If you're willing to brave a little wind and rain this weekend, you might just score the bargain of the NFL season. Ticket prices for Sunday's matchup between the Tennessee Titans and the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium have cratered, with the get-in price now sitting at a jaw-dropping $17. That's right—less than the cost of a large pizza.
The reason? A rare September nor'easter is forecast to slam the New York-New Jersey area, bringing heavy rain and gusts that could top 50 mph. According to ABC Eyewitness News, the storm's strongest impacts are expected from Friday night through Sunday morning, with winds increasing throughout Friday and gusts approaching 40 mph in and around New York City. Along the I-95 corridor and parts of northeastern New Jersey, gusts could reach 40 to 50 mph, while the highest speeds are predicted for eastern Suffolk County and the Jersey Shore, where 50 to 60 mph gusts—possibly higher on the East End of Long Island—are possible.
Unsurprisingly, Giants fans aren't exactly rushing to grab their rain slickers and head to the stadium. The market has collapsed over the past few days as the forecast worsened, and the team's recent news hasn't helped either. The Giants lost star quarterback Jaxson Dart in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams, and the team announced he'll miss the remainder of the regular season after an MRI revealed damage to the MCL, PCL, and meniscus in his left knee.
Dart's absence is a massive blow. In just 14 career starts, the Ole Miss product has thrown for 2,522 yards, rushed for 541 yards, and accounted for 27 total touchdowns. His dynamic playmaking ability made the Giants' offense must-watch TV. Now, the reins will be handed to veteran Jameis Winston, who will make his first start for the team. Winston is no stranger to big moments, but replacing a player of Dart's caliber is a tall order.
As if losing their franchise quarterback wasn't enough, the Giants will also be without Pro Bowl pass rusher Brian Burns for at least one game due to an ankle injury. That's a double whammy for a team already reeling from an 0-2 start.
For the Titans, this game represents a golden opportunity. They're coming off a tough loss and will be looking to get back on track against a Giants team that's suddenly in disarray. The weather could be a great equalizer, though. A slippery field and swirling winds might just keep the score low and the game competitive. Fans who brave the elements could witness a gritty, old-school battle—or a sloppy mess. Either way, it'll be memorable.
If you're thinking about attending, you might want to check out the forecast for Sunday's Eagles-Titans clash for comparison, but this game promises its own drama. And for those who can't make it, the Sunday Night Football broadcast will have all the action, though you might want to stay indoors.
This isn't the first time weather has thrown a wrench into NFL plans. Just last week, a lightning delay halted a Bucs-Browns game, and a rainy forecast could turn the Patriots-Steelers matchup into a slippery slugfest. Mother Nature always has a say in football season.
So, will you be one of the brave souls cheering in the stands at MetLife Stadium this Sunday? If you can handle a little precipitation, you'll be rewarded with a front-row seat to what could be one of the most unpredictable games of Week 3. Just don't forget your umbrella.
