1972 AFC Divisional Playoff vs Steelers
A rivalry born from the Immaculate Reception.
The Raiders–Steelers rivalry is an NFL rivalry between the Las Vegas Raiders and Pittsburgh Steelers. Both teams compete in the American Football Conference (AFC). The historically bitter rivalry started with the Steelers' first playoff win over the Raiders by way of Franco Harris' Immaculate Reception on December 23, 1972.
Quick Facts
- Date
- December 23, 1972
- Final score
- Steelers 13, Raiders 7
Lore & Background
The 1972 AFC Divisional Playoff game, known for the Immaculate Reception, resulted in a Steelers 13–7 victory. This game spawned a heated rivalry that was at its peak during the 1970s, when both teams were among the best in the league and both were known for their hard-hitting, physical play.
Reader's Guide
The Raiders lead the overall series, 17–16. The two teams have met six times in the playoffs, winning three each.
Did You Know?
- The two teams met in the playoffs for five consecutive seasons (1972–76), an NFL record that has yet to be matched.
- CBS Sports ranked this rivalry as the best NFL rivalry of the 1970s.
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