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"A Franchise is Born"

The New Orleans Saints were born from the rich cultural tapestry of the Crescent City, founded in 1966 and beginning play in 1967 as the NFL expanded its reach. Named after the jazz classic "When the Saints Go Marching In," the team's origins were as colorful as New Orleans itself. However, their early years were a struggle, with the Saints earning a reputation for consistent underperformance, exemplified by fans wearing paper bags on their heads and dubbing the team "The Aints."

"The Lean Years: Heartbreak and Hard Times"

The Saints' first 20 years were marked by losing records and fleeting moments of hope. Their inaugural game in 1967 offered a glimmer of promise when John Gilliam returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown, but the team ultimately lost the game and many others that followed. Coaches and quarterbacks came and went, but the elusive winning season remained out of reach.

"The Turning Point: Jim Mora and the First Playoff Appearance"

It wasn't until the mid-1980s that fortunes began to change, largely thanks to coach Jim Mora. In 1987, the Saints had their first winning season, going 12-3, and secured a playoff berth. While they lost to the Minnesota Vikings in the Wild Card round, it marked a significant turning point. The team had found its footing and was no longer just an afterthought in the NFL.

"The Dome Patrol: A Defensive Powerhouse"

One of the most memorable aspects of the Mora era was the emergence of the "Dome Patrol," a dominant linebacker corps consisting of Rickey Jackson, Pat Swilling, Sam Mills, and Vaughan Johnson. The Dome Patrol was known for its ferociousness and ability to stifle opponents, becoming one of the most feared defenses in the league. Despite this defensive prowess, the Saints struggled to find playoff success, unable to progress beyond the early rounds.

"The Brees Era: From Tragedy to Triumph"

The Saints' most significant transformation came with the arrival of coach Sean Payton and quarterback Drew Brees in 2006. The city was still reeling from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and the Saints became a symbol of resilience and hope. Their return to the Superdome that year, a 23-3 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, became an iconic moment, not just for football, but for the city as a whole.

The partnership between Brees and Payton led to a new era of success, culminating in the team's first Super Bowl victory in 2010. In Super Bowl XLIV, the Saints defeated the Indianapolis Colts 31-17, with Brees throwing for over 250 yards and winning the game's MVP award. Tracy Porter's game-sealing interception return for a touchdown became an instant classic, and the Saints' victory parade was a celebration like no other, with the city rallying around its heroes.

"The Legacy of Brees and Beyond"

Drew Brees continued to rewrite the record books during his tenure with the Saints, becoming one of the most prolific passers in NFL history. Under his leadership, the Saints consistently made the playoffs and remained competitive in the NFC South, creating a formidable rivalry with teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers.

The Saints' success under Brees and Payton was characterized by high-powered offenses, innovative play-calling, and a winning culture that permeated the organization. Despite a few heartbreaking playoff losses, including the infamous "Minneapolis Miracle" and the controversial "no-call" in the 2018 NFC Championship game against the Los Angeles Rams, the Saints remained a respected franchise.

"A New Era: Post-Brees and Continuing the Legacy"

After Drew Brees' retirement following the 2020 season, the Saints entered a new phase, seeking to build on their winning tradition with a new quarterback and roster. Sean Payton's departure in 2021 marked another shift, but the Saints remained committed to success, relying on a strong defense and a revamped offense.

"Memorable Moments and Top Players"

Throughout their history, the Saints have had memorable moments and standout players. From the electrifying opening kickoff return in their first game to Brees' record-setting performances, the Saints have etched their name in NFL history. Key players like Rickey Jackson, Archie Manning, Marques Colston, and Alvin Kamara have contributed to the franchise's rich legacy.

The Saints' journey from perennial underdog to Super Bowl champion is a story of perseverance, resilience, and the enduring spirit of New Orleans. As they continue to evolve, the Saints remain a symbol of hope and pride for their devoted fans, forever marching in with the heart of the Crescent City. Make sure to check out all of our New Orleans Saints tickets below.