In what has to be right up there with the biggest upsets in Super Bowl history, the Giants erased 4th quarter deficits of 7-3 and 14-10 en route to a 17-14 win over the previously unbeaten New England Patriots. For what the first three quarters lacked, the 4th quarter made up for it in excitement, featuring long drives under pressure from Eli Manning, then Tom Brady, then Eli Manning again, leaving Tom Brady 35 seconds and 3 timeouts to drive into field goal range for a chance to tie it. Unfortunately for New England, their deep throws on 1st, 3rd and 4th downs were covered, and Brady was sacked by rookie Jay Alford out of Penn State.
The Lombardi trophy was presented by former Redskin Doug Williams, MVP of Super Bowl 22. Eli Manning was named MVP.
Not only did the Giants win, poor sport Bill Belichek left the field before the final play, failing to give the customary handshake. Some class. He was, however, gracious, though subdued, in his postgame interview.
Captain Ed liveblogged the game over on Captain’s Quarters. Worth a read.
Oh, and Krog - you can celebrate now - New York has a new champion! (First non-Yankees since the 1994 Rangers won the Stanley Cup)
EDIT - and you too could have had your copy of 19-0 on Amazon - announced before the game.
Monday Night Football found its way into the record-books tonight, with the host Steelers emerging with a 3-0 shutout win on a very poor, rain-slogged field over the winless Miami Dolphins. It took a Jeff Reed field goal from 24 yards out with 17 seconds left in regulation to secure the win.
Fresh Cracks...