Head Coach Joe Judge
Opening Statement:I appreciate your patience. Sorry, I ran a little over on a meeting this morning, so that's what delayed me right there. But our guys are getting ready for practice right now and I came as fast as I could. That being said, I'd like to open it up to any questions.
Q: I know other people are going to ask you about practice yesterday. I wanted to ask you a bigger picture question. I know you're obviously focused on game prep, but have you taken a moment at all just to reflect on the dream come true of coaching your first NFL game on Monday night? How might you and your family mark the occasion?
A: To be completely honest with you, no, I haven't really spent much time thinking about individual things, especially personally. At some point maybe later down the road, I'll stop and look back on a lot of things. But my mindset is always kind of looking ahead at what's coming up, and right now, we have the Steelers rolling into town. Any kind of personal or individual things that may be special to anyone directly in my family individually, that's for down the road for me.
Q: Since it was left on the tee for me, can you just talk about what happened at yesterday's practice, and how you thought the guys responded to that?
A: It really wasn't much. Sometimes I schedule a second stretching period after the first couple periods of individuals, so a normal day for us right there… No, hey listen, I thought the guys responded really well. We actually had a really productive, really good practice. I was happy coming off the field. Sometimes we just have to go ahead and keep in mind that it's important that we lock in and start fast.
Q: C.J. Board, why did you guys claim him? What did you see in him? What do you think his strengths are as a wide receiver, what he gives to your team as a whole?
A: I think he gives us a lot of versatility. First off, he's got top-end speed. That's definitely something that sticks out to you. But he's a guy with a real good work ethic, he's made plays, he's been productive in practice. We have several coaches on staff who have had past experiences with him in other organizations, so he was somebody that was familiar with our coaches. But he's somebody that has a skillset to really work with and develop. We're glad we have him here.
Q: With Monday rapidly approaching, how excited are you about bringing this unit and how equipped are they for the opener in your mind?
A: I think at this point, we've been hitting each other long enough. Everyone is getting anxious for Monday night. We still have some work to do. We still have a lot of prep to do. There's a process that we have to continue to go through leading up to the game, but obviously, it's game week. As game week goes on, everyone's heart starts pumping a little bit more. Listen, first chance we get to get guys on the field, there's going to be a lot of excitement.
Q: You talked at the beginning of camp about how rookies are never ready when they show up to their first NFL training camp. You're at the end of the training camp now. How much closer to ready is Andrew Thomas in particular?
A: I'll tell you what, I think they've all made significant gains. That being said, the rookies still don't know what to fully expect. They've been taught, they've been told, they've seen examples, they've felt the speed of practice. But the reality is, you can't truly simulate the full speed of a game until you play in a game. Because they haven't tasted that yet, they don't know yet. Now, it's our job to get them mentally, physically and emotionally ready for that game. But until they get out there and get hit in the mouth for the first time, they really don't know.
Q: How about Andrew Thomas in particular? How much improvement has he made since he first stepped on the field with you?
A: Yeah, he's a guy that's gotten better every day for us. This is a guy that's very coachable, he's very attentive in meetings. You hit him on some kind of technique or aspect of communication, he improves every day on that. I'm very pleased with how he's come along. But I think he's the same as all the other rookies right now in that until they get out there and get that first taste of game action, they're not truly going to know what it is to play in the NFL.
Q: How has Golden Tate looked coming back from that hamstring injury?
A: He's moving well right now. We've been mixing him into some of the things we have been doing in practice. Individuals, a little bit of team work, some group work. He looks like he's coming along nice. He's working hard every day and doing what he can to get back.
Q: How much did you watch last night and kind of watch how everything was going to work? What do you take from that?
A: To be honest with you, I didn't have time last night to watch any of the game. I will watch it later today when I get a little bit of time. Some of our coaches are going through the game and breaking down different aspects as to how the flow of the game went. Maybe some things we can expect by seeing two other teams compete. I will watch it later on, I haven't had a chance yet.
Q: I would be remiss if I didn't ask you about the FDNY hat and the significance of today. How much have you spent with the team reflecting on 19 years ago?
