The 50th anniversary of the "Ice Bowl"

50 years ago today, the Dallas Cowboys and the Green Bay Packers played in the NFL championship game in Lambeu Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Packers won the game 21-17 when quarterback Bart Starr scored on a one yard run. The game was played in below zero weather in one of the coldest games in NFL history. The temperature reached the low point of -13 degrees. The game became known as the "Ice Bowl" because of how cold it was.

It was the second straight time that the Green Bay Packers defeated the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL championship game. The Packers would go on to defeat the Oakland Raiders 33-14 in the second Super Bowl.

Dan Reeves was a running back for the Cowboys on that day. In 2015, he discussed the game with Jenny Vrentas of Sports Illustrated.When describing how cold it was, Reeves said "I don't know that you can describe it. Probably the best way that people can relate is that the day before, on Saturday, it was 15 degrees, or like going from 70 degrees to 102." The 32 degree difference made it a difficult adjustment for the players. It may have been a particular difficult adjustment for the Cowboys who came from Texas, a warm weather state.

Reeves said that the Cowboys had cotton gloves, but quarterbacks, running backs and receivers did not wear them. Reeves said that the Cowboys wore saran wrap on their feet right above their socks in order to keep their feet warm. However, Reeves said "We did that and that would kind of help, until you made a move or cut and all of a sudden, you'd have a hole in the saran wrap and you'd feel the cold air come in." The Cowboys did their best to manage the cold, but not everything worked.

The ground was frozen that day, which made it difficult for both teams to gain their footing on the field. Vrentas pointed out that the frozen turf inspired the "frozen tundra" label that is still associated with Lambeau Field. Reeves said "You could hardly stand up. It was just very difficult to keep your footing." Both teams fought through the frozen conditions as best they could. Both teams competed against each other and the elements.

The rivalry between the Packers and the Cowboys was cemented that day. The previous year the Packers defeated the Cowboys 34-27 in the NFL championship game. The Cowboys were stopped at the goal line near the end of the game. So, the rivalry had started before the "Ice Bowl."

Regarding the rivalry between the two teams, Reeves said "You did your own scheduling back then, and Coach Landry and Coach Lombardi had been on the same staff in New Yor; they were good friends, so we always played in presason. They were a good football team, and that's where rivalries come from, when you have two good teams that are very competitive. And Coach Landry and Coach Lombardi were both very competitive." The rivalry between the Packers and the Cowboys has been one of the best rivalries in the history of the NFL. The rivalry is symbolized by the "Ice Bowl."

It's difficult for a team to play in harsh and cold conditions. However, its more difficult when the team loses. The winning team at least has the consolation of the victory. Regarding the loss, Reeves said "It was very disappointing. We had the lead in the fourth quarter, and then to lose it at the end of the game, it was very disappointing. We had been disappointed the year before, felt like we should have scored to tie the game the year before. We lost two close ball games for the right to go to the first and second Super Bowls, so it was very disappointing." Sport is filled with exileration in victory and disappointment in loss. One team will be happy, while the other will be disappointed. The Cowboys were disappointed after both NFL championship games against Green Bay. However, their effort was solid. The Cowboys of 1966-1968 are still remembered as a good football team.

Packers offensive lineman Jerry Kramer made the block against Cowboy defensive lineman Jethro Pugh that enabled Starr to score the winning touchdown. When speaking to Bob Fox of bleacherreport.com, Kramer said that he felt responsible for the play because he had suggested to Coach Lombardi that the Packers call the play during the game. Kramer said "I mean I had suggested the play on Thursday. It seemed like the play was squarely on my shoulders...I knew that to be successful as a blocker that I had to keep my head up and my eyes open." Kramer knew his responsibility as an offensive lineman. He successfully fulfilled his responsibility, which helped Starr to score the winning touchdown.

Referee Norm Schachter blew the whistle to start the game. He did not blow the whistle again. A sound barely came out and Schachter said the "whistles froze on us." They did not use whistles the rest of the game. They simply yelled or raised their voices when they wanted to get the attentions of the players.

Green Bay's Don Chandler kicked the ball off to start the game. Simms Stokes ran the ball to the Cowboy 33 after briefly losing his footing. On the Cowboys' first play from scrimmage, quarterback Don Meredith passed the ball to a wide open Bob Hayes who caught it for a 10 yard gain. The Cowboys tried two running plays to Reeves, who struggled to gain traction on the frozen field. A pass to a wide receiver failed as the receiver slipped on a pass that was underthrown by Meredith. After four plays, the Cowboys punted.



On Green Bay's first play from scrimmage, Running back Donny Anderson fumbled, but the Packers recovered. Throughout the first drive Green Bay tried a mix of running plays and passing plays, which Bart Starr said was their game plan. Anderson ran well and caught a pass during the drive. The Cowboys also had a penalty for pass interference and one for defensive holding. The Packers seemed more ready for the game than the Cowboys. One Cowboy player said that the Packers were thinking about football, while the Cowboys were thinking about the cold. Green Bay had the football first and goal from the nine yard line. On second and goal from the 8, Starr threw a touch down pass to Boyd Dowder. After the extra point by Chandler, the Packers lead 7-0.

On Dallas' second possession, the Cowboys once again struggled to move the football. Running back Don Perkins ran the ball fairly well on a few plays, but was eventually stopped for no gain on a second down play. On third down, Meredith threw to Reeves who slipped and fell on an underthrown pass by Meredith. The Cowboys once again punted the football.

Green Bay's running back Ben Wilson gained 13 yards. Then, on a play action pass, Starr connected with Dowler for a 43 yard touch down pass over the middle. Just like that, Green Bay lead Dallas 14-0.

After the ensuing kickoff, the Cowboys took over at their 40 yard line. Meredith, who said that the cold made the football seem bigger, threw an interception to Packer cornerback Herb Adderly. The announcers noticed that Meredith's passes did not have the same "zip" as they usually did. Clearly, the Cowboys were struggling with the cold more than the Packers in the early going of the game.

Green Bay took over in Dallas territory. They made it into field goal range. However, eventually, Dallas' defensive lineman George Andre sacked Starr all the way back to the Cowboy 42 yard line on third down, which knocked Green Bay out of field goal range. This play gave the Cowboys a chance to come back.

Both offenses struggled for the rest of the first half. Dallas' struggled in part because the conditions neutralized the speed of Bob Hayes. He struggled to gain traction on the frozen field and the Cowboys could not pass deep to Hayes. They tried screen plays and short passes to Hayes. Also, the Packers noticed that Hayes kept his hands in his pockets when the Cowboys ran the football, but took his hands out of his pockets when Dallas passed. So, this tipped off the Green Bay defense what play Dallas was running. When Hayes had his hands out of his pockets, the Packers knew that the Cowboys were passing the football.

Green Bay had the ball in its own territory with under five minutes to play in the first half. The Cowboys' defense made a play that would keep Dallas in the game going into half time. As Starr went back to pass, Cowboy defensive end Willie Townes sacked Starr who fumbled the football. The Cowboys' George Andrie recovered the football and ran 7 yards for the Cowboys' first touchdown. The Cowboys were back in the game. Danny Villanueva kicked the extra point and Dallas had narrowed the score to 14-7.



After Green Bay and Dallas both struggled on their ensuing possessions, Dallas punted to Green Bay. The Packers' Willie Wood fumbled after calling for a fair catch. Dallas' Phil Clark recovered at the Green Bay 17. The Cowboys could not move the football, so they settled for a 21 yard field goal by Villanueva to close out the scoring for the first half. Despite not getting a first down in the second quarter, Dallas had scored 10 points in the final 5 minutes of the half. The deficit had been narrowed to four points.

At the beginning of the second half, the Cowboys shut down the Green Bay offense and forced the Packers to punt. The Cowboys played well offensively to begin the second half. Reeves took a swing pass and gained 7 yards on the first play. Perkins ran for 8 yards on the next play. This was the first Cowboy first down since the first quarter. Meredith threw a pass over the middle to Frank Clarke for another first down. The Cowboys utilized quick pitches and sweeps to gain yards to begin the second half. However, after gaining yards on a run, Meredith fumbled inside the Packer 15 yard line. The football was recovered by Green Bay.

In the beginning of the fourth quarter, the Packers continued to sputter offensively. The icy conditions continued to effect the offensive lineman and the running backs. The timing for the blocking and rushing patterns was off all day for both teams. Green Bay offensive lineman Forrest Gregg said "I remember how hard it was keeping your balance." Gregg said if an offensive lineman slipped, the defensive player could have an easier path to the quarterback. All it took was a momentary slip, and the defensive lineman was right next to the quarterback.

After Green Bay punted, Dallas took over at the Green Bay 46 yard line. Reeves ran for 11 yards. Then Meredith faked a pass to the left and threw to Reeves for an 3 yard gain. However, on the next play, Meredith was sacked for a 9 yard loss. Villanueva tried a 47 yard field goal, which fell short. Willie Wood fielded the missed field goal and ran to the Green Bay 27 yard line.

On the next possession, the Green Bay offense continued to struggle. The Dallas defense played well and stopped Green Bay from moving the football. Dallas recorded their 7th sack of the game and Green Bay had to punt. Now both defenses were playing well and both offenses were struggling.

On the last play of the third quarter, Don Perkins gained 5 yards. The third quarter was over. Despite outplaying Green Bay for the quarter, Dallas could not score. They still trailed the Packers by four points.

However, the Cowboys would finally score on the first play of the fourth quarter. Reeves threw a half back option pass to a Cowboy receiver for a 50 yard touchdown. Just like that, Dallas had their first lead of the game. Villanueva added the extra point. Dallas 17 Green Bay 14.

After taking the lead, the Cowboy defense continued to play well. However, Meredith struggled to communicate with his teammates in the huddle because it was so cold. Meredith's cheeks were so cold that he could not form audible words. At this time, the Cowboys continued to run the football and play a conservative offense. They hoped their defense could contain the Green Bay offense.

Dallas punted the football to Green Bay and a Cowboy player grabbed the face mask of Wood, who returned the punt. The infraction resulted in a 15 yard penalty, which gave the Packers the football at the Dallas 47 yard line.

Weather conditions were getting worse. The ground was so hard that the players were struggling to stand and run. It became easier to slip and fall. However, both teams continued to put forth maximum effort.

On first down from the Cowboy 47, Starr completed a pass to Dowler for a first down. On second down, Cowboy linebacker batted down a pass attempt by Starr. Starr tried a screen pass on third down to Chandler which fell incomplete. Chandler missed a 40 yard field goal.



