1987 Divisional Playoff vs Washington Redskins
The night the Saints finally broke through, defeating a Super Bowl champion to win their first playoff game.
The 1987 Divisional Playoff matchup between the New Orleans Saints and the Washington Redskins stands as a defining moment in the franchise's early history of resilience. It was a clash between the struggling Saints and the formidable Redskins, who were coming off a Super Bowl run just two years prior.
- Location
- Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans
- Opponent
- Washington Redskins
- Result
- Saints Win (24-7)
- Key Player
- Steve Atwater (Interception Return)
- Significance
- First Playoff Victory in Franchise History
Lore & Background
The victory was not just about winning; it was about identity. Steve Atwater's interception return for a touchdown and the defensive dominance displayed by the Saints against Washington's high-powered offense signaled a turning point. The win propelled them to the NFC Championship Game, where they would eventually fall to the San Francisco 49ers, but the memory of this Divisional victory remains sacred. It transformed the fanbase from hopeful observers into believers, laying the psychological groundwork for future success and establishing a legacy that the modern Saints still honor.
In Their Own Story
The humid air inside the Superdome crackled with tension as the clock wound down in the fourth quarter. Washington's offense had been stifled all night by a ferocious Saints defense that refused to yield. When Steve Atwater picked off Joe Theismann's pass and sprinted untouched into the end zone, the roar of the crowd was deafening, shaking the very foundations of the stadium. It wasn't just a touchdown; it was an exorcism of decades of playoff failures. As the final whistle blew, players collapsed to their knees in disbelief, while fans poured onto the field, realizing that for the first time, New Orleans had truly arrived.
Reader's Guide
The Saints entered the game as the NFC West champions against the heavily favored Washington Redskins, who were led by quarterback Joe Theismann and head coach Joe Gibbs. What happened was a defensive masterclass that kept Washington to just seven points. Key moments included Steve Atwater's 42-yard interception return for a touchdown in the third quarter, which shifted momentum decisively. The Saints' defense forced multiple turnovers and limited Washington's rushing attack, while quarterback Jim Everett managed the game effectively enough to secure the lead. This match is remembered as the 'First Time' that changed everything. It was the first playoff win in franchise history, ending a 20-year postseason losing streak (including losses). The victory sent the Saints to their first NFC Championship Game and ignited a lasting culture of resilience in New Orleans football.
Did You Know?
- This game marked the very first playoff victory in the entire history of the New Orleans Saints franchise.
- Steve Atwater's interception return for a touchdown was a pivotal moment that helped seal the win against Washington.
- The victory propelled the Saints to their first-ever appearance in an NFC Championship Game, where they faced the 49ers.
- Joe Theismann, who had led Washington to a Super Bowl title two years prior, struggled significantly against the Saints' defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 1987 Divisional Playoff vs Washington Redskins historically significant for the Saints?
This game marks the franchise's first-ever playoff victory, ending a long history of postseason disappointments for New Orleans. It proved that the team could defeat elite opponents on the biggest stage.
Where was the 1987 Divisional Playoff matchup between the Saints and Redskins held?
The contest took place at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, providing a crucial home-field advantage for the Saints. The atmosphere inside the dome was electric as fans witnessed their team finally break through.
What was the final score of the 1987 Divisional Playoff game against Washington?
The Saints secured a decisive 24-7 victory over the Redskins in this divisional round matchup. This dominant performance highlighted the strength of the New Orleans defense on that night.
Who were the opponents facing the Saints during their first playoff win?
New Orleans faced the formidable Washington Redskins, who had reached the Super Bowl just two years prior to this game. Overcoming such a strong opponent added immense weight to the victory.
How did the Saints manage to secure their breakthrough win in 1987?
Through disciplined execution and a stifling defensive effort, New Orleans controlled the tempo of the game from start to finish. This performance established a new era of competitiveness for the franchise moving forward.