A: To be honest with you, this is always a significant day in American history. We talked to the team this morning about it's not about what happened to the country on 9/11, it's about how the country responded. I think that's the lesson everyone has to take with how resilient this country is. You look at a lot of the things going on across the country, how divided a lot of people seem. It's amazing how much this country can truly work together and respond when needed. I think watching from afar, at the time I was down south, I was a thousand miles away, you watch the way the city of New York came together in this time of crisis. Now, I'm looking across the river at a city right there exactly where the tragedy happened. If you listen to the stories of today of the guys who were in the building the day it happened and how they could see the smoke coming from the city, it puts a much different perspective on it. To me, it's a significant day. I'm very big into American history, I'm very big into what the people who came before us have done, fighting for our freedom, the first responders, how they are there and they have our back. To me, today is a day we need to have appreciation for what everybody does, for the sacrifices they make. We can't forget what happened on 9/11, we can't forget the people who are willing to respond, the Todd Beamers of the world and the action they took on the flight to bring down the third plane and save more American lives. I think it's significant, people have to remember it's not just a day. There were actions taken on that day that brought this country close together. I think if we can focus more on how we can respond as a nation and work together, we will get past a lot of this crap (divisiveness) that we are dealing with right now.
Q: Just bringing it back to football real quick. You obviously came into this building and this team and your introductory press conference and laid down the gauntlet that you wanted to have a physical team, a blue collar team and all of those things. After a training camp with so much physicality and some unorthodox ways of bringing that about, where do you think you guys are in terms of establishing that culture and setting that tone heading into the opener?
A: I don't think anything is ever a finished process. I think we're always working on refining and improving as a team. I'm pleased with the way the guys have worked. We have had a physical training camp, we have been hard on the guys. That's to get them physically, mentally, emotionally ready for the games they are going to play. Especially a game like playing the Pittsburgh Steelers. These guys practice hard now. You talk to the guys who have played or coached in Pittsburgh, Mike (Tomlin) gets the guys ready. They have a hard training camp. They hit on each other a lot, they get after it. They don't back down from contact. That's the culture and the identity they've had as an organization for as long as they have been around. In terms of us and our own culture, our identity is still being formed. That will keep on being formed throughout this year. Like I said, we're always looking to improve. We're always looking to build on what we've done. You never arrive, you're never settled, you're never satisfied. It's important for us to go out every day, like we did yesterday and like we are going to do today and improve on the day before.
Tight End Evan Engram
Q: What's the mood of the team right now? You're a couple of days away from the opener. Is there excitement? Do you guys feel like you're ready for this?
A: Definitely. Before I answer that question, today is a real important day in our history, especially in this area. 9/11 was a terrible tragedy that happened in our country, and a lot of lives were lost. I think it's important that we remember those lives, remember the heroes during this day 19 years ago. I'll forever offer and give my condolences and prayers to the families and people involved in this tragedy years ago today. But as a team, we're really excited to get back on Monday night primetime. It really doesn't get any better than that to start off the year. We're practicing really well this week, really hard, preparing for the big game.
Q: What can you do as a tight end, Andrew Thomas is probably going to be lined up at left tackle as a rookie starter, what can you do as a tight end when you're next to him to help him?
A: Communicate. That's the biggest thing, especially with… I remember my rookie debut. It was definitely butterflies and eyes flying around everywhere. It's normal to feel that. He'll definitely have some nerves, but I think just communicating, being on the same page, and being successful and physical with him in the run game, and give him confidence in moving the ball down field to kind of get him in a groove. We plan on doing that as an offense, and we're going to plan on doing that all together Monday.
Q: I was wondering, as Saquon (Barkley) was talking yesterday, saying the team was going to get together and talk about how they want to approach things like the anthem and things like that, I was wondering if you can fill us in on if you made any decisions?
A: Honestly, that's definitely in-house right now. We're keeping that in-house between the team. It's definitely an important subject, but right now, we're focused on this game. Those discussions are being had, but it's definitely going to stay in-house.
Q: Just curious, did you get a chance to watch much of the game last night at all?
A: Yeah, I got about a quarter in, the first quarter, then I shut it down.
Q: The reason I was asking was just it seemed like the perception was that it was not as sloppy as people thought. With how the offseason went and the way you kind of had to restrict training camp, no preseason games, there was a thought that early on in the season, the quality of football would not be where it was. I was just curious if you saw something early on in that game last night and maybe it took you back a little bit and said 'you know what? Maybe it's not going to be as sloppy as people might think. We have to really zero in on making sure we get everything right because we know this quality could actually be there on the field right from the jump'?
