New Jersey sports bars and restaurants saw a surge in business Sunday as fans filled the establishments to cheer for their teams.

Though the Giants couldn?t pull out a win, Mike Minervini, who owns Miami Mike?s, says his East Hanover sports bar was filled to the brim with excited fans, and has been serving more customers recently than it was a year ago.

"Our food and beverage is up 33 percent this year compared to last year," Minervini says.

Despite the lagging economy, residents remained passionate about local teams throughout the football season and frequently attended sports bars to enjoy the games.

"If you are a die-hard football fan and your team is in the playoffs, you'll find some money to go to a bar and have some fun," Steve Cargen, of Lawrenceville, says.

Minervini say his favorite team is the Miami Dolphins, but he was hoping the Giants would win. Now, he hopes Eagles fans will feel at home in his bar and fill the stools for the NFC title game.