The New York Giants and the New York Jets are gearing up for a major NFC East showdown on Saturday. There are big playoff implications at stake and, as to be expected, personal bragging rights.
Rex Ryan, in typical Rex Ryan fashion, took some time on Monday to talk about his belief that the Jets have been the New York team to beat for two years now. Giants coach Tom Coughlin, as usual, refused to take the bait.
Following practice on Tuesday, Ryan attempted to clarify some of his earlier comments, but stuck to his guns regarding his opinion of the relative ability of the two teams.
It's pretty well noted that I came in here, when I got this job, I want to be the team that people talk about. I want to be the better team. I've only been here three years now. So, I've mentioned from the whole time since I got here that I want to be the best team and expect to be the best team for the next 10 years. I recognize the rich tradition of Giants football. There's no question. And I'm not trying to take a run at the Giants or a shot at the Giants. I want to be the best team in the National Football League, and the fact that we share the same stadium, the same state, both New York teams. I don't want to be the one that is not looked at as the best team in my own state. There's no way. I want to be the best team, period. Now, do I have the courage to say it? Absolutely. And if it doesn't happen and we get beat by the Giants, I'll be the first one to tip my hat to them. There's no question. But do I believe in my heart that we're the better football team? Yes. Did I believe we were the better team two years ago and last year? Yes. So I'll stand by everything I've ever said.
Ryan also had kind words for Eli Manning and mentioned there would probably be some emotion from Plaxico Burress, who will be facing off against his former team for the first time.
Judging by what's on the line in this game, it seems like there will be plenty of emotion to go around.
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