RIP Franco. I wanted to be like you when I was a kid. #2 all-time leading rusher in NFL history when you retired. Superbowl MVP, countless pro bowls. Your jersey #32 will be one of only three retired numbers in the 90-year history of the franchise. Before you came, the Steelers never won. With you, they never lost. Most importantly though, you were a good man, giving back to the community to the end. And , in all those years in the spotlight, I've never heard a harsh word about you from anyone. I am sad to hear that you are gone. But, when the announcement was made that your number would be retired this Christmas eve, I couldn't help but notice the smile on your face during each interview. I truly hope you were smiling all the way to the end.
@@JohnPasmore That ball is probably worth more then a mint condition Honus Wagner baseball card. Does anyone know where the ball is? A lot of Pittsburgh fans keep their memorabilia down in the basement of their homes. This football is probably locked in a bank vault. But does one trust a bank to safekeep suck a priceless item? Too much temptation to switch that football with a decoy. I would put a camera on that vault, and have ADT monitor it 24/7. Better yet, put it in Fort Knox! Have 007 watch it!
@@JohnPasmore Some guy (I don’t remember his name) picked it up and put it away and later insured the ball for a million $$$. Understand he gave it to the Steelers to display this weekend. I am forever a Steeler fan and bless y’all for being brave enough to show up for the retirement of #32. And may God bless us all who will miss him and his great big heart.
I had a "Franco's Italian Army" 1/2 T-shirt when I was a kid playing HS football in the 80's. It was my dads in the 70's and I kinda got it passed down to me. 1/2 T's were a thing in the 70's. Always wore it under my pads. I wasn't a great player but I felt great having Franco on my side. RIP #32.
Thank you Franco. I was a young 2nd lieutenant assigned to the 82d Airborne Division, living off post at the Bernadine Apartments, Fayetteville, NC. I am a life long Steelers fan and my wife and I watched that game. When that play happened, I jumped out of my chair, jumped again and scraped my knuckles of both hands on the stippled ceiling. To this day, I have scares on all my knuckles from that ceiling, a pleasant reminder. I had the honor of meeting Franco later and told him that story. Gave him a good laugh. God bless the Harris family.
My Pop, a Retired Navy Chief, was on duty that night. When he made one of his rounds, the TV was turned on in one of the rooms. He stood there for a moment and watched the immaculate reception. He just told me that story this past Friday. Thank you for your service, Sir.
I was living in Fayetteville, NC at that time too. My dad was from Pittsburgh, so he brainwashed me and my siblings to be Steelers fans at an early age.
R.I.P. Franco harris forever a Steelers a legend and a NFL legend. I’m not even a Steelers fan but as a 49ers fan you hate to see the man who caught the immaculate reception die. “Legends never die!”
Franco, Terry, “Mean” Joe, Jack Lambert, Swann, Stallworth, Rockey Bleier, Mike Webster, Jack Ham, Mel Blount and Coach Chuck Noll were all heroes of the Steelers Dynasty of the 1970s. They were a GREAT team that defined an era.
If you were a kid growing up in the 70’s like me, no matter who your team was you probably had some degree of appreciation and respect for Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, and that era of Steelers football. The upcoming Christmas Day anniversary will be a sad thing to see. Gone too soon.
Following the Dolphins growing up, in that era, I could see from Franco's rookie year that first season that he was destined for greatness,'72 was so memorable for the Immac Recep, a Perfect season down in Miami, and the great rivalries of the era. RIP Franco
I'm certainly not a Steelers fan, but I have immense respect for anyone who plays at the high level of Franco Harris, bringing credit to the game, and sparking his team and his fan base to continue to excel. Rest In Peace, Franco Harris. You are an icon of the game.
RIP Franco! You could tell big things were about to happen with the Steelers, but this sped up the process! Having been a Cowboys and Oilers fan, Franco caused a lot of heartache LOL! To a man, all the Steelers players presented a blue-collar reality, not just an image. Today's NFL game can't hold a candle to that era!
Too many HOFamers in that game from the Steelers and Raiders. Iam sure if Franco is in Heaven he will talk to Cliff Branch of Raiders who died and made the Hall of Fame and never saw that day
Very proud to have been a Steelers fan in the sixties when we weren’t very good. Even though we were in central Pennsylvania all the other kids in the neighborhood were Packers fans but my friend Kevin and I decided to be Steelers fans because we were Pirates fans. I met Franco Harris and Jack Ham when I was ten years old and remember watching the game on our Zenith console. A lot of people don’t remember we didn’t even get to the Super Bowl that year lol, but the Steelers dynasty was just beginning!
