Gregg Williams: "I have so much respect" for Peyton Manning

New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams became one of the few Super Bowl participants who offered anything other than bland quotes during the two-week run-up to the Super Bowl when he said he hoped his players would deliver some “remember me” shots on Peyton Manning — the kind of shots that would put Manning on the ground and keep him there.

But after the game, Williams said he has nothing but positive things to say about Manning.

“Peyton Manning and Drew Brees are two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL,” Williams said, per Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean. “The people got their money’s worth in watching two great warriors. We were able to come up with a play, but [Manning] made some plays also. I have so much respect for him.”

Williams said he was impressed that Manning managed to complete 31 of 45 passes for 333 yards against the Saints’ defense, even though the Saints were putting pressure on him all night. And he said he was glad that when the opportunity presented itself, Saints cornerback Tracy Porter stepped in front of a Manning pass for the interception that sealed the win.

“We were able to hit him, we were able to hurry him, we were able to move him off the spot,” Williams said. “We made one play right there at the end that was the difference in the ball game. I’m sure he’d like to have that play back. I’m glad we made it.”