The world of professional football is filled with adrenaline-pumping action and intense rivalries. Among the most captivating aspects of the game are the epic battles that unfold between some of the most skilled and passionate athletes on the field. These legendary confrontations have left an indelible mark on the sport, showcasing the raw power, strategy, and determination that make the NFL so exhilarating. Prepare yourself to delve into the annals of football history as we explore the most unforgettable and iconic fights that have graced the gridiron.
One such encounter that still reverberates through the corridors of NFL lore is the infamous “Monday Night Melee” between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals in 2015. The game erupted into chaos when Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict delivered a thunderous hit on Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown, sparking a sideline brawl that involved players, coaches, and even fans. The melee resulted in multiple ejections and suspensions, tarnishing the reputation of both teams and casting a dark shadow over the sport. However, it also highlighted the intense emotions and unwavering loyalty that players have for their teams, making it a unforgettable chapter in NFL history.
Another iconic fight that will forever be etched in the minds of football fans is the “Tuck Rule Game” between the New England Patriots and the Oakland Raiders in 2001. The game, which took place in a driving snowstorm, featured a controversial play that ultimately shifted the momentum in favor of the Patriots. With the clock winding down and the game on the line, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady attempted to pass the ball, but it was knocked loose by Raiders defender Charles Woodson. However, the officials ruled that Brady had “tucked” the ball away before it was fumbled, allowing the Patriots to retain possession and eventually win the game. This highly debated play sparked heated arguments and endless discussions, leaving a lasting impact on the NFL and forever altering the course of its history.
The Immaculate Deflection
The 2018 AFC Championship Game between the New England Patriots and the Jacksonville Jaguars was marred by a controversial play that became known as “The Immaculate Deflection.” With less than three minutes remaining in the third quarter, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady threw a pass intended for wide receiver Chris Hogan. The pass was tipped by Jaguars cornerback A.J. Bouye, who was covering Hogan, and fell into the hands of Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski for a touchdown. The play gave the Patriots a 24-20 lead, which they would eventually extend to a 24-20 victory.
The controversy surrounding the play stemmed from the fact that Bouye appeared to have made contact with the ball while it was still in the air. According to NFL rules, a pass is considered complete if it is touched by a defender after it has been tipped by an offensive player. However, if a defender makes contact with the ball before it has been tipped, the play is considered dead and the pass is incomplete. The officials on the field ruled that Bouye had tipped the ball first, but the replay showed that it was a close call.
The Immaculate Deflection was a pivotal play in the AFC Championship Game, and it ultimately helped the Patriots to advance to Super Bowl LII. However, the controversy surrounding the play has continued to linger, with many fans and experts debating whether or not it was the correct call.
Other Notable Fights
| Year |
Teams |
Cause |
Result |
| 1985 |
New York Jets vs. Miami Dolphins |
A brawl erupted after Jets linebacker Mark Gastineau punched Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino |
Gastineau was suspended for two games, and the Jets were fined $25,000 |
| 1990 |
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals |
A fight broke out after Steelers linebacker Greg Lloyd hit Bengals wide receiver Tim McGee |
Lloyd was suspended for four games, and the Steelers were fined $50,000 |
| 2005 |
Oakland Raiders vs. San Diego Chargers |
A brawl erupted after Raiders linebacker Bill Romanowski hit Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson |
Romanowski was suspended for four games, and the Raiders were fined $100,000 |
The Battle of the Bay
The Battle of the Bay is a heated rivalry between the San Francisco 49ers and the Oakland Raiders. The two teams are located in close proximity to each other, and their fans are known for their passion and intensity. The rivalry has been going on for over 50 years, and it has produced some of the most memorable games in NFL history.
The Raids-49ers Rivalry
The Raiders-49ers rivalry is one of the most intense in the NFL. The two teams have met in the playoffs 10 times, with the Raiders holding a 6-4 advantage. The most famous game between the two teams was the 1981 AFC Championship Game, which the Raiders won 27-10. The game was played in front of a sold-out crowd at Oakland Coliseum, and it was one of the most physical games in NFL history. The Raiders defense was particularly dominant, and they held the 49ers to just 10 points.
