The New Orleans Saints will never forget their Super Bowl XLIV victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Even further, arguably their biggest play from that game will always live in NFL history now.
The NFL just changed their kickoff rules. With the adjustments, both teams must be aware when an onside kick is coming. There is a shift in formations for the onside kick, so opponents must be prepared. Not to mention, onside kicks are only allowed in the fourth quarter now.
The Saints' legendary onside kick after halftime from their Super Bowl win will never be replicated.
Accordingly, one of the best plays in franchise history will always belong to New Orleans. The confidence and grit from Sean Payton and his staff to call that in the Super Bowl was special.
After the rule adjustments, Saints special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi explained the reasoning for the changes.
Rizzi noted that there were only two surprise onside kick attempts in 2023 - and four in the last five years. NFL teams have converted 2 of their last 15 surprise onside kick attempts.
Regardless, Saints fans will always remember that onside kick, along with Tracy Porter's interception for a touchdown to seal it. That play, though, can still happen on an annual basis in any Super Bowl.
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