When looking forward to the 2024 season, New York Giants fans have plenty to be excited about. Whether it's the addition of new stars Malik Nabers and Brian Burns, checking out the defensive schemes of Shane Bowen, or finally seeing Daniel Jones back and healthy under center, there's a lot to look forward to.
While there is undoubtedly optimism in the New York Giants facility, there are also the dreaded two matchups against the Philadelphia Eagles, who have seemed to have the G-Men's number in the last five years. As if the rivalry itself wasn't enough, take the Giants heart and soul, Saquon Barkley, and flip him onto the other side of the field in Kelly Green. With Barkley betraying Giants fans to side with the Eagles, this rivalry has officially been taken to a new level.
As we look forward to the NFL schedule release soon, it is nice to know the Giants will have two cracks at Barkley and the Birds in 2024. In those matchups, maintaining a business-like approach and not letting emotions or media involvement play a role in the games is crucial. No one explains it better than Bucky Brooks quoting EPMD… "Business never personal."
2024 NFL Schedule Release 🔜@BuckyBrooks is looking forward to a Saquon revenge game (& Giants fan @Mike_Yam is not 😂) pic.twitter.com/CMPkiTAkyJ
— NFL Total Access (@NFLTotalAccess) May 7, 2024
Saquon Barkley returning to MetLife won't be 'just another game'
The average fan's opinion on Barkley and his departure is relatively tamed and reasonable. Ultimately, the Giants weren't in the position to pay a non-premium position like RB that much money and had to put the organization's interests above Barkley's.
Now, for some far more obnoxious and outspoken fans, they've broken EPMD's cardinal rule and made things personal with Saquon. Whether it is Tiki Barber saying Barkley is "dead to him" or passionate NY Knicks fans booing Barkley on the jumbotron at a playoff game vs. the 76ers, the national media is painting the picture that all NY Giant fans are furious at Saquon for leaving.
Now, would the average fan have preferred Barkley to sign not with an NFC East rival? Sure, but that's how the cookie crumbled, and now we get to sit and enjoy two slugfests between the G-Men and Philly in 2024 and beyond.
Barkley's absence will create a gaping hole in the Giants' offense, which has been rough outside of Barkley's production in the last few seasons. With a much more talented roster in Philly, Barkley will have the chance to shine alongside Jalen Hurts. With the Eagles completely losing their identity towards the end of last season and multiple key pieces headed towards retirement, let's hope the Giants can turn the tide and set the tone of beating the Eagles for years to come, especially with No. 26 now making plays for them.