PHILADELPHIA, Pa. -- The long-standing rivalry between the New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles reached another chapter during the final week of the NFL season, as both teams faced off with little on the line. Kicking off at 1 p.m. Eastern on January 5, 2024, this matchup showcased the Eagles, who had already secured their playoff position, and the Giants, who were desperate to end their disappointing season on something of a high note.
Despite the low stakes, fans were eager for the clash of these two NFC East rivals. The Eagles entered the game with the No. 2 seed locked up, allowing head coach Nick Sirianni to rest key starters including star running back Saquon Barkley, who was 101 yards shy of breaking the NFL single-season rushing record set by Eric Dickerson. “It’s a team record and you take and weigh all of those things, but at the end of the day, you just try to do what’s best for the team,” Sirianni stated, as reported by ESPN.
With the pressure off, the Eagles rolled out their backup players, most prominently second-year quarterback Tanner McKee. McKee took advantage of the opportunity to impress, demonstrating his potential for future seasons with two touchdown passes and no turnovers, accumulating 269 passing yards. The team relied on his connection with veteran tight end Dallas Goedert, hinting at their plans for the playoffs.
On the opposing sideline, the Giants were anxious to capitalize on the Eagles’ decision to rest their stars. Coming off their first win since Week 5, New York was riding high after a surprise victory against the Indianapolis Colts. Quarterback Drew Lock aimed to build on his strong performance, having thrown four touchdown passes the week before. Despite the optimism, New York finished the season with a 3-14 record after losing to Philadelphia 20-13.
The Giants’ efforts included standout performances from rookies Malik Nabers and Tyrone Tracy Jr. Nabers, who set the team rookie record for receptions during the season, scored the Giants’ only touchdown of the game, finishing with five catches for 64 yards. His performance has sparked excitement for the team’s future as they look to rebuild. “This will be the first time the Giants will not play past Week 18,” mentioned the Sports Network, illuminating the struggles the team faced this season.
With the Eagles securing their win, the game confirmed the shifting dynamics within the NFC East, where Philadelphia appears poised for playoff success. The win helped the Eagles conclude their regular season at 14-3, as they prepare for the challenges of the postseason, evaluating the depth of their roster.
Meanwhile, the Giants are left with more questions than answers after another disappointing campaign. Though they will have the chance to secure a top 10 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, the goal for next season will be to find stability at the quarterback position and build upon the promising talent exhibited by players like Nabers and Tracy Jr.
Despite the lack of substantial stakes, the atmosphere was electric as the rivalry continued, proving once more how intense this matchup can be regardless of the standings. Fans remain hopeful for the future, with the Giants needing to capitalize on their draft positioning and the Eagles aiming to convert their regular season success to playoff victories.