Mike Renfro's Controversial Catch: Reliving the 1980 AFC Championship Game

The Infamous 1979 AFC Championship Game

• 🏈 The 1979 AFC Championship game in Pittsburgh featured a pivotal moment involving the Houston Oilers.
• 🎯 Quarterback Dan Pasterini threw what appeared to be a game-tying touchdown pass to Mike Renfro.

The Controversial Non-Call

• ❌ Despite both feet appearing to be in bounds, the referees ruled Renfro out of bounds, disallowing the touchdown.
• 📺 In that era, instant replay was not available, meaning the controversial call stood.
• 💡 Renfro himself stated, "In my mind, it's still a touchdown."

Lingering Impact on Houston Fans

• 💔 The disallowed catch is described as a "thorn in the side" for Renfro, his teammates, and many old Houston fans.
• 😥 The Oilers went on to lose the game to the Steelers, ending their Super Bowl hopes.
• 📣 Despite the loss, Houston fans showed immense appreciation with a huge pep rally for the returning team.

Hopes for the Future

• 🚀 The retired players expressed their support for the current Houston Texans team.
• ✅ They hope the Texans can win and "write the wrongs of the past," though Renfro believes it won't erase the sting of the 1980 game for him personally.