A: That definitely is a perception going into it, not really having any live preseason games to kind of get that feel and iron out some things. But I think it's going to be on us. It's going to be on execution and our attention to detail and how fast we come out. It's definitely not something that we're expecting on either side of the ball. We're expecting the Steelers to come out very sharp, fresh and ready to go. We have to do that ourselves as well.
S Jabrill Peppers
Q:Practice yesterday, we heard it got off to a little bit of a rocky start. How was it today in your opinion?
A: Rocky start, yeah. It just wasn't up to the standard. We know on Monday there is no do-over. Today, I think we came out focused, great attention to detail and I think we stacked another great day.
Q: Obviously, it's been a while since you played. How do you balance coming out with enough energy but not coming out too overhyped to where you start making mistakes and getting sloppy from all the excitement?
A: At this point in our lives, I think we all know what it takes to get the job done. I think that excitement before games has always been in us. Me, since Pop Warner. Every guy is different, everybody has different processes that they go through on game day. We all want to come out knowing what we have to do and ready to play at a high level.
Q: The other day Coach Judge said he wouldn't rule out using you on offense. How would you feel about having a role with the offense this year?
A: I'll do whatever it takes to win.
Q: Would that be fun for you since you played some at Michigan?
A: Absolutely, absolutely. Definitely.
Q: Losing Xavier McKinney back there, now you have Julian Love beside you. Is there anything you can do with all the new faces back there to kind of get everybody on the same page heading into Monday night?
A: In this business there are guys always in and out the door. It's kind of easy to gel together because we all know we're all here for one common goal and that's to win. Football is football, things don't change. Just the terminologies and things like that do. It's not as challenging but it does take a little while to build that cohesion. I think we're doing a great job.
Q: Obviously you spent two years in the same division as Ben Roethlisberger. What kind of challenge do he and that offense present?
A: Ben's been doing it for a while. I'm sure you guys don't need me to tell you what threats he poses. Big, strong arm, he's more mobile than most people think. Tough, willing to sit in the pocket. He extends plays and those guys do a great job getting open for him. We know we have a tall task at hand, but we're ready for it.
Q: How did it feel when you were named captain? Are you excited that Thomas McGaughey basically told us the other day that you are going to be used in punt return a lot this year? Kind of like a flashback you your Michigan days, how did that feel when you heard that?
A: Me personally, I believe that being named captain is one of the highest honors in football. Especially voted by your peers, it's a tremendous honor, I take great pride in that. It was actually a goal of mine my rookie year to become a captain. I know what it means to wear that "C" on your chest, especially here in New York. I'm going to do my due diligence to make sure I abide by that. That's something he told me since virtual spring zoom meetings. I will be featured a lot more back there. I'm ready, I'm ready to accept the challenge. I'm ready to do what I can to help this team win ball games.
Q: You're a Jersey guy. I know you were probably only like five years old, but does 9/11 hold any special significance because you are from the area and this area was hit.
A: Definitely. I still remember that day very vividly. Prayers go out to the families that were affected by 9/11. I personally know a couple who had their dad in there, their uncle, their sister. I definitely remember this day very vividly. Being from here, it definitely does hit a little bit harder. I definitely want to send my condolences and my prayers out to the victims of 9/11.
Q: Do you recall what you were actually doing at the time you heard about it?
A: I was actually in school and they stopped school. You could kind of see the smoke from across the Hudson. Safe to say they let us out early and then you go home, and you see everything on the news. It was just a crazy day.
Q: What's it like to have the football in your hands? You don't get to do that very often as a safety and a defensive back. When you do get the ball in your hands, does something change inside of you?
A: Definitely, you have to have an offensive mindset. For me, I get an exhilarating feeling. I don't know, there's just something about having the ball in your hands, the importance on it. You basically have the fate of the team in your hands. It's up to you whether you do something positive with it or you do something negative. Just that adrenaline, it gets my nerves going. It's something I like to do and I look forward to. It brings good feelings, to answer your question.
