes. You go through the day and sudden change is part of it, just as it's part of the game on the field, it's part of the preparation off the field. My job as a head coach is to keep everybody moving. At different times, you may have to grab a coordinator, a position coach, or the entire staff and update them quickly on what's going on. Just let them know, 'Hey, this is the plan going forward, make the adjustments and let's go.'"
Q: Do you need different personnel plans for the game based on who you might or might not have?
Judge: "You absolutely do. There are different ways of bracketing players, whether it's receiver for receiver, maybe it's tight end for receiver, sometimes it's fullback for tight end, sometimes it's offensive lineman for tight end or for fullback, or things of that nature, so you have to find different ways of running what you want to run. But then, you also have to have contingency plans as well, and there's different modes you have to learn to play in. Sometimes, you go into games and say, 'Look, I don't only have a plan for personnel, we've got a plan for the weather as well.' You can use the Buffalo vs. New England game a few weeks back as an example. I'm sure both teams didn't start the week planning for how that game was going to play. They did a good job of adjusting to it, so you've got to always be flexible with what you do."
Q: How does it affect your practice schedule? For example, you just said you have more positives, you've already had positives. Thursday has become your big practice day. Were you able to have a normal Thursday practice?
Judge: "As normal as can be. We made sure our guys were moving around, getting tempo, communication, technique work and getting some competition within the practice. We're out here to play football, and we're going to enjoy that."
Q: One of the guys on the COVID list is Julian Love. You've said he's your most versatile defensive back. Is he someone you have to replace with multiple players?
Judge: "Well, I think he replaces multiple guys more so than having to replace him with multiple guys, if that makes sense. His ability to kind of add to the depth is very good. That versatility he brings to the group is something that really allows us to put some flexibility in the game plans. He also has a large role in the kicking game, those are things you have to consider as well when he's out."
View rare photos of the all-time history between the New York Giants and Chicago Bears.
Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) gets tackled by New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (53) during the NFL Divisional Playoff Game on January 5, 1986 in Chicago, Illinois. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
The Polo Grounds in New York were filled with 65,000 fans and 125 reporters to see the New York Giants take on the Chicago Bears, Dec. 6, 1925. (AP Photo/Pro Football Hall of Fame)
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)
New York Giants and Chicago Bears in action during the National Football League Championship game on Dec. 17, 1933 at Wrigley Field in Chicago. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP)
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)
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)
New York Giants halfback Tuffy Leemans (4) runs into some Chicago Bear tacklers as he returns a punt for 15 yards in a game before 50,000 at the Polo Grounds in New York City, Oct. 31, 1937. The Giants and Bears played to a 3-3 tie. (AP Photo)
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)
Chicago Bears back Beattie Feathers (48) is about to be tossed for loss by Giant Dale Burnett in game played on Oct. 31, 1937 at the Polo Grounds. Bears and Giants played to a 3-3 tie. (AP Photo)
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)
Coach Steve Owen, center, of the New York Giants, discusses the championship game with Chicago Bears quarterback Frank Filchock, left, and end Jim Poole during a workout at the Polo Grounds in New York, on December 11, 1946. (AP Photo)
Frank Filchock, Giants quarterback and passer, and Coach Steve Owen watch fourth quarter action in the Giants-Chicago Bears Championship playoff game in New York on Dec. 15, 1946. The Bears broke the 14-14 tie in the last period to win 24-14. (AP Photo)
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 4707 to take the NFL championship. Identifiable players are: Alex Webster (29), Stan Wallace (40). (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
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)
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 4707 to take the NFL championship. Identifiable players are Ed Meadows (86), Roosevelt Brown (79), Jack Stroud (66), Alex Webster (29), Joe Fortunato (31), Wayne Hansen (51), Stan Wallace (40), McNeil Moore (29), Ray Smith (20) and J.C. Caroline. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Wide receiver Don Hermann (85) of the New York Giants is pulled down by linebacker Lee Roy Caffey (60) of the Chicago Bears in first quarter action in New York, Sept. 19, 1970. The Bears won, 24-13. (AP Photo/Ron Frehm)
Larry Csonka of the New York Giants finds an arm around his neck as he is stopped after a fourth quarter gain at Giants Stadium by Tom Hicks and Gary Fencik of the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Dec. 19, 1977 in East Rutherford. Csonka had his most productive day this season with 100 yards in 22 attempts. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Chicago Bears Walter Payton, center, pushes his way between New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 18, 1977 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo)