FRANCO - BEING CANADA'S BIGGEST RAIDER FAN, PEOPLE ASK ME WHAT WAS THE IMMACULATE RECEPTION? I TELL THEM, NO NO NO, IT WAS THE IMMACULATE DECEPTION!!!!!!!!!!!!! COME ON FRANCO, WNHEN U R SITTIN AT MY OLD MAN'S BAR UPSTAIRS, U WONT BE ABLE TO GET AWAY WITH WHAT U HAVE SAID FOR 50 F'N YEARS, AND WE ALL KNOW FRANCO, IT TOUCHED THE GROUND !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SSAY HI TO MY MOM AND 2 KID BROS., FRANCO. DO U STILL WANT TO PLEAD THE 5TH AMENDMENT? HAHAHA R I P FRANCO
Condolences from a Tom Landry-era Dallas Cowboys fan. Rocky Bleier was my favorite Steelers RB during those Pittsburgh Super Bowl years, but I have to say, that Mr. Franco Harris made me cry almost as much as the 1960s Green Bay Packers did. What a great RB tandem he and Bleier made. R. I. P. Franco #32 Harris God bless our pro football heroes from a by-gone era.🏈
R.I.P Franco Harris 🙏 I'm a die-hard Browns fan and I always had respect for Franco Harris, I hear that he was a good guy on the field and an even better guy off the field condolences and prayers to the Harris family and to Steelers fans
@@dionshare7103 I remember when Jim Brown appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated in a Raider jersey. He threatened a comeback to prevent Harris from breaking his record ( either because he resented Harris for running out of bounds or he resented the Browns losing to the Steelers every year ). Harris slowed down late in his career, Walter Payton roared to the record, and Brown stayed retired.
I was at the game in the upper deck. I saw Bradshaw scrambling and when he threw the ball and immediately nothing happened all the air temporarily went out of the stadium. But, suddenly we heard a roar coming from the lower seating and looked down to see Franco running for the end zone. Of course, things moved so fast you didn’t know what had happened. All I could think was get out of bounds because all Pgh needed was a field goal. When Franco scored we still know how it happened. What a wonderful moment in my life to be present at the game.
I know when you released this 24 hours ago you had no idea he'd pass away, but thank you for your immaculate timing to go along with the immaculate reception. RIP to a legend. (Not buying your NFT though, now or ever.)
I was a Steelers fan as a kid because my mom (single mother, only child) was from Pittsburgh. I was 10 years old when this happened and remember watching that play. It cemented my love for the game and for the Steelers. What a team. Rocky Bleier, Mean Joe Green and the Steel Curtain, Mel Blount, Lynn Swan... Wow! Glad I experienced that as a fan.
I met Terry Bradshaw at a coffee shop in San Francisco in the 90s. I told him how he crushed two young boys dreams that day. He got a huge kick out of it. He said yeah I get that a lot out here. RIP #32 we still love you anyway.
I was a defensive lineman for the Steelers but I missed this play because I had to go to the restroom. I ate a massive plate of enchiladas the night before and one of them must’ve been bad. I often joked with Terry (Bradshaw) how we both missed that play. While I was on the toilet Terry was on the ground when Franco caught that pass. Terry told me while he was on the ground he knew it was a touchdown from the roar of the crowd. He told me while he was still on the ground that this play would lead to movies being made out of this play and how he might get a $15,000 bonus on top of his $30,000 salary. Terry has always been a joker. I’m really excited that I’m going to see him again at the Super Bowl.
I listened to the game on the radio because it was blacked out in Pittsburgh. I remember the instant the "Immaculate Reception" happened. The catch helped jump start the Steeler dynasty of the 70s.
As much as a Raiders fan I am, he made it a rivalry between us during the 1970s. I was barely 1 year old when this reception occurred 50 years ago. See you Franco in Heaven you was my dad's team. Thanks for the memories to Steelers and Raiders fans.
I am torn. My dad was a Steelers fan and my stepsister met Franco in 1977 and have Franco jersey to give to my dad before he died in Dec 79. My dad and my Birthday 🎂 is on Dec too. The tradition didn't pass on to me be a Steeler fan. Oh the irony. Raider 4 Life
I was 14 when Franco was signed to the Steelers and he’s the reason I became a huge fan. I felt so lucky to live in the Pittsburgh area and I still do! The 70’s were the best decade for the Steelers because of Franco Harris. He was and still is a legend. My heart is breaking, this has come as such a shock. RIP Franco 🙏🏻
Sleep in Peace Mr. Harris The Steelers were my first team (I don't count the Jets, I was a Joe Nameth fan). Franco, Rocky, Green Lambert, Bradshaw, Blunt.... Condolences the his family and friends and Pittsburgh. Girls love football too.
Respect to Mr. Harris and the Steelers from a hard core Oakland Raider fan of that time. I loved the Raiders then, but what a great player and what a great team the Steelers were too!
I'm a STEELERS fan because of you Mr. Harris and because of Mr. Jack Lambert! I saw you both play the game of football and I was hooked. Thank you Mr. Harris for representing The Pittsburgh Steelers with so so much class...you're so missed ...you're so loved. God's love and comfort to your family ❤️🙏🏾
When everyone was throwing Joe Paterno under the bus and character assassinating him, Franco was one of the few men who stood up for him and that was a mark of his greatness and his loyalty. It would have been easy to pile on but he took the hard road and said wait a minute, Paterno is not a monster. He's a good human being. Thank you Franco for being a giant among men.