With 9:44 left in regulation, Dallas took over at their own 20 yard line. The Cowboys tried running the football probably because the weather conditions were so bad. On first down, Perkins ran for 5 yards. Two more runs for Perkins did not get many yards. However, a Green Bay player was offsides and Dallas had a first down. On the next play, Reeves gained 5 yards. However, on the next play Reeves fell in the backfield and was tackled. Meredith completed a pass to Clarke for a first down. Eventually, the Cowboy offense stalled and they had to settle for a punt. Villanueva's punt was returned by Wood to the Green Bay 32 yard line.

The Packers were about to begin one of the most famous drives in NFL history. The fans and the television viewing audience were about to witness one of the most compelling and memorable drives in the history of the league. Two teams who had struggled and tussled on the "frozen tundra" of Lambeau field had one more challenge ahead of themselves.

With 4:52 remaining, Green Bay took over for it's final drive of the day. Defensive player Ray Nietske came off of the field and said "don't let me down" to the Packers' offense. Packers' offensive lineman Forrest Gregg said "I don't think there was any doubt in anybody's mind that we had to (score) or it was over for us...I don't know that the execution under those conditions will ever be surpassed." It is one of the most memorable drives in NFL history because it occurred under very difficult conditions in an NFL title game. The stakes were high and those conditions were difficult. The combinations of the stakes and the conditions made the moment unforgettable.

Green Bay began the drive with a double fake hand off and a pass to Anderson for 6 yards. Then Mercein ran for a first down. On the next play Starr passed to Dowler for a first down. After three plays, Green Bay was moving the football. They had developed a rythym in the cold weather,while the Dallas defense was playing on their heals. However, on the next play, Dallas showed some promise, as Willie Townes sacked Starr for a loss. Maybe the Cowboys' defense would be able to stall Green Bay's drive.

However, Green Bay regrouped as Starr completed a pass to Anderson for a 12 yard gain. Dallas was double teaming the wide receivers in the hope that Green Bay would run or pass to the running backs. Dallas wanted Green Bay to take time off of the clock. Then Mercein caught a 19 yard pass from Starr to get the football to the Dallas 11 yard line. Next, Mercein took a hand off from Starr and ran the football to the Dallas 2 yard line.



Green Bay had the football, first and goal, at the Dallas 2 yard line with 54 seconds remaining. They had potentially four downs to score a touchdown. On first down, Starr handed the ball to Anderson who dove to the Dallas one yard line. On second down, the Packers tried the same play. However, Anderson simply got back to the line of scrimmage. On both plays, Anderson lost his footing and could not score.

Green Bay called a time out with 16 seconds left in regulation. Starr went to the sidelines to talk to Coach Lombardi. They decided to run "31 wedge", a play that had been suggested by offensive lineman Jerry Kramer on Thursday at a film session. Mercein was supposed to get the football and run between the center and the guard. Everyone on the team, including Mercein expected him to get the football.

Instead, Starr decided to run a quarterback sneak without telling the other members of the team. Starr described why he chose to try the sneak: "It was our lead play on short yardage in a down and distance situation like this." Starr was concerned that the running backs could not gain traction on the frozen field. He expressed his concern to Coach Lombardi. Starr said "Coach, I'm up against the center, and I can shuffle and lunge my way into the end zone." So, Starr felt that he could get good footing on the play. He was confident enough to try the quarterback sneak. He needed to score because it would have been difficult to find the time to set up another play if this one did not succeed. This was the play of the game. The difference between winning and losing would be determined by this play.

Starr lunged behind the block of star offensive lineman Jerry Kramer. He found an opening which was created by the offensive line and scored the winning touchdown with 13 seconds left on the clock. The most memorable drive in NFL title history had ended with a successful quarterback sneak. Bart Starr had scored the go ahead touchdown in dramatic and memorable fashion.

Don Chandler kicked the extra point, and Green Bay lead Dallas 21-17 with 13 seconds left. Chandler kicked off and the Dallas returner stayed in the end zone for a touch back. Meredith threw two incomplete passes and the game was over. The Green Bay Packers had defeated the Dallas Cowboys 21-17 in the 1967 NFL Championship. They would beat the Oakland Raiders 33-14 in Super Bowl II two weeks later.

Both teams earned respect during this NFL championship game. The Dallas Cowboys and the Green Bay Packers competed against each other and the weather. As the game wore on, the conditions worsened and the challenge for both teams became greater. Both teams walked off the field knowing they had given their all. In the end, the Green Bay Packers defeated the Dallas Cowboys 21-17 to win the 1967 NFL championship game - one of the most memorable games in NFL history.

The NFL has had several dynasties, but one stands out from the rest

A dynasty in sports happens when a team wins several championships over a relatively short period of time. That period of time is often 10 years or so. In the NFL it is convenient to say certain teams are teams of the decade. When a team is considered the best team of that decade, it can be assigned the status of a dynasty.

The NFL started in 1920's. The Akron Aros won the first NFL championship. The Canton Bulldogs won the NFL championships in 1922 and 1923. They moved to Cleveland and were renamed the Cleveland Bulldogs in 1924 and won another championship in their first year in Cleveland. The Canton/Cleveland Bulldogs were the team of the 1920's.

One overlooked dynasty is the Green Bay Packers from 1929 to 1939. During that time the Packers won 5 championships (1929,1930,1931,1936,1939). They are rightly seen as the team of the 1930's.

From 1932 to 1946, the Chicago Bears won 5 championships (1932,1933,1940,1941,1946). They were seen as the dominant team of that time period.

The Cleveland Browns and the Detroit Lions each won 3 championships in the 1950's. The Browns were lead by quarterback Otto Graham and running back Marion Motley. The Lions were lead by quarterback Bobby Layne and running back Doak Walker.The Browns and the Lions were the two best teams during the 1950's.

In the 1970's the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Dallas Cowboys competed for NFL supremacy. The Cowboys appeared in 5 Super Bowls and won 2 of them. The Steelers won 4 Super Bowls in 4 appearances. The Steelers became the team of the 1970's by virtue of their two victories over the Cowboys in Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XIII. The Steelers were known for their "steel curtain defense" and their excellent offense.

The San Francisco 49ers dominated the 1980's as they won 4 Super Bowls. The 49ers were lead by hall of fame quarterback Joe Montana and hall of fame wide receiver Jerry Rice. Together they became one of the most prolific quarterback/wide receiver tandems in NFL history.

In the 1990's the Dallas Cowboys won 3 Super Bowls in 4 seasons. The Buffalo Bills also played in 4 straight Super Bowls, but were unable to win. The San Francisco 49ers were also a strong team. The Cowboys had one of the most complete teams in the history of the NFL. They were lead by Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin. They also had an excellent offensive line and a very good defense. Additionally, their special teams were excellent. The Cowboys of the early to mid 1990's were one of the most complete teams in NFL history.

The salary cap era has been dominated by the New England Patriots. With Bill Belicheck as coach and Tom Brady as quarterback, the Patriots have appeared in 7 Super Bowls since 2002. They have won 5 of them. Their only losses have been to the New York Giants. The Patriots have been the most consistent team in the NFL for the last 16 years. They have deftly managed the salary cap to remain competitive every year.

All of these teams are known for their success and consistency. However, no team stands out more than the 1960's Green Bay Packers. They are the most memorable dynasty in the history of the NFL. Between 1960 and 1967, the Packers appeared in 6 NFL championships, winning 5 of them. They also won the first two Super Bowls in 1966 and 1967. The Packers of the 1960's remain the model NFL franchise.

Vince Lombardi was hired in 1958 to turn around the Packers. Lombardi was a 45 year old offensive coach for the New York Giants. He had waited a long time to become a head coach. He wanted the opportunity to show people how successful he could be. He had a wealth of knowledge about the game and he wanted to prove that he could run his own team and make his own team successful.

The year before he was offered an opportunity to coach the Philadelphia Eagles. He considered the offer, but decided it was not the right job for him. He showed interest in the opening at Army, but Army usually hired graduates of West Point, which disqualaified Lombardi from serious consideration.

However, when the Packers job became available in 1958, it proved to be the right fit for Lombardi. The Packers offered Lombardi a 5 year offer to coach the team. Lombardi accepted the offer even though his wife had initial misgivings because she had always lived in or near New York City. Moving two children to Green Bay, Wisconsin would be a challenge for Mr. and Mrs. Lombardi. However, over time both Vince and his wife adjusted to the change.

After Lombardi accepted the offer, he met with the board of directors of the Green Bay Packers. The Packers are the only major sports team that does not have an actual owner. Instead, they are owned by the community and run by a board of directors. It makes the Packers unique in the history of American sports.

John Eisenberg in his book "That First Season" chronicles the first season of Lombardi in Green Bay. Eisenberg wrote about the first meeting between Lombardi and the board of directors of the Green Bay Packers. At the meeting with the board of directors, Lombard was forthright and direct. He said "I want it understood: I'm in complete command here. I expect full cooperation from you. You will get full cooperation from me in return. I've never been associated with a loser and I don't expect to be now. You have my confidence. I want yours. I'm not against anything that will help the Packers." His initial statement showed the self confidence teams need in a head coach. It also shows a willingness on his part to help the team in whatever way is possible. He showed self confidence and respect at the initial meeting. This self confidence and respect won over the board of directors. They realized that hiring Lombardi was the right decision.

Lombardi proved to be a very efficient coach. He did not waste time and he did not allow the players to waste time and energy. Every practice and every activity had a purpose. Eisenberg points out that Lombardi told the board of directors "I hope to hold workouts down to an hour and a half, an hour and fifteen minutes if possible. The players will know exactly what they're supposed to at every minute." Lombardi wanted to account for every practice and every minute. He had a purpose for everything they did at practice. Filling the practices with quality time was paramount to Lombardi. If the players did what was expected of them at practice, then they could do what was expected of them during the games. The Packers would play liked they practiced. If they had efficient practices, then they would have efficient games.

Lombardi was not only demanding of the players, he had high standards for the coaches as well. According to Eisenberg, he told the coaches "I'm a perfectionist. I'm going to demand your best. There's absolutely no excuse for anything other than that." Such comments strongly encouraged the coaches to put forth their best effort. The players and coaches were accountable to Lombardi, who in turn was accountable to the board of directors and the fans of the Green Bay Packers.

