The National Football League began in 1920. It was initially known as the APFA, or the American Professional Football Association. This was the name of the league for the first two seasons. The league became known as the National Football League in 1922.
Since 1920 there have been many successful teams. Many different teams have won championships. After the AFL and the NFL merged, the championship became known as the Super Bowl. After the 1966 season, the team that won the title became known as Super Bowl champions. There have been 52 Super Bowls.
Championship games give players a chance to leave behind a memorable legacy. They give players a chance to make their mark on the history of the game. Fans remember key moments of a game and recall important plays made by key players. Additionally, fans may remember an outstanding effort by a offensive or defensive unit.
The more championships or Super Bowl titles that a franchise wins, the greater the legacy of that organization. All of the players who have played in the league the past 97 years deserve credit for their effort and their commitment. Football is a tough game. It represents one of the greatest challenges possible for an athlete. Throughout the history of the NFL, many players and teams earned respect.
It is difficult to create a list of the top 10 most successful NFL franchises. Good teams will be left off of the list. It is also difficult to know for certain where to place the teams on the list. There may be little that separates the top 3 teams or the 5th from the 6th best teams.
There were organizations that missed the top 10 who have an outstanding history. For instance, the Detroit Lions, Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders, Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos all were not included in the top 10. However, all have had many good moments throughout their respective histories. All have won championships. All four of those teams have made their mark in the history of the NFL.
Athletics bring out the best in individuals and teams. Athletics inspire teamwork and preparation. Athletes make sacrifices to help their teams to win and compete. They dedicate themselves to the goals of the team. This is true in football and in other sports.
All 10 of these NFL franchises have had a lot of players who have showed teamwork and dedication. In many situations, those efforts have resulted in championships. In my opinion, these are the 10 most successful franchises in NFL history. The list proceeds from the 10th most successful to the most successful in NFL history.
10. The Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are the defending Super Bowl champions. They won an improbable championship last year after Carson Wentz, their starting quarterback, went down with a season ending injury. Back up quarterback Nick Foles stepped up and led the Eagles to their first ever Super Bowl championship.
In addition to last year's Super Bowl title, they had won the NFL championship in 1948, 1949 and 1960. They have made 25 playoff appearances and won their division 13 times. The team made their debut in 1933 and were called the "Eagles" every year except 1943 when they were referred to as the "Steagles". In 1943, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles merged into one team because many of their players were fighting in World War 2. Hence, the name "Steagles."
In 1948, the Eagles shut out the Los Angeles Rams 14-0 to win the their first NFL championship. They game was played in blustery conditions in a snow covered field. Steve Van Buren rushed for 98 yards on 26 carries, and he scored the only touchdown of the game.
In 1949, the Eagles blanked the Chicago Cardinals 7-0 to become the first and only team in NFL history to shut out opponents in back to back championship games. The victories were a testament to the strength of the Eagles' defense. Once again, Van Buren lead the offense. Van Buren ran 31 times for 196 yards.
Van Buren was the focal point of the Eagles offense from 1947-1949. Van Buren won the rushing title each of those seasons.
In 1960, Norm Van Brocklin and Chuck Bednarik led the Eagles to a 17-13 championship victory over the Green Bay Packers. Despite the game being played in Franklin Field in Philadelphia, the Eagles were underdogs. The Eagles trailed 13-10 late in the game before Ted Dean scored on a 5 yard run in the 4th quarter. The Packers drove the ball deep into Eagles territory. However, Bednarik tackled Packers' receiver Jim Taylor at the 10 yard line to end the game.
Bednarik's tough play on defense and offense exemplified the grit and determination of the Eagles' 1960 championship. Bednarik may be the most important player in the franchise's history. Bednarik played both center and linebacker.
The Eagles made it to Super Bowl 13 against the Oakland Raiders. Quarterback Ron Jaworski, wide receiver Harold Charmichael and running back Wilbert Montgomery lead a good Eagles offense. The Eagles were coached by Dick Vermiel. The Eagles were a formidable team, but they lost to the Raiders 20-7.
