The Pittsburgh Steelers have etched their name into NFL history with some of the most unforgettable moments in football. From nail-biting playoff victories to Super Bowl triumphs, the greatest Steelers games have left an indelible mark on Steeler Nation and the sport as a whole. These iconic matchups showcase the grit, determination, and excellence that have come to define the franchise.
Let's dive into the most memorable contests in Steelers history. Explore the thrilling victories, game-changing plays, and legendary performances that have shaped the team's legacy. From classic Super Bowl showdowns to heart-stopping playoff battles, these games highlight why the Steelers are considered one of the most storied franchises in professional sports. Get ready to relive the excitement and drama of these unforgettable moments that continue to resonate with fans and define the Steelers' place in NFL lore.
Super Bowl IX - Steelers vs. Vikings (1975)
First Super Bowl Victory
On January 12, 1975, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IX at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana. This game marked a significant milestone for the Steelers franchise, as they were on the verge of their first championship in their 42-year history. Despite being underdogs to the Vikings, who were making their third Super Bowl appearance in six years, the Steelers proved their mettle on the field.
The game began as a defensive struggle, with the first half dominated by stellar defensive play. The lone score in the first half came from a safety, the first in Super Bowl history, when Vikings quarterback Fran Tarkenton was downed in his own end zone. This play gave the Steelers a 2-0 lead and set the tone for the rest of the game.
Dominant Defense on Display
The Steelers' defense, known as the "Steel Curtain," put on a remarkable performance. They limited the Vikings to Super Bowl record lows of nine first downs, 119 total offensive yards, and a mere 17 rushing yards. The defense, led by Joe Greene and L.C. Greenwood, intercepted Tarkenton three times and recovered two fumbles. This defensive masterclass was even more impressive considering the Steelers lost starting linebackers Andy Russell and Jack Lambert to injuries during the game.
Franco Harris' MVP Performance
The second half saw the Steelers' offense come alive, particularly through the efforts of fullback Franco Harris. After recovering a fumble on the second-half kickoff, Harris scored on a 9-yard run, extending the Steelers' lead. Harris finished the game with a Super Bowl record 158 rushing yards, surpassing the entire Minnesota offense's total yardage. His outstanding performance earned him the Super Bowl MVP award.
The final score of 16-6 in favor of the Steelers brought an end to their long championship drought. In the locker room, players celebrated with owner Art Rooney, affectionately known as "The Chief," as NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle presented the Lombardi Trophy. This victory marked the beginning of a dynasty, with the team and fans confident that more championships were to come.
2005 AFC Divisional Playoff - Steelers vs. Colts
The 2005 AFC Divisional Playoff game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Indianapolis Colts stands as one of the most thrilling and unforgettable moments in Steelers history. This contest, played on January 15, 2006, at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis, saw the Steelers, who were significant underdogs, take on the league's best regular-season team, the 14-2 Colts.
Jerome Bettis' Near-Fumble
The Steelers held a commanding 21-3 lead going into the fourth quarter. However, the Colts mounted a fierce comeback, scoring 15 points in a 10-minute span to narrow the gap to 21-18 with just 4:24 left in the game. With 1:20 remaining and the ball on the Colts' 2-yard line, the Steelers were poised to seal the victory. Jerome Bettis, the 252-pound Hall of Fame running back who hadn't fumbled all season, received the handoff. In a shocking turn of events, linebacker Gary Brackett put his helmet directly on the ball, forcing it out of Bettis' grasp.
Ben Roethlisberger's Tackle
As the loose ball was scooped up by Colts defensive back Nick Harper, it seemed the Steelers' season was about to end in heartbreak. Harper sprinted towards the end zone with a clear path to a potential game-winning touchdown. However, in a moment that would define the game and the Steelers' playoff run, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger made an improbable play. Despite being faked out initially, the 6-foot-5 Roethlisberger managed a desperate dive, tripping Harper up by the shoe at the Colts' 42-yard line. This tackle, now known simply as "The Tackle," saved the Steelers' season and has become one of the most iconic plays in franchise history.
