Plaxico Burress, the former New York Giants wide receiver, is set to place the football he secured for the championship‑winning touchdown in Super Bowl XLII up for auction at Sotheby's. The item, which has been part of Burress's personal collection, is projected to bring $100,000 to $200,000 when it hits the block.
The ball marks the culmination of a dramatic final drive that saw the Giants upset the New England Patriots, securing a 17‑14 victory. Eli Manning orchestrated the drive, and the touchdown pass was caught by Burress, sealing the upset that stunned the football world.
That same game is also remembered for David Tyree's iconic helmet catch, a play that has become synonymous with the Giants' comeback. The football therefore carries a dual legacy, linking two of the most talked‑about moments of the contest.
A Piece of History Hits the Market
Sotheby's will present the artifact as part of a larger sports memorabilia auction, emphasizing its provenance from Burress's own stash. Collectors and enthusiasts alike are expected to vie for the piece, which offers a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in NFL history.
The auction underscores the enduring value of Super Bowl relics, especially those that encapsulate multiple storylines. As the ball prepares to change hands, it promises to add another chapter to the narrative of a game that reshaped the rivalry between the Giants and the Patriots.