View photos of the history between the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Ward Cuff (14) of the New York Giants kicking a 23-yard field goal in the 2nd quarter of game with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the Polo Grounds in New York City, Oct. 20, 1940. Giant Players are Tuffy Leemans (4) holding ball; Doug Older Shaw (39); Leland Shaffer (20) and John McLaughry (17). Steelers are: Everett Fisher (8); John Woudenberg (36), Frank Sullivan (18), and John Noppenberg (50). Giants beat Steelers 12 to 0. (AP Photo)
Chuck Conerly, New York Giant freshman back who set a new passing record in National football league, stands beside Giant coach Steve Owen during an anxious moment in Giant-Pittsburgh Steeler game on Dec. 5, 1948. (AP Photo)
Ken Strong, left, New York Giants football team back, receives two suitcases from Bert Bell, National Football League Commissioner, during ceremonices celebrating "Ken Strong Day" at the Polo Grounds in New York, November 24, 1946. In addition to the suitcases, Strong received from fans behind him several thousand dollar bonds and other assorted gifts.Standing left to right, are; Ken Strong, Bert Bell, Herman J. Bergasse, chairman of the Ken Strong Fans Committee; and Irving Cohen, vice chairman. The Giants defeated the Pittssurch Steelers, 7-0. (AP Photo)
Aldo "Buff" Donelli, squatting, appears for the first time as coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers during a game against the New York Giants in Pittsburgh, Pa., Oct. 5, 1941. Donelli gave up his coaching position at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh to take over the pro Steelers from Bert Bell. (AP Photo/Bill Allen)
New York Giants Hall of Fame safety Emlen Tunnell (45) and safety Jim Patton (20) defend a pass intended for Pittsburgh Steelers halfback Ray Matthews (25) during an NFL game in Pittsburgh, Pa., Nov. 4, 1956. The Giants defeated the Steelers 17-14. (AP Photo/Pro Football Hall of Fame)
New York Giants halfback Bosh Pritchard (35) is aided by effective blocking as he goes through an opening for a 6 yard gain in first quarter of National Football League game with Pittsburgh Steelers at Polo Grounds in New York City, Dec. 2, 1951. Giant guard Duke Maronic (67) takes out a Steeler at left. Other identifiable player is Giant quarterback Chuck Conerly (42). (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Coach Steve Owen, second from left, of the New York Giants football team, huddles with some of his star players during a practice session at the Polo Grounds in New York, Oct. 10, 1950. Left to right are: James White, tackle and captain; coach Owen; Bill Swiacki, end; Joe Scott, back; Ellery Williams, end; and Charles Conerly, back. The Giants, the only unbeaten team in the NFL so far this year and out in front in their division with a 3-0 record, play the Pittsburgh Steelers in New York on Oct. 15. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
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)
Halfback Joe Geri, of the Pittsburgh Steelers, despite the would-be tackler clinging on his back drives for eight yards through a hole in the New York Giants line in a National League opener in Pittsburgh at night on Oct. 1, 1951. Steelers blocker takes out Emlen Tunnell (45) the Giants and Steelers played to 13-13 toe. (AP Photo/Walter Stein)
New York Giants Randy Minniear (27) hits the ground after tackle by unidentified Pittsburgh Steelers defender in the second period at Yankee Stadium, Nov. 20, 1967, New York. Randy picked up nine years on a pass play from Fran Tarkenton, (10) right background. Identifiable Pittsburgh players are Chuck Hinton (64) and Bob Hohn (29). The Giants won the National Football League game 28-20. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants Del Shofner (85) balances a Y.A. Title pass on his fingertip in Pittsburgh Steeler end zone as Steeler's Brady Keys (26) makes flying effort to break up play in second period of game at New York's Yankee Stadium on Nov. 19, 1961. Giants won, 42-21, to move into first place in Eastern Conference of National Football League. (AP Photo)
A fan at Yankee Stadium in New York City scoops up a stray football during game between the Giants and the Steelers, Dec. 15, 1963. The Giants won, 33-17. (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)
New York Giants' flanker back Frank Gifford (16) snares a pass during game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Yankee Stadium, Dec. 15, 1963. (AP Photo)
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)
Frank Gifford (16) of the New York Giants reaches for a pass Sept. 30, 1962 thrown by Y.A. Tittle in the third quarter of game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Gifford caught the pass and went over for a touchdown to give the Giants a 24-20 lead, they never relinquished., en route to a 31-27 victory. Play covered 27 yards. Stellers defender is Clendon Thomas. (AP Photo/dm)
Aaron Thomas of the New York Giants does a headstand after taking a touchdown pass of about 45 yards from quarterback Fran Tarkenton in the second quarter of the on Nov. 19, 1967 National Football League game in New York. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
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)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Gary Ballman (85) eludes New York Giants safety Dick Lynch (22) and fumbles the football while headed to the end zone during an NFL game in New York, Dec. 16, 1963. The Giants defeated the Steelers 33-17. (AP Photo/Pro Football Hall of Fame)
New York Giants running back Doug Kotar, left, rolls over as he retains possession of the ball after being brought down by Pittsburgh Steelers Jack Ham in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford Saturday, Aug. 19, 1978. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
New York Giants defensive tackle Roland Lakes (76) stops Pittsburgh Steeler running back Preston Pearson, at left in mid air, at 31-yard line in the fourth quarter of NFL Exhibition Game, in New York's Yankee Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 13, 1971. The Giants Carl Lockhart (43) lower right, assists in play. Steelers won the game, 20-3 (AP Photo/ John Lindsay)
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)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Preston Pearson (26) stretches for an 8-yard gain around right end in first quarter action, Aug. 27, 1970 in Pittsburgh again at New York Giants. Flying in behind Pearson is Giants defensive back Carl Lockhart (43) who knocked Pearson out of bounds. Steelers scored their first touchdown of the game in the next series of downs. (AP Photo/Harry Cabluck)