Before the first season started, Lombardi and his staff watched all of the games from the previous season on tape. He wanted to see what the players were like and what strategy was best for the future. Lombardi decided to build his team around a power running game. He called Paul Hornung, who up until that time had played multiple positions for the Packers. Lombardi wanted Hornung to be a full time running back. Hornung would be a big part of the Packers' running game. After the first phone conversation with Lombardi, Hornung experienced a renewed interest in football. He experienced a renewed commitment to the game. He would be ready to contribute to the Packers' success.

Next, Lombardi called his 24 year old quarterback, Barr Starr. They had a good conversation, and Starr told his wife that the new coach sounded very organized. Regarding Starr, Eisenberg said "No Packer worked harder than Starr....Blessed with a quick mind, he easily memorized playbooks, mastered the nuances of different offensive systems, and was always ready to play." Every team needs a smart quarterback who can direct the offense. A good quarterback is like a coach on the field. Ironically, Starr himself, would one day coach the Packers. He was the right quarterback for the Packers at this time. He and Lombardi would work well together in leading the Packers to success.

Lombardi opened up the first training camp with the words "Three laps around the goal posts." Lombardi's words set the tone for a team that had previously lacked discipline and focus. Starr, in particular, had been concerned about the team's previous lack of discipline and attention to detail.However, it was clear to the coaches and the players that Lombardi's Packers would be different.

Before the season started, the Packers traded for Emlen Tunnell of the New York Giants, who was the first African American man to play for the New York Giants. While the league was slow to accept racial diversity, the New York Giants were leaders in this area. Lombardi respected every person, liked Tunnell and felt that he could help the Packers. Regarding Lombardi's commitment to racial diversity, Tom Bartsch says "Lombardi began getting what he wanted by assessing the Packers' current roster and deciding who could and could not help the team win. This required a man of vision who knew what his team would look like, and how an individual player's skill would fit into the overall scheme. That Lombardi did so without predjudice set him apart. He wanted the best football players, not the best white football players, or black football players, or blue football players. He didn't care about the color of a player's skin. He cared about a player's character and ability." Lombardi benefitted from the good example of the New York Giants in the area of racial diversity. His personal faith also helped him to be against racism. In any event, Lombardi respected each player and wanted to include all players who could help make the Packers a better team.

Eisenberg emphasizes that Lombardi wanted the Packers to be in better shape in order to meet the demands of football. Lombardi believed that the Packers would have an advantage if they were in better shape. He incorporated exercises before practices to help the Packers to improve their conditioning.

Eisenberg says that Lombardi lead the team through a series of calisthenics. He guided them through "push-ups, sit ups, and jumping jacks, then had them run in place." Lombardi wanted the players to get the most out of practice and to be ready for the games. He wanted players who would not tire during the games.

After calisthenics, the players worked with their position coaches for half an hour. Eisenberg says that "Each group moved through drills focusing on fundamentals, running, throwing, catching, and blocking." Lombardi's emphasis on the fundamentals made the players less likely to make key mistakes during the games. As the saying goes, "more games are loss than they are won." In other words, mistakes sometime prevent teams from winning. The team that wins is the one that makes the fewest mistakes.

The night before the first full squad practice, Lombardi addressed the players. According to Eisenberg, Lombardi said "Gentlemen, we're going to have a football team here, and we're going to win some games. Do you know why? You are going to have confidence in me and my system. By being alert, you are going to make fewer mistakes than your opponents. By working harder, you are going to out-execute , out block, and out tackle every team that comes your way." Lombardi's self confidence became contagious. Through Lombardi's assertive, consistent and unapologic leadership, the Packers developed more confidence in themselves. Lombardi expected them to be more focused than their opponents and to play better on every play in every facet of the game.

Lombardi also gave the players a curfew and explained they would be fined if they broke the curfew. Lombardi believed that discipline off the field lead to more discipline on the field. He believed if the players kept their curfew, it would help the team to practice and play better.

As a head coach, Lombardi also saw himself as a teacher of the game of football. Eisenberg says "In the evenings, Lombardi stood at a blackboard and slowly introduced his offense, painstakingly explaining every player's role on every snap." Lombardi's attention to detail helped him to be a good coach and teacher. Since he was attentive to every detail, the players also became more attentive and focused.

The Packers lost the 1960 NFL championship game to the Philadelphia Eagles 17-13. The Packers lost despite outgaining the Eagles in yards from scrimmage 401-296. The Packers also had a 22-13 advantage in first downs. However, Hornung missed a field goal in the first quarter and Lombardi elected to go for it and missed on fourth down twice instead of kicking field goals. It was the only time the Packers would lose an NFL championship game under Lombardi.

In 1961, the Packers beat the Giants for the NFL championship game 37-0. The game was played in Wisconsin during the day on New Years Eve in 20 degree weather. Hornung lead the way for the Packers as he scored a touchdown, kicked three field goals and kicked three extra points.

In the 1962 NFL championship game, the Packers once again defeated the Giants. However, this time the score was much closer, 16-7. Hornung was injured for this game,but right guard Jerry Kramer filled in as a kicker and booted three field goals and one extra point. The Green Bay Packers had now been in three straight NFL championships, and they had won two in a row. Lombardi's transformation of the Packers was in full swing.

The Packers were unable to win their third straight NFL championship in 1963. They had to play for third place in the "playoff bowl" in 1963 and 1964. Lombardi hated having to coach in that game, because he believed first place was the only thing that mattered. He believed that first place alone was acceptable for the Packers. They won the "play off bowl" in 1963 and they lost the game in 1964.

In 1965, the Packers were back in the NFL championship game. They beat the Browns 23-12 behind three field goals by Don Chandler, a rushing touchdown by Paul Hornung and a touch down pass by Bart Starr. After a two year absence, the Packers were once again world champions. This was their third NFL championship with Lombardi as coach.

Before the 1966 season, the NFL and AFL merged into one entity. The winner of the AFL playoffs and NFL playoffs played each other in the first Super Bowl. The Packers defeated the Chiefs 35-10 to win the first Super Bowl. Max McGee, the star of the day, had 7 receptions for 138 yards and 2 touchdowns - including the first touchdown in Super Bowl history. The Packers had added to their legacy with a victory in Super Bowl I.

Jerry Kramer, the star offensive lineman kept a journal of the 1967 season- the last season that Lombardi coached the Packers. The journal depicts the confidence the Packers had in their coach and in themselves. In the preseason the Packers defeated the Browns 30-21. However, they trailed 14-0 early. Nevertheless, Kramer's journal reflected the confidence the Packers had in themselves even when they were down 14-0. Kramer said "Some people thought we were in trouble, but we knew we were going to win. We go into every game we play knowing we're going to win. And we always do. We never lose a game. Sometimes, of course, the clock runs out while the other team still has more points than us, but we know that the game isn't really over, that if we kept playing we'd end up ahead." The Packers viewed themselves as winners. Lombardi's confidence was contagious. Kramer's words show that the Packers could not accept defeat.

On September 10th, Kramer wrote "Obviously, I spend a lot of time thinking about defensive tackles. Football is a team game, but especially for the linemen and the receivers, there's a dramatic and important, individual game within the game. To help your team succeed, as a team, you have to succeed as an individual." Kramer expressed the high standard that he had as a player. Football is a series of individual challenges. When a team's individual players successfully meet their challenges, then they help the team to win. Kramer understood his challenges as an offensive lineman. Many, if not all of the Packers, understood their individual assignments. This helped them to become the best team of the 1960's.

In 1967, the Packers were trying to win their third straight NFL championship. According to Kramer, a week before their opening game Lombardi said the following to the Packers: "Gentlemen, no team in the history of the National Football League has ever won three straight world championships. If you succeed, you will never forget this year for the rest of their lives. Gentlemen, this is the beginning of the big push." Lombardi helped the Packers to understand what was at stake. He helped them understand what a major accomplishment three straight world championships would be.
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Although the Packers were well coached and they gave maximum effort, they still had struggles. On October 2nd, Kramer wrote "Bart's had such a frustrating season. He's had nine passes intercepted; most years he doesn't give up that many interceptions in a season. Until today, I didn't realize how frustrated Bart was, how intense he was." The Packer players aimed to be the best they could. They were driven and motivated to be the best. Like all teams, they had their struggles and players became frustrated.

On October 3rd, Kramer wrote about how concerned Lombardi was with their inconsistent play. Despite the Packers' undefeated start, Lombardi was concerned about their performance. Kramer said "Coach Lombardi seemed more disturbed than angry during our meeting this morning. He said there's a general lack of enthusiasm on the club, a lack of desire, something he can't quite out a finger on." Coach Lombardi had such high standards. Even though the Packers had not lost a game, he was still concerned about the team's play.

While the Packers were motivated to win every game, they also had a human side. The team had prayer meetings for the players and the players prayed for themselves and others. Kramer said "Personally, I enjoy the chance to pray before a game. I have two special prayers of my own: 'Don't let me make a fool of myself' and 'Don't let anybody get hurt.' I rarely pray for victory, but if we're in a big game, I sometimes say 'I don't like to ask you this, Lord, but...'. So, despite their toughness and strength, the Packers did not want players hurt. They wanted to win, but not inflict injury on their opponents.

While coach Lombardi could be tough on the players, he was also aware of the progress the team was making. On October 12, Kramer wrote "Coach said this morning that our timing is coming along, that our halfbacks are starting to hit the holes a little better. He said the whole program is beginning to escalate, that were moving toward our peak." Coach Lombardi noticed the team's flaws and their strengths. He was aware of the team's progress and their need to improve even more. This awareness helped him guide the Packers to their titles and accomplishments. Awareness is an important quality in a coach. A coach needs to se the team's strengths and weaknesses. A coach needs to know what is working and not working. A coach needs to help a team maintain what is working and improve what is not working.

Despite, their accomplishments, the Packers at times doubted themselves. On October 19th, Kramer wrote "I'm pretty certain that we don't have any real problems, but I'm not absolutely certain. A little doubt's creeping into my mind. I'm starting to question my own ability, my teammate's ability. I'm wondering, most of all, how good a team we've really got. I think a lot of the other guys are asking themselves the same questions. No one's saying anything out loud, but I can feel it, I can sense it." Despite their hard work and dedication, the Packers were still uncertain if they were good enough to win another championship. While the doubt was there, they continued to work and prepare for games. Their effort never waned.

