Ranking the 5 best NFL preseason games for 2016
By Jason Parker
No. 5 – New England Patriots at New York Giants (September 1st or 2nd)
Sure, it’s the final week of the preseason (which means that not a single starter will take the field for either team), but the Patriots and Giants have developed a rivalry that is up there with some of the tops in the game.
For nearly a decade, these two teams have met at some of the most important times. In the 2007 finale, the Patriots became the first team to go 16-0 in the regular season by defeating the Giants. New York returned the favor by ruining New England’s hopes of a perfect season with a win in Super Bowl XLII.
Four seasons later, the Giants again played the role of spoiler in the biggest moment against the Patriots with a wild win in Super Bowl XLVI as a heavy underdog. Last season, a late field goal saved New England’s unbeaten record for another week in a wild win over New York.
We know that Tom Brady won’t take the field for a fourth quarter drive in the final minutes…or that Odell Beckham Jr. will make another highlight catch over a New England defender. But maybe…just maybe…this growing rivalry will inspire those trying to make that final roster spot.
Next: 4. Falcons-Dolphins