Franco showed everybody what frauds the PS BoT, Mark Emmert and the NCAA and Louis Freeh were for wrongly and falsely accusing Joe. Joe did NOTHING wrong. Franco knew it. It was Joe who taught him "Go to the ball." He did and made NFL history.
Good human beings can still make mistakes. If Paterno knew of the grooming, abuse, and rape of those young men and boys - and, did nothing about it... that makes him not a good human being. It makes him part of an enormous problem. Doesn't mean we shouldn't have grace and compassion for him. Doesn't mean we shouldn't applaud the good things he had done. But it DOES mean he should've been arrested, thrown in jail, and stripped of any professional accolades. That is monster material! I don't blame Franco for still loving him. Know right from wrong, and make no excuses for abusers, EVER! See the red flags. Have a voice for the voiceless! There is NEVER a reason for that behavior...
I’m glad this video was made so I can watch you and T.B. One more time whenever I want. RIP in piece Franco Harris. I will cherish my picture with you and your autograph addressed to me forever ❤❤❤
He showed what winning was about and took it to another level for others to follow. He was a joy to watch. An honorable human being . There will be no other like Franco Harris!
Franco and his Italian Army will be missed. I followed him when he played at Penn State and continued to follow him when he became a Steeler. R.I.P. sir and continue to follow your blockers!🙏
Rest in peace. He was was my hero and still is. He came to my school. At Washington Elementary school in Pittsburgh. God bless you always Mr. Harris!!! Thanks for giving a young boy hope and dreams to believe in .
Usually I'd only reserve such a commentary for the divine but then there's Franco Harris, my childhood hero. A legend long out lives the the man unless the man is larger than life and so it is for Franco Harris. Although he's not as outspoken as Terry Bradshaw, Franco's lacking loquaciousness is made up by his humble meekness and graceful altruism he brings to every situation. Long after the legacy dies, Franco lives on infinitum. 3 and 2 defines the Trinity and the two natures of Christ, respectively and in its summation are the 5 wounds of Christ. Put them together and you have the numerical vesture, Franco Harris' ephod, he wore and even though it is slated for retired it drips of living inspiration to the greatest football team the NFL has ever delivered. The Pittsburgh Steelers are the hard as steel bedrock the NFL is established upon, not laid by human hands for it is sempiternal in the annals of time set beside the confluence of three mighty river systems. It is there the stuff of legends and dynasties rise and fall. May your jukes and jives alway break the tackles to that heavenly end zone and all extra points be straight and true through heaven's gates that all be good, good and faithful servant.
THE greatest play in NLF history!!! RIP Franco You brought joy and hope to millions. You were not only a great football player, you were a great human being. Thanks for the menories.
Franco's Italian Army! Franco Harris, a great football player, a great Steeler, and a great person. I spent my childhood growing up in a Pittsburgh suburb (Bethel Park) and started to follow the Steelers as Coach Noll was turning the team into a winning team. I can remember the '72 season, Franco's rookie year, and me and my friends admiring Franco. My dad was at that playoff game and saw the Immaculate Reception. He left me at home that day. I have forgiven him. 🙂😀
I was in shock of hearing of his passing. In his football years with the Steelers I watched his greatness every week. He was one of the best ever..RIP 🙏
Been a member of the army since I was 6. RIP Franco, one of my very first heroes along with Mister Rogers. Growing up near the burg in the 70's was a magical time.
Franco was one of my heroes growing up as a child. I can remember him coming to our grade school John Gregg Elementary in Ohio. He’s one of the greatest Steelers and players of all time. #32 will live on in our hearts and memories forever. RIP FRANCO HARRIS YOU WILL BE SADLY MISSED!
Growing up as a 10 year old kid in pre cable eastern Canada, this may have been the first NFL game I ever watched ( NFL games were only broadcast on Canadian TV after the CFL's Grey Cup game was over in November ). I've been a Steeler fan ever since. RIP, Franco; so many great memories.
BY FAR the one and only single most pivotal moment from the world of sports in my lifetime. Before, the Steelers were the laughingstock of the league and had never won a playoff game. Since THAT MOMENT, STILL the overall most successful team in the NFL by EVERY measure.
Franco went to Penn State and was an awesome player for the Nittany Lions. I remember my Dad listening to many games on the radio and Franco’s name came up frequently. Same with the Steeler games. Sorry to hear of his passing. He left a legacy. R.I.P. Franco.
I was 14 years old, playing pool at the neighbors and listening to the Steelers on the radio. All the sudden-chaos on the radio, then it was quiet, quiet...sshh, sshh. What happened? What? We won??? Remember like it was yesterday
40 years ago I met Mr Harris at a fundraising...this guy couldn't have been more of a gentleman..and a absolute delight...there were at about 10 other nfl players at this event...but this man Franco stood out...not from pure words just basic character.
The Steelers dynasty of the 70's was the most complete team ever assembled on both sides of the ball. No weaknesses. The way that team was built from scratch with the draft will never happen again. There was a period of a couple of years during that run when nobody on the Steelers roster had ever played for another team.