Upset Victory on the Road
Following Roethlisberger's heroic tackle, the Colts had one last chance to tie the game. With 21 seconds left, kicker Mike Vanderjagt attempted a 46-yard field goal. In a dramatic conclusion, the kick went wide right, sealing the Steelers' upset victory. This win propelled the Steelers forward in their playoff journey, leading to victories over the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship and ultimately culminating in a Super Bowl XL triumph over the Seattle Seahawks. The 2005 AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Colts remains a pivotal moment in Steelers lore, showcasing the team's resilience and determination in the face of near-defeat.
1989 AFC Wild Card Game - Steelers vs. Oilers
The 1989 AFC Wild Card Game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Houston Oilers stands as a testament to the Steelers' resilience and determination. This thrilling contest, which took place in the Astrodome, saw the Steelers emerge victorious with a 26-23 overtime win, marking their first postseason game since 1984.
Overcoming Underdog Status
Despite being considered underdogs, the Steelers came out strong, determined to prove their worth. The game began with a bold statement as Tim Worley scored the first touchdown, plowing through Pro-Bowl safety Bubba McDowell at the one-yard line. This early score sent a clear message: Pittsburgh was playing to win.
Merrill Hoge's Heroics
Merrill Hoge emerged as the game's standout performer, delivering a stellar performance that would be remembered for years to come. He rushed for 100 yards on 17 carries, including a crucial 49-yard run in the first half that helped extend the Steelers' lead. Hoge's most significant contribution came in the fourth quarter when he scored a game-tying touchdown with just 46 seconds left in regulation, forcing overtime.
Emotional Victory for Chuck Noll
The game's dramatic conclusion came 3:26 into overtime when Gary Anderson kicked a 50-yard field goal, sealing the victory for the Steelers. This win was particularly significant for Coach Chuck Noll, who had faced criticism throughout the season. Noll later described the game as "a very emotional thing for this team" and "a gut check," highlighting the resilience and determination of his players.
The victory had far-reaching consequences, not just for the Steelers but also for their opponents. It cost Oilers Coach Jerry Glanville his job, as he was fired following this loss. For the Steelers, it marked the beginning of an unexpected playoff run and stands as one of Chuck Noll's finest coaching accomplishments, showcasing the team's ability to overcome adversity and defy expectations.
Super Bowl X - Steelers vs. Cowboys (1976)
On January 18, 1976, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl X at the Orange Bowl in Miami. The Steelers, who had finished the regular season with a league-best 12-2 record, were aiming for their second consecutive Super Bowl title. This game would become one of the most memorable in NFL history, featuring extraordinary plays and fierce competition.
Lynn Swann's Acrobatic Catches
Lynn Swann's performance in this game was nothing short of spectacular. Despite concerns about his health due to a concussion suffered in the AFC Championship game against Oakland, Swann decided to play. He made several incredible catches throughout the game, including a circus catch that would become an NFL Films highlight reel staple. Swann's most impressive play came in the fourth quarter when he caught a 64-yard touchdown pass from Terry Bradshaw, outleaping the Cowboys defender Mark Washington. This play extended the Steelers' lead and showcased Swann's exceptional skills. By the end of the game, Swann had caught four passes for a Super Bowl record 161 yards, earning him the distinction of being the first wide receiver to be named Super Bowl MVP.
Jack Lambert's Fiery Performance
The game's turning point came in the third quarter when the Steelers lined up for a game-tying field goal. After kicker Roy Gerela missed the attempt, Cowboys safety Cliff Harris taunted Gerela. This provoked Steelers linebacker Jack Lambert, who grabbed Harris and threw him to the ground. Lambert's actions, which could have resulted in his ejection, instead galvanized the Steelers. His teammates later credited this moment as the catalyst for their comeback. Lambert finished the game with 14 tackles, demonstrating his crucial role in the Steelers' defense.
