Who Won Super Bowl 2000? Rams vs Titans Final Play

By Sarah Miller · August 6, 2039

The St. Louis Rams won Super Bowl 2000 (Super Bowl XXXIV), defeating the Tennessee Titans 23-16 on January 30, 2000. The game-winning play came with just 30 seconds remaining when linebacker Mike Jones tackled Titans receiver Kevin Dyson one yard short of the end zone on a pass attempt, preserving the Rams' victory in one of the most dramatic finishes in NFL history.

Overview of Super Bowl XXXIV

Super Bowl XXXIV was played on January 30, 2000, at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia. It marked the culmination of the 1999 NFL season and featured the NFC champion St. Louis Rams against the AFC champion Tennessee Titans. The Rams claimed their first Super Bowl title in franchise history with a thrilling 23-16 victory.

Key Highlights of the Game

The Rams entered the game as underdogs despite a 13-3 regular-season record.
Quarterback Kurt Warner, a former grocery store clerk, became a household name after an MVP season and Super Bowl performance.
Warner threw for 414 yards and 2 touchdowns, setting a Super Bowl record at the time.
The game ended with "The Tackle"—Mike Jones stopping Kevin Dyson at the 1-yard line on the final play.
This was the first Super Bowl appearance for both franchises since relocating to St. Louis and Tennessee, respectively.

Kurt Warner's Breakout Performance

Kurt Warner’s journey from undrafted free agent to Super Bowl MVP captivated fans and media alike. In Super Bowl XXXIV, he completed 24 of 45 passes for 414 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. His connection with wide receiver Isaac Bruce, including a 73-yard touchdown strike late in the second quarter, proved pivotal.

Why Warner’s Performance Was Historic

First player to throw for over 400 yards in a Super Bowl without an interception.
Named Super Bowl MVP, cementing his status as a league star.

Game-Changing Moments

Several pivotal plays defined Super Bowl XXXIV:

Isaac Bruce’s 73-yard TD: With 1:54 left in the second quarter, Warner connected with Bruce for a go-ahead touchdown, giving the Rams a 16-13 halftime lead.
Titans’ goal-line stand failure: Tennessee failed to score on multiple attempts from inside the 10-yard line in the fourth quarter.
"The Tackle": On the final play, Steve McNair’s pass to Kevin Dyson was caught at the 10-yard line, but Mike Jones brought him down at the 1-yard line, sealing the win.

Statistic	St. Louis Rams	Tennessee Titans
Final Score	23	16
Total Yards	427	281
Passing Yards	414	252
Rushing Yards	13	29
Turnovers	1	2
Time of Possession	27:35	32:25

Table data source:1, 2

The Rams dominated through the air while struggling on the ground, recording only 13 rushing yards—the lowest in Super Bowl history for a winning team. Despite holding possession for over five minutes longer, the Titans were unable to convert deep drives into touchdowns, especially near the goal line. The statistical contrast highlights the Rams' explosive passing attack versus Tennessee’s conservative, ball-control approach.

Legacy of Super Bowl XXXIV

Super Bowl XXXIV is widely regarded as one of the most exciting and consequential games in NFL history. It launched Kurt Warner into stardom, validated the Rams' "Greatest Show on Turf" offense, and showcased the tension and drama that define championship football. The final play, known simply as "The Tackle," remains iconic in sports broadcasting and highlight reels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl 2000

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl 2000?

Kurt Warner, quarterback for the St. Louis Rams, was named Super Bowl MVP. He threw for 414 yards and 2 touchdowns, leading his team to victory and earning widespread acclaim for his poise and precision under pressure.

What was "The Tackle" in Super Bowl 2000?

"The Tackle" refers to the final play of Super Bowl XXXIV, when Rams linebacker Mike Jones tackled Titans receiver Kevin Dyson just one yard short of the end zone as time expired, preventing a potential game-winning touchdown.

Where was Super Bowl 2000 held?

Super Bowl 2000 was held at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 30, 2000. It was the second time the city hosted the event, following Super Bowl XXVIII in 1994.

What year did the St. Louis Rams win their first Super Bowl?

The St. Louis Rams won their first Super Bowl in 2000 (Super Bowl XXXIV), defeating the Tennessee Titans 23-16. This was the franchise’s first championship since relocating from Los Angeles.

Did Kurt Warner play in any other Super Bowls?

Yes, Kurt Warner also played in Super Bowl XXXVI (2002) and Super Bowl XLIII (2009). He led the Rams again in XXXVI (a loss to the Patriots) and the Arizona Cardinals in XLIII (a loss to the Steelers).