Thank you, Franco. I was a Steelers fan as a kid. I went to Canton when I was 7 and got a Steelers’ jersey! You will be remembered forever. Someone protect Bradshaw! We can’t lose two icons! Long live the OG TB12!
One of Many with "No Explanation". No Chronic Illness. Just "passed away" Vax Injury RIP: Marvin Haggler RIP Hundreds of Celebrities RIP (Average) 10's of 1000's of Americans and Internationals who will Never be mentioned. Wake up People !!!!
So am I! But when we truly think about it, our ticker is working since inception, it never takes a break even as we sleep. At some point, things give unfortunately. Rest well to him, one of the all time greats in an era where there was no babying on nor off the field.
I remember when Channel 4 showed the NFL Films version of this play here in the UK back in the 80's when I was a kid. OMG! The hair stood on back of my neck, my heart beat faster and I had goosebumps and tingling up and down my arms . To this day I consider it the greatest play in NFL history. Thank you, Franco (RIP ) & Terry for incredible gift you've given football fans everywhere ( except Oakland) it's beyond legendary and iconic. Go Hawks
I'm from the Cleveland area and I was in Pittsburgh years ago attending a Pirates game trying to get autographs as I was into that big time back then and afterwards I went to a local mall. I see someone who looks like Franco across the way shopping in a store with who I assumed was his wife. I awkwardly approached him and asked if he was Franco. He said yes I am and I asked if he could sign something for me which he did. He was very nice and gracious about it. I felt bad because alot of people started approaching him after that but it was a random chance meeting for me with a football legend and something I'll never forget. Thank you. RIP Franco.
RIP Franco. I wanted to be like you when I was a kid. #2 all-time leading rusher in NFL history when you retired. Superbowl MVP, countless pro bowls. Your jersey #32 will be one of only three retired numbers in the 90-year history of the franchise. Before you came, the Steelers never won. With you, they never lost. Most importantly though, you were a good man, giving back to the community to the end. And , in all those years in the spotlight, I've never heard a harsh word about you from anyone. I am sad to hear that you are gone. But, when the announcement was made that your number would be retired this Christmas eve, I couldn't help but notice the smile on your face during each interview. I truly hope you were smiling all the way to the end.
Beautifully put. Bet he's feeling all this love, too.
Paz y luz.
love that he just tosses the ball away in the end zone....
Well said, I too loved Franco, such a great player and yet such a great and humble man.
@@JohnPasmore That ball is probably worth more then a mint condition
Honus Wagner baseball card. Does anyone know where the ball is? A
lot of Pittsburgh fans keep their memorabilia down in the basement of
their homes. This football is probably locked in a bank vault. But does one
trust a bank to safekeep suck a priceless item? Too much temptation to
switch that football with a decoy. I would put a camera on that vault, and
have ADT monitor it 24/7. Better yet, put it in Fort Knox! Have 007 watch it!
@@JohnPasmore Some guy (I don’t remember his name) picked it up and put it away and later insured the ball for a million $$$. Understand he gave it to the Steelers to display this weekend. I am forever a Steeler fan and bless y’all for being brave enough to show up for the retirement of #32. And may God bless us all who will miss him and his great big heart.
Long Live The Legend Franco Harris😢
Aw! RiP legend!
Yes long live Franco Harris a hero in the Black and Italian cultures (his dad is black and his mom is white)😘🖤💛🙏🏽🖤💛
I had a "Franco's Italian Army" 1/2 T-shirt when I was a kid playing HS football in the 80's. It was my dads in the 70's and I kinda got it passed down to me. 1/2 T's were a thing in the 70's. Always wore it under my pads. I wasn't a great player but I felt great having Franco on my side. RIP #32.
Thank you Franco. I was a young 2nd lieutenant assigned to the 82d Airborne Division, living off post at the Bernadine Apartments, Fayetteville, NC. I am a life long Steelers fan and my wife and I watched that game. When that play happened, I jumped out of my chair, jumped again and scraped my knuckles of both hands on the stippled ceiling. To this day, I have scares on all my knuckles from that ceiling, a pleasant reminder. I had the honor of meeting Franco later and told him that story. Gave him a good laugh. God bless the Harris family.
Black and Gold and AATW!!!
My Pop, a Retired Navy Chief, was on duty that night. When he made one of his rounds, the TV was turned on in one of the rooms. He stood there for a moment and watched the immaculate reception. He just told me that story this past Friday. Thank you for your service, Sir.
I was living in Fayetteville, NC at that time too. My dad was from Pittsburgh, so he brainwashed me and my siblings to be Steelers fans at an early age.
@@nunyabusiness7927 Good man!
As a lifelong Cowboys fan, much respect to the legend Franco Harris. RIP good sir.
R.I.P. Franco harris forever a Steelers a legend and a NFL legend. I’m not even a Steelers fan but as a 49ers fan you hate to see the man who caught the immaculate reception die. “Legends never die!”
Yes. This Packer fan says RIP Franco Harris and thank you.
