Super Bowl XXV — New York Giants 20, Buffalo Bills 19

Game summary

The contest was characterized by a deliberate, ball-control approach from the Giants and an aggressive, no-huddle offense from the Bills. New York leaned on a running attack and time-consuming drives to limit Buffalo's possessions. Ottis Anderson, the Giants' primary running back, was named Super Bowl MVP for his effective ground work that helped sustain drives and set the tempo for the game. Buffalo steadily rallied and set up a final chance in the closing seconds, but Scott Norwood's field-goal attempt did not split the uprights.

Key participants

• Teams: New York Giants vs Buffalo Bills.
• Coaches: Bill Parcells (Giants) and Marv Levy (Bills) were the primary strategists on each sideline.
• Players of note: Ottis Anderson (Super Bowl MVP), Bills kicker Scott Norwood, and Bills quarterback Jim Kelly.
• Venue: Tampa Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

Historical context and legacy

Super Bowl XXV holds a distinct place in NFL history for several reasons. It was the championship contest played during an active international conflict, creating a somber and patriotic atmosphere. The game's close finish—decided by one point and remembered largely for the missed kick often referred to as "wide right"—became a defining moment for both franchises. For Buffalo, the defeat was the first of four consecutive Super Bowl losses, a streak that has affected perceptions of the team in the decades since. For the Giants, the victory represented their second Super Bowl title and reaffirmed the Parcells era as a successful period for the franchise.

Notable facts and distinctions

• The final score, 20–19, reflects one of the narrowest margins in Super Bowl history.
• The game's strategic contrast—Giants clock management versus Bills' high-tempo offense—serves as a case study in complementary coaching philosophies.
• Public memory often centers on Scott Norwood's final kick; the phrase "wide right" entered sports vocabulary as shorthand for that miss.

Readers seeking a concise entry point can follow an overview of Super Bowl XXV, or consult team histories for the Buffalo Bills and the New York Giants. For geographical or franchise context tied to the winning team, see material on New York. Together these elements help explain why Super Bowl XXV remains one of the most talked-about title games in NFL memory.