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By Jonathan Thomas, Sports Writer
For years, the New York Jets and Giants have been consistent bottom feeders of the National Football League, unable to live up to the expectations of the New York crowd. However, this year appears to be a fresh start for both teams!
For almost a decade, the New York National Football League teams have generally been below average, their seasons filled with struggle and heartbreak. Yet, with the start of the new season, things are starting to look up for both the Jets and Giants. Both teams have started out the 2022 season with winning records. With the addition of many young players over the past few years, New York Football is back to its winning ways. Whether for fans or those looking to get more into football, both teams now provide a compelling experience for viewers.
Image Courtesy of www.newyorkjets.com
Jets corner Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner, mocking Packer fans, wearing the Cheesehead
Image Courtesy of www.newyorkjets.com
Jets quarterback Zach Wilson against the Green Bay Packers
The New York Jets finished the 2021 season with a 4-13 record and entered the new year with many holes in their roster. In the offseason, general manager Joe Douglas drafted running back Breece Hall, cornerback Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner, and wide receiver Garrett Wilson. These young talents provided hope to the fans. According to Head Coach Robert Saleh, the Jets “took receipts” on those who doubted them and stunned the world, jumping into a 4-2 start this season (their best since 2010).
This newfound success and attitude paid off with a victory over the reigning MVPs, Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. The Jets’ defense strangled the Packers’ running and passing attacks. With this victory in Lambeau Field, on October 16th, the Jets proved that they were a threat. In a twist of fate, the once lowly Jets celebrated a victory against a historically successful Packers' franchise.
More than the great playmaking and coaching, the Jets have reworked their team chemistry, culture, and fan experience. Whether that be from Sauce Gardner’s bold personality (wearing a Cheesehead to mock Packer fans), or the confidence that quarterback Zach Wilson exhibited after returning from an injury, the Jets have become a very interesting team.
Image Courtesy of GMEN HQ
The other New York team, the Giants, who share MetLife Stadium with the Jets in East Rutherford, New Jersey, have had far more turmoil within the past year. Also ending the 2021 season with a 4-13 record, the future of struggling quarterback Daniel Jones was in question as the Giants head office refused to extend his contract. Additionally, running back phenom Saquon Barkley suffered a year-ending injury. Critics doubted the ability of rookie head coach Brain Daboll to manage the situation, but the Giants retaliated, beginning their 2022 season with a winning 5-1 record.
This success stems from the pressure that has been exerted on the players. To many players on the Giants' roster, failure could cost them their jobs. As a result, the Giants defeated monstrous opponents such as the Green Bay Packers and the Baltimore Ravens, spearheaded by running back Saquon Barkley. In a come-from-behind victory against the Ravens, quarterback Daniel Jones completed 70% of his passes, placing the Giants as 4th best in league-wide standings.
Looking ahead, the Giants have a relatively easy schedule. If they continue their current success, they should be able to clinch a playoff berth, if not more. Their star players, and periphery players like Jabril Peppers, Andrew Thomas, and Kenny Golliday, all guarantee more victories.
While the Jets and Giants are far from perfect organizations, there should be little surprise if they continue their current hot streak. Even if either team fails to make the playoffs, they have already surpassed expectations. Playing with house money, the possibilities for the futures of both teams seem infinite, and, for the first time as a New York Football fan, I can say that I’m fully confident in the Jets and Giants!
VOTE HERE ON WHICH NEW YORK TEAM IS BETTER!
Image courtesy of NFL
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