Last season, in Super Bowl LII, the Eagles defeated the Patriots 41-33 for the Eagles' first ever Super Bowl. The game was played in Feburary 4th, 2018 at U.S Bank Stadium in Minnesota before 67,612 fans. The Patriots were favored in the game.
In the first quarter, Eagles kicker Jake Elliot kicked a field goal to give Philadelphia a 3-0 lead. New England tied the game when kicker Stephen Gostkowski kicked a 26 yard field goal. With the score tied 3-3, quarterback Nick Foles threw a 34 yard touchdown pass to Alshon Jeffrey to make the score 9-3. The extra point was missed.
In the second quarter, running back LaGarrette Blount ran 21 yards for a touchdown to give the Eagles a 15-3 lead. The Eagles tried a two point conversion that failed. The Patriots came back with a 45 yard field goal by Gostkowski to make the score 15-6. Later, running back James White scored on a 26 yard touchdown run to make the score 15-12. Gostkowski missed the extra point. Late in the second quarter, the Eagles tried a trick play. with the ball at New England's one yard line, running back Trey Burton took a pitch from Foles who ran ran out for a pass. Then, Burton threw a touchdown pass to Foles, and the Eagles had a 22-12 lead after Elliot's extra point.
In the third quarter, Rob Gronkowski caught a 5 yard touchdown pass from Tom Brady. After Gronkowski's extra point, the Eagles lead 22-19. Later, Corey Clement caught a 22 yard touchdown pass from Foles to make the score 29-19 after Elliot's extra point. The Patriots came back when Brady threw a 26 yard touchdown pass to Chris Hogan. Gostkowski added the extra point, and the Patriots narrowed the score to 29-26.
In the fourth quarter, Elliot kicked a 42 yard field goal to make the score 32-26. The Patriots came back and scored 33 seconds later when Gronkowski caught a four yard touchdown pass from Brady. After Gostkowski's extra point, the Patriots had their first lead of the game at 33-32.
Seven minutes later, the Eagles would go ahead for good when Zack Ertz caught a 11 yard touchdown pass from Foles. The two point conversion was no good. Philadelphia lead 38-33. With 1:05 remaining in the game, Elliot kicked a 46 yard field goal to close out the scoring. The Philadelphia Eagles had defeated the New England Patriots 41-33 in Super Bowl LII. For the first time in their history, the Philadelphia Eagles were Super Bowl champions.
9. Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns have not had much success lately. The team has been mired in mediocrity for a long time. Not since the late 1980's have the Browns consistently fielded a competitive team. The loyal fans of Cleveland remain undaunted. They remember the glory years and hope for a brighter football future. Despite their recent struggles, the Browns are one of the 10 most successful franchises in the history of the NFL.
The Browns have won 8 league championships. They won four in the AAFC (1946,1947,1948,1949). They also won four NFL championships in 1950, 1954, 1955, 1964. They made the playoffs 28 times, and they won 12 division championships and 11 conference championships. The Browns have a proud history of success that they are trying to recapture.
24 members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame have played for the Browns. 16 of those players spent the most important part of their careers with the Browns. Otto Graham, Marion Motley, Jim Brown, Lou Grozza and Ozzie Newsome and Joe Thomas are among their most important players.
Graham joined the Browns in 1946 after serving in the United States Navy. Graham lead the Browns to four straight AAFC championships between 1946-1949. He won the MVP award in 1947.
In 1950, Graham lead the Browns to a NFL championship. The Browns defeated the Los Angeles Rams 30-28. In the victory over the Rams, Graham had 99 yards rushing and 298 yards passing. In 1951, Graham won the NFL MVP award and lead the Browns to a rematch against the Rams in the championship game. The Rams won the rematch 24-17.
