Posted on 12/07/2005 1:34:49 PM PST by Ultra Sonic 007
PHILADELPHIA -- They first met eight years ago, when the world was young and their knees and shoulders didn't ache nearly so much.
On Sunday, Giants left defensive end Michael Strahan and Eagles right offensive tackle Jon Runyan meet for the 13th time. It is a classic, cosmic collision featuring an extremely irresistible force and a thoroughly immovable object.
The Giants lead the NFC East with a surprising 8-4 record, while Philadelphia, the defending NFC champion, is struggling at 5-7 and is coming off a disturbing 42-0 home loss to the Seahawks. For these two proud men, however, records don't matter much.
It's personal for these division rivals. Very personal. Several weeks ago, the two Pro Bowl players agreed to sit down and discuss their most notable, most effective one-on-one opponent.
"Holds a lot," said Strahan of Runyan, laughing. "Extremely strong. Competitive, and probably the one guy that I've played who probably stokes my fire just about more than anyone else."
"It's not holding until it gets called," Runyan countered. "You can't hold him anyway, because I think his jersey is painted on."
They kid each other easily, but it is clear from the tone of their words that respect is a significant part of the equation. Strahan, at 34, plays these days at 6-foot-5, 253 pounds. Runyan, who stands just over 6-7, is 32 and weighs 320. Strahan, one of the best pass-rushers in NFL history, has a primary objective: reach the passer. It is Runyan's job to neutralize him.
"I would compare pass-rushing to playing chess," Strahan said. "You just try to set up a guy to do what you want him to do at the right moment. You have to want to get the quarterback more than he wants to keep you off of him...
(Excerpt) Read more at sports.espn.go.com ...
Strahan and Runyan share their thoughts on their rivalry; despite the Eagles' dismal performance as of late, Runyan is still a big lineman who's good at what he does. However, let's see how things fare with Umenyiora and the rest of the Giants' improved D on Sunday...
I don't think Deacon Jones gave a rats-behind about an opponent feelings!
Did you read the article? Strahan and Runyan respect each other as fellow athletes; on the field though, it's all business.
And as for the' metro-sexual' bit...you need to open your eyes.
I recall the game between Dallas and Washington December 16, 1979. Someone had delivered a black wreath to the Cowboys lockerroom prior to kickoff. After Dallas broke the soul of the Skins, Harvey Martin took that wreath and threw it into the Redskins lockerroom. I don't know when this quote was made, but Martin said, "never feel sorry for the Redskins".
He sure didn't care about the feelings of those on the other team.
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