It would be near impossible to have a concensus on the top 5 biggest plays in Washington franchise history. There have been countless memorable moments, but they span multiple decades and people’s perspectives may vary.
It seemed a good topic for #FlashbackFriday to look back at some plays that defined the franchise.
Top 5 Biggest Redskins Plays in History
1. John Riggins’ 43-Yard Touchdown Run – Super Bowl XVII
The Redskins trailed the Miami Dolphins 17-13. It was fourth-and-1 from the Miami 43. Joe Gibbs called “70 Chip.” John Riggins took the handoff. He broke Don McNeal’s tackle and raced down the left sideline. The Diesel scored the go-ahead touchdown. Washington never trailed again and won 27-17. This run gave the franchise its first Super Bowl title. It remains the single most iconic play in Redskins history.
2. Darrell Green’s 52-Yard Punt Return Touchdown – 1987 NFC Divisional Playoff
The Redskins faced the Chicago Bears in the playoffs. Green fielded a punt and exploded up the field. He outran the entire Bears coverage unit for a 52-yard touchdown. The return shifted momentum completely.
Washington won and went on to play and win Super Bowl XXII.
Green’s speed changed games for two decades. This return was one of the reasons that he remains the greatest defensive back in franchise history.
3. Doug Williams to Ricky Sanders – 80-Yard Touchdown – Super Bowl XXII
The Redskins trailed Denver early in Super Bowl XXII. On the first play of the second quarter, Doug Williams hit Ricky Sanders deep. Sanders raced 80 yards for a touchdown. The score ignited a historic offensive explosion. Washington scored 35 points in the quarter and crushed the Broncos 42-10. That single strike flipped the game and the Super Bowl forever.
4. Art Monk’s Record-Breaking Catch – October 12, 1992
Art Monk needed one more reception to pass Steve Largent. On Monday Night Football against Denver, Joe Gibbs padded three plays for him. Mark Rypien hit Monk on a 10-yard sideline route. It was Monk’s 820th career catch. Teammates lifted him onto their shoulders at RFK Stadium. The quiet superstar finally owned the all-time receptions record. The moment celebrated consistency and excellence over 13 seasons.
5. Santana Moss’ Game-Winning Touchdown – September 19, 2005
The Redskins trailed the Dallas Cowboys late on Monday Night Football. Mark Brunell had already found Santana Moss for one long score. Then Brunell hit Moss again for the go-ahead touchdown. The second strike gave Washington a 14-13 lead. The defense held on for the win. Moss’ speed produced pure magic under the lights against the Cowboys.
Near Miss: Joe Theismann to Alvin Garrett – 1982 NFC Championship
The Redskins faced the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC Championship. Joe Theismann hit Alvin Garrett on a key third-down conversion late in the game. The catch kept a crucial drive alive. Washington went on to win and reach Super Bowl XVII. The play helped end years of frustration against their biggest rival. It still ranks just outside the top five for pure impact and timing.
Rank ‘Em
These plays capture championship glory, individual brilliance, and unforgettable drama.
They still make fans stand and cheer decades later – no matter whether you’re Team Redskins or Team Commanders.
How do you rank them? Are there any missing? Holler on X at us @TheHogsdotnetV2 and use the hashtag #FlashbackFriday too.
HTTR.