The New York Giants are a professional football team in the United States. They play American football and are based in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The team was started in 1925, making it one of the oldest teams in the National Football League (NFL). The Giants have a long history filled with big achievements and famous players.
Early Years of the Giants
Tim Mara, a businessman, created the Giants in 1925. He bought the team for only $500. In their first season, the Giants played well, winning eight games and losing only four. Two years later, in 1927, they became champions of the NFL for the first time. Their defense was very strong that year, allowing only 20 points in all their games combined.
Big Wins and Championship Seasons
The Giants have won eight NFL championships in their history. This includes four championships before the Super Bowl was created (in 1927, 1934, 1938, and 1956) and four Super Bowl victories (in 1987, 1991, 2008, and 2012). Each of these wins is remembered for great performances and smart strategies.
The 1934 “Sneakers Game”
The Giants played against the Chicago Bears on a very icy field. To get better grip on the ice, the players switched to basketball sneakers during the game. This helped them win 30-13.
1956 Championship
The Giants had a great season in 1956, beating the Chicago Bears 47-7 to become champions. The team was coached by Jim Lee Howell, with future legends Vince Lombardi and Tom Landry as assistant coaches.
Super Bowl XXI in 1987
In 1987, the Giants won their first Super Bowl. They defeated the Denver Broncos with a score of 39-20. The head coach at the time was Bill Parcells.
Super Bowl XXV in 1991
The Giants won another Super Bowl in 1991, narrowly defeating the Buffalo Bills 20-19. The game is famous for a missed field goal by Buffalo’s kicker, Scott Norwood.
Super Bowl XLII in 2008
The Giants shocked everyone by defeating the New England Patriots, who had won all their games that season. The final score was 17-14. A key play in the game was David Tyree’s “Helmet Catch,” where he caught the ball against his helmet.
Super Bowl XLVI in 2012
The Giants won another Super Bowl against the Patriots in 2012. Eli Manning, the quarterback, played very well and was named the most valuable player (MVP) of the game.
Famous Players in Giants History
Many great players have been part of the Giants over the years. These players helped make the team successful and are remembered for their skills and hard work.
Lawrence Taylor
Lawrence Taylor, also known as “LT,” is considered one of the best defensive players in NFL history. He changed the way the linebacker position is played and helped the Giants win championships in the 1980s.
Eli Manning
Eli Manning was the team’s quarterback for many years. He led the Giants to two Super Bowl wins and was named MVP in both games.
Michael Strahan
Michael Strahan was a strong defensive player who holds the record for the most sacks in a single NFL season. He was a key player in the Giants’ Super Bowl win in 2008.
Frank Gifford
Frank Gifford was a very talented player who could play in multiple positions. He won the NFL MVP award in 1956.
Mel Hein
Mel Hein was a tough and dependable player who played for 15 years without missing a game. He was the first lineman to win the NFL MVP award.
Great Coaches of the Giants
The Giants have had some of the best coaches in NFL history. These coaches helped shape the team and led them to championships.
Steve Owen
Steve Owen was the coach from 1931 to 1953. He led the team to two championships and is known for creating smart defensive strategies.
Bill Parcells
Bill Parcells, nicknamed “The Big Tuna,” coached the Giants to two Super Bowl wins in the 1980s. He was known for inspiring his players and focusing on defense.
Tom Coughlin
Tom Coughlin led the team to two Super Bowl wins in the 2000s. Both victories came against the New England Patriots.
Where the Giants Have Played
The Giants have played in several stadiums during their history.
Polo Grounds
The Giants played their first games at the Polo Grounds in Manhattan, New York, from 1925 to 1955.
Yankee Stadium
From 1956 to 1973, the Giants played in Yankee Stadium, which they shared with baseball’s New York Yankees.
Giants Stadium
In 1976, the team moved to Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. They played there until 2009.
MetLife Stadium
Since 2010, the Giants have played at MetLife Stadium, also located in East Rutherford. They share this stadium with the New York Jets.
Giants’ Rivals
The Giants have strong rivalries with a few other teams. These matchups are always exciting for fans.
Philadelphia Eagles
Games between the Giants and Eagles are often close and intense. This rivalry is one of the biggest in the NFL.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys and Giants have a long history of playing important games that impact the division standings.
Washington Commanders
As teams in the same division, the Giants and Washington Commanders often have closely contested games.
Helping the Community
The Giants are not just focused on football. They also do a lot of good work in their community.
Giants Foundation
The team’s foundation helps with youth programs, education, and health initiatives. It has donated millions of dollars to important causes.
Player Involvement
Giants players often visit hospitals, run football camps for kids, and take part in charity events.
What the Giants Are Doing Now
In January 2025, the Giants are working hard to improve their team. General Manager Joe Schoen said the team is focusing on long-term plans instead of quick fixes. The team is looking at its quarterback options and planning for the future.