The New York Giants stunned the country, especially Boston, after an improbable 17-14 victory over the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl XLII. The loss ends the Patriots’ pursuit of perfection after going 18-0 in the regular season and postseason.
The Giants’ defense held the highest scoring team in NFL history to just two touchdowns, the lowest scoring effort by the Patriots all season long.
Two of the biggest weapons in the Patriots’ repertoire, Quarterback Tom Brady and Wide Receiver Randy Moss, were kept in check by a stellar Giants defense, while Eli Manning led the Giants down field twice in the final minutes of the game to secure the win.
With less than a minute to play, Manning sent a long pass to Plaxico Burress who was waiting in the end zone. It was only Burress’ second reception of the game, but it proved to be the difference.
Burress was a huge factor in the Giants’ conference championship win two weeks ago over the Green Bay Packers but was covered well by the Patriots defense.
Brady, who has staked a reputation on his uncanny ability to march his team downfield in the final seconds of the game, let loose three ‘Hail Mary’ passes in the last 30 seconds but all fell harmlessly on the field.
Eli Manning was named Super Bowl MVP with 255 passing yards, one year after his older brother Peyton won the MVP trophy in Super Bowl XLI with the Indianapolis Colts.
Peyton was in attendance, and could be seen cheering on his brother.