When Was Super Bowl XXV? Date, Winner & Highlights

By Sarah Miller · February 17, 2029

The Super Bowl XXV took place on January 27, 1991, at Tampa Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The game featured the New York Giants defeating the Buffalo Bills 20-19, marking the Giants' second Super Bowl victory and one of the closest finishes in Super Bowl history.

Overview of Super Bowl XXV

Super Bowl XXV was the championship game of the 1990 NFL season and served as the culmination of a season overshadowed by the beginning of the Gulf War. The game is remembered not only for its narrow margin of victory but also for its emotional pregame tributes and Whitney Houston's iconic rendition of the national anthem.

Key Highlights from Super Bowl XXV

Final score: New York Giants 20, Buffalo Bills 19
Location: Tampa Stadium, Tampa, Florida
Date: January 27, 1991
Most Valuable Player (MVP): Ottis Anderson, Running Back, New York Giants
Attendance: 73,813
Halftime Show: New Kids on the Block headlined the halftime performance

Historical Context and Significance

Super Bowl XXV occurred during a tense period in global politics—the U.S.-led coalition had just begun Operation Desert Storm. As a result, the game carried heightened patriotic sentiment. Security was increased, and military themes were prominent throughout the broadcast.

Whitney Houston’s National Anthem

One of the most enduring moments of Super Bowl XXV was Whitney Houston’s powerful performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner." Her rendition, backed by a full orchestra and choir, became a symbol of American resilience. It was later re-released as a single after the September 11 attacks and reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100.

Game Analysis and Key Moments

The matchup between the Giants and Bills was a clash of strategic coaching versus explosive offense. The Bills, led by quarterback Jim Kelly and the high-powered K-Gun offense, were making their first Super Bowl appearance. However, they were undone by critical mistakes.

Critical Plays That Decided the Game

Scott Norwood’s missed field goal attempt in the final seconds (“Wide Right”)
Ottis Anderson’s 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter
Giant defense holding the Bills to zero points in the second half
Turnover on downs late in the fourth quarter sealing the win

Team	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
New York Giants	3	10	0	7	20
Buffalo Bills	3	13	3	0	19

Table data source:1, 2

The scoring table shows that the game was tightly contested, with both teams scoring in every quarter except the fourth, where the Giants managed a late touchdown while holding the Bills scoreless. The final quarter highlighted the defensive strength of the Giants, who prevented Buffalo from mounting a successful drive in the closing minutes.

Legacy of Super Bowl XXV

Super Bowl XXV is often cited as one of the greatest games in NFL history due to its dramatic finish and cultural significance. The Bills’ “Wide Right” miss began their unfortunate streak of four consecutive Super Bowl losses.

Impact on the Teams

Giants: Solidified Bill Parcells’ legacy as a top coach; franchise enjoyed strong reputation through the 1990s
Bills: Despite the loss, their offensive innovation influenced future NFL strategies
MVP Ottis Anderson rushed for 102 yards and one touchdown, becoming the first Giant to rush for over 100 yards in a Super Bowl

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl XXV

When and where was Super Bowl XXV held?

Super Bowl XXV was played on January 27, 1991, at Tampa Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

Who won Super Bowl XXV?

The New York Giants defeated the Buffalo Bills 20–19 in one of the closest Super Bowl finishes ever.

What does “Wide Right” mean in relation to Super Bowl XXV?

“Wide Right” refers to Scott Norwood’s missed 47-yard field goal attempt in the final seconds of the game, which would have won it for the Bills.

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl XXV?

Ottis Anderson of the New York Giants was named Super Bowl MVP after rushing for 102 yards and one touchdown.

Why was Whitney Houston’s national anthem performance significant?

Her performance during the Gulf War era became a patriotic symbol and was later certified platinum. It remains one of the most celebrated renditions in American history.