Van Noy Hopes To Face Raiders in AFC Championship
Former Detroit Lions linebacker, Jabaal Sheard, had a memorable game against the Oakland Raiders in the 2016 playoffs, even though it was a losing effort.
The veteran linebacker, who is currently playing for the New England Patriots, reflected on that playoff matchup while expressing his hope to potentially face the Raiders again in the AFC Championship.
"It would be fun to go back and play them," Van Noy said. "I think that's the way it should be, the playoffs - you get to see some of the best and it's always fun to go back and see a team that you've played a lot of times."
Van Noy was a crucial part of the Lions' defense that year, recording 11 tackles and two sacks in that game. He even forced an interception from Derek Carr. However, it wasn't enough as the Raiders emerged victorious with a 27-14 win.
Despite the loss, Van Noy remembers the game fondly, highlighting the intensity and the energy of the game. The Lions' defense managed to limit the Raiders' high-powered offense to just 27 points, which is considered a significant achievement against a team that had averaged over 25 points per game during the regular season.
"It was a great game. The atmosphere was crazy," Van Noy added. "It was one of those games where you come off the field and you're like 'Damn, I want to play another one right now'. "
The Raiders haven't reached the AFC Championship since that game in 2016. While they have had a couple of strong seasons since then, they have consistently fallen short of their potential in the playoffs.
On the other hand, the Patriots have been a perennial contender, reaching the AFC Championship six times in the last eight seasons. They have also won three Super Bowls in that period.
This year, both teams are looking like strong contenders. The Raiders have a dynamic offense led by Derek Carr and Josh Jacobs, while the Patriots are as strong as ever with Tom Brady at the helm.
If both teams make it to the AFC Championship, it would be a rematch of the 2016 playoffs, offering an exciting opportunity for Van Noy to face the Raiders again and showcase his defensive prowess.
Conclusion:
Van Noy's desire to face the Raiders in the AFC Championship highlights the competitive spirit within the NFL. It's a testament to the intense rivalry between these two teams and the exciting prospect of a potential rematch.
With both teams looking strong this season, the possibility of a rematch in the AFC Championship is a real possibility. It would be a game that all football fans wouldn't want to miss.
