Over the next few days, we’ll examine the top 10 moments of the ‘08 season leading up to the moment that defined the 2008 NFL season.

4. Shogun! – Plaxico Burress shoots himself in a club and shoots down the Giants’ chance to repeat all at once.

Seemingly on their way towards an opportunity to defend their Super Bowl crown, Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg at a Manhattan night club on November 29, 2008.

Further complicating matters was teammate Antonio Pierce, who attempted to hide Burress’ weapon. Ultimately, Burress’ folly stripped the Giants of their best offensive weapon and they petered out of the postseason in a loss to the Eagles.

His injury greatly impacted Giants quarterback Eli Manning by turning his receiving corps into an ordinary and rather pedestrian collection of pass catchers.

It opened the door for NFC teams like the Eagles and Cardinals to make lengthy runs in the postseason. Arizona, who lost to the Giants earlier in the regular season, nearly stole the Lombardi Trophy as a result.

Remember folks. In today’s NFL, it’s hard to repeat; especially when players can’t stay out of the trouble.