Steve Tisch says victory over Jets was crucial

Giants co-owner Steve Tisch believes the Giants' 29-14 win over the Jets on Dec. 24 was a huge turning point in the season.

"In its own unique way, it was kind of a mini-Super Bowl," Tisch said in the Giants' locker room Friday as the team prepared for Sunday's NFC divisional playoff game in Green Bay. "It was a very important game. There was a lot more at stake than just a regular-season game that happened to be against the Jets. New York City, pride, Jets fans, Giants fans, two different cultures, two different sets of mythologies. Beating the Jets -- it was their home game -- added just an extra level of 'We did it. We're good. We're moving on. Let's go.' ''

One thing Tisch stayed far away from was stoking any animosity between the Giants and the Jets. He said the two franchises are highly competitive but added that the Jets "aren't the enemy."

Giant steps

LB Mark Herzlich (ankle) was the only player on either team ruled out for Sunday's game. All of the other injured players on the Giants have been listed as probable. For the Packers, LB Robert Francois (hamstring) is doubtful; all of their remaining injured players are probable . . . TE Jake Ballard isn't on the injury report but said his knee has not made any improvements from last week. He played then and he'll play Sunday . . . While the receivers and other position groups have instituted a no-sleeves policy for Sunday, S Kenny Phillips said he will not hesitate to bundle himself up to play in the cold. "I'll be suited and booted," the Miami native said . . . Packers RB Ryan Grant said he worked out during the offseason with Justin Tuck and Victor Cruz. "I did not teach him how to salsa dance,'' Grant said of Cruz. "Being from New York, I tip my hat to him. He won't be salsa-ing this week, that's the plan.''