RIP to Franco Harris: A genuinely good guy off the field and a legend on it.
I'm a Raiders fan but Franco Harris was a Class act. R.I.P Franco
🏈⚘️🏈🏆🏈⚘️🏈
RIP to Franco Harris, a man who gave NFL fans one of the most memorable moments in NFL history.
I'm a Browns fan all my life but Franco Harris was the whole package. RIP
Same here brother. Agree. Much respect.
Franco, Terry, “Mean” Joe, Jack Lambert, Swann, Stallworth, Rockey Bleier, Mike Webster, Jack Ham, Mel Blount and Coach Chuck Noll were all heroes of the Steelers Dynasty of the 1970s. They were a GREAT team that defined an era.
If you were a kid growing up in the 70’s like me, no matter who your team was you probably had some degree of appreciation and respect for Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, and that era of Steelers football.
The upcoming Christmas Day anniversary will be a sad thing to see. Gone too soon.
Following the Dolphins growing up, in that era, I could see from Franco's rookie year that first season that he was destined for greatness,'72 was so memorable for the Immac Recep, a Perfect season down in Miami, and the great rivalries of the era. RIP Franco
RIP to a guy who was a giant on the field and off and formative to so many kids fandom of football and the steelers in the 70s. Too young to go
I'm certainly not a Steelers fan, but I have immense respect for anyone who plays at the high level of Franco Harris, bringing credit to the game, and sparking his team and his fan base to continue to excel. Rest In Peace, Franco Harris. You are an icon of the game.
They were the Dream Team. This was when I became a Steeler Fan. I love you Franco… R.I.P.
I've always been a Browns fan (74 yo) but no mater how hard I tried, I could not dislike this great football player. Deep respect.
RIP Franco! You could tell big things were about to happen with the Steelers, but this sped up the process! Having been a Cowboys and Oilers fan, Franco caused a lot of heartache LOL! To a man, all the Steelers players presented a blue-collar reality, not just an image. Today's NFL game can't hold a candle to that era!
We Love you guys thanks for creating the best team in NFL HISTORY
Just look at the hall of famers and for the record L.C. Greenwood should be there too.
Too many HOFamers in that game from the Steelers and Raiders. Iam sure if Franco is in Heaven he will talk to Cliff Branch of Raiders who died and made the Hall of Fame and never saw that day
They better hurry and retire Bradshaw jersey as a Raiders fan it is sad that the Steelers organization this long to retire Franco and Bradshaw
Mad respect for the 70's Steelers and I'm a Cowboy. RIP Mr. Harris!
So sad I'm a Giant fan but I came home from Xmas shopping to see the greatest play in NFL history.RIP Franco.
Very proud to have been a Steelers fan in the sixties when we weren’t very good. Even though we were in central Pennsylvania all the other kids in the neighborhood were Packers fans but my friend Kevin and I decided to be Steelers fans because we were Pirates fans. I met Franco Harris and Jack Ham when I was ten years old and remember watching the game on our Zenith console. A lot of people don’t remember we didn’t even get to the Super Bowl that year lol, but the Steelers dynasty was just beginning!
Heartbreaking even for a Cowboys fan...May Franco's soul rest in peace.
FRANCO - BEING CANADA'S BIGGEST RAIDER FAN, PEOPLE ASK ME WHAT WAS THE IMMACULATE RECEPTION? I TELL THEM, NO NO NO, IT WAS THE IMMACULATE DECEPTION!!!!!!!!!!!!! COME ON FRANCO, WNHEN U R SITTIN AT MY OLD MAN'S BAR UPSTAIRS, U WONT BE ABLE TO GET AWAY WITH WHAT U HAVE SAID FOR 50 F'N YEARS, AND WE ALL KNOW FRANCO, IT TOUCHED THE GROUND !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SSAY HI TO MY MOM AND 2 KID BROS., FRANCO. DO U STILL WANT TO PLEAD THE 5TH AMENDMENT? HAHAHA R I P FRANCO
@@johnnyraider George Atkinson wholeheartedly agrees with you! I am sure Al and Franco are debating the merits of 'the reception" as we speak!
Condolences from a Tom Landry-era Dallas Cowboys fan.
Rocky Bleier was my favorite Steelers RB during those Pittsburgh Super Bowl
years, but I have to say, that Mr. Franco Harris made me cry almost as much as the 1960s Green Bay Packers did.
What a great RB tandem he and Bleier made.
R. I. P.
Franco #32 Harris
God bless our pro football heroes from a by-gone era.🏈
RIP Franco. Eagles fan here. You were a legend.
What a great conversation! Thank you, Franco for igniting our team! And thank you, Terry for always making me smile!
R.I.P Franco Harris 🙏 I'm a die-hard Browns fan and I always had respect for Franco Harris, I hear that he was a good guy on the field and an even better guy off the field
condolences and prayers to the Harris family and to Steelers fans
You have that respect for Franco the way myself a Steelers fan has respect for Jim Brown.
...and I'm a Baltimore Colts fan who has the highest respects for both Brown and Harris!
