The Pontiac Silverdome is wasting away but the memories of January 24, 1982 will always be vibrant and lively for San Francisco 49ers fans.

Two weeks removed from slaying the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC title game with “The Catch,” San Francisco faced the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl XVI.

While Joe Montana secured the game’s MVP award, a heroic stand by the 49ers defense proved to be a pivotal moment.

With the 49ers leading 20-7, the Bengals buffaloed their way to the end zone. However, the 49ers defense answered the call with arguably the greatest goal line stand in Super Bowl history.

Cincinnati ran four plays from inside the 49er 5 and each time came away empty. The most difficult high-wire act for San Francisco came on a third down throw by Ken Anderson to running back Charles Alexander. Inches away from scoring, 49ers linebacker Dan Bunz flattened Alexander before he could score.

One play later, San Francisco secured a fourth down stop. The 49ers would win their first world championship on the strength of that stand…and their quarterback.