Super Bowl power rankings: Which winner is the greatest?

36. 2009 New Orleans Saints (SB XLIV)

The 2009 New Orleans Saints are still one of the best narratives in the history of the Super Bowl, as their win was wholly symbolic of a rebuilt city in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. There’s also no denying the prowess that they showed on the offensive side of the ball throughout the year, a reputation they still live off of to this day under Sean Payton. However, they weren’t quite as good as some might remember.

The offense, to be fair, was great. Drew Brees and company were world-beaters as they put up 31.9 points per game as the best offense in the NFL. The Saints only had the 20th ranked defense in the league, though, as they allowed 21.3 points per game, even if it was a big defensive play that pushed them into the Super Bowl with an interception of Brett Favre in the NFC Championship Game.

Their struggles in the NFC title game are a big reason and indicator as to why the Saints don’t come in higher in these rankings. They were vulnerable in many, many ways, but they ultimately found a way to get it done and get their ring. While that’s a great story, it doesn’t totally speak to their quality as a team.

Next: No. 35