The NY Giants: A Team Without A Home (w/ Joe Santos) - Part 2

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EPISODE SUMMARY

LISTEN TO THE NY GIANTS: A TEAM WITHOUT A HOME

In the conclusion of this special two-part series, Joe Santos (creator of The NY Giants: A Team Without a Home) returns to join Mark Morthier and Dave DePaola for a nostalgic look at the end of the Giants' "exile" and the birth of a new era. While Part 1 focused on the splinters of the Yale Bowl, Part 2 brings the story back to New Jersey.

The guys share personal memories of watching Giants Stadium rise from the swamps of East Rutherford—a sight that defined the childhood of many local fans. From the urban legends of Jimmy Hoffa buried under the end zone to the logistical "leverage" plays used by modern owners, this episode bridges the gap between the struggling 70s squad and the powerhouse franchise the Giants would eventually become.

The conversation shifts from the field to the stands, exploring the unique culture of NFL fandom in the 70s and 80s. You’ll hear about the days when a Giants season ticket was a family heirloom, passed down through generations like a deed to property. The trio reminisces about the evolution of the "fan experience"—comparing the non-existent tailgating of the Bronx to the legendary parking lot parties in the Meadowlands.

They also take a deep dive into the "Style of the Game," discussing the iconic (and sometimes controversial) logo changes, from the "Disco NY" of 1975 to the classic lowercase "ny" that fans still crave today.

To wrap up, the hosts exchange "I was there" stories involving some of the biggest names in sports history. Relive the halftime ceremony where a "high as a kite" Lawrence Taylor caught passes from Phil Simms in dress shoes, and hear a classic anecdote about Otis Anderson’s superstitious refusal to wash his lucky practice pants after the Super Bowl.

Whether it’s the booming voices of Pat Summerall and Tom Brookshire or the accuracy of Sonny Jurgensen, this episode is a celebration of the characters, the quirks, and the deep-seated loyalty that define the New York Giants' legacy.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS BACKGROUND

Host Mark Morthier grew up in New Jersey just across the river from New York City during the 1970s, a great time for sports in the area. He relives great moments from this time and beyond, focusing on football, baseball, basketball, and boxing. You may even see a little Olympic Weightlifting in the mix, as Mark competed for eight years. See Mark's book below.

No Nonsense, Old School Weight Training: A Guide For People With Limited Time

Running Wild: (Growing Up In The 1970s)