What is “Immaculate Reception”
The “Immaculate Reception” is a memorable play that took place in a 1972 AFC divisional playoff game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Oakland Raiders at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on December 23, 1972.. The play occurred in the final seconds of the game, with the Steelers trailing 7-6.
On the play, Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw threw a pass intended for running back Franco Harris, but the ball was deflected by Raiders defensive back Jack Tatum. Harris caught the ball, but it was unclear if he had control of it before he went out of bounds. However, the officials ruled that Harris had possession and the catch was legal, giving the Steelers a dramatic 13-7 victory.
The “Immaculate Reception” is considered one of the greatest plays in NFL history and is a significant moment in the history of the Steelers franchise. It is often referred to as the play that launched the Steelers’ dynasty of the 1970s, during which they won four Super Bowl championships.