Some of the most notable games in the Raiders-49ers rivalry include:
| Date |
Teams |
Score |
| 1981 AFC Championship Game |
Raiders vs. 49ers |
27-10 |
| 1997 AFC Wild Card Game |
49ers vs. Raiders |
49-26 |
| 2001 AFC Divisional Championship Game |
Raiders vs. 49ers |
30-27 |
The Tuck Rule Game
The Tuck Rule Game was an American football game played on January 19, 2002, in the Divisional Round of the 2001–02 NFL playoffs. The game was played at Foxborough Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and was contested between the New England Patriots and the Oakland Raiders. The Patriots won the game 16–13 in overtime, in the first overtime game in NFL history.
Key Plays
The game featured several key plays, including:
- The **Tuck Rule**: In the fourth quarter, with the Patriots trailing 13–10 and facing a fourth down, quarterback Tom Brady fumbled the ball while being sacked. The Raiders recovered the ball, but the officials ruled that Brady’s arm was in the process of a forward pass, making the play an incomplete pass rather than a fumble. The Patriots retained possession and went on to tie the game and eventually win in overtime.
- The **”Snowman” Play**: In overtime, the Patriots faced a third down and 10 from their own 30-yard line. Brady threw a short pass to tight end Jermaine Wiggins, who was immediately tackled by two Raiders defenders. Wiggins fumbled the ball, which bounced off the helmet of Raiders cornerback Charles Woodson and into the hands of Patriots wide receiver David Patten. Patten ran the ball back for a 23-yard gain, setting up Adam Vinatieri’s game-winning field goal.
- The **Raiders’ Missed Field Goal**: With just seconds remaining in overtime, the Raiders had a chance to tie the game with a field goal. However, kicker Sebastian Janikowski missed the kick wide to the right, giving the Patriots the victory.
Aftermath
The Tuck Rule Game was a controversial game that had a significant impact on the NFL. The Tuck Rule, which had not been applied in a playoff game before, was later revised by the NFL’s Competition Committee. The game also marked the beginning of the Patriots’ dynasty, as they would go on to win three Super Bowls in the next four years.
Table of Key Stats
| Stat |
Patriots |
Raiders |
| Total yards |
335 |
318 |
| First downs |
20 |
17 |
| Time of possession |
30:33 |
29:27 |
The Harbaugh Bowl
The Harbaugh Bowl is the intense rivalry between brothers Jim and John Harbaugh, who have both served as head coaches in the National Football League (NFL). Jim, the older brother, has coached the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers, while John has coached the Philadelphia Eagles and Michigan Wolverines.
The Harbaugh Bowl has produced some of the most memorable and intense NFL games in recent history, as the brothers have faced off against each other on multiple occasions, including in the Super Bowl XLVII. Fans of both teams have embraced the rivalry, adding to the excitement and atmosphere of the games.
The brothers have a close relationship and have been supportive of each other’s success throughout their careers, but the competitive spirit is always present when they face off against each other. Jim Harbaugh has a slight edge in their head-to-head matchups, but John Harbaugh has the last laugh, having won the Super Bowl with the Ravens in 2012.
Notable Harbaugh Bowl Games
| Date |
Teams |
Result |
| January 5, 2011 |
San Francisco 49ers vs. Philadelphia Eagles |
49ers win 33-22 |
| December 31, 2011 |
Baltimore Ravens vs. San Francisco 49ers |
Ravens win 16-6 |
| February 3, 2013 |
Baltimore Ravens vs. San Francisco 49ers |
Ravens win 34-31 |
| September 22, 2019 |
Baltimore Ravens vs. Philadelphia Eagles |
Ravens win 30-28 |
The Music City Miracle
The Music City Miracle was a touchdown play that occurred during the 2000 AFC Divisional Championship Game between the Tennessee Titans and the Buffalo Bills. The play happened with just 16 seconds remaining in the game and gave the Titans a 22-16 victory.
The Titans were trailing the Bills 16-15 with just over two minutes remaining in the game. They drove the ball down to the Bills’ 20-yard line, but were forced to settle for a field goal attempt. However, the field goal was blocked by the Bills.
The Bills took over possession of the ball with just 1:58 remaining in the game. They ran the ball three times for a total of 13 yards, setting up a fourth-and-1 situation at their own 31-yard line.
The Bills lined up in a punt formation, but they snapped the ball directly to punter Steve Tasker. Tasker ran to his left and threw a pass downfield to wide receiver Peerless Price.
Price caught the ball at the Titans’ 33-yard line and ran down the sideline. He was able to avoid several tackles and eventually scored a touchdown.