Chicago Bears middle-linebacker Mike Singletary (50) closes in on New York Giants George Adams (33) in an NFC playoff game in Chicago, Ill., on January 7, 1986. (AP Photo /John Swart)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall (70) pressures Chicago Bears quarterback Jim McMahon (9) during the 1985 NFC Divisional Playoff Game in Chicago, Jan. 5, 1986. The Bears shutout the Giants 21-0. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) carries the football as Bears linebacker Mike Singletary (50) gives chase during the Giants 21 - 0 loss to the Chicago Bears in the 1985 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on January 5, 1986 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Chicago Bears running back Matt Suhey (26) carries the football before a tackle by New York Giants safety Kenny Hill (48) and linebacker Harry Carson (53) during the Bears 21 - 0 victory over the New York Giants in the 1985 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on Jan. 5, 1986 at Soldier Field in Chicago. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) is stopped by Chicago Bears Richard Dent (95) and William Perry (72), as Chicago's defense held the Giants to 32 yards in the Bears 21-0 win during NFC playoff action, Sunday, Jan. 5, 1986 in Chicago, Ill. (AP Photo/Charlie Bennett)
New York Giants players try to block a kick in this general view of the action on the field at Soldier Field stadium during the NFL Divisional Playoff Game against the Chicago Bears on January 5, 1986 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears won the game in a 21-0 shutout. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets up to throw a pass during the Giants 21-0 loss to the Chicago Bears in the 1985 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on January 5, 1986 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) makes short gain during NFC playoff, first half action against the Chicago Bears in Chicago, Ill., Sunday, Jan. 5, 1986. Bears defensive end Richard Dent (95) and line backer Otis Wilson (55) attempt to catch him as Giant guard Bill Ard (61) blocks. (AP Photo)
Everson Walls of the New York Giants breaks up a pass to Ron Morris of the Chicago Bears in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Jan. 13, 1991. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) scrambles for yardage against the Chicago Bears during the third quarter in Chicago, Ill., Sept. 22, 1992. (AP Photo/Fred Jewell)
New York Giants wide receiver Joey Smith (88) is upended by Chicago Bears Dent Jones (53) in first quarter in Chicago, Sept. 21, 1992. Also on the tackle are Bears John Mangum and Maurice Douglas, right. (AP Photo/David Boe)
New York Giants wide receiver Ed McCaffrey is tackled after an eight-yard gain by Chicago Bears defenders Chris Zorich, rear, and Anthony Blaylock, right, during the second quarter at Soldier Field in Chicago, Sept. 5, 1993. (AP Photo/Fred Jewell)
Running back Rodney Hampton (27) of the New York Giants is grabbed around the waist by linebacker Dante Jones (53) of the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field in Chicago, Ill., Sept. 5, 1993. Hampton lost six yards on the play. (AP Photo/John Swart)
New York Giants quarterback Jeff Hostetler does a little scrambling to avoid Chicago Bears Steve McMichael (rear) and Trace Armstrong (93) during third quarter action in NFL playoff game, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1991 at Giants Stadium, Rutherford. The giants won 31-3 behind Hostetler. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants' quarterback Jeff Hostetler celebrates after throwing a first quarter touchdown pass to wide receiver Stephen Baker. Hostetler later ran for a touchdown in the third quarter against the Chicago Bears at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Jan. 13, 1991. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
Chicago Bears Brad Muster (25) is stopped for a loss on fourth down by New York Giants John Washington (73) during a goal-line stand in the second quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Jan. 13, 1991. The Bears failure to score was the beginning of a string of frustrations for Chicago. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants running back Ottis "O.J." Anderson (24) is stopped by Chicago Bears' William "The Refrigerator" Perry in the third quarter of the NFC playoff game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Jan. 14, 1991. The Giants won 31-3. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
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)
Quarterbacks Mike Tomczak of the Chicago Bears, left, and Jeff Hostetler of the New York Giants chat together as they leave the field after NFL playoff game, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1991 at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford. The Giants won 31-3 behind Hostetler, who started for the injured Phil Simms. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants linebacker Mike Barrow tackles Chicago Bears receiver Marcus Robinson (88) after a reception in the second quarter on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2000, at Soldier Field in Chicago. (AP Photo/Stephen J. Carrera)
Chicago Bears quarterback Cade McNown is caught by New York Giants linebacker Jessie Armstead and sacked for a nine-yard loss during the third quarter on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2000, at Soldier Field in Chicago. (AP Photo/Fred Jewell)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants prepares to hand the ball off against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 2: New York Giants and Chicago Bears players line up at the line of scrimmage prior to the snap during the game between the New York Giants against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants defeated the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants drops back to pass against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants throws a pass against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