@@dionshare7103 I remember when Jim Brown appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated in a Raider jersey. He threatened a comeback to prevent Harris from breaking his record ( either because he resented Harris for running out of bounds or he resented the Browns losing to the Steelers every year ). Harris slowed down late in his career, Walter Payton roared to the record, and Brown stayed retired.
8thin 5:28 @@lincolnmaceachern2410
I was at the game in the upper deck. I saw Bradshaw scrambling and when he threw the ball and immediately nothing happened all the air temporarily went out of the stadium. But, suddenly we heard a roar coming from the lower seating and looked down to see Franco running for the end zone. Of course, things moved so fast you didn’t know what had happened. All I could think was get out of bounds because all Pgh needed was a field goal. When Franco scored we still know how it happened. What a wonderful moment in my life to be present at the game.
RIP Franco, one of the classiest and well respected hall of fame legends of all time.
I know when you released this 24 hours ago you had no idea he'd pass away, but thank you for your immaculate timing to go along with the immaculate reception. RIP to a legend. (Not buying your NFT though, now or ever.)
If you have a real big hourglass, the Reception was 50 years ago today. In fact, it was about 50 years ago from the moment I posted this comment.
Heroes come, and heroes go; legends never die.
RIP, Franco.
Franco Harris sadly passed away earlier today. R.I.P to a steelers legend!
This is why I am here today.
Number 32, a Giant and an NFL Legend,
Rest in Eternal Peace Mr. Harris.
The days of fantastic and hard played ball. I sure miss so many of these guys.
Remember the play like I am still 17 years old,Rip Franco.🙏
Rest in paradise, Franco.
You were a glorious 🏈 player, but an even greater human. Thank you for everything.
Rip Franco & we will honor you on CHristmas Eve Night. Thank you.
I was a Steelers fan as a kid because my mom (single mother, only child) was from Pittsburgh. I was 10 years old when this happened and remember watching that play. It cemented my love for the game and for the Steelers. What a team. Rocky Bleier, Mean Joe Green and the Steel Curtain, Mel Blount, Lynn Swan... Wow! Glad I experienced that as a fan.
I met Terry Bradshaw at a coffee shop in San Francisco in the 90s. I told him how he crushed two young boys dreams that day. He got a huge kick out of it. He said yeah I get that a lot out here. RIP #32 we still love you anyway.
I was a defensive lineman for the Steelers but I missed this play because I had to go to the restroom. I ate a massive plate of enchiladas the night before and one of them must’ve been bad. I often joked with Terry (Bradshaw) how we both missed that play. While I was on the toilet Terry was on the ground when Franco caught that pass. Terry told me while he was on the ground he knew it was a touchdown from the roar of the crowd. He told me while he was still on the ground that this play would lead to movies being made out of this play and how he might get a $15,000 bonus on top of his $30,000 salary. Terry has always been a joker. I’m really excited that I’m going to see him again at the Super Bowl.
The Immaculate Reception is, and always will be, the greatest play in NFL history. Thank you, Franco! Rest in peace. 🙏🏼🏈🖤💛
Crushing news today, Franco is forever Immaculate. Rest in Peace.
R.I.P. Franco, thank you for being you. A cornerstone of the foundation of the team that took the rest of the league 40 years to catch up to.
What could've been had Franco lived a little longer just to see this occasion on Saturday plus the retirement of his jersey. RIP!
RIP Franco. You are a legend, a leader and we love you!
I listened to the game on the radio because it was blacked out in Pittsburgh. I remember the instant the "Immaculate Reception" happened. The catch helped jump start the Steeler dynasty of the 70s.
As much as a Raiders fan I am, he made it a rivalry between us during the 1970s. I was barely 1 year old when this reception occurred 50 years ago. See you Franco in Heaven you was my dad's team. Thanks for the memories to Steelers and Raiders fans.
Raiders Vs. Steelers it does not get any better than that.
I am torn. My dad was a Steelers fan and my stepsister met Franco in 1977 and have Franco jersey to give to my dad before he died in Dec 79. My dad and my Birthday 🎂 is on Dec too. The tradition didn't pass on to me be a Steeler fan. Oh the irony. Raider 4 Life
R.I.P. To the leader of Franco's Italian Army
Be Immaculate in heaven man.
I was 14 when Franco was signed to the Steelers and he’s the reason I became a huge fan. I felt so lucky to live in the Pittsburgh area and I still do! The 70’s were the best decade for the Steelers because of Franco Harris. He was and still is a legend. My heart is breaking, this has come as such a shock. RIP Franco 🙏🏻
Franco was in the right place at the right time. I grew up admiring these men.
RIP to one of the GOATs Franco. Sucks he won’t get to attend his number retirement ceremony
I remember watching that play as a 10 year old kid. I was always a fan of the Steelers from the 70’s on because of those great teams.
Sleep in Peace Mr. Harris
The Steelers were my first team (I don't count the Jets, I was a Joe Nameth fan). Franco, Rocky, Green Lambert, Bradshaw, Blunt....
