Rich Eisen’s Top 10 NFL Plays: A Nostalgic Journey Through Football’s Greatest Moments!

In a special segment that delighted NFL fans, Rich Eisen, a revered figure in football analysis, shared his personally curated Top 10 NFL plays since his last SportsCenter appearance in 2003. Reflecting on his extensive career at NFL Network, Eisen’s countdown is a blend of nostalgia, excitement, and the dramatic essence that makes football a beloved spectacle.

Kicking off the list at number 10, Eisen took viewers back to a moment that changed the trajectory of a rookie’s career. He highlighted the breathtaking play when Eli Manning connected with Odell Beckham Jr., who made an unforgettable one-handed catch. Eisen aptly remarked, “A star was born,” encapsulating the electrifying atmosphere in New Jersey that instantly etched itself into NFL highlight reels.

At number 9, Eisen celebrated a historic moment in Super Bowl history: Devin Hester’s opening kickoff return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XLI. This play marked the first time in Super Bowl history that the opening kickoff was returned for a touchdown, setting an exhilarating tone for one of the most memorable championship games. Eisen’s tribute to Hester reminded fans of his unparalleled game-breaking speed.

Moving to number 8, Eisen revisited the legendary “Beast Quake” moment, where Marshawn Lynch bulldozed through the New Orleans Saints’ defense during a playoff showdown. The play culminated in Lynch’s now-iconic touchdown celebration that was so powerful it registered on a seismograph at the University of Washington. Eisen described it as “one of those moments where football transcends the game itself,” highlighting the raw emotion and energy of the play.

At number 7, the countdown featured the unforgettable “Minnesota Miracle.” Case Keenum’s last-second pass to Stefon Diggs stunned Saints fans and propelled the Vikings to victory. Eisen paired this thrilling moment with Julian Edelman’s “Boston Knees Party” from Super Bowl LI, a miraculous catch that played a pivotal role in the Patriots’ historic 28-3 comeback, which became a defining moment in NFL lore.

As the list moved into the top five, Eisen showcased the daring “Philly Special,” a trick play that connected Corey Clement to Trey Burton and Nick Foles. This audacious play is immortalized with a statue outside Philadelphia’s stadium, symbolizing the Eagles’ creative approach to the game.

Close behind at number 4 was the unforgettable David Tyree helmet catch, a defining moment in Eli Manning’s 2008 Super Bowl victory that defied physics and stunned the New England Patriots’ defense.

Eisen also spotlighted Steve Gleason’s heroic block punt in the reopening of the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina, placing it at number 3. This play became emblematic of New Orleans’ resilience and spirit, with a statue outside the stadium commemorating the historic moment that resonated far beyond the game itself.

At number 2, Eisen praised James Harrison’s legendary interception return touchdown against Larry Fitzgerald in Super Bowl XLIII. This remarkable play showcased not only Harrison’s athletic brilliance but also had a significant impact on the game, changing the momentum and ultimately contributing to the Steelers’ victory.

Finally, topping Eisen’s list at number 1 was a moment that epitomized the emotional swings inherent in sports: the Patriots’ game-sealing play in Super Bowl XLIX. Eisen described it as “the first time in any sport I’ve seen a stadium switch emotions in the blink of an eye,” capturing the jubilation of Patriots fans and the heartbreak of Seahawks supporters almost simultaneously.

While reflecting on his selections, Eisen admitted there were moments he might have swapped out, like Richard Sherman’s tip in the 2014 NFC Championship game. However, he emphasized that this list captures the essence of Tom Brady’s second dynasty with the Patriots. He also noted the challenge of selecting a single Kansas City Chiefs moment, mentioning Patrick Mahomes’ standout runs and overtime heroics as worthy contenders.

Rich Eisen’s segment was more than just a countdown; it was a heartfelt return to the desk where his journey began. With the upcoming Rich Eisen Show set to move to Disney Plus, ESPN Radio, and the ESPN app on September 2nd, fans can anticipate more insights, stories, and countdowns like this one.

From jaw-dropping catches to game-defining plays, Eisen’s top 10 celebrates the moments that have defined NFL football over the past 22 years. It blends nostalgia with a pure appreciation for the unforgettable highlights that continue to shape the sport and its passionate fan base. As the new NFL season approaches, these iconic plays serve as a reminder of why football is more than just a game; it’s a source of unforgettable memories and emotions that resonate with fans everywhere.