Griffining grew out of a specific play in a specific game: Robert Griffin III’s first regular-season NFL appearance, September 9, 2012, against New Orleans. Washington entered the season with high expectations for its rookie quarterback. His performance in the Superdome offered an immediate answer.
First quarter: an 88-yard completion
With 3:28 remaining in the first quarter, Griffin completed a pass to Pierre Garçon that became an 88-yard touchdown, putting Washington ahead 10–7 after the extra point. Griffin was knocked to the ground during the play. As Garçon sprinted away to score, Griffin sat up on the turf and raised both arms, pointing skyward.
The game around the image
The touchdown was one part of Washington’s 40–32 road victory. Griffin finished his debut with 320 passing yards, two passing touchdowns and no interceptions. The performance was impressive in its own right, but the still photograph of the celebration developed a second life online.
From touchdown to tribute pose
The photo’s most distinctive elements—the seated posture, extended legs and raised arms—became the reproducible template for thousands of online jokes, photographs and submissions. Contemporary coverage described it as Griffining, echoing the naming pattern of Tebowing.
Sources
Pro Football Reference: September 9 scoring summary; NFL.com game recap; Washington Post game coverage.