Pittsburgh rookie quarterback Terry Bradshaw covers a bobbled handoff in the second quarter of game with the New York Giants, Friday, August 29, 1970, Pittsburgh, Pa. The 21-year-old Bradshaw, last winter draft choice led the Steelers to a 21-6 exhibition victory. (AP Photo)
Quarterback Randy Johnson (11) of the New York Giants sets to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1973. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Gary Lunn (67) gets double teamed during the NFL football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants on December 21, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 28-10 . (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants Joe Morris, center, cuts between Pittsburgh Steelers Donnie Shell, left, and Rick Woods, right, as he runs nine yards for a touchdown during first quarter NFL action, Dec. 21, 1985, at Giants Stadium, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
New York Giants defensive end Eric Dorsey (77) prepares for a play during an NFL preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in East Rutherford, NJ, Aug. 20, 1988. The Giants defeated the Steelers 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Karl Nelson (63) prepares for a play during an NFL preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in East Rutherford, NJ, Aug. 20, 1988. The Giants defeated the Steelers 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants tight end Zeke Mowatt (84) leaps in the air for a 2-yard touchdown pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL preseason game in East Rutherford, NJ, Aug. 20, 1988. The Giants defeated the Steelers 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster (52) blocks as running back Walter Abercrombie (34) leaps over New York Giants linebacker Abraham (51) during the game in East Rutherford, NJ, Aug. 20, 1988. The Giants defeated the Steelers 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
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 Giants center Bart Oates (65) pass blocks during the NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Dec. 21, 1985 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 28-10. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver John Stallworth, left, is upended by New York Giants Pete Shaw as Shaw breaks up the play for an incomplete pass in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Aug. 21, 1982. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
An unidentified man sits on top of the backstop of Three Rivers Stadium during Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Giants' game, Aug. 30, 1985. The man climbed out on a guide wire on the stadium's fifth level, and managed to climb safely to the ground. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
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 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)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) works his way around a blocker during the NFL game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 21, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 28-10. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) throws a pass during the NFL football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants on August 25, 1984 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 16-9. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) chases the action during the NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on August 30, 1986 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 17-3. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants defensive ends Casey Merrill and Leonard Marshall during the Giants 28-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 21, 1985 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants wide receiver Arthur Marshall (83) pulls in a pass in front of Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Rod Woodson (26) during the first quarter action, Oct. 23, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer smiles after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-10 Sunday, Dec. 10, 2000, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/John T. Greilick)
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)
Osi Umenyiora #72 of the New York Giants tackles Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants talks with offensive coordinator John Hufnagel during a timeout against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants throws a Hail Mary pass to close out the first half against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
William Joseph #94 of the New York Giants hits Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Will Peterson #24 of the New York Giants holds the ball after breaking up a pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Fred Robbins #98 and Carlos Emmons #51 of the New York Giants sack Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants meets with Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) scrambles for 13 yards and a first down during the second quarter as Giants center Shaun O'Hara (6) blocks Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Chris Hoke (76) and Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith (91) hits the turf Saturday, Dec. 18, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers beat the Giants, 33-30. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Pittsburgh Steelers James Farrior (51) tackles New York Giants Ike Hilliard (88) in the first half Saturday Dec. 18, 2004 at Giant Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.The Steelers won the game 33-30. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Osi Umenyiora #72 of the New York Giants tackles Jerome Bettis #36 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey dives to make a touchdown catch as Pittsburgh Steelers safety Russell Stuvaints (33) looks on during the first quarter Saturday, Dec. 18, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants gets pressured out of the pocket against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants looks for a receiver against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Tom Coughlin head coach of the New York Giants looks on from the sideline against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Verron Haynes #34 of the Pittsburgh Steelers gets tackled by Will Allen #25 and Carlos Emmons #51 of the New York Giants during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Tom Coughlin head coach of the New York Giants looks on from the sideline against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Frank Walker #41 of the New York Giants returns an interception against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants takes the field before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants celebrates a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants calls signals at the line against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Jeremy Shockey #80 of the New York Giants jaws with Chris Hope #28 of the Pittsburgh Steelers after his helmet was knocked off after a catch during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
