The Dallas Cowboys are angry. Angry that for the second time in three years, their playoff run was bested by the Green Bay Packers. Angry that the Giants swept them in the 2016 campaign. Angry that Zeke is the lightening rod of the NFL’s latest disciplinary experimentation.
The New York Football Giants are angry. Angry that they didn’t win the NFC East last year. Angry that although they swept the Cowboys last season, they aren’t considered the team to beat in 2017.
A History Of Hatred
When the clock hit zero in the first game between the Cowboys and Giants in 1960, the score was 31-31. Since then, the Cowboys have the advantage in the series with a record of 62-46-2. Although presently, the Giants are riding a 3 game win-streak against their division rivals. This will be the fourth time in six years that Cowboys vs Giants has had the primetime Sunday Night Football week 1 time slot, and the third year in a row that its taken place in Dallas. One thing is for certain, America loves this showdown, and this Sunday will be no exception.
An Off-Season Of Buildup
With both teams primed for sustained success for seasons to come (a rarity in the NFC East), it is unsurprising that the rivalry is heating up hotter than ever. Cowboys’ quarterback Dak Prescott believes “we’re the Cowboys, we’re going to win the NFC East.” Giants’ safety Landon Collins had this to say in return“…’I highly doubt that.’ They do not control the [NFC] East. It’s over with. We’re going to have a run for it. I mean, they’re not going to win, I can tell you that much. We’re definitely going to take over.”
Something about this rivalry brings out the brutality of football. Hits seem harder, points seem harder earned, and tensions on the field can be felt throughout the AT&T center.
Why The Cowboys Cant Afford to Lose
Okay, time to overreact, and over emphasize the significance and meaning of a single regular season game. 1. The Cowboys need to get the taste of the 2016 postseason out of their mouth, and that only happens with a win Sunday night. 2. With the ultimate decision of the severity of Ezekiel Elliot’s suspension yet to be determined, every win counts. The Cowboys need to start the season 1-0, to be better situated to weather Zeke’s 6 game suspension if it remains unchanged. 3. The Cowboys have one of the most difficult schedules in the league this season. Dallas cannot afford to loosen their grip on the Division, nobody wants to fight for a wild car spot late in the season. Especially in the talent loaded NFC.
Yes, its only 1 game. But its also THE game. The stage is set, and the lights come on Sunday night. Time to see if America’s team is back to stay.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login
You must log in to post a comment.