Ravens DT Michael Pierce Explains Why He Recorded an Interception and Then Chose to Slide
Michael Pierce of Baltimore Ravens delivered one of highlight plays of his career in Saturday’s drubbing over the Cleveland Browns. While fans thought a thrilling return was in order, Pierce elected otherwise, literally.
With the Ravens up 35-10 late in the fourth quarter, the 355 pound lineman showed some relatively nimble athletic ability, dropping into coverage, reading the play well and picking off a pass. Elsewhere the crowd roared, the broadcasters erupted and his teammates on the sideline tensed with who knows what could have been an unforgettable touchdown ahead. Instead, Pierce slid to the ground, but with far less dash for glory than you’d normally expect.
Why? It was a case of avoiding social media ridicule like the veteran nose tackle said.
Pierce joked after the game: ‘There’s a long history of taking a big guy’s play and making it a meme.’ What was I about to let my career highlight become — internet comedy? The bus was out of gas. We’re good.”
Pierce’s way with humour and humility was ever present as he talked about what had happened. It was the first of what would be eight seasons for a journeyman who turned undrafted free agent in Baltimore in 2016. After a short sojourn with the Minnesota Vikings in 2022, Pierce made his way back to the Ravens.
That happened, Pierce said with a laugh: ‘It’s like God has a sense of humor.’ I’m just grateful I caught it. Most importantly, I didn’t turn into a meme. Who, my wife and friends, would never let me live it down?!
By the time he slid so quickly, he had fired up the Ravens sideline with joyous celebrations. Soon, teammates were going on about it — hugs and high fives and chest bumps for defensive tackles grabbing interceptions, an event that’s so rare as to be fleeting.
Safety Ar’ daria us Washington said that’s one of the funniest things he’s ever seen. ‘It was as much of a play as anybody has made like that — but a big guy makes that play.’ ‘You had a special moment like that, and we all wanted to celebrate with him’.”
The Ravens victory and the AFC North title secured thanks to Pierce’s interception not only made a highlight of his career but also secured the Ravens victory. Now 12-5, the Ravens locked up the No. 3 seed in the playoffs.
It was more than a personal milestone for Michael Pierce with this play, it’s a play that the whole team is going to enjoy and it’s a play that you think a lot about as a player. Pierce had no regrets, and fans have wondered what could have been if he had tried to come back.
With a grin he said: ‘Sometimes the smart play is the best play.’ “I got the ball and the win and and hey.” That’s all that matters.”
