On December 23, 1982, one of the most memorable plays in NFL history occurred during a game between the Miami Dolphins and the New York Jets. With just seconds left on the clock and the Dolphins trailing 24-21, quarterback Don Strock took the snap and threw a desperation pass towards the end zone. The ball was deflected by Jets defender Jerry Holmes, but miraculously, Dolphins wide receiver Duriel Harris managed to tip the ball back towards the field of play. Dolphins running back Tony Nathan, who was trailing the play, made a diving catch just inches off the ground, securing the ball and scoring a touchdown as time expired. The incredible play, known as "The Hook and Lateral," tied the game at 24-24, sending it into overtime.
In the overtime period, the Dolphins completed another stunning play. On 3rd and 12 from their own 18-yard line, Strock connected with wide receiver Bruce Hardy on a 50-yard pass. A few plays later, Dolphins kicker Uwe von Schamann kicked a 23-yard field goal to win the game 27-24.
The thrilling finish to this game, particularly "The Hook and Lateral" play, has gone down in NFL lore as one of the most unforgettable moments in the history of the sport. The improbable combination of skill, luck, and determination displayed by the Dolphins players on that day has forever etched December 23, 1982, into the annals of sports history.
