A former wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers, is regarded by many as the “greatest of all time” in his
position. Though Rice is undoubtedly the greatest, he did have some support from superb quarterback play
throughout his career. Rice had the opportunity to play with two Hall of Fame quarterbacks, Joe Montana and Steve
Young, as well as a Pro Bowl quarterback, Jeff Garcia, while with the 49ers.
But who among these passers-by was his favorite? Keyshawn Johnson, a former NFL wide receiver, asked Rice the
question on the “All Facts No Brakes” podcast. Rice’s answer? Joe Montana.
“Joe Montana and I, we had such chemistry man,” remarked Rice. “Then Steve Young came along, and I was able to
put up some great numbers with him. I was able to adjust to the skills of each quarterback I encountered.”
“If I had to pick one, it would probably be Joe Montana, because we had great chemistry,” Johnson was quoted as
saying.
Rice reached the pinnacle of his career while Montana and Young were his quarterbacks. Rice began his NFL career
in 1985, catching receptions from Montana. Montana had already won two Super Bowls by that point. With Rice on
board, Montana and the 49ers offense hit new heights.
Following a difficult regular season in 1988, Montana and Rice led the 49ers to their third Super Bowl appearance.
Rice had one of the best receiving performances by a wide receiver in Super Bowl history, which was Montana’s third
and Rice’s first. Rice was named MVP of the Super Bowl after catching 11 catches for 215 yards and one touchdown.
His 215 yards remain the NFL record for most receiving yards in a Super Bowl.
