Who Won Super Bowl 2010? Saints Beat Colts 31-17

By Sarah Miller · April 25, 2026

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

Overview of Super Bowl XLIV

Super Bowl XLIV took place on February 7, 2010, at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The game featured the New Orleans Saints from the NFC and the Indianapolis Colts from the AFC. This was the Saints' first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history, making their victory especially historic.

Key Highlights of the Game

The Saints overcame an early 10-point deficit to win 31–17.
Drew Brees completed 32 of 39 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns.
The famous onside kick to open the second half, known as "Ambush," shifted momentum decisively.
Safety Tracy Porter intercepted Peyton Manning and returned it 74 yards for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
Head coach Sean Payton's bold play-calling was widely praised.

Team Backgrounds and Season Performance

Both teams entered the game with strong regular-season records and high expectations.

New Orleans Saints (NFC Champions)

The Saints finished the 2009 regular season with a 13–3 record, securing the top seed in the NFC. They defeated the Arizona Cardinals in the Divisional Round and the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Championship Game in overtime.

Indianapolis Colts (AFC Champions)

The Colts posted a 14–2 record during the regular season. Led by quarterback Peyton Manning, they defeated the Baltimore Ravens and New York Jets in the playoffs to reach the Super Bowl.

Detailed Game Statistics

Statistic	New Orleans Saints	Indianapolis Colts
First Downs	26	15
Total Yards	371	226
Passing Yards	288	174
Rushing Yards	83	52
Time of Possession	34:22	25:38
Punts	3	6
Turnovers	1	4
Third Down Efficiency	10/17	3/11

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical edge clearly favored the Saints, particularly in total yardage, time of possession, and turnover margin. Their ability to sustain drives and capitalize on Colts mistakes was decisive. The four turnovers committed by Indianapolis, including two interceptions by Peyton Manning, were critical in shifting the game’s outcome.

MVP and Key Players

Drew Brees was named Super Bowl MVP after one of the most efficient quarterback performances in Super Bowl history. His 32 completions set a Super Bowl record at the time. Other key contributors included:

Tracy Porter: Game-sealing 74-yard interception return for a touchdown.
Marques Colston: 7 receptions for 98 yards.
Jeremy Shockey: Critical third-down catches and blocking.
Sean Payton: Masterminded the surprise onside kick to start the second half.

Historical Significance

The Saints’ victory was more than just a championship—it was symbolic for the city of New Orleans, still recovering from Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The win galvanized the community and marked a turning point for the franchise, which had long struggled before the 2000s.

This was also the first Super Bowl win for both the Saints and head coach Sean Payton. For Peyton Manning and the Colts, it marked their second Super Bowl loss in five years, adding pressure heading into future seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl 2010

Who won Super Bowl 2010?

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

Where was Super Bowl 2010 held?

Super Bowl XLIV was played at Sun Life Stadium (now Hard Rock Stadium) in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl 2010?

Drew Brees, quarterback of the New Orleans Saints, was named Super Bowl MVP after completing 32 of 39 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns.

What was the final score of Super Bowl 2010?

The final score was New Orleans Saints 31, Indianapolis Colts 17.

What happened with the onside kick in Super Bowl 2010?

The Saints executed a surprise onside kick to start the second half, successfully recovering it. Known as "Ambush," this bold move shifted momentum and is considered one of the greatest coaching decisions in Super Bowl history.