So when they gather Sunday, it will evoke a lot of memories for all those longtime AFC fans who miss the days of old. It will not, however, be the same. What's more, the true hatred that marked the rivalry for so many years has dissipated. I think they make that stuff up. If Washington loses, they are all but out of the playoffs, a result that would be devastating to a guy who shelled out big bucks for this all-star team.
Several factors weigh in Washington's favor.
It is 7-0 at home in December and January the last three seasons. What's more, in the last four meetings between the two teams, the Giants have been outscored, 110-54, and have allowed an average of 150.8 yards rushing. Denver coach Mike Shanahan knows, it's running backs. He's about to have his third different 1,000-yard rusher in three seasons. But the network isn't the only one anticipating a yawner at the Georgia Dome.