Graham has the highest ever winning percentage for a quarterback. He averaged 9 yards per pass attempt, which is the best in the history of the league. Additionally, Graham never missed a game.
Motley, in a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, rushed for 188 yards on 11 carries. In 1950, Motley lead the league in rushing with 810 yards. Motley played 8 years with the Browns.
Brown played 9 years for the Browns. He finished with 12,312 rushing yards for his career, which was the most ever for a running back at the time. He also rushed for 1,863 yards, which was a record for single season. He lead the NFL in all purpose yards 5 seasons. He was voted to the Pro Bowl all nine seasons of his career. Brown finished with 100 rushing touchdowns for his career. Many consider Brown to be the best player in the history of the Cleveland Browns.
Groza was one of the original Browns in 1946. Groza was primarily a place kicker for Cleveland. Brown played in 216 games for Cleveland. He made 234 field goals and 641 extra points. He made nearly 58% of his field goals and 98% of his extra points. He was voted MVP by the Sporting News in 1954.
Newsome was one of the best tight ends in the history of the NFL. He played for Cleveland from 1978-1990. He finished his career with 662 receptions for 7,980 yards. He caught 47 touchdowns during his career.
Thomas was the third pick in the first round of the 2007 NFL draft. He made the Pro Bowl 10 times. Thomas played 10,363 consecutive snaps. He has been one of the best offensive linemen of the past 20 years. Thomas has arguably been the best player on the Browns since he was drafted onto the team. He retired after the 2017 season.
Despite winning 8 league championships,including 4 NFL titles, the Browns have never advanced to the Super Bowl. However, they made it to the AFC championship game in 1986, 1987 and 1989. The Browns lost to the Denver Broncos all three times.
Recently, the team has strugggled. They have been the worst team in the NFL for the past two seasons. However, they are tying to rebuild around younger players and are hoping that rookie quarterback Baker Mayfield can lead a football renaissance in Cleveland.
8. Washington Redskins
The Washington Redskins have won 5 NFL championships, including 3 Super Bowls. They won championships in 1937, 1942, 1982, 1987 and in 1991. They have won 5 conference championships and 14 division titles. Overall, the Redskins have made the playoffs 24 times.
The Redskins beat the Chicago Bears 28-21 in 1937 for their first championship. Quarterback Sammy Baugh threw for 335 yards and 3 touchdowns in the game.
In the 1940 NFL championship game, the Redskins were defeated 73-0 by the Chicago Bears in the most lopsided game in NFL history. The Redskins were unable to stop the Bears' use of the "T formation."
In 1942, the Redskins avenged the loss to the Bears by beating Chicago 14-6. The Redskins' defense did not give up a touchdown. The Bears lone score was a fumble return for a touchdown.
After the 1982 season, the Redskins defeated the Miami Dolphins 27-17 in Super Bowl XVII. Running back John Riggins lead the Redskins by rushing for 166 yards on 38 carries. Quarterback Joe Theisman added two touchdown passes.
After the 1983 season, the Redskins lost to the Los Angeles Raiders 38-9 in Super Bowl XVIII. Raiders' running back Marcus Allen rushed for 191 yards on 20 carries with 2 touchdowns. Allen had a 74 yard touchdown run that put the game away late in the third quarter. It's one of the best runs in the history of the Super Bowl.
After the 1987 season, the Redskins defeated the Denver Broncos 42-10 In Super Bowl XXII. Washington's Doug Williams became the first African American quarterback to start an NFL championship game. The Redskins scored 35 points in the second quarter. Running back Timmy Smith ran for 204 yards, and Williams passed for 304 yards and 4 touchdowns.
After the 1991 season, the Redskins defeated the Buffalo Bills 37-24 in Super Bowl XXVI. The Bills turned the ball over 7 times. Mark Rypien, the Redskins' quarterback, was the game's MVP. Rypien threw for 292 yards and 2 touchdowns.
