Sign of things to come?

It's well-documented that the New York Giants and New England Patriots are in the Super Bowl after having played in the last regular season game. It's also well-documented that both teams played their starters in that season finale when the playoffs were already assured for both teams.

The Patriots, of course, had a perfect record to play for that night. The Giants had only the integrity of the game to play for then.

Both teams did the right thing and played as if it was Week 1.

Now with both teams in the Super Bowl, we're left to wonder if some coaches (Sean Payton and Tony Dungy come to mind) will change their philosophy after wrapping up playoff spots.

Because you can certainly make the case that the Giants wouldn't be in Phoenix on Monday if not for the momentum and confidence they gained by slugging it out with the Patriots on that late December Saturady night.

Hopefully this will spark a change of heart in some.