EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The Giants will host a large group of students, parents, and faculty members from Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., on Sunday, when they face the Eagles at MetLife Stadium.

As you undoubtedly know, 20 students and six faculty members were killed in a mass shooting at the school on Dec. 14.

"I spoke to the team this morning about that," Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Friday. "What it really means to all of us is, we were so taken aback and so shocked and felt so badly for the families ... not only the families of the children, but the principal, the school psychologist and the real heroes who knew exactly what was coming and still charged and attacked and knew what the outcome would be. It’s Giant country, and we know that. To have that group from the Sandy Hook Elementary School and the Newtown community come down for this game with Philadelphia, it means a great deal to us and we would certainly like to honor them."

"The best we can do is take each individual and play to the best of his ability and make a statement as a team as well. We’re not alone in our passion and empathy for this school and for their lost loved ones. I’m sure an entire country feels that way, but it’s special for us to have them here this weekend."

Wide receiver Victor Cruz has already spent some time with the family of one of the student victims, Jack Pinto, who was a big fan of the Giants and Cruz.

"I think it’s great. I think it’s awesome," Cruz said. "I spoke to the Pinto family last week just to check up on them and see how they’re doing and they’re coming along well. They’re going to be at the game also. So I’m excited to see them again and I think it’s good for them to get away a little bit and spend some time on a Sunday afternoon watching some football and getting their minds off of things a little bit."