2007 NFC Divisional Game New York Giants vs Dallas Cowboys vs. 2011 NFC Divisional Game New York Giants vs Green Bay Packers

Attribute	2007 NFC Divisional Game New York Giants vs Dallas Cowboys	2011 NFC Divisional Game New York Giants vs Green Bay Packers
Location	Texas Stadium, Irving, Texas	Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Date	January 13, 2008	January 15, 2012
Final Score	New York Giants 21, Dallas Cowboys 17	New York Giants 37, Green Bay Packers 20
Key Players	Eli Manning, Plaxico Burress, Brandon Jacobs	Eli Manning, Hakeem Nicks, Osi Umenyiora
Game Highlights	David Tyree's "Helmet Catch"	Hakeem Nicks' Hail Mary catch

Introduction

The NFC Divisional Games in 2007 and 2011 between the New York Giants and their opponents, the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers respectively, were both highly anticipated matchups that showcased the talent and determination of these teams. In this article, we will compare the attributes of these two games, analyzing the key players, strategies, and outcomes that defined each matchup.

Key Players

In the 2007 NFC Divisional Game against the Cowboys, the Giants were led by quarterback Eli Manning, who had a standout performance with 12 completions for 163 yards and two touchdowns. Manning's ability to stay composed under pressure and make crucial plays was instrumental in the Giants' victory. On the defensive side, players like Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora put pressure on the Cowboys' offense, disrupting their rhythm and forcing turnovers.

On the other hand, in the 2011 NFC Divisional Game against the Packers, the Giants relied on their dynamic duo of Eli Manning and wide receiver Victor Cruz to make big plays. Manning threw for 330 yards and three touchdowns, while Cruz had 142 receiving yards and a touchdown. The Giants' defense, led by players like Jason Pierre-Paul and Justin Tuck, also stepped up to the challenge, sacking Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers four times and forcing two turnovers.

Offensive Strategies

In the 2007 NFC Divisional Game, the Giants focused on establishing a balanced offensive attack, mixing in runs with passes to keep the Cowboys' defense off balance. Running back Brandon Jacobs was a key contributor, rushing for 54 yards and a touchdown. Manning's ability to connect with receivers like Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer on crucial third-down conversions helped sustain drives and put points on the board.

Conversely, in the 2011 NFC Divisional Game, the Giants adopted a more aggressive offensive approach, taking shots downfield and testing the Packers' secondary. Manning's deep throws to Cruz and Hakeem Nicks stretched the defense and opened up opportunities for big plays. The Giants' offensive line also did a solid job of protecting Manning, giving him time to survey the field and make accurate throws.

Defensive Strategies

Defensively, the Giants employed a bend-but-don't-break mentality in the 2007 NFC Divisional Game, allowing the Cowboys to move the ball but tightening up in the red zone. The Giants' secondary, led by cornerback Corey Webster, came up with timely interceptions to stall Cowboys' drives and swing momentum in their favor. The pass rush, spearheaded by Strahan and Umenyiora, also made life difficult for Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo.

In contrast, the Giants' defense in the 2011 NFC Divisional Game took a more aggressive approach, blitzing Rodgers and forcing him into quick decisions. Linebacker Chase Blackburn and safety Antrel Rolle were instrumental in shutting down the Packers' passing game, while the defensive line generated consistent pressure on Rodgers. The Giants' ability to disrupt the Packers' offensive rhythm was a key factor in their victory.

Outcome

In the end, both the 2007 and 2011 NFC Divisional Games were memorable matchups that showcased the resilience and talent of the New York Giants. The Giants' ability to execute their game plan, make key plays on both sides of the ball, and capitalize on their opponents' mistakes were all factors that contributed to their success in these games. Ultimately, the Giants emerged victorious in both matchups, advancing to the NFC Championship Game and eventually winning the Super Bowl in both seasons.