The NFC Elite 8 has been concluded and now it’s time to get to the other side of the bracket. To remind everyone who has advanced this far:
- The Pittsburgh Steelers
- The Tennessee Titans
- The New England Patriots
- The Oakland Raiders.
The moments for these teams are:
- Immaculate Reception
- Music City Miracle
- Malcolm Butler Interception
- The Tuck Rule
Again, just like the NFC, these are not the rankings for the moments. Unlike the NFC though, not every 1 seed advanced to the Elite 8. 3 out of 4 did though, meaning that 7 of the possible 8 number 1 seeds advanced this far. The lone outlier comes from the AFC West. John Elway’s helicopter was the 1 seed and was defeated in the divisional championship against the Tuck Rule. Let’s see if the Tuck Rule will continue to break the streak of 1 seeds:
Matchup 1:
Immaculate Reception vs. Music City Miracle
Winner — Immaculate Reception
We have Immaculate square off against a Miracle. Two great plays, but an easy decision. Franco Harris and the Steelers are off to the Final Four. “This sole play started up the Steelers run of 4 titles in the 70s; so controversial so it’ll always be a conversation piece.” David Havlin
Matchup 2:
Malcolm Butler Interception vs. The Tuck Rule
Winner — Tuck Rule
Two New England plays face-off in two of the most memorable moments in NFL History. Although it’s New England’s play that gets the nod, it’s the Raiders moment. “New England dynasty is not the same without this play. Shifts the course of the league forever.” Havlin.
The Final Four for the AFC is officially set and we will have the Immaculate Reception face-off against the Tuck Rule. Stay tuned to see who advances to the championship! Once again, thanks again to life-long friend David Havlin for contributing to this bracket.


