HOUSTON -- Robert Alford strolled into the end zone as if he was accustomed to doing it every week.
The Atlanta Falcons cornerback read New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's eyes and jumped in front of a pass in the red zone. Alford proceeded to take it back 82 yards for a touchdown before halftime, giving the Falcons a 21-3 Super Bowl LI lead. It was the second-longest pick six in Super Bowl history behind the 100-yarder by Pittsburgh's James Harrison.
And Alford's play was symbolic of the inspired defensive effort the Falcons put forth in front of the world on the NFL's biggest stage while taking a 21-3 halftime lead.