There were some great choices for today’s New Orleans Saints Play of the Day, but with 22 days to go until kickoff in the regular season opener we had only one real option: Tracy Porter’s interception off of Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning to help the Saints win Super Bowl XLIV. It’s one of the finest plays ever made by someone wearing No. 22.
It’s a simple enough play on its face. Manning was targeting his favorite receiver Reggie Wayne on a quick curl route to pick up a first down — but Porter picked it off instead, racing across the field to score a defensive touchdown and put the game out of reach. You can watch the play for yourself here.
That Manning and Wayne were both New Orleans natives made the victory that much sweeter. That this was the deciding play to win a Super Bowl (New Orleans’ first Super Bowl!) made it truly special. And it wouldn’t have happened without Porter.
The Louisiana native lived out a childhood dream and turned that big moment into a nine-year NFL career, as 2009 was his best season. He had a pick-six in the previous game as well, against the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Championship. It was one of the best postseason runs in NFL history.
Porter had 371 tackles, 72 passes defended and 13 interceptions throughout his career. He also wore the No. 22 jersey for the Denver Broncos and the now-Washington Commanders. The other two teams he played for were the now-Las Vegas Raiders and the Chicago Bears.
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