The Super Bowl has come through with iconic moments since the beginning, and they told tales of victory, heartbreak, and brilliance.
As Super Bowl 59 approaches, let's relive some of the most memorable plays that made the NFL more than just a sport of action and speed, but also nerve-wracking chances of a lifetime.
Malcolm Butler's Game-Saving Interception
Super Bowl 49: New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks
Few moments rival the shock and awe of Malcolm Butler's interception at the goal line. With 20 seconds left, the Seahawks were poised for victory until Butler, an undrafted rookie cornerback, intercepted Russell Wilson's pass, securing a 28-24 win for the Patriots.
The decision to throw instead of handing off to Marshawn Lynch sparked endless debate, but Butler's play remains a testament to clutch performance under pressure.
Montana-to-Taylor: A Drive for the Ages
Super Bowl 23: San Francisco 49ers vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Joe Montana's coolness under pressure became the stuff of legend during the 49ers' game-winning 92-yard drive. With only 34 seconds left, Montana's 10-yard touchdown pass to John Taylor sealed a 20-16 win, cementing Montana's reputation as "Joe Cool."
Roethlisberger-to-Holmes: A Picture-Perfect Finish
Super Bowl 43: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Arizona Cardinals
It could be one of the most jaw-dropping finishes in Super Bowl history, with Ben Roethlisberger and Santonio Holmes connecting on a 6-yard touchdown pass with 35 seconds left.
Holmes had stepped into the end zone, using impeccable footwork, guaranteeing that the Steelers would win their sixth Lombardi trophy. This was all in a thrilling 27-23 victory.
David Tyree's Helmet Catch: A Giant Upset
Super Bowl 42: New York Giants vs. New England Patriots
Eli Manning's improbable 32-yard pass to David Tyree defied all logic and gravity. How Tyree was able to pin the ball against his helmet as he fell is one of the most iconic plays in the history of the NFL. The miraculous catch led to a game-winning touchdown by the Giants to break the Patriots' perfect season at 17-14.
Mike Jones' Goal-Line Heroics
Super Bowl 34: St. Louis Rams vs. Tennessee Titans
With five seconds left, Titans receiver Kevin Dyson was inches from forcing overtime. But linebacker Mike Jones made a textbook tackle at the 1-yard line, preserving a 23-16 Rams victory.
Dubbed "The Tackle," this play shows the fine margins that define champions.
Legends Are Made on Super Bowl Sunday
Such dramatic, skillful, and heart-filled plays at the NFL's greatest stage come to mind as these moments define this iconic super play, where fans gear up for Super Bowl 59, reminded again of why this is truly the championship of all championships, remaining atop all of the sport's endeavors.
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