The legendary “Monday Night Football” has provided countless memorable moments since its inception 55 years ago. The 1985 season, in particular, stands out due to the Chicago Bears’ remarkable performance, renowned for having one of the best defenses in NFL history. This season was marred by a significant injury when linebacker Lawrence Taylor tackled quarterback Joe Theismann, resulting in a career-ending leg injury. As the Washington Commanders prepare for their upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs on October 2, they join the ranks of teams with significant stories etched in Monday night history.
Reflecting on this storied tradition, NFL Nation reporters have compiled a list of memorable moments from each of the 32 teams, showcasing both the triumphs and the heart-wrenching instances that have defined the league.
AFC Teams’ Standout Moments
The Buffalo Bills experienced a thrilling victory in the 1974 season opener against the Raiders, which featured three lead changes in the final two minutes. The Bills won 21-20, with O.J. Simpson contributing significantly before leaving the game due to injury.
Meanwhile, in a historic game for the Miami Dolphins, the 1972 undefeated team watched as the Bears, boasting an impressive record, lost 38-24 in Miami in 1985. Quarterback Dan Marino threw for three touchdowns, celebrating a moment that would keep their perfect season intact for another year.
The New England Patriots secured a crucial victory in 1986 against the Dolphins, marking their first division title in eight years. Quarterback Steve Grogan executed a remarkable late touchdown pass that allowed the Patriots to edge out the Dolphins.
One of the most memorable games for the New York Jets occurred in 2000, known as “The Monday Night Miracle.” Trailing 30-7 entering the fourth quarter against the Dolphins, the Jets staged a stunning comeback to win 40-37 in overtime, showcasing quarterback Vinny Testaverde’s resilience.
In the AFC North, the Baltimore Ravens witnessed a remarkable comeback in 2020 led by quarterback Lamar Jackson, who returned from injury to throw a game-winning touchdown and set up a decisive field goal, sealing a 47-42 victory over the Browns.
The Cincinnati Bengals made headlines in 2020 when safety Vonn Bell delivered a punishing hit on Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, forcing a fumble that led to a significant upset, foreshadowing their journey to the Super Bowl.
The Cleveland Browns hosted the inaugural Monday Night Football game in 1970, defeating the Jets 31-21, further embedding their legacy in the league’s history.
Lastly, the Pittsburgh Steelers experienced the infamous “Mud Bowl” in 2007, where they narrowly defeated the Dolphins 3-0 in a game marked by torrential rain and poor field conditions, showcasing their resilience under challenging circumstances.
NFC Teams’ Highlights
In the NFC East, the Dallas Cowboys witnessed one of their most dramatic wins in 2007 against the Bills, recovering from a six-turnover game to win 25-24, thanks to a last-minute field goal by rookie Nick Folk.
The New York Giants faced the 49ers in a low-scoring affair in 1990, a game remembered not only for its physicality but also for the tension between players, culminating in a rematch for the NFC Championship later that season.
In a standout performance, Michael Vick led the Philadelphia Eagles to a 59-28 victory over Washington in 2010, becoming the first player to reach specific quarterback milestones in a single MNF game.
The Washington Commanders faced a tragic moment in 1985 when Joe Theismann suffered a severe leg injury, ending his career during a game against the Giants. The emotional fallout from the injury was felt throughout the league.
In the NFC North, the Chicago Bears introduced the world to rookie William “Refrigerator” Perry in 1985, when he scored a touchdown against the Packers, contributing to their Super Bowl-winning season.
The Detroit Lions witnessed an impressive performance from quarterback Jared Goff in 2024, as he set an NFL record by completing all 18 of his passes during a game against the Seahawks.
The Green Bay Packers experienced a miraculous moment with Antonio Freeman’s unforgettable catch in 2000, a play still discussed for its dramatic finish against the Vikings.
The Minnesota Vikings celebrated the debut of legendary receiver Randy Moss in 1998, who caught multiple touchdowns in a game that solidified his status among the NFL’s elite.
In the NFC South, the Atlanta Falcons enjoyed a satisfying win over the Saints in 2016, highlighted by a defensive touchdown that propelled them to a Super Bowl appearance later that season.
The Carolina Panthers saw a controversial end to a game against the Patriots in 2013, as a last-minute pass interference call was overturned, allowing them to secure a narrow victory.
For the New Orleans Saints, Steve Gleason’s blocked punt against the Falcons in 2006 remains one of the most significant moments in franchise history, symbolizing a triumphant return to the Superdome post-Hurricane Katrina.
Lastly, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured a thrilling victory in 2000 against the Rams, highlighted by a last-minute touchdown and a critical interception to seal the win.
The rich history of “Monday Night Football” continues to evolve, with each game contributing to the narrative of the NFL. As teams prepare for future matchups, these moments serve as a reminder of the excitement and unpredictability that defines the league.
