The New York Giants vs New York Jets matchup represents a historic rivalry. While the New York Giants vs New York Jets games occur every four years, the rivalry extends beyond the field.
Origins of the New York Giants vs New York Jets Rivalry
The history of professional football in New York intertwines the Giants and Jets from the AFL’s inception in 1960. The Giants franchise, founded in 1925, had been part of the New York City and the metropolitan area. In contrast, the Jets, an original AFL member, symolized the upstart league’s competitive spirit, evident in their initial “Titans” moniker, a direct jab at their “Giants counterparts. An example of the upstart league’s competitive existence was the mere naming of the New York franchise. Today, the explanation of the “Titans” states the name was in reference to the giants of Greek mythology. But it was more about that “Titans” are bigger than “Giants.” So, the rivalry began.
For several years, the two teams played their home games within sight of each other. The Jets called the Polo Grounds home from 1960 – 1963, while the Giants resided at Yankee Stadium, separated only by the Harlem River. They even shared Shea Stadium in 1975.
The Evolving New York Giants vs New York Jets
In 1976, the Giants moved to Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Jets, joined them in 1984, fueling the perception of being second-class tenants to their “big brother” Giants.
However, the 2010 introduction of MetLife Stadium marked a significant shift. Designed with both teams in mind, featuring neutral branding and equal representation, it leveled the playing field, ending the longstanding favoritism issue.
The Current State of the Giants and Jets
Overall, the Giants all-time record against the Jets is 8-6. The Giants have won the last two meetings; 23-20 in December 2015 and 34-27 in November 2019.
Today’s game rivalry is somewhat muted as both starting quarterbacks will be absent. Aaron Rodgers, whom the Jets traded for in the off-season, will be out with a season-ending injury suffered the first game of the season; Giants quarterback Daniel Jones is expected to miss the game with a neck injury. See Osprey Lifestyle gear for hiking, biking and travel
Despite the on-field challenges, the New York Giants vs New York Jets rivalry endures, a testament to the deep-rooted passion of the fan bases and storied history of these two iconic franchises.
Barry Schustermann
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