7. San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers have won 5 Super Bowl championships, 6 Conference titles, and 19 division championships. The 49ers have been in the playoffs 26 times.
After the 1981 season, the 49ers defeated the Cincinanati Bengals 26-21 in Super Bowl XVI. Quarterback Joe Montana threw for a touchdown down and rain for another. The game featured an important goal line stand by the 49ers in the third quarter. The Bengals had the ball first and goal from the 49er 3 yard line. The 49ers stopped the Bengals on four consecutive plays and took over on downs.
After the 1984 season, the 49ers defeated the Miami Dolphins 38-16 to win Super Bowl XIX. Montana, the game's MVP, threw for 331 yards and 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. The 49ers gained 537 yards on offense, while they limited the Dolphins to 314 yards. The Dolphins could only muster 25 rushing yards in support of talented quarterback Dan Marino.
After wide receiver Jerry Rice arrived in 1985, the 49ers would become an even better passing team. Rice would have 35 touchdown receptions from Montana for his career. Additionally, Rice would go onto catch 85 touchdown passes from quarterback Steve Young. Both Montana and Young were able to develop a passing chemistry with the talented receiver.
Super Bowl XXIII, after the 1988 season, would feature a rematch between the 49ers and the Bengals. Once again the 49ers would emerge victorious. They defeated the Bengals 20-16. The game featured a fourth quarter winning drive by the 49ers. Montana cemented his legacy as a cool and calm quarterback during the drive. It may be Montana's most memorable moment as a 49er.
The 11 play drive began at San Francisco's 8 yard line. In order to calm his teammates, Montana pointed to actor John Candy who was in the crowd. Montana threw passes in the middle of the field and to the sidelines to keep the Bengals guessing. When the Bengals expected him to throw to the sidelines, he threw to the middle of the field. Likewise, when the Bengals expected him to throw over the middle, he threw to the sidelines. Montana took what he defense gave him and lead a masterful drive. Montana threw a 10 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver John Taylor. Rice was the game's MVP.
After the 1989 season, the 49ers beat the Denver Bronco's 55-10 in the most lopsided Super Bowl in the history of the NFL. With the victory, the 49ers had won back to back championships. The Bronco's did not look like they belonged on the same field as the 49ers. The game was a rout early on. The 49ers lead the Bronco's 27-3 at halftime.
In the early to mid 1990's the Dallas Cowboys and the 49ers played in three straight NFC championship games. The Cowboys won the first two. However, the 49ers won the third 38-28 after the 1994 season. So, the 49ers were headed to their 5th Super Bowl appearance. They would try to become the first team to win 5 Super Bowls. Now, Young was their quarterback, with Montana having left to go to the Kansas City Chiefs.
In Super Bowl XXIX, the 49ers defeated the San Diego Chargers 49-26. Young was the game's MVP as he threw for 325 yards and 6 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. The 49ers dominated the Chargers, and Young proved that he could lead a team to a Super Bowl championship. In the post game locker room, Young pretended to remove a proverbial monkey off of his back.
After the 2012 season, the 49ers played in Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens. The 49ers trailed 21-3 late in the second quarter. The Ravens defense played well in the first half and did not allow the 49ers to score a touchdown. On the final play of the first half, San Francisco kicked a field goal to make it 21-6. The Ravens went ahead in the third quarter 28-6. Then the 49ers scored 17 unanswered points to close out the fourth quarter down 28-23. The Ravens won the game 34-31. It was the first time that the 49ers had ever lost a Super Bowl.
The 49ers have struggled since 2015. They have been trying to rebuild their team. Now, with head coach Kyle Shanahan and quarterback Jimmy Garappolo, they are trying to get back to the playoffs.
