The Five Greatest Plays In Pittsburgh Steelers History: Moments That Shaped A Dynasty

The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, known for their relentless defense, iconic players, and numerous unforgettable moments that have helped define the history of the league. With six Super Bowl victories to their credit, the seventh oldest franchise in the NHL (founded 1933), the Steelers have provided fans with countless memorable plays.

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Steelers’ Hines Ward was named Super Bowl XL MVP.

While there are many to choose from, whether you are a die-hard member of Steeler Nation or a casual fan, here are five of the greatest plays in Steelers’ history that embody the spirit, resilience, and passion of this legendary franchise.

The Immaculate Reception

On December 23, 1972, what is arguably the most iconic play in NFL history took place. During their 1972 AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Oakland Raiders, the Steelers were trailing 7-6 in a defensive battle with just 22 seconds remaining on the clock. Set on their own 40-yard line, and facing a 4th-and-10 situation, Pittsburgh quarterback Terry Bradshaw launched a bomb intended for running back John Fuqua. Hounded by Raiders safety Jack Tatum, the two collided, causing the ball to be deflected and careening into the air.

Thankfully, Steelers rookie running back Franco Harris was in the right place at the right time, scooping up the ball just inches from the ground, making a bee-line for the end zone, and completing a 60-yard touchdown. Although the play would come with heavy controversy, did the ball hit the ground and who was it deflected off, officials ultimately ruled it a touchdown, sealing a miraculous 13-7 victory in favor of the Steelers. Not only would this memorable moment secure Pittsburgh’s first-ever playoff victory, but it would also be the starting point of becoming an NFL powerhouse.

The Steel Curtain’s Goal Line Stand

Famously nicknamed the “Steel Curtain,” the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers defense was one of the most dominant in NFL history. During their Super Bowl IX battle with the Minnesota Vikings, whose “Purple People Eaters” defense was equally impressive, the Steelers’ defense stole the show.

Over four quarters, the Steelers’ defense limited Minnesota to just 9 first downs, 119 offensive yards, 17 rushing yards, and no offensive points. Throughout all of the sixty minutes of action, it was during the second quarter that the crew of Joe Greene, L.C. Greenwood, Dwight White, and Ernie Holmes earned their pay. Trailing 2-0 with the ball on their own 6-yard line, the Steel Curtain would not allow the Vikings to penetrate their end zone on three straight plays, ultimately resulting in a fumble recovery by Greene to give the Steelers the ball. This goal line stance shifted momentum in favor of Pittsburgh who captured their first Super Bowl with a 16-6 victory.

Swann’s Touchdown Ballet

Facing the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl X, Steelers wide receiver Lynn Swann made one of the most artistic and athletic plays in NFL history. Looking to repeat as Super Bowl champions, quarterback Terry Bradshaw fired a deep pass downfield for Swann. Known for his graceful playing style, Swann made a leaping, over-the-shoulder catch that resembled something one would only see in a ballet.

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Steelers’ Lynn Swann makes a catch against the Cowboys.

Tightly defended by Cowboys’ cornerback Mark Washington, Swann pulled down the ball in the endzone for a 53-yard touchdown reception. Of the four passes he caught that afternoon, totaling 161 yards, this would be the most impressive, earning him the Super Bowl MVP award as the Steelers would hold on for a 21-17 victory and begin what would become one of the league’s first dynasty teams.

The Immaculate Extension

During their 2016 Christmas Day game against the Baltimore Ravens with the AFC North title on the line, the Steelers found themselves trailing 27-24 with just :14 seconds remaining on the clock.

Sitting on 3rd-and-goal with the ball on the 4-yard line, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger connected with wide receiver Antonio Brown on the 1-yard line.

Swarmed by Ravens defenders, the 5’10”, 180lb Brown defied the odds, fighting off two grown men to extend his arm across the goal line, breaking the plane of the end zone for the six points, clinching the divisional title and a playoff spot for the Steelers. For Steeler Nation fans north of the border, many were watching closely and placing their bets on  sports betting sites, as Antonio Brown’s clutch play became an unforgettable moment in Steelers’ history.

He Could Go All The Way

Two of the six touchdowns during Super Bowl XLIII could easily make their way onto this list, however, it would be James Harrison’s full-field scamper that gets the nod over Santonio Holmes‘ six-yard game-winner. In one of the most thrilling championship games in NFL history, as the first half came to a close, the Cardinals found themselves on the Steelers 1-yard line. With :18 seconds left, Arizona quarterback Kurt Warner dropped back looking to hit receiver Anquan Boldin, unfortunately, for the Cardinals the Steelers linebacker had other ideas.

Al Bello

Former Steelers linebacker James Harrison returns an interception for touchdown against the Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII, which is still considered one of the best plays in the history of the big game.

Intercepting the goal-line pass, Harrison weaved his way through any of the Cardinals’ offensive players attempting to make a defensive stop, dodging tackles en-route to a full-field sprint down the sideline for a touchdown as time expired. Harrison’s incredible defensive play shifted the game back in the favor of the Steelers and ultimately helped to secure their record-setting sixth Super Bowl title.