Running back Derrick Ward #34 of the New York Giants carries the ball against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 2: Wide receiver Plaxico Burress #17 of the New York Giants runs with the football after a pass reception against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 2, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants defeated the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants' Amani Toomer (81) holds up the football after making a touchdown reception, as Chicago Bears' Brandon McGowan (36) and Brian Urlacher (54) argue that the ball hit the ground during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. The play was reviewed and the call on the field was upheld for a touchdown. The Giants won 21-16. (AP Photo/Jerry Lai)
New York Giants, Michael Strahan (92) during a game against the Chicago Bears on September 17, 2000 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. The Giants beat the Bears 14-7. Michael Strahan played for 15 years all with the Giants. He was a 7-time Pro Bowler and was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014.(AP Photo/David Durochik)
New York Giants' Kevin Dockery breaks up a pass from Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman to Muhsin Muhammad in the end zone during the final seconds of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. The Giants defeated the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/M. Spencer Green)
New York Giants' Derrick Ward runs during a football game against the Chicago Bears Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007 in Chicago. (AP Photo/MJerry Lai)
New York Giants running back Derrick Ward runs against Chicago Bears' Anthony Adams (95) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. The Giants defeated the Bears 21-16. (AP Photo/M. Spencer Green)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scores a touchdown during first quarter NFL football against the Chicago Bears Sunday, Nov. 12, 2006 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Sam Madison, left, sacks Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman, center, with the help of Osi Umenyiora (72) and Michael Strahan during the second quarter of a football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jerry Lia)
New York Giants' Sam Madison, right, sacks Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman during the second quarter of a football game Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jerry Lia)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) breaks free of a tackle by Chicago Bears defenders in the first quarter of their football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday,Nov. 12, 2006.(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman (8) scrambles with the ball as New York Giants defensive tackle William Joseph (94) approaches him in the second quarter of their football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Sunday, Nov. 12, 2006.(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) gets tackled by Chicago Bears corner back Jerry Azumah (23) in the first quarter of play on Sunday, November, 7, 2004, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. (AP Photo/Michael Kim)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora, hits Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, right, to break up a pass attempt during the first quarter of an NFL football game at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) applies pressure against the Chicago Bears in a week 4 NFL football game at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday October 3, 2010 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) knocks the ball away from Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler during the second quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants' Eli Manning, center, gets ready for the snap during the third quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive lineman Barry Cofield (96) sacks Chicago Bears quaterback Jay Cutler (6) in the 1st half in a week 4 NFL football game at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday October 3, 2010 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants' Hakeem Nicks (44) runs the ball during the first quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Eli Manning, center, during the first quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Hanie is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 17-3. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs runs the ball during the first quarter of an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89) avoids Chicago Bears' Tim Jennings (26) during the second quarter of an NFL football game at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) makes a touchdown reception in front of Chicago Bears cornerback Tim Jennings (26) in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls a play against the Chicago Bears in the first half of an NFL football game on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) is tackled by Chicago Bears safety Chris Conte (47) and linebacker James Anderson (50) in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (34) rolls into the end zone for a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants wide receivers Victor Cruz and Reuben Randle (82) celebrate a touch down catch during a week 6 Thursday night football game against the Chicago Bears on October 10, 2013 in Chicago,IL (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Chicago Bears in a week 6 Thursday night football game on October 10, 2013 in Chicago,IL (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Chicago Bears in a week 6 Thursday night football game against the Chicago Bears on October 10, 2013 in Chicago,IL (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Chicago Bears safety Chris Conte (47) tries to bring down New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) In the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
