Joe Smeltzer

Joe Smeltzer graduated from Waynesburg University with a degree in journalism in 2020. He has contributed to the History Channel since August 2021. He also writes for the Washington Observer-Reporter and the Nittany Sports Now website.

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In this Dec. 23, 1972, file photo, Pittsburgh Steelers' Franco Harris (32) eludes a tackle by Oakland Raiders' Jimmy Warren as he runs 42-yards for a touchdown after catching a deflected pass during an AFC Divisional NFL football playoff game in Pittsburgh. Harris' scoop of a deflected pass and subsequent run for the winning touchdown, forever known as the "Immaculate Reception." (AP Photo/Harry Cabluck, File)

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NFL’s Greatest Play: The Immaculate Reception

In the decades before 22‑year‑old rookie Franco Harris’ “Immaculate Reception—considered the greatest play in NFL history—the Pittsburgh Steelers were mostly awful. From its inception in 1933 to 1971, the team posted seven winning records and no playoff victories.  “They were a poem that didn’t rhyme,” says Bill Hillgrove, the team’s longtime radio play‑by‑play broadcaster. “Hapless, helpless and hopeless,” […]

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