The Music City Miracle was a controversial play, as some people believe that Tasker should have been penalized for an illegal forward pass. However, the officials ruled that the pass was legal and the Titans went on to win the game.
| Quarterback |
Wide Receiver |
Linebacker |
| Steve McNair |
Peerless Price |
Keith Bulluck |
The Helmet Catch
The Helmet Catch is one of the most iconic plays in NFL history. It occurred in the 2008 NFC Championship Game between the New York Giants and the Green Bay Packers. With 35 seconds remaining in the game and the Giants trailing 23-20, quarterback Eli Manning threw a pass down the middle of the field to wide receiver David Tyree. Tyree made an incredible one-handed catch, pinning the ball against his helmet, and then held on as he was tackled by Packers safety Nick Collins. The Giants went on to win the game in overtime and eventually won the Super Bowl.
The Play
The play was called “Cross Omaha” and was designed to get Tyree open in the middle of the field. Manning released the ball just as Tyree broke free from Packers cornerback Al Harris. Tyree made the catch at the Giants’ 42-yard line and then was tackled by Collins at the Packers’ 25-yard line. The Giants had just 1:06 remaining on the clock, but they were able to drive down the field and score a touchdown to tie the game and send it into overtime.
The Significance
The Helmet Catch is considered one of the greatest plays in NFL history because of its dramatic nature and its impact on the outcome of the game. It is also remembered for Tyree’s incredible athleticism and determination. The play has been immortalized in a statue outside of MetLife Stadium, the home of the Giants.
The Stats
| Stat |
Value |
| Date |
January 20, 2008 |
| Location |
Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin |
| Teams |
New York Giants vs. Green Bay Packers |
| Quarter |
4th Quarter |
| Time Remaining |
35 seconds |
| Down |
3rd |
| Distance |
15 yards |
| Passer |
Eli Manning |
| Receiver |
David Tyree |
| Result |
Giants 23, Packers 20 |
Best Fights in the NFL
The Spot
The Spot refers to the famous fight between Pittsburgh Steelers’ linebacker James Harrison and Cleveland Browns’ wide receiver Braylon Edwards during a 2009 game. Harrison’s hit on Edwards in the second quarter sparked a massive brawl on the field, involving a total of 14 players and resulting in suspensions for both Harrison and Edwards.
The incident gained widespread attention due to its intensity and the controversy surrounding it. Harrison claimed that his hit was legal, while Edwards accused him of excessive force. The fight also highlighted the NFL’s ongoing debate over player safety and the fine line between physical play and unnecessary violence.
Key Details of the Brawl:
| Player |
Team |
Suspension |
| James Harrison |
Pittsburgh Steelers |
One game |
| Braylon Edwards |
Cleveland Browns |
One game |
| Eric Wright |
Cleveland Browns |
One game |
| Ryan Clark |
Pittsburgh Steelers |
Fine |
| Lawrence Timmons |
Pittsburgh Steelers |
Fine |
The Spot remains one of the most talked-about fights in NFL history, sparking discussions about player conduct and the importance of controlling emotions on the field.
The Giants’ Upset
The Giants’ upset of the undefeated Patriots in Super Bowl XLII remains one of the most improbable victories in NFL history. Trailing 14-10 at halftime, the Giants rallied behind Eli Manning’s heroics and a stifling defense to pull off a stunning 17-14 victory.
David Tyree’s Helmet Catch
One of the most iconic plays in NFL history occurred in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLII. With the Giants trailing 14-10 and facing a third-and-five at the Patriots’ 44-yard line, Manning escaped the pocket and heaved a pass downfield intended for Plaxico Burress. Patriots safety Rodney Harrison tipped the ball, but Giants wide receiver David Tyree made an improbable one-handed catch while pinning the ball against his helmet.
The Drive That Sealed It
Following Tyree’s catch, the Giants drove 45 yards to score the go-ahead touchdown. Manning completed three clutch passes on the drive, including a 13-yard pass to Steve Smith on third-and-eleven and a 6-yard pass to Burress on fourth-and-four. Brandon Jacobs capped off the drive with a 6-yard touchdown run with 2:06 remaining.
The Ravens’ Revenge
The Ravens had a chance to win Super Bowl XLIV, but they blew a 14-point lead against the Saints. The following season, they were determined to get revenge.
