In various exemplary embodiments, the present invention provides systems and methods that can convert clean or raw natural gas, clean or dirty coke oven gas, or the like to reducing gas/syngas suitable for direct reduction with minimal processing or cleaning. Hydrocarbons and the like are converted to H2 and CO. S does not affect the conversion to reducing gas/syngas, but is removed or otherwise cleaned up by the iron bed in the direct reduction shaft furnace. Top gas may be continuously recycled or a once-through approach may be employed.