31 - 38

(Sep 17, 1995 · Week 3)

Downfield connections between Rod Smith and his gunslinging Hall of Fame quarterback hadn’t quite reached Super Bowl-winning, apex levels just yet in 1995, but even early on, the potential for something special was evidently in place. Down to one final play in regulation with the game tied, Smith, trusting his size advantage against the eventual Hall of Famer lined up against him, boxed out the speedy corner before elevating into a game-winning 43-yard touchdown snag, both the first catch and first score of his NFL career. The Denver Broncos, despite Washington's ferocious comeback efforts, survived with a 38-31 win on September 17, 1995. Smith concluded with one catch for 43 yards and a touchdown, setting a big-play foundation that the undrafted Pro Bowler’s career would ultimately be built through.

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