Condolences the his family and friends and Pittsburgh.
Girls love football too.
Such SAD news! Being a kid in the 70's with the Steelers was awesome! Franco was amazing! Love him! RIP #32!
Respect to Mr. Harris and the Steelers from a hard core Oakland Raider fan of that time. I loved the Raiders then, but what a great player and what a great team the Steelers were too!
Raiders fan here. The Steelers was my dad's team.
I'm a STEELERS fan because of you Mr. Harris and because of Mr. Jack Lambert!
I saw you both play the game of football and I was hooked. Thank you Mr. Harris for representing The Pittsburgh Steelers with so so much class...you're so missed ...you're so loved.
God's love and comfort to your family ❤️🙏🏾
When everyone was throwing Joe Paterno under the bus and character assassinating him, Franco was one of the few men who stood up for him and that was a mark of his greatness and his loyalty. It would have been easy to pile on but he took the hard road and said wait a minute, Paterno is not a monster. He's a good human being. Thank you Franco for being a giant among men.
Absolutely 👍
Franco showed everybody what frauds the PS BoT, Mark Emmert and the NCAA and Louis Freeh were for wrongly and falsely accusing Joe. Joe did NOTHING wrong. Franco knew it. It was Joe who taught him "Go to the ball." He did and made NFL history.
Good human beings can still make mistakes. If Paterno knew of the grooming, abuse, and rape of those young men and boys - and, did nothing about it... that makes him not a good human being. It makes him part of an enormous problem. Doesn't mean we shouldn't have grace and compassion for him. Doesn't mean we shouldn't applaud the good things he had done. But it DOES mean he should've been arrested, thrown in jail, and stripped of any professional accolades.
That is monster material!
I don't blame Franco for still loving him.
Know right from wrong, and make no excuses for abusers, EVER! See the red flags. Have a voice for the voiceless!
There is NEVER a reason for that behavior...
And, remind me, please...
I honestly don't remember...
Did they prove that Paterno knew? That he turned a blind eye?
PATERNO earned all of the derision that came his way . The king of State College knew and buried Sandusky disgusting crimes too long
Wow that was tough. Mike Greenburg said it, a little part of my childhood died with Franco.
Franco RIP What a gentleman..
I’m glad this video was made so I can watch you and T.B. One more time whenever I want. RIP in piece Franco Harris. I will cherish my picture with you and your autograph addressed to me forever ❤❤❤
I wish he would’ve had the 50th anniversary moment. I guess he will. In heaven.
He showed what winning was about and took it to another level for others to follow. He was a joy to watch. An honorable human being . There will be no other like Franco Harris!
Franco and his Italian Army will be missed. I followed him when he played at Penn State and continued to follow him when he became a Steeler. R.I.P. sir and continue to follow your blockers!🙏
I had a very big crush on Franco Harris when I was a young lady. He will always be a hero to me. Rest in peace, my love.
Beautiful.
Rest in peace. He was was my hero and still is. He came to my school. At Washington Elementary school in Pittsburgh. God bless you always Mr. Harris!!! Thanks for giving a young boy hope and dreams to believe in .
RIP Franco. The 70's were such fun times growing up.
Usually I'd only reserve such a commentary for the divine but then there's Franco Harris, my childhood hero. A legend long out lives the the man unless the man is larger than life and so it is for Franco Harris. Although he's not as outspoken as Terry Bradshaw, Franco's lacking loquaciousness is made up by his humble meekness and graceful altruism he brings to every situation. Long after the legacy dies, Franco lives on infinitum.
3 and 2 defines the Trinity and the two natures of Christ, respectively and in its summation are the 5 wounds of Christ. Put them together and you have the numerical vesture, Franco Harris' ephod, he wore and even though it is slated for retired it drips of living inspiration to the greatest football team the NFL has ever delivered. The Pittsburgh Steelers are the hard as steel bedrock the NFL is established upon, not laid by human hands for it is sempiternal in the annals of time set beside the confluence of three mighty river systems. It is there the stuff of legends and dynasties rise and fall. May your jukes and jives alway break the tackles to that heavenly end zone and all extra points be straight and true through heaven's gates that all be good, good and faithful servant.
R.I.P. Mr. Harris 🙏🏿 Life is Precious 🌹 Every breath we take is a Blessing ❤️🙏🏿
THE greatest play in NLF history!!!
RIP Franco
You brought joy and hope to millions.
You were not only a great football player, you were a great human being.
Thanks for the menories.
Franco's Italian Army!
Franco Harris, a great football player, a great Steeler, and a great person.
I spent my childhood growing up in a Pittsburgh suburb (Bethel Park) and started to follow the Steelers as Coach Noll was turning the team into a winning team. I can remember the '72 season, Franco's rookie year, and me and my friends admiring Franco. My dad was at that playoff game and saw the Immaculate Reception. He left me at home that day. I have forgiven him. 🙂😀
I was in shock of hearing of his passing. In his football years with the Steelers I watched his greatness every week. He was one of the best ever..RIP 🙏
RIP Franco Harris. You are one of the best. 50 year anniversary of that wonderful play. Plus retiring your jersey.
