Who Won the 2009 Super Bowl? Saints Beat Colts 31-17

By Sarah Miller · June 18, 2039

The New Orleans Saints won the 2009 Super Bowl (Super Bowl XLIV), defeating the Indianapolis Colts 31-17 on February 7, 2010. Quarterback Drew Brees was named MVP after leading a strategic and resilient offensive performance.

Understanding Super Bowl XLIV: A Historic Victory

Super Bowl XLIV took place on February 7, 2010, at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The game marked the 44th edition of the National Football League's (NFL) championship event and featured a clash between the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Indianapolis Colts and the National Football Conference (NFC) champion New Orleans Saints.

Key Highlights of the Game

The New Orleans Saints secured their first Super Bowl win in franchise history.
Drew Brees completed 32 of 39 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns.
The Saints executed a surprise onside kick to start the second half, shifting momentum decisively.
Tracy Porter’s 74-yard interception return for a touchdown sealed the victory late in the fourth quarter.
Head coach Sean Payton earned acclaim for bold play-calling, especially during critical drives.

Team Overview: Saints vs. Colts

Both teams entered the game with strong regular-season records and high expectations. The Colts, led by quarterback Peyton Manning, were seeking their second Super Bowl title in four years. Meanwhile, the Saints aimed to capture their first championship, representing a city still recovering from Hurricane Katrina.

Season Performance Summary

Team	Regular Season Record	Playoff Path	Points Scored (Total)	Final Score (Super Bowl XLIV)
New Orleans Saints	13–3	vs. Cardinals (W 45–14), vs. Vikings (W 31–28 OT)	510	31
Indianapolis Colts	14–2	vs. Jets (W 30–17), Bye Week	426	17

Table data source:1, 2

The table illustrates that while the Colts had a slightly better regular-season record, the Saints demonstrated superior playoff execution and offensive consistency. Their balanced scoring and defensive resilience proved decisive in the final outcome.

Drew Brees: The MVP Performance

Drew Brees delivered one of the most efficient quarterback performances in Super Bowl history. His 32 completions set a Super Bowl record at the time, and his 85% completion rate under pressure showcased elite precision. Brees connected with nine different receivers, reflecting the team’s versatile offensive strategy.

Why Brees Stood Out

Zero interceptions despite heavy defensive pressure.
Led multiple long drives, including a crucial fourth-quarter touchdown series.
Became a symbol of resilience for New Orleans post-Katrina.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Saints’ victory carried emotional weight beyond sports. For a city still rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the win represented hope, unity, and revival. The team became a unifying force, celebrated not just for athletic achievement but for symbolic restoration.

Impact Beyond the Field

The win boosted morale across Louisiana and the Gulf Coast.
Saints merchandise sales surged nationwide following the victory.
The franchise gained increased national recognition and fanbase expansion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Who Won the 2009 Super Bowl

Who won the 2009 Super Bowl?

The New Orleans Saints won Super Bowl XLIV, defeating the Indianapolis Colts 31–17 on February 7, 2010.

Was Super Bowl XLIV played in 2009 or 2010?

Although it is referred to as the 2009 Super Bowl because it concluded the 2009 NFL season, the game was played on February 7, 2010.

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl XLIV?

Drew Brees, quarterback of the New Orleans Saints, was named Super Bowl MVP after throwing for 288 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions.

What was the turning point in Super Bowl XLIV?

The pivotal moment was the Saints' surprise onside kick to open the second half, which they recovered. This bold move shifted momentum and allowed them to take control of the game.

Did the Indianapolis Colts score any touchdowns in Super Bowl XLIV?

Yes, the Colts scored two touchdowns: one rushing TD by Joseph Addai and one passing TD by Peyton Manning to Reggie Wayne. However, their offense stalled in the second half.