Clutch Resume: Eli Manning’s top 10 career-defining moments

8. At MetLife, 77-yards to Salsa – October 21, 2012

In Week 7 of the 2012 season, the defending Super Bowl champs hosted their division rivals, the Washington Redskins at home.While both teams were vying for first place in the NFC East early on in the season, the Giants would win their third consecutive game in dance-worthy fashion.

As both teams traded touchdown drives throughout the fourth quarter, Manning and the offense would get the ball back with 1:23 left to play and down 23-20, following the Redskins score. This Week 7 divisional matchup comes in at No. 8 – and not just because I was at this game – but because of what would happen next.

On 2nd and 10, Manning dropped back in shotgun formation just before he unloaded a 77-yard TD pass to WR Victor Cruz, capping off a back and forth home game between these rivals. Manning’s deep throw to Victor Cruz led to a thrilling walk-off victory against the Washington Redskins in the final seconds of this regular season game, as he would finish the day 26-for-40 with 337 passing yards, and 1 timely touchdown pass.

While the Redskins would finish the season atop the NFC East by one game over the Giants, this moment showcased Manning’s strong connection with his favorite receiving target, Victor Cruz while leading his team to a thrilling win at home.