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Giants Punter Steve Weatherford Rooting For Friend Rob Ninkovich

BOSTON (CBS) - Giants punter Steve Weatherford stopped by the Gresh & Zolak booth on Radio Row in Phoenix Wednesday morning, as part of 98.5 The Sports Hub's continuing coverage of Super Bowl XLIX.

Weatherford was walking around with his Super Bowl XLVI ring, but he swears he's trying to get on the good side of Patriots fans, at least for this interview anyway.

Weatherford shared with Gresh & Zo his relationship with Patriots defensive end Rob Ninkovich, among other topics.

"I played against [Ninkovich] in college; I went to University of Illinois, he went to Purdue. I battled against him there and knew the name. Then he was drafted in the fifth round by the New Orleans Saints, where I was a 12th rounder believe it or not," Weatherford joked.

"Rob and I hit it off right away, like literally right as I signed my contract I told my agent to get me Rob Ninkovich's number because we were going to be best friends. He's a hard worker, blue collar guy; that's the only reason he is where he is today. ... he more than paid his dues. He battled injuries franchise to franchise, he was on practice squads...

"I love football, but I don't love football like Rob. He loves football," said an affectionate Weatherford. "I'm so proud of him. I'm so happy for him. I won't be wearing a Boston hat [on Sunday], but I'm rooting for him."

Listen below for the full interview1

Tune in to Super Bowl XLIX on 98.5 The Sports Hub -- the flagship station of the New England Patriots. It's the only place to hear Bob Socci & Scott Zolak's local call of the game!

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