Most Receiving Yards in a Single Game: The record for most receiving yards in a single NFL game is 336, set by Flipper Anderson of the Los Angeles Rams against the New Orleans Saints on November 26, 1989.
Key Takeaways
- Flipper Anderson holds the record for most receiving yards in a single game with 336 yards.
- The top 10 list includes legendary receivers like Calvin Johnson and Jerry Rice.
- Most of these record-breaking performances occurred in high-scoring games.
- Several of the top performances happened in the 1980s and 1990s.
Top 10 Most Receiving Yards in a Single Game
The NFL has seen its fair share of extraordinary performances, but few are as impressive as those that make up the list of most receiving yards in a single game. These performances showcase the pinnacle of wide receiver talent and the perfect synergy between quarterback and pass-catcher. Let’s delve into the top 10 most prolific receiving yard performances in NFL history.
The top 10 most receiving yards in a single NFL game are: Flipper Anderson (336), Calvin Johnson (329), Stephone Paige (309), Jim Benton (303), Cloyce Box (302), Julio Jones (300), Jimmy Smith (291), Jerry Rice (289), John Taylor (286), and Antonio Brown (284).
#1. Flipper Anderson – 336 yards (1989)
Willie “Flipper” Anderson’s performance for the Los Angeles Rams against the New Orleans Saints on November 26, 1989, stands as the gold standard for single-game receiving yards. Anderson’s 336 yards came on just 15 receptions, averaging an astounding 22.4 yards per catch. This game was part of a breakout season for Anderson, who finished the year with 1,146 receiving yards.
#2. Calvin Johnson – 329 yards (2013)
Calvin “Megatron” Johnson lived up to his nickname when he racked up 329 yards against the Dallas Cowboys on October 27, 2013. Johnson’s performance came on 14 receptions and included a touchdown. This game was a testament to Johnson’s dominance, as he consistently outmaneuvered the Cowboys’ secondary throughout the contest.
#3. Stephone Paige – 309 yards (1985)
On December 22, 1985, Stephone Paige of the Kansas City Chiefs torched the San Diego Chargers for 309 yards on just 8 receptions. Paige’s incredible 38.6 yards per catch in this game highlights the big-play ability that defined this performance.
#4. Jim Benton – 303 yards (1945)
Jim Benton’s 303-yard game for the Cleveland Rams against the Detroit Lions on November 22, 1945, is remarkable not just for the yardage, but for the era in which it occurred. In a time when the passing game was far less prevalent, Benton’s performance stands out as truly ahead of its time.
#5. Cloyce Box – 302 yards (1950)
Cloyce Box of the Detroit Lions put up 302 yards against the Baltimore Colts on December 3, 1950. Box’s performance included 4 touchdowns, making it one of the most productive receiving games in NFL history.
#6. Julio Jones – 300 yards (2016)
Julio Jones reached the 300-yard mark exactly with his performance against the Carolina Panthers on October 2, 2016. Jones’ game included 12 receptions and a touchdown, showcasing his ability to dominate even against top-tier competition.
#7. Jimmy Smith – 291 yards (2000)
Jimmy Smith’s 291-yard outing for the Jacksonville Jaguars against the Baltimore Ravens on September 10, 2000, came on 15 receptions and included 3 touchdowns. Smith’s performance was crucial in the Jaguars’ 39-36 victory.
#8. Jerry Rice – 289 yards (1995)
The legendary Jerry Rice makes his appearance on this list with a 289-yard performance for the San Francisco 49ers against the Minnesota Vikings on December 18, 1995. Rice’s game included 14 receptions and 3 touchdowns, further cementing his status as one of the greatest receivers of all time.
#9. John Taylor – 286 yards (1989)
John Taylor, often overshadowed by his teammate Jerry Rice, had his moment in the spotlight on December 11, 1989. Taylor’s 286-yard performance against the Los Angeles Rams came on just 11 receptions, for an impressive 26 yards per catch average.
#10. Antonio Brown – 284 yards (2015)
Rounding out the top 10 is Antonio Brown’s 284-yard game for the Pittsburgh Steelers against the Oakland Raiders on November 8, 2015. Brown’s performance included 17 receptions and showcased his ability to consistently get open and make plays after the catch.
Analysis of the Top Performances
These record-breaking games share several common factors:
- Quarterback-Receiver Chemistry: In each case, the receiver and quarterback were in perfect sync, often resulting from years of playing together.
- Defensive Mismatches: Many of these performances came against defenses that struggled to contain the receiver, either due to injuries or scheme mismatches.
- Game Flow: High-scoring or close games often led to more passing attempts, giving receivers more opportunities to accumulate yards.
- Individual Talent: Each of these receivers possessed exceptional skills, combining speed, route-running ability, and sure hands to dominate their opponents.
The list of top receiving yard performances in a single game represents some of the most explosive offensive displays in NFL history. While the game continues to evolve, these performances remain benchmarks of individual excellence in the sport.
FAQs
What Is The Highest Receiving Yards In A Single Game?
The highest receiving yards in a single NFL game is 336, achieved by Flipper Anderson in 1989.
Has A Receiver Ever Had A 300-Yard Game?
Yes, three receivers have had 300+ yard games: Flipper Anderson (336), Calvin Johnson (329), and Stephone Paige (309).
Has A Running Back Ever Had 200 Receiving Yards In A Game?
Yes, Alvin Kamara had 236 receiving yards as a running back for the New Orleans Saints against the Green Bay Packers in 2020.
Who Owns The Record For Most Receiving Yards In A Game?
Flipper Anderson of the Los Angeles Rams holds the record for most receiving yards in a game with 336 yards, set on November 26, 1989.
Also Read:
