Shy Tuttle's Iconic Matt Ryan Stiff Arm: A Thanksgiving Classic

Thanksgiving Day football has become synonymous with unforgettable moments, and for New Orleans Saints fans, few plays top the iconic image of defensive tackle Shy Tuttle bulldozing former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan during a 2019 game. This single play, featuring a textbook stiff-arm, has cemented itself as a legendary moment in Saints history, offering a bright spot even in challenging seasons.

The Play: A Defensive Showcase

During a November 28, 9 matchup between the Saints and their division rival Falcons, Shy Tuttle delivered a play that would be replayed for years to come. Midway through the game, Tuttle tipped a pass intended for Falcons receiver Julio Jones, showcasing surprising hands for a defensive lineman. What happened next was pure gold: Tuttle corralled the interception and began weaving his way downfield.

The highlight of the 19-yard return occurred roughly midway through his sprint. As Matt Ryan, the veteran Falcons quarterback, attempted to make a tackle, Tuttle unleashed a powerful and memorable stiff-arm. The move sent Ryan sprawling backward, instantly creating a viral clip and cementing Tuttle's name in NFL highlight reels.

"Green grass," Tuttle simply stated when asked about what he saw during the return. He later added, "But that ain't my first rodeo. In middle school I was a tight end... I also ran the ball in High School... But that ain't my first pick. I caught a couple in high school and one in college, so it ain't new."

While the electrifying play didn't translate into immediate points for the Saints offense (the subsequent drive stalled), it set the tone for a dominant defensive performance. New Orleans ultimately secured a convincing 26-18 victory over their NFC South foe.

A Tradition of Turkey Day Success

The Saints may not be Thanksgiving staples like the Detroit Lions or Dallas Cowboys, but when they do play on the holiday, they tend to make it memorable. Holding an impressive 3-1 record on Thanksgiving, their history on the day is filled with standout performances.

The first Saints Thanksgiving appearance in 2010 against the Dallas Cowboys saw a quarterback duel for the ages. Both Drew Brees and Cowboys backup Jon Kitna eclipsed the 300-yard passing mark, showcasing the offensive firepower the franchise is known for. Brees continued the tradition in 2018, throwing an incredible four touchdown passes during a Thanksgiving victory.

Not All Feasts Are Created Equal

However, the most recent Thanksgiving appearance for the Black and Gold, a 2021 visit to Buffalo, serves as a stark contrast. The Saints suffered a lopsided 31-6 defeat against the Bills, a game quickly forgotten by fans. In that contest, the offense struggled to find rhythm, with top receiver Lil'Jordan Humphrey managing only 47 yards on three catches.

As Saints fans look ahead, moments like Tuttle's stiff-arm offer a welcome escape and a reminder of the joy the team can bring, even on a day traditionally focused on gratitude and family.

The Legacy Lives On

Shy Tuttle's iconic stiff arm of Matt Ryan transcends a single game. It represents the unexpected heroics, the defensive prowess, and the pure entertainment value that makes NFL football so beloved. For Saints supporters, it's a cherished slice of Thanksgiving history – a play that perfectly captured the spirit of a team capable of delivering magic on any given day.