Back-to-Back Super Bowl Titles
The Steelers' victory in Super Bowl X, with a final score of 21-17, marked their second straight Super Bowl win. This achievement solidified their status as a dominant force in the NFL. The team's "Steel Curtain" defense and powerful running game had carried them through the regular season, and now they had proven their ability to perform under the brightest lights. The Steelers' comeback from a 10-7 deficit in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 unanswered points, showcased their resilience and determination. This victory not only brought glory to the franchise but also helped define what Steelers football was all about – toughness, teamwork, and the ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments.
1995 AFC Championship - Steelers vs. Colts
The 1995 AFC Championship game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Indianapolis Colts stands as one of the most thrilling contests in NFL history. This intense battle, played at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, saw the Steelers emerge victorious with a narrow 20-16 win, securing their place in Super Bowl XXX.
Jim Harbaugh's Hail Mary Attempt
As the clock ticked down in the fourth quarter, the Colts, led by quarterback Jim Harbaugh, mounted a final drive that would keep fans on the edge of their seats. With just seconds remaining, Harbaugh launched a desperate Hail Mary pass towards the end zone. The ball found its way through a crowd of players and landed on the lap of Colts receiver Aaron Bailey. For a heart-stopping moment, it seemed the Colts might pull off a miraculous upset. However, Steelers defensive back Randy Fuller made a crucial play, knocking the ball away from Bailey's grasp as time expired.
Securing Trip to Super Bowl XXX
The Steelers' victory was far from assured throughout the game. Trailing 16-13 with just over 8 minutes left, the Steelers offense stepped up when it mattered most. Neil O'Donnell led a critical drive, converting a fourth down and connecting with Ernie Mills for a spectacular 37-yard gain that put Pittsburgh at the Colts' 1-yard line. Bam Morris then punched in the go-ahead touchdown, giving the Steelers a 20-16 lead they would not relinquish.
End of an Era for Cowher's Steelers
This victory marked a significant milestone for Bill Cowher's tenure as the Steelers' head coach. It was the only home AFC Championship game the Steelers won during Cowher's 15-year reign, despite multiple appearances. The win served as redemption for the previous year's championship loss and propelled the Steelers to Super Bowl XXX, where they would face the Dallas Cowboys.
The List Of Great Steelers Games is Endless
The Steelers' greatest games showcase the team's lasting impact on NFL history. From their first Super Bowl victory to nail-biting playoff battles, these contests highlight the grit, skill, and determination that define the franchise. Each game tells a story of overcoming odds, making clutch plays, and rising to the occasion when it matters most.
These unforgettable moments have shaped the Steelers' legacy and continue to inspire fans. Whether it's Franco Harris' MVP performance, Ben Roethlisberger's game-saving tackle, or Lynn Swann's acrobatic catches, these games demonstrate why the Steelers are considered one of the most storied teams in professional sports. They serve as a testament to the team's winning tradition and their ability to deliver under pressure, cementing their place in football lore.
FAQs
Who are some of the most legendary players in Pittsburgh Steelers history?
The top Pittsburgh Steelers players based on their Approximate Value (AV) include:
- Ben Roethlisberger (AV: 208)
- Mike Webster (AV: 150)
- Jack Ham (AV: 147)
- Joe Greene (AV: 143)
- Terry Bradshaw (AV: 140)
- Jack Lambert (AV: 137)
- Franco Harris (AV: 135)
- Mel Blount (AV: 128)
What is the coldest Steelers game on record?
The coldest game in the history of the Pittsburgh Steelers occurred on December 10, 1977, at Riverfront Stadium. The temperature was a frigid 2 degrees Fahrenheit during their 17-10 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
What is the best record the Steelers have ever achieved?
The best season record achieved by the Pittsburgh Steelers remains unspecified in the provided information.
During which period were the Steelers exceptionally successful?
The Steelers drafted several key players in the early 1970s who were instrumental in forming a dominant NFL dynasty. This era saw the team making the playoffs in eight different seasons and uniquely winning four Super Bowls in just six years, a record at the time for the most by any team. They were also the first NFL team to secure more than two Super Bowl victories.