6. New England Patriots
The New England Patriots have made it to 8 Super Bowls in the last 15 years. They have won 5 of those Super Bowls. This is a strong accomplishment in the salary cap era. Due to cap restraints, it is difficult for teams to keep their best players. It is nearly impossible for teams to keep every free agent that they would like to keep. So, every year teams lose some of their best players and must replace them with new players. It is difficult for teams to integrate new players into their offensive and defensive schemes. However, the Patriots have been better at this than any other team.
No matter who they lose to free agency, New England can replace them and continue to win. The continuity that owner Bob Kraft, coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady have provided has been remarkable. Kraft supports Belichick's personnel decisions and has developed a strong rapport with Brady. Kraft allows the Patriots' front office to do it's job. He does not interfere with the front office. His trust in Belichick has been rewarded, and it has produced excellence at a time when most NFL franchises struggle to sustain success.
Throughout their history, the Patriots have won 5 Super Bowl championships and 10 conference championships. They have won 20 division championships and made the playoffs 25 times. However, the last 15 years have been the most impressive part of their history. Prior to the last 15 years, the Patriots were not considered an elite franchise. The last 15 years have been arguably the most impressive 15 years that any team in NFL history has ever had.
The Patriots first made the Super Bowl after the 1985 season. In Super Bowl XX to the Chicago Bears 46-10. The Patriots made the Super Bowl as a wild card and were heavy underdogs against the defensively dominant Bears. The Bears held the Patriots to 7 rushing yards and 177 passing yards. The Patriots took a 3-0 lead, but never lead again after the Bears tied the score at 3. The Patriots were able to score a touchdown in the 4th quarter. However, this was one of the most lopsided scores in Super Bowl history.
After the 1996 season, the Patriots faced the Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl XXXI. The Packers lead 10-0 early, but the Patriots scored two touchdowns to take the lead 14-10 after the first quarter.
After the 2001 season, the Patriots met the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI. This was the first Super Bowl for Brady and Belichick. Brady had replaced Drew Bledsoe who had been injured earlier in the season. Brady did a good job of replacing Bledsoe during the season. Brady lead the Patriots to the AFC conference championship game, but suffered a sprained ankle during the game. Bledsoe replaced Brady and lead New England to the victory. Despite, Bledsoe's strong play in the conference championship game, Belichick went back to Brady for the Super Bowl. At the end of the season, Bledsoe would be traded to the Buffalo Bills.
New England lead St. Louis 17-3 in the third quarter, when the Rams scored 14 points to tie the game. With 1:30 left in regulation, Brady and the Patriots took over in their own territory. After a series of completed passes, the Patriots got into field goal range. With seven seconds left in the game, Adam Vinatieri made a 48 yard field goal to win the game for the Patriots. It was the first Super Bowl win for the Patriots.
After the 2003 season, the Patriots played the Rams in Super Bowl XXXVIII. They faced the Carolina Panthers. It was the first Super Bowl appearance for the Panthers. With the score tied at 29, with 1:04 left to play in regulation, Vinatieri, once again came through. Vinatieri kicked a 41 yard game winning field goal. Jake Delhomme of the Panthers threw for 323 yards with 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions in the defeat. Brady, the game's MVP, threw for 354 yards, 3 touchdowns and 1 interception in the victory. The Patriots had their second Super Bowl championship.
Following the 2004 season, the Patriots played the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX. The Patriots defeated the Eagles 24-21 to win their third Super Bowl championship and their second in a row. In defeat, Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb threw for 357 yards with 3 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. In victory, Brady threw for 236 yards and 2 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. Wide receiver, Deion Branch was the game's MVP.
In 2007, the Patriots became the first and only team to finish 16-0. The Patriots defeated Jacksonville 31-20 in the playoffs and beat San Diego 21-12 in the AFC title game. The Patriots faced the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII.
In Super Bowl XLII, both defenses played played well for the first three quarters. After 3 quarters, the Patriots lead 7-3. In the 4 th quarter, Giants quarterback Eli Manning threw two touchdown passes that helped the Patriots defeat the Patriots 17-14. The Giants prevented the Patriots from finishing with a perfect season.
