There’s nothing like adding a little intrigue, secrecy and skullduggery to a season-opening contest between two longtime NFC East rivals, the New York Giants and Washington Redskins. The Redskins’ signing of former Giants quarterback Andre’ Woodson to their practice squad on Sunday has New York coach Tom Coughlin and players thinking the move is as sinister as a twist in a Tom Clancy novel.

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J.—After blowing the final whistle to end a three-day minicamp on Thursday, New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin gathered his team in the corner of the fieldhouse and gave them a passionate 18-minute speech. The message? Do not forget the disappointment of 2008. Coming off a Super Bowl win, the Giants (12-4) posted the best record in the NFC and then flopped at home in their first playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles.