On September 25th, 2006, the New Orleans Saints returned to the
Louisiana Superdome following a vagabond season that had them
playing “home” games in San Antonio and New York. An
understandably bewildered and preoccupied franchise following the
onslaught of Hurricane Katrina, the Saints finished the 2005 season
dismally with three wins and thirteen losses. But on the emotional
homecoming night, spurred on by a boisterous crowd, the former
drifting franchise started the game strong by blocking a punt on the
game’s fifth play. Special teams player Steve Gleason carried the ball
into the end zone for a quick touchdown. Head coach Sean Payton
pumped his fist. Quarterback Drew Brees grasped his helmet by the
facemask and thrust it in the air. Fans pounded stands draped in
Saints banners with their hands and feet to express their approval.
Following a 23-3 win, the Saints presented the game ball to the city.