On October 22nd, the Packers trailed the Giants 14-0. However, they came back and played well the rest of the game. Regarding the Packers' second half performance, Kramer said "Every play worked in the second half, everything we tried, particularly through the left side of the Giant line." They came back and defeated the Giants 48-21. After their victory, the Packers celebrated. Kramer said "We hadn't celebrated so hard in years. It was an indication that we were all a little more concerned about our football team than we wanted to let on, that, without saying anything, we were really beginning to wonder, beginning to doubt. The Giant game made us feel a lot better." Though the Packers had doubts, they overcame their doubts through a good performance against the Giants. Teams have challenges, but good teams overcome them. The 1967 Packers were a good team.

On November 5th, the Packers visited the Baltimore Colts. The Colts won the game 13-10. Kramer said "The locker room was awfully quiet afterward. Everyone felt disgusted with the way we'd lost the game." Despite the loss, the team really appreciated how they had been prepared by coach Lombardi for the game. Kramer recounted words spoken by Bart Starr: 'You know it, Jerry, and you know it, Max, but perhaps the young guys don't: This man is one great coach. He's got a brilliant mind. He prepares us better for a football game than any other team in the National Football League. Going into the game against St.Louis, we knew exactly what we could do, what we couldn't do,how to do it. The same thing today. I've never seen a more complete book on a team than Coach Lombardi had on Baltimore. It was really a beautiful thing to see." Even in defeat, the Packers realized that Lombardi adequately prepared them for the game. They realized that they were the most prepared team in the NFL.

On November 9th, Kramer quoted one of Lombardi's best sayings. Kramer said "Lombardi offered us another one of his sayings today. 'The greatest accomplishment' he said, 'is not in never falling, but in rising again after you fall.' This saying emphasized the importance of perseverance and effort. In sports, individuals and teams, need to continually rise to the occasion. Teams and individuals need to consistently work to overcome obstacles and difficulties. Under Lombardi's leadership, the Packers were able to do this often.

On November 12th, the Packers defeated the Browns 55-7. Kramer said "Everything, and everybody, worked for us." Sometimes a team is so prepared that the game plan seems perfect. Sometimes a team is so prepared that a team cannot be stopped or slowed down. In early November, the Packers were building momentum.

On November 15th, as the Packers prepared for the San Francisco 49ers, Kramer reflected upon the Packers victory over the Browns. Kramer said "Our performance in the Cleveland game meant a lot to me. It showed how well we could face a real challenge - the Browns had been leading their division- and it showed how well we could bounce back from defeat, even though our first string running backs were out with injuries." This victory showed the resilience of the Packers. They were able to come back from a difficult defeat. They were able to beat a tough opponent.

The Packers would go onto to defeat the 49ers, Bears and Vikings before finishing their seasons with losses to the Los Angeles Rams and Pittsburg Steelers. The Packers finished 9-4-1. They were going to the playoffs and hoped to play in the second Super Bowl after winning the first one the year before.

The Packers would defeat the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL championship game for the second straight year. It was their third straight NFL championship overall. The game against Dallas was played in below zero weather, in what would later be called "The Ice Bowl." The game was won in the closing minute on a one yard quarterback sneak by Bart Starr.

After defeating the Cowboys in the NFL championship game, the Packers met the Oakland Raiders in the second Super Bowl. The game was played on January 14th, 1968 in the Orange Bowl in Miami Florida. The Packers defeated the Oakland Raiders 33-14 to win their second straight Super Bowl. The Packers had put an exclamation point on their decade of dominance.

After the game, Lombardi congratulated the players and conveyed to the team how proud he was of them and their accomplishments.Kramer basked in the moment. He wrote "I wanted to keep my uniform on as long as I possibly could." Another successful season had concluded for the Green Bay Packers and Kramer wanted to appreciate the moment.

In the almost 100 year history of the NFL many teams have striven for excellence. However, no team reached excellence more often and more consistently than the Green Bay Packers of the 1960's.

The music and life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's music has an enduring quality that withstands the test of time. Since the mid to latter part of the 18th century people have enjoyed and benefitted from his music. Audiences were inspired by his operas, concertos, symphonies, serenades, sonatas and other forms of music. Mozart was a prodigy who was given singular and unique musical gifts. His parents, imbued with faith and a sense of responsibility, helped him to cultivate and develop those musical talents. As a result of this strong parenting and special talent, millions of people over the last two centuries have appreciated his music.

In a way, Mozart's life was like any other life. He strove to respect his parents,but tried to find a balance between adhering to his parents requests while striving to be his own person. He respected the guidance of his father, but still needed to express his own views and his own plans for his musical career. He honored his parents, but still developed his independence.

Mozart had the discipline to spend hours everyday composing music, practicing piano and violin and teaching students. However, he still found time to enjoy his life. Throughout his life, he was interested in the theatre, playing billiards and riding horses. After he married and became a father, he spent time with his wife and children.

Mozart's parents passed on their Catholic/Christian faith to their son. He practiced his faith without being dominated by it. He had a healthy approach to Christianity, as he wrote Masses and Requiems for the Church. However, he did it for God's glory and not his own. He understood the responsibility of his faith, but was never crushed by it.

Mozart made good use of his time, but always took the time to enjoy life and remember what was important. He lived a balanced life, and his example inspires us to do the same.

Mozart enjoyed composing and performing. When one of his compositions made their debut, he often performed during the premiere. He was an exceptional pianist who enjoyed playing and receiving applause. He also played violin publically. Music seemed central to his personality and he expressed his love for music naturally.

When I listen to his music, I often hear something within it for the first time. Perhaps, I appreciate the rythym or the melody of the piece for the first time. Or maybe I appreciate the crescendo or the decrescendo for the first time. Sometimes, I marvel at how each note seems perfectly placed. It's as though nothing should be added or deleted. Finally, I am amazed that someone could write so much music for so many instruments

Paul Johnson's biography of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart presents a succinct and reader friendly portrait of Mozart's life. The book is divided into 5 chapters. The Miracle Prodigy;Master of Instruments; A Married Composing Machine; Mozart's Operetic Magic; and A Good Life Fully Lived. The book is 155 pages, which is relatively short for a biography. Despite it's brevity, the book presents a full fledged picture of Mozart's life and accomplishments.

Mozart was born on January 27, 1756. He was one of seven children born to Leopold and Anna Marie Mozart. According to Johnson, Mozart possessed a high amount of energy during his life:"Mozart was healthy and active, some would say hyperactive. He rode a horse regularly, traveled endlessly, was a fanatic and vigorous dancer, and worked relentlessly, often late into the night." Mozart was a hard working composer who stayed active and enjoyed life. Mozart lived a balanced life.

Johnson points out that Mozart's musical accomplishments were vast: "his output included 17 masses...1 requiem, plus various Kyries , litanies, vespers, Magnificat, and 17 Church sonatas and cantatas and oratorios. There were 7 major operas, plus 16 others, and intermezzos, songspiels, feste teartrali, serenatos, drammi per musica, and other stage pieces, plus 35 songs. Plus 7 sets of ballet music, 8 duets or assembles for voice and orchestra, and 58 arias. He composed 61symphonies..., 24 serenades and divertissements, 19 wind ensembles, 15 marches, 219 dances...,23 keyboard concertos, 10 concertos for strings and 16 for wind, 27 string quartets, 6 string quintets, plus a large number of works I find it difficult to classify." So, Mozart's musical accomplishments were vast and varied. He composed for multiple instruments and genres.

Many of Mozart's works were performed for live audiences during his life , but they were not published until after he died. According to Johnson, the music publishing field grew a lot 10 years after Mozart's death. Mozart probably did not know how popular his music would become.

Mozart grew up in the musical city of Salzburg, Austria . Music was sung in churches and in secular environments. Orchestras and choirs were present in Salzburg. Mozart's parents were also very musical. So, young Mozart was surrounded by music.

Mozart's parents were very musical and influential on Mozart. Johnson says "That he started early was due to his father." Leopold Mozart, Amadeus' father, was a talented violinist who recognized his son's talents at a young age. Leopold, himself, was an accomplished musician. He wrote a instructional book on the violin.Leopold was grateful to God for his son's musical talents. Leopold felt responsible for his son and tried hard to cultivate his son's musical talents. According to Johnson, Leopold gave up playing the violin in order to have more time to teach his son and daughter.

Mozart began playing music at age 3. Mozart began composing music when he was 5, and he wrote his first symphony when he was 8. At age 12, while on a tour of Europe with his parents, he wrote his first opera. According to Johnson, "Mozart's own musical personality soon began to emerge by the age of eight."

In Mozart's day, musicians and composers were not paid well. Johnson points out that "Musicians were exactly in the same position as other household servants -cooks, chamber maids, coachmen, and sentries." Musicians and composers were employed by the Church and the state in the 18th century. They would often compose music by a certain deadline that was given them by a bishop, emperor or empress.

In the 18th century, people frequently wrote letters to family members or friends. It was an important way for people who were separated by many miles to keep in contact with each other. The modern world has instantaneous communication through phones and computers. However, in the 18th century communication required great patience. It would be a long time before people could read a response to their original communication. People would wait patiently for a letter to arrive.

Nine of Mozart's letters have survived to the present day. They were addressed to his cousins. The letters reflect Mozart's sense of humor and his habit of improvising with language. These letters, like much of his music, reflects his creativity and intelligence. Additionally, Johnson says "The letters allow us to follow Mozart's journeys across Europe, shepherded by his father, in considerable detail."

The letters also showed how difficult Mozart's financial situation was. Johnson says "It was difficult at this point in the history of music publishing, for a composer to live by sale of his copyrights. Johann Sebastian Bach, for instance, had only nine of his significant works published in his lifetime. Mozart did better, but not much, one reason why so many of his works survive in his handwriting."

In addition to being an excellent composer, Mozart played multiple instruments well. He played the clavier, violin, piano, organ and other instruments. Johnson says "Mozart had to play the piano all the time, composing, conducting, performing, and organizing operas and other works. But there is some evidence he actually preferred the violin and, even better the viola." Mozart wrote 5 violin concertos when he was 19.

However, despite Mozart's great appreciation for the violin, Mozart may have preferred playing the viola. Johnson says "Mozart, himself, preferred to play the viola rather than the violin, probably because he had a fondness for its rich, fruity tone." However, playing the violin was easier for Mozart than playing the viola. He liked playing both, but found the violin to be a better fit for his musical abilities. Additionally, there were more violins than violas in the world at this time. The violin was a more prominent instrument, and there was more solo work written for the violin at this time. Johnson says "Until Mozart began to tackle the viola, it was not seen as a solo instrument (no solos at all are known before 1750)."

