new orleans saints history
new orleans saints history
Perhaps the greatest moment of the Saints' 2004 season was their final game versus the Carolina Panthers. With both teams' playoff hopes on the line, as ticket holders stood and cheered, the Saints defense blocked a Carolina field goal attempt in the 4th quarter to seal a victory. Despite winning their last 4 games, an errant field goal kick that resulted in a New York Jets loss knocked the comeback Saints out of the playoffs. However, fans have always had faith in New Orleans, and they believe that December winning streak will continue in the 2005 season.
New Orleans was granted a professional football franchise on All Saints' Day, November 1, 1966 and they took the name of the holiday as their team moniker. Ticket holders were amazed on opening day when John Gilliam returned the opening kickoff 94 yards for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams. Despite the rousing opener, the Saints failed to post a .500 record until 1979. That doesn't mean they weren't a team to watch: quarterback Archie Manning (father of current NFL great Peyton and future NFL great Eli Manning) led the team for 10 years, going to the Pro-Bowl twice, in 1978 and 1979. He led the league in pass attempts and completions and led the NFC in passing yards in 1972. In 1978, he was named the NFC Player of the Year, despite the Saints never having posted a winning record during his tenure.
Fans were undeterred by the team's lack of success and turned out week after week for tickets to the Superdome, hungry for success. Under the leadership of head coach Jim Mora, the Saints secured their first playoff spot in 1987, and won their division title in 1991. In 2000, the Saints hired head coach Jim Haslett, who gave the team their first playoff victory against their long-time rivals, the St. Louis Rams.
The Saints' coaching staff has decided in 2005 to go back to their ticket to success in years past: the marvelous running ability of Deuce McAllister, running behind first round draft pick tackle Jammal Brown. Leaning heavily on the running game, the Saints hope to wear down their opponents, opening the field for the air attack of quarterback Aaron Brooks and wide receivers Joe Horn and Donte Stallworth. The addition of Dwight Smith on the defensive side will aid in keeping the opposing offense off the field.
Now, the Superdome in tatters in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the Saints face their most daunting challenge yet. With no home stadium, season ticket holders, always faithful, will travel around the country with their team, filling the opposing teams' stadiums with chants of "Who Dat?" and the sounds of "When the Saints Go Marching In." The Saints have so much to play for this year. They know that the city of New Orleans' hopes and dreams go with the Black and Gold. Despite the obstacles in their way, the Saints are determined to show the league and the country that the spirit of New Orleans cannot be destroyed. The team can think of no greater gift for the city this year than bringing the Lombardi Trophy home to Superdome, a symbol of hope for the future. Be there to show your support in 2005 with New Orleans Saints' tickets.
