As the Pittsburgh Steelers were getting set to kick off against the Raiders, Terry Bradshaw paid an emotional tribute to legend, Franco Harris.
We knew this was going to be a hard night for everybody. Whether you are a diehard Pittsburgh Steelers fan who grew up watching football in the ’70s or or a casual NFL fan who isn’t even a fan of this team, everyone was feeling emotion prior to the Steelers Christmas Eve kickoff against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Almost exactly 50 years ago to the day, the Immaculate Reception was born. This was widely regarded as one of the greatest plays NFL history. Just days before Hall of Famer Franco Harris was set to be honored at half-time of this 50-year anniversary on Christmas Eve and have his jersey retired, he suddenly passed away. Pittsburgh joined in mourning his loss.
Just before kickoff for Steelers vs Raiders, Terry Bradshaw paid tribute to the late Franco Harris in the best way possible. On the eve of Christmas, Bradshaw reflected on his own rendition of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. However, his was all about the Immaculate Reception.
Terry Bradshaw on Franco Harris. #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/NoHCNXubQ1
— Blitz Guy (@BlitzGuyOG) December 25, 2022
Terry Bradshaw’s ‘Twas The Night of the Immaculate Reception was so, so well done. Silver lining of not being at the game is seeing all the great pregame tributes (and being warm on the couch). pic.twitter.com/GgquOdvajc
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) December 25, 2022
Bradshaw admitted that he had recorded this a few weeks back, but when they showed the Hall of Fame quarterback after playing the tribute on NFL network, he was welling up with tears. Bradshaw had just lost a very dear friend and a player he had spent over a decade of his life with.
His kind words after Harris’ passing were enough to warm the heart of everyone watching from home — football fan or otherwise. This tribute not only reminded us of this special moment, but jus how precious life is. What a better time to remember this than during the holidays surrounded by family and friends.
Our heart goes out to Franco Harris’ family tonight, as well as Terry Bradshaw and every other life Franco had an impact on. This is an incredibly emotional night for everyone and it’s one that we will remember for a long time.