Players gather on the field for the coin toss before an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) hands off the ball to running back Brandon Jacobs (34) in the second half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (34) breaks a tackle during an NFL week 6 football game against the Chicago Bears Thursday, October 10, 2013, in Chicago. The Bears won 27-21. (AP Photo/David Stluka)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) congratulates Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) after an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, in Chicago. The Bears won 27-21. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) looks to pass against the Chicago Bears during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Chicago Bears in action against the New York Giants Sunday November 20, 2016 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) during a week 11 NFL football game against the Chicago Bears on November 20, 2016 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) catches a pass for a touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes against the Chicago Bears during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, 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)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the Chicago Bears take on the New York Giants during a week 13 NFL football game on Sunday December 2, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
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) stiff arms Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) 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) stiff arms Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) 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 quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball as Chicago Bears inside linebacker Danny Trevathan (59) makes the tackle 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 (26) stiff arms Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) 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 with the ball as Chicago Bears free safety Eddie Jackson (39) moves in to make the tackle 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 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) 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)
Chicago Bears quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) throws a pass while being pressured by New York Giants defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence (97) during an NFL game, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, in Chicago. The Bear defeated the Giants 19-14. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Chicago Bears offense lines up against the New York Giants defense during an NFL game, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, in Chicago. The Bear defeated the Giants 19-14. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes a handoff from quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, in Chicago. The Bear defeated the Giants 19-14. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) stands ready as he awaits the snap of the football during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Giants 19-14. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants offensive guard Nick Gates (65) blocks on a field goal attempt during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Giants 19-14. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears Sunday November 24, 2019 in Chicago (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants offensive players wait to square off at the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears defense, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
Chicago Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (10) greets New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) following an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. The Bears defeated the Giants 19-14. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) runs in front of Chicago Bears cornerback Prince Amukamara (20) 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 cornerback Julian Love (24) intercepts a pass intended for Chicago Bears wide receiver Javon Wims (83) during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls a plays at the line of scrimmage against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Sterling Shepard (87)
Julian Love (20)
Daniel Jones (8)
Julian Love (20)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Sterling Shepard (87)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 17 football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday January 2, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois
Tae Crowder (48)
Chris Myarick (41)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Aaron Robinson (33)
A look down the line of scrimmage during a week 17 football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday January 2, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois
Saquon Barkley (26)
Tae Crowder (48)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 17 football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday January 2, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois
Q: A lot of times, a coach of a team that's been eliminated from the playoffs will get asked in their last couple of games if you want to look at some young guys? Because of all these things we've talked about, you've probably looked at most of the young guys, players like (cornerback) Jarren Williams. Is there anybody who you haven't really had a chance to look at that you want to see in these last two games?
Judge: "To be honest with you, I always take the approach that I'm watching everybody every day. I think you earn playing time, and it's your responsibility to be ready for it when your number is called. We've got a number of guys that have done that with practice squad guys, young guys, or whoever it maybe. So, I'm watching and evaluating everybody every day."
Q: (Running back) Devontae Booker has a chance to set career highs in rushing yards and catches. He was expected to come in here and be Saquon's backup, and he's the leading rusher on the team. Has he exceeded expectations?
