Justin Tuck: Giants kept Tom Brady from being greatest QB of all time

Had the New England Patriots beaten the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII to complete their undefeated season, Tom Brady would have an even greater legacy. Former Giants defensive end Justin Tuck wants people to remember that the G-Men may have prevented Brady from becoming the greatest quarterback to ever play the game.

During an appearance on ESPN Radio’s Michael Kay Show earlier this week, Tuck said he would choose Brady of the four remaining quarterbacks in the playoffs if he needed to win one game. His selection may have been a bit self-serving.

“If it wasn’t for the Giants, I think Brady would go down, no question, as the greatest quarterback to ever play the game,” Tuck said, as transcribed by NJ.com’s Nick Powell. “So I’m glad we were able to steal two from him.”

It’s hard to tell if that was a swipe at Brady or a compliment, though it seemed like more of the latter. The Giants ruined New England’s perfect season and then spoiled the Patriots’ chance at redemption four years later, and Tuck did this to Brady in one of the games. He has earned the right to beat his chest.

Having said that, Brady still has a chance to go down as the greatest quarterback to ever play the game. Another Super Bowl win would secure his spot atop the rankings, in my opinion.

If the Patriots defeat the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Championship Game on Sunday, Brady would become the only quarterback to ever play in six Super Bowls. While some people point to Joe Montana’s 4-0 record in the big game, Super Bowl appearances should count for something.

Say Brady wins another championship and finishes his career with a 4-2 record in the Super Bowl. Should he be penalized for winning more conference championships than everyone else simply because he didn’t win every Super Bowl he appeared in? When we examine the topic 30 years down the road, Brady could very well be the benchmark.