Mozart helped to elevate the viola. When Mozart wrote the "Sinfonia Concerte in 1779, he helped to make the viola more popular. Johnson says that Mozart's use of the E flat key helped highlight the viola in this particular piece. The E Flat key was suited to the unique characteristics of the viola. Johnson says "Thus, thanks to Mozart's cunning, based on sheer knowledge, the violas prominence is underlined by enhanced performance, and the two instruments become true equals for the first time in musical history."

Johnson also points out that Mozart helped to develop the horn as a major instrument. Mozart wrote four concertos for the horn. Three concertos were written in E major, while one was written in D major.

"Horn concerto No. 1" was written in D major features two movements - Allegro and Rondo. Even though it is entitled "No 1", it was the last one to be composed. This concerto included bassoons.

"Horn concerto No. 2" was composed in 1783. It features ripieno horns, which are horns besides the solo horn. This concerto features three parts - Allegro, Andante and Rondo.

"Horn concerto No. 3" is also in E flat major. It was composed between 1789 and 1787. The concerto was written as an act of friendship for Joseph Leutgeb, a horn player. This concerto features 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons and strings in addition to the solo horn. The concerto features three movements- Allegro, Larghetto and another Allegro. Some people think that the third movement sounds like the rondo of Mozart's piano concerto No. 22.

In addition to these three works, Mozart wrote incomplete music for the horn.

In a word, Mozart contributed a lot to the repertoire of the horn. Johnson points out that "There is also much ingenious and beautiful and highly original and idiosyncratic horn scoring in Mozart's compositions for. Large or small orchestras. The truth is, without Mozart, the repertoire for horn would be a huge hole, with a few isolated hillocks."

Mozart had many friends who were musicians. He performed with other musicians and often wrote music for them. At times, Mozart had people in mind when he wrote music for them. Johnson says "Mozart had a highly personal approach to music. He associated each instrument with particular people he knew who were especially good at playing it, and wrote with them -or often one of them-in mind.

Mozart understood that each musician was different and unique. For instance, bassoonist were unique because each bassoon was different. They were all made differently at this time. Johnson thinks that Mozart may have written his "Bassoon Concerto in B flat" for Felix Rheimer who was the best bassoon player at this time. He also wrote 3 bassoon concertos for Baron Durnitz - an amateur bassoonist. In any event, Johnson says " what we can say is that the Bassoon Concerto in B-flat, K. 191., written in 1774, when he was eighteen, shows Mozart's complete understanding of the theoretical and actual capabilities of the instrument and also of its spirit. Bassoonist love it because it is by far the best major work in the repertoire."


Mozart married Constance on August 4th 1782. They remained married until his death in 1791. They had 7 children. After they married, they lived in Vienna where they experienced debt and financial difficulties. However, Johnson points out that "Indebtedness was almost a universal habit among married couples in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries." Johnson says that the poor, the middle class and the upper class all struggled with debt. Johnson points out that even "aristocrats paid late." Debt seemed to be part of the 18th century culture.

According to Johnson, "Mozart's income came from five main sources." Mozart made money through teaching; opera commissions; public performances and concerts; private concerts; and the selling of his published music. Musicians and composers were not well paid in the 18th century, so Mozart had to maximize his income through his music in different ways. Mozart made the most of his situation and did his best to provide for his family.

We do not know for sure how many pupils Mozart had. It probably depended upon how much time he had to teach and how much discretionary income people in the community had. If people could afford music lessons, Mozart was probably the best person in the community to go to. In 1782, Mozart told his dad that he had 3 students. He may have had more in other years. He probably taught has many students as he could.

Making money in opera was difficult, but it was one source of Mozart's income. Composers received a one time payment for an operatic performance. Johnson points out that "no royalties were paid, as a rule, and so repeat performances brought in nothing." Although, he did not make much money from operas, Mozart loved the opera and he loved writing operas. The opera was one of his favorite musical genres because it combined theatre and music, two of his greatest interests.

Mozart wrote 22 operas. His first one "The obligation of the first and foremost commandment" was written in 1767. His final opera, "The Magic Flute" was composed in 1791. Mozart often conducted the premieres of his operas. Mozart's operas reflect his love for music, theatre and comedy. The genre features many different elements, and Mozart had the right personality and talents to write for the genre. Mozart collaborated with many musicians, singers and comics when he wrote the operas. He worked well with the musicians and the other people who helped make theses operas successful.

Mozart worked very hard when he composed "The Marriage of Figaro." According to Johnson, Mozart worked harder on this piece of work "than on anything else in his entire life." It's possible that "The Marriage of Figaro" may have expressed Mozart's personality better than any of his works. According to Johnson, Mozart was a positive and upbeat person who "transformed the play into a comic epic of forgiveness, reconciliation and final delight."

Mozart was a balanced person who wanted others to see value and meaning in life. He wanted other people to experience happiness. He conveyed these intentions through his music and the way in which he interacted with others. Regarding "The Marriage of Figaro" Johnson says"Figaro is thus the embodiment of Mozart's emotional nature in music ...He enjoyed existence and wanted every one to be has happy as he. He believed they could be, too, if only they were sensible. "Figaro", in the end, shows everyone more or less being sensible, decent, and forgiving - and so happy." Mozart's positive and upbeat personality came through in his operas and in all of his music.

The overture for "The Marriage of Figaro" is one of the best overtures ever written for an opera. The overture is powerful and beautiful. The melody is memorable and well respected throughout the musical world. The overture sets the tone for the opera. Commentators have said that the overture prepares the audience for the music of the opera. Many people love the music of the overture. The music inspires the listener to look forward to the opera.

The public performances of Mozart's music and his operas was also a source of income for him. Giving public concerts was not easy. It required a lot of work and organizational skills. The composer had to assemble local musicians, teach them the music and rehearse with them. Public concerts required a lot of planning on the part of the composer.

Johnson points out that "A composer could also give public concerts. But he usually had to organize them himself and sell the tickets." The theatre, the composer and the musicians divided up the proceeds. In addition to the income, Mozart, the musicians and the actors experienced great pride in their performances.

In addition to his 22 operas, Mozart is known for his concertos. He's especially known for his violin and piano concertos. Mozart wrote 5 violin concertos when he was 19 years of age. Additionally, throughout his career, he wrote 23 piano concertos. Johnson says "The classical concerto is very much his own creation, and the piano is the means by which he created it." Mozart's piano concertos are my favorite musical works. They contain memorable melodies and unforgettable bars of music.

The concerto features many instruments with one instrument standing out. The piano concertos highlight piano melodies. The piano contrasts and complements other instruments. The piano concertos begin with a basic melody played by the orchestra. Then the piano is introduced and adds to the orchestral introduction. The piano melody adds another layer and element to the basic theme of the concerto. While the piano is highlighted, the supportive role of the other instruments is important, too. A good concerto features contrasting parts and collaborative music as well.

Johnson points out that "Between 1773 and 1791, Mozart wrote 23 piano concertos (plus 2 rondos) which represent his greatest single body of work, exploring every aspect of the instrument in it's relation to the orchestra." Some consider Mozart's piano concertos to be his greatest works. Mozart, himself, was a very talented piano player. Mozart often played the piano parts at the public performances of his piano concertos.

In 1791, The final year of Mozart's life, he accomplished a lot. Johnson referred to this year as "perhaps the busiest in his entire life." During this year, Mozart's opera "The Magic Flute" was written. Mozart conducted the premier on September 30th, 1791. The opera was well received and became very popular. It remains one of the most celebrated and popular operas today. The music for the opera involves two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, two horns, two trumpets, three trombones, timpani and strings."The Magic Flute" remains one of the most performed operas today.Yearly there are hundreds of productions and thousands of performances of this opera throughout the world.

Johnson points out that there were other major accomplishments that year as well. Johnson says "On January 5, he had finished and played the big and powerful piano concerto in B-flat major (k595) and this was followed by his String Quartet in E-flat Major (614), one of his most majestic and subtle chamber works. He also wrote his dazzling Clarinet Concerto in A Major (k.622), the best thing he ever did in my opinion, and one of his chief masterworks, the one that I could least spare, for rejoicing on a gaudy day and comfort on a sad one." These were some of Mozart's best works.

His "Piano concerto in B major" had three movements: Allegro, Larghetto and Allegro. The movements are connected to produce one major theme. Mozart wrote the cadenzas, or solos, for the first and third movements. It's possible that the concerto made it's debut on March 4th, 1791, which would have been Mozart's last public concert. It was the 27th and final piano concerto that Mozart wrote. Some consider Mozart's piano concerto to be his crowning achievements. In any event, they are among his best works.

His "String Quintet in E Flat Major" was his 6th and final string quintet. It was the last major piece of chamber music that he wrote. The piece created four movements: Allegro do molto; Andante; Menuetto/Allegro and Allegro. The quintet features two violins, two violas and a cello.

Mozart's "Clarinet Concerto in A Major" features 3 movements: Allegro in A Major, Adagio in D Major and a Rondo in A Major. The concerto featured a good balance between the clarinet and the other instruments of the orchestra. The concerto made it's premiere in October of 1971 and was well received.

Two of Mozart's final works were "Ave Verum Corpum" and the Requiem that would be played at his funeral. "Ave Verum Corpum" was a Christian hymn in honor of the Blessed Sacrament. It was performed for the first time on Corpus Christi Sunday in 1791. The music was combined with a prayer that had been written in the 14th century by Pope Innocent VI.

While Mozart was dying, he composed the Requiem that would be played at his funeral. As his health declined, he realized he was probably writing his final piece of music. The Requiem was incomplete, but it nevertheless was a remarkable piece of music. Johnson says "He completed only the first movement, the Requiem Aeternam and the Kyrie. The second movement, or Dies Irae, and subsequent movements to the Hosias- that is up to and including the ninth- were in draft form." Although it is a Requiem, Johnson points out that there is no sadness to the music. Johnson says "On the contrary, there is a consistent note of gentleness, love, reconciliation, and peace." Perhaps, it was Mozart's believe in the Resurrection of Christ that gave him the grace to write a Requiem at the end of his life that featured hopeful tones and beautiful notes. In any event, it would be Mozart's final work.