Judge: "I think Book is a good back. To be honest with you, he's doing what we thought he'd do. I didn't know anything about career numbers or anything in that regard, but I don't get into personal statistics. However, I would say that Book has been practicing and playing hard. We knew he was a quality player coming in. We knew he was going to have a role this year along with Saquon. It's important for us to be able have two backs to carry the load and make sure we stay fresh throughout the game."
Q: You haven't said publicly whether Mike Glennon or Jake Fromm will start at quarterback. Do you expect both to play? This is an organization that had the same quarterback for 15 years. And you were rarely without Tom Brady when you were in New England. Does a change at quarterback affect the team?
Judge: "Well, I think that's definitely one position you want to have continuity in. When you had the luxury of having an Eli Manning for so long, first off, that comes into the level of play, consistency and health that he obviously demonstrated by taking care of his body and perfecting his craft. And look, it's unfortunate that we lost Daniel (Jones), it really is. But in the meantime, we've had a chance to look at a couple different guys, different packages, and things of that nature. In terms of this weekend, I wouldn't say necessarily that I want to play both guys. I just say I expect everyone to play. To me, we may have different things for different guys at different times. If that ends up factoring into the game plan, then we'll go ahead and use it."
Q: I assume the players have an idea of who's going to play, and I assume that helps their preparation.
Judge: "The players know through the way you practice what each player is expected to do. If they don't, they're just not paying attention, but they all understand. Obviously, this guy has a role within this package. This is what we're expecting to do with this player, so that all builds on itself."
Q: You started the year with a takeaway in the first 11 games. You went through a stretch where you had an interception in eight straight games. Now, you haven't had one in four, and you did not record a takeaway in three of the last four games. Is there an explanation why you're not getting the takeaways that you did earlier in the year?
Judge: "I think we're doing a good job with ball disruption as a team. You see last week we were able to knock three balls off of them in the first quarter through the kickoff and defense. We'll definitely keep making that a point of emphasis, attacking the ball. You've got to keep pursuing the ball and make sure you give yourself an opportunity to get on the ball. We had some near-miss interceptions and some near-miss fumble recoveries. Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades, but I see the emphasis and the players playing with the right effort. Sometimes, the ball has to bounce a certain direction. We always talk to our safeties about breaking. Sometimes, they're in the right spot, it looks like it's tipped, it goes the other way, and we say, 'Look, you've still got to break full-speed because when it comes that way, you've got to be ready to catch that thing.'"
Q: (Linebacker) Tae (Crowder) hasn't missed a snap since Blake (Martinez) got hurt (in Week 3). I don't recall him missing a practice. He's your leading tackler. He calls the signals. For a young guy to come in and take on all this responsibility, is it safe to assume you're very pleased with his response to the situation?
Judge: "It's a large increase in a role to become the signal caller and play that kind of ball. Then, obviously, Tae is a young player who only played one year of linebacker in college. This is really his third year playing linebacker. He's definitely still growing within the position. But (linebackers coach) Kevin Sherrer and (assistant head coach/defensive coordinator) Pat (Graham) are doing a really good job of working with him and helping him come long. I'm very pleased with the progress he's making and how he's working."
Q: You fielded a (punter) Riley Dixon question the other day and said you support him, but you also expect a little more out of him. You're not a stats guy, but his numbers are identical to what they were last year – punts, gross and net average. Is it that one punt a game that causes people to say, "What's wrong with Dixon?"
Judge: "I go into special teams questions all the time, and I would say the statistics are the most misleading thing in special teams. Each play is truly situational. You're looking for situational execution of the play, the placement, how you're calling it game plan-wise. So, to me, I never get into statistics for special teams. We are in the northeast. I coached for a long time in a city that's pretty miserable for specialists, to be honest with you. We used to tell the punters all time, 'You're never going to lead the league in punting, that's not your job. Your job is not to have high statistics, your job is to be situationally effective.' So, I never get into or look at the statistics of the punters, I just don't get into it. I know what they're doing as far as helping our coverage or helping our field position by watching the tape, and that's how I evaluate them."