I love them both RIP Franco
Been a member of the army since I was 6. RIP Franco, one of my very first heroes along with Mister Rogers. Growing up near the burg in the 70's was a magical time.
Franco was one of my heroes growing up as a child. I can remember him coming to our grade school John Gregg Elementary in Ohio. He’s one of the greatest Steelers and players of all time. #32 will live on in our hearts and memories forever. RIP FRANCO HARRIS YOU WILL BE SADLY MISSED!
Growing up as a 10 year old kid in pre cable eastern Canada, this may have been the first NFL game I ever watched ( NFL games were only broadcast on Canadian TV after the CFL's Grey Cup game was over in November ). I've been a Steeler fan ever since. RIP, Franco; so many great memories.
Love these men lmao ...beautiful thank you for this rest in heaven Franco Steelers forever
BY FAR the one and only single most pivotal moment from the world of sports in my lifetime. Before, the Steelers were the laughingstock of the league and had never won a playoff game. Since THAT MOMENT, STILL the overall most successful team in the NFL by EVERY measure.
Man, RIP Franco. I was barely in high school back then, but I'll never forget it.
Franco went to Penn State and was an awesome player for the Nittany Lions. I remember my Dad listening to many games on the radio and Franco’s name came up frequently. Same with the Steeler games. Sorry to hear of his passing. He left a legacy. R.I.P. Franco.
I was 14 years old, playing pool at the neighbors and listening to the Steelers on the radio. All the sudden-chaos on the radio, then it was quiet, quiet...sshh, sshh. What happened? What? We won???
Remember like it was yesterday
Fly high king 🕊
THE GREATEST TEAM IN NFL HISTORY.
Rip franco not only a great player a great person too 🫡
RIP, Franco. As a young kid, I loved football in the 1970's. Cosell, Gifford and the boys on Monday night. Oh, man! Thanks for the memories.
Yes. Inthose days MNF was must see TV. The magic of Cosell, Gifford and Dandy Don Meredith has yet to be , and probably will never be, repeated.
My first football Team I ever followed and I was able to name 10- 15 players of the top of my head. Sad day, prayers to his family 👪
Thank you sir for the childhood memories. Born and raised in CT but a Steelers fan my whole life. 🙏
From a 49er fan, Huge Respect !
Grew up with Franco and remember the Immaculate Reception that day! This was the day the Steelers changed! May you Rest In Peace Franco!
What a magnificent human being in every respect. RIP, hero🙏🏽
40 years ago I met Mr Harris at a fundraising...this guy couldn't have been more of a gentleman..and a absolute delight...there were at about 10 other nfl players at this event...but this man Franco stood out...not from pure words just basic character.
RIP Mr. Harris, from a 49er fan. You will forever be remembered in NFL history.
The Steelers dynasty of the 70's was the most complete team ever assembled on both sides of the ball. No weaknesses. The way that team was built from scratch with the draft will never happen again. There was a period of a couple of years during that run when nobody on the Steelers roster had ever played for another team.
What a nice humble man, I hope you rest easy Franco Harris Steeler Nation will always love you
Thank you, Franco. I was a Steelers fan as a kid. I went to Canton when I was 7 and got a Steelers’ jersey! You will be remembered forever. Someone protect Bradshaw! We can’t lose two icons! Long live the OG TB12!
Wow, this interview is so surreal. R.I.P. Sir
I'm shocked with Franco passing. He looked in great health.
They always do before the Pfizer Phenomena hits them.
One of Many with "No Explanation". No Chronic Illness. Just "passed away"
Vax Injury
RIP: Marvin Haggler
RIP Hundreds of Celebrities
RIP (Average) 10's of 1000's of Americans and Internationals who will Never be mentioned. Wake up People !!!!
He was shilling the vax for the CDC.
So am I! But when we truly think about it, our ticker is working since inception, it never takes a break even as we sleep. At some point, things give unfortunately. Rest well to him, one of the all time greats in an era where there was no babying on nor off the field.
I agree.
RIP Franco Thank You for the fantastic memories.
I remember when Channel 4 showed the NFL Films version of this play here in the UK back in the 80's when I was a kid. OMG! The hair stood on back of my neck, my heart beat faster and I had goosebumps and tingling up and down my arms . To this day I consider it the greatest play in NFL history. Thank you, Franco (RIP ) & Terry for incredible gift you've given football fans everywhere ( except Oakland) it's beyond legendary and iconic. Go Hawks
I'm from the Cleveland area and I was in Pittsburgh years ago attending a Pirates game trying to get autographs as I was into that big time back then and afterwards I went to a local mall. I see someone who looks like Franco across the way shopping in a store with who I assumed was his wife.
I awkwardly approached him and asked if he was Franco. He said yes I am and I asked if he could sign something for me which he did. He was very nice and gracious about it. I felt bad because alot of people started approaching him after that but it was a random chance meeting for me with a football legend and something I'll never forget. Thank you.
RIP Franco.