Since starting in 1967, the Super Bowl has evolved to blend athleticism, entertainment, and tradition. This annual championship game determines the winner of the National Football League or NFL season. Households gather to witness the clash of the best teams, the groundbreaking commercials, and halftime shows that feature some of the biggest names in music. This article is set to remind you of the greatest moments in Super Bowl history.
Max McGee Scores First Touchdown in Super Bowl History
Max McGee scored the first touchdown ever while playing for the Green Bay Packers. Despite not expecting to play and reportedly spending the night before the game out on the town, McGee stepped in due to an injury and made a one-handed catch to score.
Steve Young Completes Sixth Touchdown Pass
In Super Bowl XXIX, Steve Young of the San Francisco 49ers cemented his place in NFL history by throwing six touchdown passes against the San Diego Chargers, breaking Joe Montana’s previous record of five. This incredible performance secured the 49ers’ victory and earned Young the Super Bowl MVP award.
David Tyree’s Helmet Catch
The New York Giants faced the undefeated New England Patriots in a game that would become legendary. In the fourth quarter, Giants quarterback Eli Manning made a pass to David Tyree, who pinned the ball against his helmet. This miraculous play kept the Giants’ drive alive and led to the game-winning touchdown, ending the Patriots’ perfect season.
Fulton Walker’s Record Return
During Super Bowl XVII, Miami Dolphins’ Fulton Walker made history with a 98-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. This remarkable play was the first kickoff return for a touchdown in Super Bowl history and showcased Walker’s incredible speed and agility. Although the Dolphins ultimately lost to the Washington Redskins, Walker’s record-setting return remains a highlight in Super Bowl lore.
Mike Jones’ Tackle
Super Bowl XXXIV ended with one of the most memorable defensive plays in history. With the Tennessee Titans just one yard away from potentially tying the game, St. Louis Rams linebacker Mike Jones made a game-saving move on Titans receiver Kevin Dyson. This play, known as “The Tackle,” preserved the Rams’ 23-16 victory.
Jermaine Kearse’s Amazing Catch
Jermaine Kearse of the Seattle Seahawks made an astonishing catch late in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLIX. As the ball bobbled and nearly touched the ground, Kearse managed to secure it while falling to his back, setting up what appeared to be a game-winning opportunity. Though the Seahawks ultimately lost due to Malcolm Butler’s interception, Kearse’s catch remains a major event in the Super Bowl history.
Desmond Howard Seals Win with 99-Yard Kick Return
Desmond Howard of the Green Bay Packers delivered a game-changing play with a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XXXI. This electrifying return dashed the New England Patriots’ hopes of a comeback and helped seal the Packers’ 35-21 victory. Howard’s performance earned him Super Bowl MVP honors, making him one of the few special teams players to receive the award.
Joe Namath Makes Bold Guarantee
Before Super Bowl III, Joe Namath famously guaranteed a victory for his underdog New York Jets against the Baltimore Colts. Namath’s audacious prediction added drama and intrigue to the game, and when the Jets emerged victorious, his guarantee became legendary.
James Harrison’s INT Return
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison made a major play with a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XLIII. Just before halftime, Harrison picked off Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner and weaved his way through defenders to score. This extraordinary effort not only set a Super Bowl record for the longest interception return but also significantly impacted the game’s outcome, contributing to the Steelers’ 27-23 victory.
Favre-To-Rison
Super Bowl XXXI featured an unforgettable moment when Brett Favre connected with Andre Rison for a 54-yard touchdown pass on the Green Bay Packers’ second play from scrimmage. This explosive start set the tone for the game. The Packers went on to defeat the New England Patriots, and Favre’s early touchdown pass remains a highlight of his career.