In early December of 1791, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart died of "severe camp fever." A life that began surrounded by music ended surrounded by music. Mozart began composing music at age 5 and did not stop until he died. A life that began with music ended with music.

Mozart's Christian faith inspired much of his music. As he left this world and entered eternity he saw Christ - the source of his music and accomplishments. He was reunited with the parents who dutifully raised him and gave him the discipline that was necessary to cultivate his talents. His life had come full circle. He did the best that he could to compose beautiful and incredible music and to live a balanced and good life.

The Sedin twins have been role models both on and off the hockey rink

Henrik Sedin and Daniel Sedin are twin brothers who play hockey for the Vancouver Canucks. Henrik serves as the team captain, while Daniel is the alternative captain. Henrik is the all time leading scorer for the Canucks with 1031 points, and Daniel is second all time with 998 points.

Henrik is first all time in assists, while Daniel is second all time in assists. Daniel is the organization's all time goal scorer with 375 total goals. Henrik ranks second with 239 all time goals. Henrik has played in 1271 games as a Canuck. Daniel has played in 1248 games with Vancouver. No player has played in more games for Vancouver than the Sedin brothers.

Both players were taken in the first round of the 1999 draft. Daniel was taken second overall,and Henrik was selected one pick after. They have spent their entire careers in Vancouver. They would like to finish their careers playing for the Canucks. They are both in their 17th season with the team.

This season is the final one of their current contract. So, many have speculated that the brothers may leave after a this year. However, Henrik and Daniel wrote a letter that appeared on the "Players Tribune" website. The letter reassured the Canuck fans that they want to finish their careers in Vancouver.

The letter features alternating comments from both brothers. Daniel said "When I think of Vancouver, I think about one thing: home...We had no idea what our potential could be, or how long we would stay. But we have grown into men in this city, we have raised our children here, and we have made so many memories over the years." Henrik confirmed Daniel's words when he wrote "we are Swedes, but this is our home."

When explaining why the brothers wanted to remain in Vancouver, Daniel said "If we are going to win a Stanley Cup, if we are going to achieve our dream, we'd only want it to be in Vancouver. If we did it anywhere else, I don't think it would feel the same." Winning the Stanley Cup is not the only goal for Henrik and Daniel. They want to win the Stanley Cup in Vancouver for the Canucks. This is the only NHL organization that they have ever played for. They consider Vancouver to be their home. They want to win it for their home team.

Henrik continued by saying "We are Swedes, but this is our home." Henrik went on to tell the story about the first time that he and his brother went on a bike ride. They were avid bike riders in Sweden, and they brought that hobby with them to Vancouver. Henrik told how the brothers would go on bike rides early in the morning. Henrik discussed biking "almost three kilometers straight up Grouse Mountain." He discussed how challenging and rewarding the experience was. Henrik said"coming down mountain in the gondola with a coffee in your hand is the best feeling in the world. You can see all of Vancouver as the sun is coming up. There's nothing better than that. It never gets old. I don't know how to describe it. It's just home."

In the letter, the brothers went on to describe some of the players that they played with in Vancouver. The letter also describes their growth as players and how their roles changed through the years. Henrik discussed how the brothers transitioned from role players to leaders in 2008. Henrik also mentioned how the entire city of Vancouver supported the team during the 2011 Stanley Cup run.

In 2014 a panel convened to name the greatest Canuck in the history of the franchise. The panel chose Henrik. He was chosen because of his excellent play and his consistent leadership.

Ed Wilkes, writing for "The Province" newspaper, writes that "Henrik's greatest strength lies in his ability to make those around him better." Wilkes points out that there were many players who had their best seasons playing along side Henrik.

In addition to his excellent play and exceptional leadership, Wilkes cites Henrik's strong character off of the ice. Wilkes says " Think of the way he's carried himself on and off the ice. Think of his impact on the community. Again, we're talking about the greatest Canuck of all time and the collective weight of everything Henrik has accomplished here makes him the clear choice." The Canuck organization, fans and media have a strong appreciation for the impact He rik has made on the organization and the Vancouver community.

Wilkes showed appreciation for the personal and athletic growth of Henrik and Daniel. Wilkes says "The Sedins never met a challenge they couldn't outwork and that was the basis of their transformation from support players to bona fide stars. They became bigger and stronger, enabling them to hold the puck longer in their trademark recycling game. They added a stride to their skating, making them as dangerous off the break as in their half court game. They did this through application and perseverance, all awhile maintaining an unimpeachable standard of personal conduct." So, the improvement of both players, their athletic leadership and their strong character have helped them to overcome their challenges and make a strong impact upon the team and the community. Wilkes also points out that that Henrik was chosen as team captain before the 2010-11 season. He is someone that the team respects and learns from.

Both Henrik and Daniel grew as players. They developed their skills and strength over time. When they arrived from Sweden they were young players who had raw talent, but were not strong enough to be impact players. They also needed to develop skills that were necessary to be successful in the NHL. However, over time, they became stronger and adapted themselves to the rigors and challenges of the NHL.

Grant Lawerence of "Westender" says when the twins played their first season in 2000 "they didn't have the immediate impact that other Canucks superstars like Pavel Bure and Trevor Linden did. But little by little, with the reliability of a twin turbo Volvo, the twins put up numbers and eventually turned most of the linemates into scoring stars." Henrik and Daniel made the players around them better. They helped those around them to find more scoring opportunities. They helped the other players to develop their talents and abilities.

Lawrence says "Playing an honest, clean game of outrageous puck possession, the likes of which the league had rarely seen before, Henrik and Daniel rose through the ranks of the Canucks and the league, becoming first line, league leading stars." Rarely had the NHL seen two players more talented than the Sedin twins. They gradually became better players who earned more respect from the Vancouver organization and from the NHL.

Lawrence goes on by saying "Pretty much every team in the NHL adopted their patented slap-pass. They won scoring races and MVP awards, and have been nothing but prime examples of commitment and poise on and off the ice." Their inovated slap pass was something that other teams accepted and incorporated into their offensive style. The Sedin twins received individual accolades because of their outstanding performances.

The Sedin brothers are also known for their innovative approach to hockey. Jeff Argos writes "It seems that each summer they come back to Vancouver with a new trick, a new set play, or a new skill set in their offensive arsenal." Henrik and Daniel try to grow as players every off season. They want to start the new season as improved players. They want to be able to help Vancouver as much as possible. Every offseason they try and improve their skill set and strengthen their approach to the game.

Argos points out that Henrik is the best in the NHL at the "behind the Net Behind the Back Pass." As Henrik is skating in back of the net, the goalie will watch him because he has the hockey" puck. Then Henrik will pass the puck behind his back to an open player who has a shot at an open area of the net. This skill has made Henrik a dangerous player around the net.

According to Argos, the Sedin brothers also do a great job on the "Power Play Zone Entry." Angus says that Henrik and Daniel employ this technique better than anybody because they "position a player (usually Daniel) right on the blue line, on his strong side Henrik will take a pass, quickly skate in , and open up ice behind him for Henrik. It's a subtle move, but one that is near impossible to defend against." So, the innovative style of the Sedin brothers make it difficult for defenders and goalies. Their offensive repertoire makes them impactful difference makers on the ice.

The Sedin brothers have made a positive difference both on and off the ice. They have helped the Vancouver Canucks to be a competitive hockey team and they have contributed to the Vancouver community. They have adopted Vancouver as their home, and Vancouver has adopted them as well. In addition to being outstanding hockey players, Argos says "They are both humble, mild mannered, clean players who do an immense amount of charity work and are fantastic human beings off the ice."

The role of defense in the NBA

NBA games tend to be high scoring. Teams routinely score over 100 points. The players are so athletic and talented that they are difficult to stop from scoring. Some wonder if the players are too talented to defend or if NBA players give lackluster effort on defense.

Playing defense involves pride and effort. A good defensive player takes pride in stopping another player from scoring. A good defensive player denies the inbounds pass and tries to prevent another player from getting open for a pass. A good defensive player tries to shut down the man he is covering.

Playing offense seems more exciting. It can be exciting to score or make a great pass. It can be exciting to make a good pass that leads to a basket. Offense seems more natural, whereas playing defense seems more unnatural. Playing defense seems to require more work and dedication. The crowd roars when a player scores, but the crowd does not necessarily show appreciation for a stellar defensive effort.

The offense sets the tone for the game. The point guard knows what he wants to do with the basketball. He knows whether he wants to pass, dribble or shoot. He knows what play he wants to call. So, the defense must respond to the offense. The defense cannot set the tone for the play unless the defense presses or tries to trap the offense. The offense's ability to set the tone puts the defense in a tough position.

However, a good defense can lead to a good offense. A steal or a blocked shot can lead to a fast break opportunity. A steal or a blocked shot can lead to a numerical advantage during transition. A 3 on 2 or a 2 on 1 fast break should lead to a basket. So, a good defense leads to points in transition. Therefore, offense and defense can work together.

Often times a defensive player has to keep their hands up and keep their feet moving. A good defensive player needs quick lateral movement and balance. Sometimes a defensive player has to distract the offensive player and create a turnover or a steal. Then when the shot is up, a player needs to box someone out and grab a rebound. A good defense limits second chance opportunities for the opposition.

Danny Chau, of the ringer.com, says "Defense is inherently reactive. Players can influence where an offense takes a shot, but ultimately, a defense can guard only what is in front of it. If a high screen is set 30 feet away from the basket, that creates a ripple effect for the rest of personnel on the floor." So, the defensive players respond to what the offensive players are doing. They must respond to the decisions that the offensive players make or the plan that the offensive players inact.

Playing defense requires maturity, focus and effort. The defensive player needs to concentrate on what the offensive players are doing. Chau says "It requires so much discipline, pattern recognition, and preparation that something as foolish as the youthful Suns offense forgetting how to run a set and just winging it can throw an elite defense for a loop." So, even when the offense makes a mistake, the defense may be caught off guard.

Offenses also have an advantage because they can be more creative. Defensive players must cover their assigned player or cover an area in a zone. Chau says "While an offense like the Warriors can occasionally survive in a free-flowing, unorganized environment over the course of a game, defenses cannot." Defenses cannot be unorganized and effective at the same time. An unorganized defense where players miss their assignments results in the offense scoring easy baskets. Defense requires mental toughness and hard work. Defenses must be efficient and consistent in their approach.

