A Giant Win: Inside the New York Giants’ Historic Upset Over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII

What does it feel like to win a Super Bowl? “It’s like you’re in a dream world,” writes former NFL coach Coughlin (Earn the Right to Win) in this no-frills account of the New York Giants’ unexpected win over the New England Patriots at the 2008 Super Bowl. Coughlin first joined the Giants in the late 1980s as the wide receivers coach, briefly left the NFL to coach at the collegiate level, and then returned to the league to coach the Jacksonville Jaguars 1995–2002. In 2004, Coughlin became the Giants’ head coach and was determined to recharge the roster: “I knew in my bones this was an opportunity I had prepared for.” Coughlin recounts the plays that led to the team’s Super Bowl victory, including David Tyree’s helmet catch in the fourth quarter, and he discusses the role of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, who had a historic season: “The pressure on Brady is why we won.” Throughout, Coughlin praises his players and emphasizes the importance of humility (“Pausing to reflect on how great you are puts you at a disadvantage”). Football fans and Giants devotees will find plenty to celebrate. (Dec.)