Goodell checked with NJ Gov. Christie about playing Giants-Steelers game

New Jersey and the storm-ravaged tri-state area is still reeling from the effects of the Hurricane Sandy but MetLife Stadium has been given the okay to host the Giants-Steelers game this Sunday by none other than state Gov. Chris Christie himself.

A Sports Illustrated report said that NFL commissioner Roger Goodell contacted Christie Thursday to make sure holding the 4:25 p.m. game would not divert resources away from Sandy relief efforts.  Christie confirmed that it would not and gave his blessing, reports The Star-Ledger.

Christie "was pleased the game is being played," NFL Greg Aiello wrote in an e-mail message, and that "the Giants and the NFL will be saluting first responders at the game and contributing $1 million plus extensive promotional time on all out games to the Red Cross for the relief effort."

While the debate continues over New York City's plan to hold the ING New York City Marathon on Sunday and the Knicks-Heat game at Madison Square Garden Friday night, the course of action at MetLife Stadium was to play the game as scheduled.

The NFL determined that there was no significant damage to the stadium and kept in touch with local authorities, said an NFL spokes person.

Goodell reached out to Christie during the rescue and relief efforts and it was agreed that the game would not be moved despite statewide power outages and gas shortages.

Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw said he thinks fans need something to "spark New York" after all the devastation.

"Hopefully, we can take care of New York," he said, "And it will be a good Sunday for everybody."