After the 2011 season, the Patriots once again faced the Giants. In Super Bowl XLVII, the Giants went ahead early 9-0 after a sesfety and a touchdown. Then New England scorned 17 unanswered points to go ahead 17-9. However, the Giants scored the final 12 points to win 21-17. Once again, the Giants defeated the Patriots in the Super Bowl.
After the 2014 season, the Patriots played the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX. Both teams played well defensively in the first quarter. Neither offense was able to score. Early in the second quarter, Brady threw a 11 yard touchdown pass to Brandon Lafell to give the Patriots a 7-0 lead. Later, Marshawn Lynch scored a touchdown to tie the game at 7-7.
In the second half, Seattle went ahead 17-14 for their first lead of the game. Seattle quarterback threw a touchdown pass to Doug Baldwin to extend Seattle's lead to 24-14. However, Brady threw two touchdown passes in the final 8 minutes to give the Patriots the lead 28-24. With 26 seconds left in the game, Seattle'S Russell Wilson was intercepted by New England's Malcom Butler to preserve New England's victory.
After the 2016 season, the Patriots played the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI. In the first quarter, the defenses played well and neither team was able to score. However, the Falcons dominated the second quarter. Davonte Freeman scored on a 5 yard run and Matt Ryan threw a touchdown pass to Austin Hooper to give the Falcons a 14-0 lead. Later on, Brady's pass was intercepted by Robert Alford and returned for a touchdown. The Falcons lead the Patriots 21-0. No team had ever overcome a 21 point deficit in the Super Bowl. Towards the end of the first half, the Patriots kicked a field goal to make the score 21-3.
Early in the second half, Brady threw a touchdown pass to Tevin Coleman to give the Falcons a 28-3 lead. The lead seemed insurmountable even for Tom Brady who had lead comebacks in the past. Then, the Patriots scored on a touchdown pass from Brady to running back James White to make the score 28-9. New England missed the extra point. After a field goal, and two touchdown passes by Brady, the score was tied at 28-28. Then in overtime, Brady lead the Patriots down the field. White scored on a two yard touchdown run to win the game for the Patriots in over time 34-28. It was the first time that a Super Bowl had been decided in overtime.
The Patriots victory in Super Bowl LI was a remarkable comeback. It was one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history. It added to the legacy of Brady and the Patriots.
After the 2017 season, the Patriots advanced to Super Bowl LII. They faced the Philadelphia Eagles. In the first quarter, the teams traded field goals. Later in the first quarter, Eagles' quarterback Nick Foles completed a touchdown pass to Alston Jeffrey. The kick missed wide right, and the Eagles lead 9-3. La Garrett Blount scored on a 32 yard touchdown run to give the Eagles a 15-3 lead as the extra point was missed. The Patriots scored a field goal and a touchdown before Foles scored on a one yard touchdown run to make the score 22-12 Philadelphia at the half.
In the third quarter, the Patriots scored two touchdowns while the Eagles scored one touchdown. The Eagles lead 34-29 after three quarters. Brady threw a touchdown pass to tight end Rob Gronkowski to give the Patriots a 33-32 lead. However, the Eagles would score a touchdown and field goal to close out the scoring for the game. The Eagles won Super Bowl LII 41-33. After 8 Super Bowl appearances during the Kraft/Belichick/Brady era, the Patriots had 5 wins and 3 losses.
Due to the salary cap, we will probably never see a team quite as successful as the New England Patriots have been during the last 15 years. They have become the most consistent franchise in the NFL today.
5. Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have won 5 Super Bowl championships, 10 conference championships, 22 division championships and had 32 playoff appearances. Additionally, they had 20 straight winning seasons from 1966-1985. They also made the playoffs 18 of those 20 seasons.
