2. Colts win after Patriots fail to convert fourth-and-two
The phrase “fourth-and-two”, is all that needs to be said for Indianapolis and New England fans to know what moment is being discussed.
Depending on which fan base it is said to, it will elicit two drastically different reactions. If said to a Patriots fan, they will probably sigh and get irritated. A Colts fan on the other hand, would laugh and reflect fondly of the game played Nov. 15, 2009.
In a Sunday Night Football game, Indianapolis entered 8-0 and the Patriots came in at 6-2. New England had built a 31-14 lead, but the Colts were able to claw back, making it a 34-28 game with just over two minutes left.
The Patriots had the ball on their own 28-yard line, with two minutes to go in the game. They were forced to fourth down, with two yards to go, and instead of punting the ball, they actually went for it.
10 years ago today.
— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) November 15, 2019
4th and 2. pic.twitter.com/nA23W2JJq5
After the Patriots failed to convert, the Colts’ offense took over, drained the clock and Peyton Manning threw a go-ahead touchdown to Reggie Wayne.
Indianapolis won the game 35-34, completing an amazing comeback but the story of the game was the head-scratching decision to go for it on fourth down.
While many still don’t understand the decision, Indy was thankful for it, because it set them up for a great victory.