The Ravens got their revenge in the 2011 season opener. They defeated the Saints 34-27 in a game that was physical and emotional.
The Ravens’ defense was dominant in the game, holding the Saints to just 27 points. The Ravens’ offense was also efficient, with Joe Flacco throwing for 270 yards and two touchdowns.
The Fight
The game was marred by a fight in the third quarter. The fight started when Saints cornerback Jabari Greer hit Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith late.
Smith retaliated by punching Greer in the face. The fight escalated quickly, and soon several players from both teams were involved.
The Ravens were penalized 15 yards for the fight, but they were able to maintain their composure and finish the game strong.
The Aftermath
The fight had a significant impact on the game. The Ravens were able to use the momentum from the fight to rally and win the game.
The fight also led to the NFL cracking down on fighting. The league implemented a new rule that called for a 15-yard penalty and an automatic first down for any player who threw a punch.
The Ravens’ victory over the Saints was a defining moment in the team’s history. It was a game that showed the Ravens’ resilience and determination.
| Team |
Points |
| Ravens |
34 |
| Saints |
27 |
The Minneapolis Miracle
The Minneapolis Miracle was a game-winning, 61-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Case Keenum to wide receiver Stefon Diggs on the final play of the 2017 NFC Divisional Round between the Minnesota Vikings and New Orleans Saints. The Vikings trailed 24-23, and had just 10 seconds remaining when Keenum heaved the ball downfield to Diggs, who made a miraculous catch and raced into the end zone for the win.
The Vikings’ victory was a stunning upset, as the Saints were favored by 13 points and had led by 14 points in the fourth quarter. The Miracle became an instant legend in Minneapolis, and Keenum and Diggs became instant heroes.
The Play
With 10 seconds remaining, the Vikings were facing a 4th and 10 from their own 39-yard line. Keenum took the snap and dropped back to pass. He was immediately pressured by Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan, but managed to escape and roll to his right. As he rolled, Keenum spotted Diggs running down the sideline, and heaved the ball downfield.
Diggs made a leaping catch at the Saints’ 40-yard line, and then raced into the end zone for the touchdown. The Vikings erupted in celebration, and the Saints were left stunned.
| Player |
Yards |
| Case Keenum |
61 |
| Stefon Diggs |
61 |
The Vikings went on to win the NFC Championship Game and advanced to Super Bowl LII, where they lost to the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Best Fights in NFL History
The NFL is a league known for its physicality and intensity, and that often leads to fights breaking out on the field. While fighting is never ideal, some of the most memorable moments in NFL history have come from these brawls.
Here are some of the best fights in NFL history:
- The Battle of the Bay: This 1976 brawl between the Oakland Raiders and the San Diego Chargers is considered one of the most infamous fights in NFL history. The fight started after a hard hit by Raiders safety George Atkinson on Chargers running back Clarence Davis. Soon, both teams were involved in a melee that lasted for several minutes. The fight resulted in several ejections and suspensions, and it is still considered one of the ugliest brawls in NFL history.
- The Bengals-Steelers Brawl: This 2015 brawl between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Pittsburgh Steelers was another memorable fight in NFL history. The fight started after Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict hit Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown in the head. Brown retaliated by throwing a punch at Burfict, and soon both teams were involved in a brawl that lasted for several minutes. The fight resulted in several ejections and suspensions, and it is still considered one of the most violent brawls in NFL history.
- The Raiders-Rams Brawl: This 1985 brawl between the Oakland Raiders and the Los Angeles Rams was another memorable fight in NFL history. The fight started after Raiders defensive end Howie Long hit Rams quarterback Jim Everett in the head. Everett retaliated by throwing a punch at Long, and soon both teams were involved in a brawl that lasted for several minutes. The fight resulted in several ejections and suspensions, and it is still considered one of the most memorable brawls in NFL history.
Questions People Also Ask About Best Fights in the NFL
Does NFL allow fighting?
No, the NFL does not allow fighting. Players who are involved in a fight are subject to fines and/or suspensions.
What is the most famous fight in NFL history?
The Battle of the Bay, which took place in 1976 between the Oakland Raiders and the San Diego Chargers, is considered one of the most famous fights in NFL history.
What is the longest fight in NFL history?
The Bengals-Steelers Brawl, which took place in 2015, is considered one of the longest fights in NFL history. The fight lasted for several minutes and resulted in several ejections and suspensions.
