Giant Quandry

For the first time in history, the NFL will simulcast a game on three networks. I can't believe the NFL made that decision without a behind the scenes guarantee from the Giants that they will play to win. But, in the end, whatever the motivation, it is a really dumb move.

Tampa rested their players last week and will do so again tomorrow. Their players will be healthy with three weeks rest when the Giants come to town next weekend in a game that actually means something. Even if there isn't a Shockey like injury tonight, it's simply foolish not to give Strahan and Toomer's older bodies some much needed time to rejuvenate - and nicked up players like Pierce, Bradshaw, and Jacobs some time to heal. And there just isn't much to gain, especially when compared to how much they stand to lose.

The only potential "plus" would be the feeling of invincibility if the Giants some how find a way to win this game. But it is much - much! - more likely that the Giants are blown out and find themselves down by 20+ points heading into the 4th quarter - which won't exactly do wonders for their confidence. And don't forget the emotional drain and emotional fatique factor. This game has been hyped like a mini Super Bowl. And with the players having been told to prepare to try to win the game, it's impossible not to get their emotions going.

With so little to gain and so very much to lose, Coughlin's decision to play to win is just plain stupid. It's no different than being down by 6 points with 5 seconds left on the clock and deciding to kick a 10 yard field goal to end the game. And if he plays this one to win and then he damn better pray the Giants beat Tampa next week. If not, Coughlin may find himself out of a job - something I didn't think possible just a week ago. Stupid, stupid, stupid.