Fifty years and one week ago, on August 22, 1976, the New York Jets secured a 27-24 exhibition victory over the Houston Oilers. This win, the team's first after losing their initial three preseason games, is remembered for a peculiar intervention by Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Namath.
During the closing moments of the game, with the Jets attempting to run out the clock, then-head coach Lou Holtz observed quarterback Richard Todd fumble a couple of snaps. In what the source describes as a nod to the team's usual zaniness, Holtz summoned Namath back into the game.
Namath, who had previously had the extensive bracing removed from his knees, entered the field. After limping to the line of scrimmage, Namath addressed his teammates and the opposing Oilers, stating, "Fellas, I’m taking a knee. Let’s not get anyone hurt." The veteran quarterback's action effectively ended the game without further incident, preserving the victory and preventing potential injuries.
Holtz had reportedly prepared to celebrate his first win as an NFL head coach, even if it occurred in a preseason contest. The incident has since become a minor historical anecdote in the annals of the Jets franchise, highlighting a moment of unconventional decision-making.