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MNF moments, No. 15: Memorable catches

AP Images/Beth A. Keiser

To celebrate the 45th season of "Monday Night Football," a panel of ESPN.com contributors has selected the 45 most memorable moments in MNF history. Follow along as we reveal one per day and count down to this season's MNF debut.

No. 15: Packers 27, Bears 24 | Sept. 11, 1995


The Green Bay Packers are known for the Lambeau Leap, but on this night in Chicago a Bears fan put his own spin on the touchdown celebration. And it's probably a good thing the "Solider Field Leap" didn't catch on.

In the third quarter following a Bears touchdown, kicker Kevin Butler blasted his extra-point attempt through the uprights and over the netting. As the ball descended into the tunnel, Bears fan Michael Pantazis leapt out of the stands and caught the ball in midair. He fell roughly 20 feet and sustained no injuries.

Even more miraculously, Pantazis didn't get in trouble for his jump and was able to keep the ball, eventually getting it autographed by Butler. Pantazis won the 1996 ESPY Award for the Outrageous Play of the Year.

But, his catch overshadowed a notable one on the field earlier in the game, when Brett Favre connected with receiver Robert Brooks for the first 99-yard passing touchdown in "Monday Night Football" history.