A good defensive player can make a big difference in the outcome of a game. Chau refers to Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs to make this point. Chau says "No other defensive player exudes the air of inevitability that Kawhi does- the shot clock becomes a countdown to how quickly he can force the ball out of his counterparts hands, one way or another." Chau adds that "Leonard's ability to make an offensive player disappear (and his cross-platform Peanut Punch) makes him one of the most visually compelling defenders ever." Leonard can neutralize a good offensive player. Leonard can take away an offensive player's ability to impact the game. Such defensive ability is rare and valuable.

So Leonard has the rare ability to be a shut down defensive player. He has the ability to limit what the offensive player can do. He can take away an offensive player's options. This kind of player is very valuable. One wonders how NBA teams can train more players to be like this. Leonard serves as an example of what NBA players could become on defense.

Chau also cites Draymond Green and Rudy Gobert as excellent defensive players. Chau says that Green helps the Warriors' defense in a couple of ways. Chau says Green is "the chief communications officer of the Warriors backline while also covering for his teammates all over the court." So, Green is a defensive leader who excels at helping his teammates. Chau says "And while his self confidence is brimming, Draymond really does give off a sense that he's internalized not only the Warriors' unique defensive principles, but the entire league's." Green understands the different elements of sound defense, and he applies himself on the defensive end.

Gobert's defensive ability comes from his height and his ability to move quickly in a lateral manner. Chau says "Gobert's wingspan, which stretches close to 7 foot 9, and suprising lateral mobility allow him to patrol the paint in ways that his monolithic predecessors couldn't." His wingspan allows him to block shots and his quickness allows him to play help defense. His quickness allows him to get around screens or switch with another defender on a pick and roll play. Height and speed are good attributes for an NBA player. These two attributes help Gobert to be a premiere defender.

Chau points out that the pick and roll creates a two on one advantage for the offense because it forces the inside defender to choose which player to defend, which can leave the other player open. However, Gobert's ability on defense neutralizes the effectiveness of the pick and roll. Chau says "But Gobert, by simply unfurling his arms, can track both the handler and roller, giving his teammates time to recover without leaving their individual assignments." Gobert's ability may force the offense to abandon the pick and roll or use it less. Gobert's ability on defense may force the other team to game plan differently when they play Gobert's team- the Jazz. Additionally, Gobert's ability to neutralize the pick and roll helps his teammates on defense. Like Green and Leonard, Gobert has the ability to have a defensive impact upon the outcome of the game.

How can more NBA players experience similar success on defense that Leonard, Green and Gobert have experienced? How can more NBA players be known for their stellar defensive play? There is no shortcut to success. Each player has to work on developing stronger defensive skills.

Each player has to remember the fundamentals of strong defense. Every NBA player has to stay between his man and the basketball. Each player has to know who has the basketball and know where his man is. Some NBA players have better peripheral vision than other players. Nevertheless, it is necessary that each player knows where his man is and where the ball is. Plays happen quickly in basketball, and if a defender loses sight of the basketball or the man he is covering, the opponent can score quickly. Defenses have to guard against the quick basket.

The player guarding the point guard has to make sure the point guard does not go past him and penetrate into the lane. The defender has to force the point guard into a long shot or an off balanced shot. The player guarding the point guard has to fight through screens or switch quickly on defense. One must guard against the hesitation dribble, which can lull the defender to sleep and allow the point guard to move quickly past a deceived defender. The person guarding the point guard also has to be aware of the passing lanes that the point guard is looking at. The defender has to guard against these passing lanes.

When a player gets the basketball in the corner,the defender has to decide whether to guard against the baseline or guard against the interior. If the defender takes away the baseline, the player may dribble to the inside or pass to an open player. Perhaps, the player may shoot a long jump shot from the corner. If the inside is taken away, the player may try to dribble along the baseline and try and score. Either way, the defender has to guard against the easy basket. It's better to force the player towards the double team or a teammate that is playing help defense. In some cases, it's better to take away every option except the long range jump shot. However, in today's NBA many players can make three point shots or long range shots. Still, it may be preferable to prevent the player from getting closer to the basket.

Defense always requires great effort. It always involves determination and resolve. Max Streng of "Fansided" says "Defense is hard at any level. It takes commitment from all five players, knowledge of personnel and scheme, communication, effort and often times in the NBA the shot still goes in....These are the best players in the world." As Streng says, there are many elements of sound defense. Good defense requires consistent effort and determination. The defensive players have to communicate with each other and anticipate what the offensive players are going to do next. They have to understand what play the offense is running and they have to know how to defend it. No matter how hard they try, the offense is still often successfull. Players must not become discouraged when they play defense. They have to realize that eventually their efforts will be rewarded.

In addition to effort, physical talent is also an important part of good defensive play. Jonathan Tjarks, writing for sbnation.com, emphasizes the importance of foot-speed and wingspan. Tjarks says "Elite NBA defenders all have the same profiles: great athletes with long arms." So, while the effort is important, the physical ability is also necessary.

Foot speed and wing span help a defender to contest a jump shot as well. Tjarks says "In the NBA, where the vast majority of players can knock down an open jumper being unable to contest a player's release point is essentially giving away a basket." If a player cannot reach the height of the jump shooter's hands, then it is very difficult for that defender to stop the offensive player from scoring. Foot speed enables a defender to stay in front of the jump shooter, while a good wing span helps a defender to block or contest the shot.

Team defense is also very important. Individual players need to commit themselves to playing defense, but players need to communicate with each other and help each other on the court in order to play good team defense. Players need to fight through screens, communicate when they are switching players and help a teammate to guard a talented offensive player. Teammates have to be willing to sacrifice for the good of the team. Teams that play good defense have a better chance of going deep into the playoffs and winning a championship.

In today's NBA teams are allowed to play zone defense. For many years, the zone was outlawed. Players had to guard a man. They were not allowed to guard an area, which the zone defense allows a player to do. If a player was guarding an area instead of a man, the offensive team was given a technical foul shot.

However, Chris Parker of "The Guardian" points out that in the 1990's coaches implemented offenses that worked against the man to man defense. Parker says "Teams would isolate their best scorer in the post with his teammates as far away on the other side of the court as possible, to make it hard to double." This allowed the player in the post to work against one defender. If it was a mismatch, then the offensive player could score. If it was not a mismatch, then the post player had four other players he could pass the ball to. He could pass the ball to the player who was most open. Or he could pass the ball to the best scorer.

Parker says that this change "has allowed the best defensive minds to develop tough double team schemes, where players rotate their assignments. Led by coaches like Tim Thibideau, teams have developed hybrid man-zones that flood the ball-side and leave two weak -side defenders covering three guys. It bets the defenders can rotate faster than the offense can move the ball." The zone defense fosters creativity and flexibility. It allows players another way to match up with a good team. It gives defenses the opportunity to confuse the offense and upset the rythym of the other team.

In the 2017-18 season, the Boston Celtics have been the best defensive team. Their strong defense has helped them to establish the best record in the NBA. John Schumann of NBA.com points out "The Celtics' No. 1 ranking on defense starts with having the lowest opponent effective field goal percentage. And the key has been on the perimeter. The Celtics rank second in opponent field goal percentage from mid range and fourth in opponent 3 point percentage." So, good perimeter defense has helped the Celtics have a good start to the season.

The Celtics' ability to contest shots and put pressure on opposing guards has helped the, hold opponents to a league low 95.4 points per game. Portland, San Antonio and Oklahoma City are the only other teams to hold opponents to under 100 points per game.

Defense will always be an important part of basketball. Playing good defense requires effort and determination. Wing span and foot speed also help a defensive player to be effective. Teams that play good defense have a better chance of advancing deep into the playoffs and contending for a championship.

Reflecting upon the history of the Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears are one of the NFL's original francises. The Bears have won 9 NFL championships, including one Super Bowl since 1920. Their history parallels the history of the NFL. It's impossible to appreciate the history of the NFL without appreciating the history of the Bears. Their fans are understandably proud of their team's history.

The Bears were originally known as the Decatur Staley's. George Halas, who would eventually become the team's owner in 1922, was originally a player/coach for the team. In addition to being a good football player and coach, Halas was also a minor league player for the New York Yankees baseball team. In fact, a baseball with Halas' autograph on it resides in a display with other Yankee autographs in Yankee stadium. Despite being a good baseball player, football would be the sport that Halas would make his mark in.Halas was synonymous with the beginning of the Bears and the NFL.

In 1922, Halas moved the team to Chicago. In 1925, Halas signed Red Grange, a star player from the University of Illinois, to a contract worth $100,000.No player had ever been paid that kind of money. The public was stunned that an athlete would be paid such a large sum of money.

Grange was nicknamed the "galloping ghost" by sports writer Warren Brown. Grant land Rice, one of the premier sports writers of the time famously wrote the following of Grange:

"Eluding all who reach and clutch;
A gray ghost thrown into the game
That rival hands may never touch
A rubber bounding, blasting soul
Whose destination is the goal - Red Grange of Illinois."

Grange was one of the first football players who fans clamored to see. In fact, his popularity helped to save the New York Giants organization. 1925 was the inaugural season for the Giants. Despite great hopes, the Giants had struggled financially during their first season. The team had lost a lot of money as they prepared to face the visiting Chicago Bears at the Polo Geounds on December 6th, 1925. The game had been billed "Red Grange day", as Red Grange dolls, sweaters and caps were sold at the game. 70,000 fans came to the game, and The Giants were able to make $40,000 that day. It was enough money to pay their debts and to convince the Mara family to bring the Giants back for a second season. Without the success of that day, the Giants may have folded as an organization.


The Bears won their first NFL championship game in 1921 when they were known as the Chicago Staley's. They beat the Buffalo All Americans 10-7. Halas played wide receiver in the game. While it was billed as a championship game, it was also considered an exhibition game. Back then the regular season was considered more important than a championship game. Buffalo was under the impression that the game would not count in the standings. This loss became known in Buffalo , NY as the "curse of the Staley's." It is considered one of the first curses in sports.

John Leo "Paddy" Driscoll quarter backed the Bears from 1926-29. He led the NFL in scoring twice in his career. Driscoll was good at throwing, running and kicking. Driscoll was one of the most versatile players of the early years of the NFL.

The Bears had winning seasons from 1920-1928. In 1929, they stumbled to a 4-9-2 record. They lost the NFL championship to the Giants in 1934 and to the Washington Redskins in 1937 and 1942. Their losses in 1934 and 1942 were proceeded by undefeated seasons. They would then proceed to have 15 straight winning seasons. They won the NFL championship in 1932, 1933, 1940, 1941 and 1947.

