In a moment that left both Michael Pierce and fans in disbelief, the 355-pound Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle caught his first career interception during the team’s regular-season finale against the Cleveland Browns on Saturday.
For Pierce, the massive achievement was an unexpected and amusing one.
His first thought when he grabbed the ball was a simple but heartfelt, “Oh, s***,” as he admitted after the play.
A Defensive Lineman’s Rare Moment in the Spotlight
Despite being in the NFL for nine seasons and having played for a combined eight years in high school and college football, Pierce had never been the target of a quarterback’s pass.
That all changed during the Ravens’ game against the Browns, when Pierce found himself in the right place at the right time.
After starting on the line of scrimmage, he dropped back into pass coverage following the snap, and when the Browns’ downfield routes were covered, quarterback Bailey Zappe attempted a check-down to running back Jacob Kibodi.
The two weren’t on the same page, and the pass sailed straight into Pierce’s waiting hands.
Celebrating a Memorable First for Pierce
After catching the ball, Pierce returned it a few yards before deciding to kneel and end the play, being mobbed by his teammates in the process.
Reflecting on the rare moment, Pierce joked about the pressure of making such a big play.
“I don’t want to curse on TV but, ‘Oh S-word,’” he laughed, still in disbelief.
Though Pierce had recovered a few fumbles in his career, this was his first-ever interception, making it even more special.
“There’s a long history of turning big-guy interceptions into memes,” Pierce said humorously, acknowledging the potential for his highlight to become a viral sensation.
“At the risk of ruining a career play like that for myself, it’s time to go home.”
Ravens Secure Playoff Position Despite Injury Concerns
While Pierce’s interception was a bright spot, the Ravens’ victory wasn’t without its concerns.
Star wide receiver Zay Flowers had to leave the game due to a knee injury and didn’t return.
Early reports suggested that Flowers had suffered a knee sprain, which could jeopardize his availability for the upcoming playoff game.
Knee sprains typically require weeks to heal, and the Ravens will be keeping a close eye on his recovery.
Pierce’s interception came late in the fourth quarter when the game was essentially decided.
The victory clinched the Ravens the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs, and they will now host a Wild Card game against either the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Los Angeles Chargers.
Pierce’s Journey to This Career Milestone
Pierce’s career with the Ravens began before he spent two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings in 2020 and 2021.
He returned to Baltimore in 2022 and has been a key player for the team since then.
Despite the ups and downs of the season, including a tough start, Pierce and his teammates are now focused on what’s ahead: a playoff run that could culminate in a championship.
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