SAINTS AT 50: The Top 5 Moments of Super Bowl XLIV
#3. Lance Moore’s Diving Two-Point Conversion
Feb 7, 2010 ; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Lance Moore (16) reaches the ball out across the goal line for a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLIV at Sun-Life Stadium. The Saints defeated the Indianapolis Colts 31-17. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Much as the screen game is vital to the Saints offense, so too is the possession receiver, the go-to guy on third and fourth down. For years, Lance Moore was the embodiment of this player, and he showed up at the biggest moment, on the biggest stage.
The Saints had scored with less than five minutes remaining in the Super Bowl, bringing the score to 22-17.
Sean Payton could have opted for the safe play, and settled for the extra point, but this would have left the Saints with only a six point lead, meaning that a touchdown drive from Peyton Manning and the Colts would win the game.
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Instead the Saints went for two, and Drew Brees found Lance Moore. Moore caught the pass and dove for the pylon, while Colt defender Jacob Lacey arrived to kick the ball out of Moore’s hands as he hit the dirt.
It was a ‘bang-bang’ play, and it all happened in the blink of an eye. The officials initially ruled the pass incomplete. Sean Payton threw the red flag to challenge the call.
Upon review, it was determined that Lance Moore did have possession long enough to cross the goal-line, forcing the officials to overturn the call and deem the conversion good.
Psychologically, the importance of this play can’t be overstated. It meant that instead of playing for the win, the Colts were likely driving for the tie.
The next moment is, in my humble opinion, the gutsiest, most daring play-call in Super Bowl history.
Next: Ambush!