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Recently, a stat was brought to the attention of those on New Orleans Saints Twitter. Saints stud defensive lineman Cameron Jordan holds an NFL record. One surely very dear to his heart, and the hearts of Saints fans worldwide.
Cameron Jordan has sacked a certain quarterback 18 times.
That certain quarterback is Atlanta Falcons’ QB Matt Ryan. Mr. Jordan has sacked Mr. Ryan more times than any defensive player has ever sacked a single quarterback since sacks became a stat in 1982.
Jordan’s been a Saint since the black and gold drafted him in the first round in 2011, and he’s proved to be well worth the investment. A five-time Pro Bowler, a first-team All Pro in 2017 and second-team in 2018 and 2019. He’s tallied 463 tackles, 10 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions and even scored a touchdown. All that however pales in comparison to his 87 sacks. Today though, we’re going to focus on 18 of those sacks. So turn the lights down, put on some smooth jazz, pour your favorite wine and let’s take a dive into the love story of Cameron Jordan and Matt Ryan.
2012, Week 13: Our first encounter
Cameron Jordan had been in New Orleans for two seasons now, this was his 4th game against the then-best-in-the-NFC Atlanta Falcons. It was a down year for the Saints as Bountygate left New Orleans without Sean Payton and a host of other key factors. The defense was abhorrent, but there was a sign of light. At 2:39 in the second quarter, Matt Ryan steps up in the pocket and meets Mr. Jordan for the first time.
2013, Week 12: I can’t stay away from you
It was almost a year until our heroes met again. On a Thursday night in Atlanta, Cameron Jordan found his man again. Three times, in fact. The first time, a [fairly generous] half-sack shared with Akiem Hicks.
The next two times, on the other hand, were all Jordan. Both times beating his blocker to get to Matt Ryan.
2015, Week 6: We meet again
It had been almost two years since the last time Mr. Jordan and Mr. Ryan became acquainted. After two games without a sack, Mr. Jordan had to see his friend once more. Once again, doing it three times in a single game.
Even better, upon the third meeting, Matt had a gift for Cameron! This love is truly blossoming before our eyes.
2015: Week 17
Look at how hard Cameron fights to get to his dear friend Matt Ryan.
2016, Week 3
A half-sack is all Mr. Jordan’s able to get this time, but he couldn’t go another game without sacking dear Mr. Matt Ryan.
(28-3 happens sometime around here)
2017, Week 16
2017, Week 16. The fabled Marshon Lattimore butt-interception game. The Saints are back in the playoffs. Cameron Jordan is back to sacking his beloved Matt Ryan. All is right in the world.
(On another note, it’s actually insane that 10 of these sacks have happened in the past three seasons)
2018, Week 3: Spun around in circles for you
As fun as these two sacks are, let’s not forget that this was the game that the Saints won because a 39-year old Drew Brees rushed for two touchdowns (including the legendary spin cycle).
2018, Week 12: Thankful for you
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what we have and what we’re thankful for. For our very own Cameron Jordan, we assume he’s thankful for Matt Ryan. No confirmation if Mr. Ryan feels the same way.
2019, Week 13: Even more thankful for you
At this point, I’ve run out of romcom clichés. I’ve run out of ideas to make this cute. Here’s Cameron Jordan sacking Matt Ryan four times. It’s what you came here for.
Thus ends one of the great love stories in modern football. Cameron Jordan has sacked Matt Ryan 18 times. According to local sources, Mr. Jordan wants to make it 20. Mr. Ryan has declined to comment.