In 1932, the The Bears defeated the Portsmouth Spartans 9-0. The game was moved to Wrigley Field to the indoor Chicago Stadium because of the inclement weather. Today, games are rarely moved indoors or postponed because of the weather. The field for this game was only 80 yards as opposed to the normal 100 yards.

In 1933, the Bears defeated the Giants 23-21 in Wrigley Field. The Bears scored the winning touchdown with under two minutes left in regulation. The Giants would gain a measure of revenge the following year as they defeated the Bears 30-13 in the 1934 NFL championship game.

During the 1930's, Bronko Nagurski was the best player that the Bears had. He was one of the best players in The NFL. He was the biggest and probably the strongest running back of the 1930's. He was bigger than some of the lineman of this era. He was a member of the first hall of fame class of 1963. Nagurski was a skilled runner, blocker and tackler. He even threw two touchdown passes in the 1933 championship game. Nagurski not only symbolized the toughness of the Bears during this period, he also represented the ruggedness of the NFL during the 1930's.

The 1940 NFL championship game was memorable for its lopsided score. The Bears defeated the Redskins 73-0 in the most lopsided game in NFL history. Ironically, entering the game the Redskins had the better record: The Redskins were 9-2, while the Bears were 8-3. The game was broadcast on the Mutual Broadcasing System, which existed between 1934-1999. It was the first ever NFL game to be broadcast throughout the nation.

The Bears dominated the game from the beginning to the end. The Redskins were unable to stop the Bears use of the "T formation." In this formation 3 running backs line up in back of the quarterback in the shape of a "T". The Bears rushed for 381 yards and 7 rushing touchdowns. 6 different players had rushing touchdowns, and 12 players had at least one rushing attempt. The "T" formation probably made it difficult to know which of the three running backs would get the ball. In any event, the Bears implementation of the "T" formation paves the way for their championship win.

In the 1941 NFL championship game, the Bears defeated the Giants 37-9. The game took place two weeks after Pearl Harbor and featured the smallest crowd ever at an NFL championship game. Unfortunately, two players, Young Bussey of the Bears and Jack Lummus of the Giants died in WW II in 1945.

In 1943, the Bears once again defeated the Redskins in the championship game. Though the score was much closer than the 1940 championship game, the Bears won 41-21. The Bears held the Redskins to 45 rushing yards and 182 passing yards.

In 1946, the Bears would once again defeat the Giants. At the Polo Grounds, before a record breaking crowd of 58,346 the Bears defeated the Giants 24-14. The game was tied at 14 entering the 4th quarter. However, Bears' quarterback Sid Luckman scored on a 19 yard run and the Bears added a field goal later. The Bears outscored the Giants in the decisive 4th quarter.

In addition to winning four championships in the 1940's, the Bears also added the orange "C" to their helmets. They were also given the nickname "The Monsters of the Midway" during this decade. That nickname had previously belonged to the Universiy of Chicago football team.

Luckman was a skilled quarterback for the Bears. He guided the Bears from 1939-1950. He guided the Bears to 4 NFL championships and he was a three time NFL all star. He was the MVP in 1943. Luckman once threw 7 touchdowns in one game. Only 7 other quarterbacks in NFL history have thrown that many touchdowns in a game.

The 1950s were difficult years for the Bears. The did not win a championship during that decade.

Their best player during the 1950s was middle line backer Bill George. George played for the Bears from 1952-1965.The middle line backer position developed during the 1950's , and George was one of the first to play that position. Prior to this, defenses had 5 defensive lineman and two line backers. However, George would often leave his middle defensive guard position to drift back into pass coverage. He would often cover the running back who was going out for a pass. George's transition from defensive guard to linebacker is part of what lead to the development of the 4-3 defense.

The Bears won the 1963 championship over the Giants. They defeated the Giants 14-10. It was their 8th NFL championship.

Dick Butkus was one of the best players of the 1960's. Butkus grew up in Chicago and was happy that his home town team drafted him in 1965. If George helped invent the middle linebacker position, then Butkus helped define the position more precisely. In a way, Butkus is synonymous with the position. Butkus is considered one of the greatest middle linebackers in NFL history. He was a hard nosed player and an excellent tackler. He helped set the tone for the Bears defense from 1965-1972. Butkus was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979.

Gale Sayers, like Butkus, was drafted in the 1965 draft. Sayers had one of the greatest rookie seasons in NFL history. Sayers had 22 touchdowns his rookie season. He scored running, receiving and returning punts and kicks. He was truly an all purpose performer as a rookie. He had 2,272 all purpose yards - the most ever by a rookie. Additionally, he won the rushing title in 1966. Sayers retired before the 1972 season because of injuries to his knees.

From 1969 to 1982, the Bears struggled. The Bears had losing records for 7 conseutive seasons( 1969-1975) From 1964 to 1983, the Bears made the playoffs only twice. They did not win a playoff game during those years.

However, in 1985, the Bears finally broke through and won their first ever Super Bowl. They defeated the New England Patriots 45-10 in Super Bowl XX. The Bears dominated the game much like they dominated the season. They finished the season with a 15-1 record. Their only loss was on Monday night to a good Miami Dolphins team. The Bears outscored their opponents 456-198. While the defense gets a lot of credit for that season, it was also the most prolific offensive season in Bears' history.

The Bears were coached by Ditka from 1982-1992. Ditka's tough, hard nosed personality personified the Bears during this period. A hall of fame tight end, Ditka's personality helped to give the Bears an identity during these 10 years.

Buddy Ryan, father of coaches Rex and Rob, was the defensive coordinator for the Bears from 1978-1985. Ryan pioneered the 46 defense during that period. The 46 defense helped the Bears to become one of the best defenses in NFL history. This defense moved 6 players ( 4 defensive lineman and 4 linebackers) close to the line of scrimmage.This defense featured 3 defensive backs. The other two players played linebackers, but tdhey were further away from the line of scrimmage.

Hardy Evans, writing for bleacherreport, says that Ryan "designed the 46 defense when he arrived in Chicago in 1978. Ryan inherited a team that was atrocious at stopping the run and rushing the passer. He designed the 46 to essentially be an ultra-aggressive version of the 4-3 defense." So, Ryan tried to make the Bears stronger and more assertive on defense.

Hardy explains that "The 46 essentially put a steel wall of defenders in front of opposing offenses, forcing them to throw the football." The 46 tried to take away the options of the opposing team. Ryan and the Bears tried to make the opposing offense one dimensional and more predictable.

Bears running back Walter Payton was one of the most talented football players in the NFL during this period. Payton epitomized the Chicago Bears from 1975 to 1987. During his stellar career, the reliable Payton missed only one game. He missed this one game because of a coach's decision, not because of injury. Payton played in a remarkable 170 consecutive games.

Payton was the most talented running back that I ever saw play. He possessed a rare combination of speed, power and agility. He ran with acceleration and purpose. He ran with courage and toughness. He embodied the spirit of the Bears during his outstanding playing career.

Payton rushed for 16,726 yards. He retired as the all time leading rusher. He scored a total of 133 touchdowns (110 rushing, 15 receiving and 8 passing). Payton averaged 4.4 yards a carry.

After Ditka left the Bears, the team hired Dallas Cowboy defensive coordinator Dave Wannstedt. Hiring Wannstedt made sense for the Bears - a team that had always prioritized defense. Wannstedt coached the Bears from 1993-1998. Despite Wannstedt's effort and dedication, his tenure with the Bears was unsuccessful. The team finished 9-7 twice, and had four losing seasons. After finished 4-12 for the second time in his Bears' tenure, Wannstedt was fired.

Dick Jauron coached the Bears from 1999-2003. Despite Jauron's knowledge of football and his extensive experience, he had four losing seasons with Chicago. However, he lead the Bears to a 13-3 record in 2001, which earned him Coach of the Year honors. The Bears lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Divisional game. The Bears had losing seasons in 2002 and 2003, which lead to Jauron's firing.

Lovie Smith replaced Dick Jauron. Smith would become the most successfull coach since Mike Ditka. Smith went 81-63 in 9 seasons with the Bears. They made the playoffs three times and made it all the way to Super Bowl XLI- their first Super Bowl appearance since 1985. They lost to the Colts 29-17. Additionally, they made it to the NFC championship game in 2010 when they lost to the Green Bay Packers. Overall, Smith 5 winning seasons in Chicago.

Marc Trestman was hired to replace Smith. Trestman had a well deserved reputation as a good quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator. He had been quarterbacks coach for Steve Young when he was with Tampa Bay and San Francisco. Trestman has a good understanding of the offensive side of football. However,his tenure has head coach of the Bears would only last two seasons.

In 2013, his first season, Trestman lead the Bears to an 8-8 record. The team's mediocrity was due to their inability to play defense at a high level. The Bears gave up a lot of points and finished 30th in defense that season. Conversely, they had a good offensive season. The Bears gained 6,109 yards- the most ever for a Bears team. They scored 445 yards, which was the second best in the NFL that season.

In 2014, the Bears finished 5-11. Defense wa once again the culprit as the Bears once again missed the playoffs. The Bears gave up 478 points- the most in team history. They also gave up a team record 6,313 yards. Historically, a good defense had always been the Bears' trademark. However, for the second straight year, poor defensive play had ruined their season. At the end of the season, both Trestman and general manager Phil Emery were fired.

After Trestman's dismissal, the Bears hired the well traveled John Fox, who had previously served as an assistant coach for eight college teams, a USFL team and four NFL teams. His current job with the Bears is his third head coaching position. As head coach, he has lead the Carolina Panthers and the Denver Broncos to Super Bowl appearances. He will attempt to do the same for the Bears.

The Chicago Bears are a part of the history of the NFL. As one of the original franchises, the Bears' history has paralleled the NFL's history.

NFL observers will never forget the tough defensive play of Bill George, Dick Butkus, Bronco Nagurski, Mike Singletary, Richard Dent and Brian Urlacher.

People familiar with the NFL will always remember the talent of Walter Payton, the speed of Willie Gault, the toughness of Mike Ditka and the colorful personality of Jim McMahon.

If Yankee stadium is the house that Ruth built, then the Chicago Bears are the team that George Halas built. That team has seen a rich and memorable history. What began in 1920 continues today. The NFL is different today than it was in 1920. However, the Chicago Bears remain part of the league. They continue to be one of the signature franchises of the NFL. The team that Halas built continues to endure.