The New York Giants prepare to take the field before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers throws a pass against the New York Giants during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer, left, dives, trying for a first down after making a catch, as Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Deshaea Townsen defends in the first quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. Toomer came up a yard short. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass over linebacker Pittsburgh Steelers LeMarr Woodley (56) during the third quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14.(AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants' Matthias Kiwanuka, right, grabs Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger just before Roethlisberger got off an incomplete pass off in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. The Giants beat the Steelers 21-14. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants defensive tackle Justin Tuck, top, and defensive end Matthias Kiwanuka, bottom, sack Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. The Giants won 21-14.(AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants running back Derrick Ward, bottom, runs as Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu gets a hand on his helmet in the second quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer (81) pulls in a pass as Pittsburgh Steelers' Tyrone Carter (23) defends during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. The Giants won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor (24) closes in as New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress (17) turns upfield after making a reception during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14.(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)
New York Giants fans cheer their team as the Giants leave Heinz Field after beating the Pittsburgh Steelers 21-14 in an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) runs past Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Casey Hampton (98) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning leaves the field after the Giants' 21-14 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants' James Butler (37) and Kenny Phillips celebrate following Phillips' interception against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants safety Kenny Phillips (21) intercepts a pass intended for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Limas Sweed during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants tackle Will Beatty (65) blocks for Ahmad Bradshaw (44) as Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison (92) makes the tackle during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) runs with the ball after making a catch during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) runs with the ball after making a catch during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants tight end Martellus Bennett (85) makes a catch during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) reacts after the Giants defense stopped a fake field goal attempt by Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) celebrates after sacking Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) takes a bow after sacking Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) for a -9 yard loss in the first quarter during the NFL week 9 regular season football game on Sunday Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo / Jim Mahoney)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) celebrates a sack of Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Andre Brown (35) gains and leaps for 8 yards, tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers corner back Ike Taylor (24) during the NFL week 9 regular season football game on Sunday Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo / Jim Mahoney)
New York Giants linebacker Michael Boley (59) returns a fumble for a touchdown during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) is sacked for a -9 yard loss in the first quarter by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the NFL week 9 regular season football game on Sunday Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo / Jim Mahoney)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster (23) runs back an interception during the second half of an NFL football game as Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace (17) gives chase, Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants during opening ceremonies prior to the NFL week 9 regular season football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo / Jim Mahoney)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) and Osi Umenyiora (72) celebrate a fumble returned for a touchdown by Michael Boley during the first half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) sacks Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) gets past Pittsburgh Steelers free safety Mike Mitchell (23) after a catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
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)
New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (28) spins out of a tackle during the first half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell (26) is tackled by New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) and linebacker Jonathan Casillas, left, during the first half of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. (AP Photo/Jared Wickerham)
New York Giants tight end Will Tye (45) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Cortez Allen (28) during the first half of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. (AP Photo/Jared Wickerham)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Mike Hilton (28) during the second quarter of an NFL football game Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
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