Franco Harris, Joe Greene, and Mel Blount join the James Brown Show

During the 1970s, the Pittsburgh Steelers experienced an unprecedented era of success, and three key players played instrumental roles in establishing the team as one of the most dominant forces in NFL history: Franco Harris, Mel Blount, and Joe Greene.

Franco Harris, the talented running back, was drafted by the Steelers in 1972, and he quickly became an integral part of their offense. With his remarkable blend of speed, power, and agility, Harris was a force to be reckoned with on the field. He was the driving force behind the Steelers' dynamic rushing attack and played a crucial role in their four Super Bowl victories during the decade. Harris will always be remembered for his iconic "Immaculate Reception" in the 1972 AFC Divisional Playoff Game, where he made a game-winning catch that remains one of the most memorable plays in NFL history. Throughout his career with the Steelers, Harris surpassed numerous records and earned nine Pro Bowl selections before leaving an indelible legacy as one of the greatest running backs of all time.

Mel Blount, a towering cornerback, was another key component of the Steelers' success in the 1970s. Standing at 6'3", Blount brought a unique physicality to the cornerback position. His size and strength allowed him to dominate opposing wide receivers, and his exceptional coverage skills made him a formidable opponent. Blount's impact on the game was so profound that the NFL introduced the "Mel Blount Rule" in 1978, restricting the contact defensive backs could make with receivers beyond five yards from the line of scrimmage. This rule change was a testament to Blount's influence and exemplified the lasting legacy of his defensive prowess. Throughout his career with the Steelers, Blount earned five Pro Bowl selections and was an essential piece of the "Steel Curtain" defense that intimidated opponents and secured championships.

Joe Greene, known as "Mean Joe Greene," was the heart and soul of the Steelers' dominant defense. Drafted in 1969, Greene became the anchor of the "Steel Curtain" and was a driving force behind Pittsburgh's defensive success throughout the 1970s. As a defensive tackle, he combined power, agility, and an unyielding spirit that made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Greene's leadership on and off the field earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike. His impact extended beyond his playing days, as he later pursued a coaching and front-office career, continuing to contribute to the Steelers' success. Greene's tenacity and excellence earned him 10 Pro Bowl selections and five First-Team All-Pro honors, cementing his status as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history.