*Q: Last month, we talked about this week's trip to Chicago and you said, "the colder, the better." The temperature might be in the teens there on Sunday. Why do you like the cold weather so much? *
Judge: "I just think the elements are a fun part of playing football. The one thing that's great about football season is you get to start in the heat of summer, and you get to end it in the cold of winter. That's a lot of fun, you get to go through kind of the true seasons. We were talking the other day, and I told the guys, 'Listen, we're getting to play in Chicago on New Year's. If you play in Chicago, when else would you want to play there?' And if we're lucky, it looks like there is a chance of snow."
Q: The Bears had all three of their quarterbacks (Justin Fields, Andy Dalton and Nick Foles) in practice this week. How do you prepare for three quarterbacks?
Judge: "You've got to make sure that you build in the variety of what they do with different guys and that you're sound in all the schemes. But ultimately, you've got to make sure you fit the things they do with all the guys and make sure you're sound against that."
Q: Is it too simplistic to say that Foles and Dalton are fairly similar, and Fields is more of a runner?
Judge: "I think that is too simplistic. I think all three have their own element of game planning. They use these guys in similar ways as well as in different ways. Each guy has his own personality as a player. I don't think it's fair to lump those guys in the same category and try to separate Foles and Dalton from Fields. There's obviously differences, but I think they're all unique."
Q: Not to bring up an unpleasant day, but you've seen Foles at his best (in Super Bowl LII).
Judge: "Yeah, I absolutely have. This guy, he's a good quarterback, and I've seen him multiple times now. He's very, very effective. And yeah, exactly what you said, I've seen him up close and personal, and he's a good quarterback."
Q: So much attention is on who the quarterback is, but they're one of the best rushing teams in the league.
Judge: "They are. I think it comes from their commitment to balance. They stay very committed to the run. (David) Montgomery is a very good runner. He runs tough, he has good vision and good agility. He can really extend plays, run through arm tackles and bounce off players. I really like the way he plays with a good, high motor and toughness. When you talk about these guys, they have good schemes and good systems. I think (head coach) Matt (Nagy) just does a good job, and obviously (offensive coordinator) Bill (Lazor) calling the plays, of keeping balanced as a team and really playing the right way."
Q: Robert Quinn has 17 sacks. Does he jump out on the tape? Also, (linebacker) Roquan (Smith) has 50 more tackles than anybody on the team.
Judge: "They've got a lot of talent upfront on that defense. I had the opportunity of coaching (defensive tackle Akiem) Hicks before. I think he's a high motor player. He's a really good dude. He's obviously a very talented player, he makes an impact in the game. You talk about Quinn on the edge. They got a number of players in the stack as well, so there's a lot of talent on this defense. They definitely have been able to assemble the right kind of guys to fit their system, and they play very aggressive."
Q:*What*makes Quinn so effective?
Judge: "I think he's got a lot of really good instincts. He's got a good jump and speed off the edge. He's able to bend, turn around the corner and get the quarterback. But I think the biggest thing is he uses his instincts of when to counter back and when to make a counter move. He really understands the flow of the play and anticipates where the quarterback is going to be. He does a really, really good job with that first step off the ball. But then, he also has a high motor. A lot of his sacks come on extended plays. Not just scrambles, but just the length of your plays, where he makes a second move and gets you when you lull and fall asleep."
Q: And lastly, the special teams. They traded for a return specialist (Jakeem Grant, Sr.) who's going to the Pro Bowl. And (defensive back) Deon Bush has seven special teams tackles.
Judge: "They are both very good players. I had the opportunity to coach against both of them. I was in the division with Grant for a while. I'm fully aware of what he's capable of doing. He's definitely a strength of their team. He's made some big impact plays. This team is very, very aggressive. They'll return the ball in plus-50, they'll bring it out of the end zone with kickoffs or punts. They'll do a lot of things to roll the dice, but they know how to get that return game started. When you're playing at this time of year in the cold weather, the ball doesn't sit up there with quite as much hang time. The directional placements are never as good, so you've got to go down there and you've got to cover."
Giants App
Download the Giants' official app for iPhone, iPad and Android devices
