The Super Bowl has become a stage for some of the most thrilling, dramatic, and unforgettable moments in sports history. Over the years, this iconic championship game has delivered astonishing upsets, legendary performances, and jaw-dropping plays that are etched into the memories of football fans worldwide.
Whether it’s a rookie rising to the occasion, an underdog shocking the world, or a dynasty cementing its legacy, these games have shaped the narrative of the NFL and created stories that transcend the sport. Here’s a look at some of the greatest Super Bowl matchups ever played — moments that defined careers, sparked debates, and left a lasting mark on the history of football.
Super Bowl III (1968 Season)
New York Jets 16, Baltimore Colts 7
The AFL’s Jets, led by quarterback Joe Namath, were heavy underdogs against the NFL’s Colts. Namath famously guaranteed a victory before the game, and the Jets’ win proved the AFL could compete with the NFL, helping pave the way for the merger between the two leagues. This upset victory gave credibility to the AFL and changed the landscape of professional football.
Super Bowl XLII (2007 Season)
New York Giants 17, New England Patriots 14
The Giants’ victory ended the Patriots’ quest for a perfect 19-0 season. The game featured one of the most iconic plays in NFL history – the “Helmet Catch” by David Tyree. This improbable win by the underdog Giants against a team many considered to be one of the best ever assembled made it an instant classic.
Super Bowl LII (2017 Season)
Philadelphia Eagles 41, New England Patriots 33
This high-scoring affair saw the Eagles, led by backup quarterback Nick Foles, defeat the dynastic Patriots. The game set a record for most combined yards in NFL history (1,151) and featured the now-famous “Philly Special” trick play. It was the Eagles’ first Super Bowl victory, ending a long championship drought for the franchise.
Super Bowl XLIX (2014 Season)
New England Patriots 28, Seattle Seahawks 24
This game is remembered for its dramatic ending. With the Seahawks on the verge of scoring a go-ahead touchdown, Patriots rookie Malcolm Butler made a game-saving interception at the goal line. The decision by Seattle to pass instead of run with Marshawn Lynch has been debated endlessly, making this one of the most talked-about finishes in Super Bowl history.
Super Bowl XXIII (1988 Season)
San Francisco 49ers 20, Cincinnati Bengals 16
Joe Montana cemented his legacy as “Joe Cool” by leading a 92-yard drive in the final minutes, culminating in a touchdown pass to John Taylor with just 34 seconds left. This clutch performance is considered one of the greatest in Super Bowl history and solidified Montana’s status as an all-time great.
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Super Bowl LI (2016 Season)
New England Patriots 34, Atlanta Falcons 28 (OT)
The Patriots’ comeback from a 28-3 deficit in the second half is the largest in Super Bowl history. This was also the first Super Bowl to go to overtime. The dramatic turnaround and Tom Brady’s record-setting performance made this one of the most memorable Super Bowls ever.
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Super Bowl XXV (1990 Season)
New York Giants 20, Buffalo Bills 19
This game came down to the final play, with Bills kicker Scott Norwood missing a 47-yard field goal attempt wide right. It was the closest margin of victory in Super Bowl history at the time and began the Bills’ streak of four consecutive Super Bowl losses.
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Super Bowl XLIII (2008 Season)
Pittsburgh Steelers 27, Arizona Cardinals 23
This game featured two of the most spectacular plays in Super Bowl history: James Harrison’s 100-yard interception return for a touchdown to end the first half, and Santonio Holmes’ toe-tapping touchdown catch in the final minute to win the game. The back-and-forth nature of the contest and these incredible plays make it one of the most exciting Super Bowls ever.
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Super Bowl XXXIV (1999 Season)
St. Louis Rams 23, Tennessee Titans 16
The game ended in dramatic fashion with Titans receiver Kevin Dyson being tackled just short of the goal line as time expired – a play known as “The Tackle”. This nail-biting finish and the Rams’ “Greatest Show on Turf” offense winning their first title made this a memorable Super Bowl.
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Super Bowl XIII (1978 Season)
Pittsburgh Steelers 35, Dallas Cowboys 31
This game featured two of the most storied franchises in NFL history and several future Hall of Famers. It was a high-scoring affair with numerous lead changes. The Steelers’ victory in this game gave them their third Super Bowl title, establishing them as the team of the 1970s.
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