The Cowboys played the Green Bay Packers at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas for the 1966 NFL championship game. The teams both scored two touchdowns in the first quarter to make the score 14-14. The Packers lead at the half 21-17. Green Bay quarterback Bart Starr threw a touchdown pass to Boyd Dowler to give Green Bay the lead 28-20. Green Bay went ahead 34-20 in the 4th quarter, and Dallas scored a touchdown later to make it 34-27. Towards the end of the game, Dallas quarterback Don Meredith was intercepted in the end zone by the Packers to preserve the victory for Green Bay.
The Cowboys once again played the Packers in the NFL championship game the following season in a game that became known as the "Ice Bowl" because of it's cold conditions. The Packers took a first quarter lead 14-0. Early on, the Packers adjusted to the cold conditions better than the Cowboys did. Both teams struggled to get traction on the frozen field, but the Packers played better in the early going.
However, Dallas soon adjusted and came back. The Cowboys shut out the Packers in the second and third quarters. The Cowboys scored 10 points in the second quarter to close the game to 14-10. After a scoreless third quarter, the Cowboys scored on the first play of the fourth quarter when running back Dan Reeves threw a touchdown pass to a Cowboy receiver. The Cowboys had their first lead of the game 17-14.
Both teams struggled to move the ball in the 4th quarter. With 4:50 left in the game, the Packers took over. Starr lead the Packers on one of the most famous drives in NFL history, which culminated in a quarterback sneak by Starr which gave the Packers a 21-17 victory over the Cowboys.
The Cowboys advanced to Super Bowl V after the 1970 season. This was the first Super Bowl for the Cowboys. The game featured a lot of turnovers. The Colts turned the ball over 7 times, while the Cowboys turned it over 4 times. The Cowboys lead 6-0 early in the second quarter. At the half, Dallas lead 13-6. Both teams failed to score in the third quarter. The Colts scored 10 points in the 4th quarter, as they shut out Dallas for the second half. Jim O'Brien kicked a field goal at the end of regulation to give the Colts a 16-13 win.
The Cowboys were known as "next year's champions" because they often lost in the playoffs and were unable to win a championship. However, that would change soon.
After the 1971 season, the Cowboys played the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI. After the first quarter, Dallas lead Miami 3-0. The Cowboys added a touchdown to go up 10-0. Miami kicked a field goal towards the end of the second quarter to make the score 10-3. In the third quarter, Dallas' Duane Thomas scored on a 3 yard touchdown run to make the score 17-3. In the 4th quarter, Dallas scored when quarterback Roger Staubach threw a 7 yard touchdown pass to Mike Ditka to close out the scoring. The Dallas Cowboys had finally become champions. They defeated the Miami Dolphins 24-3 to win Super Bowl VI.
After the 1975 season, the Cowboys would play the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl X. In the first quarter, Staubach threw a 29 yard touchdown pass to Drew Pearson to give Dallas a 7-0 lead. Later in the quarter, Steeler quarterback Terry Bradshaw threw a 7 yard touchdown pass to Randy Grossman to tie the score at 7-7. In the second quarter, Dallas' Tony Fritsch kicked a field goal to give Dallas a 10-7 lead. The Cowboys shut out Pittsburgh in the second and third quarters. In the 4th quarter, Pittsburgh scored on two field goals and a touchdown pass from Bradshaw to wide receiver Lynn Swann. Towards the end of the 4th quarter, Staubach threw a touchdown pass to Percy Howard to make the score 21-17. The Cowboys had a chance to win the game at the end, however, on the final play of the game Staubach was intercepted in the Steelers' end zone. Pittsburgh won Super Bowl X, 21-17.
After the 1977 season, the Cowboys played the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XII. The Broncos were known as the "Orange Crush" because of their good defense. The Cowboys' strong defense was known as the "doomsday defense."
The Cowboys opened the scoring when running back Tony Dorsett scored on a 3 yard run. Dallas added a field goal to make the score 10-0. The Cowboys added another field goal to go ahead 13-0 at the half. So, the Cowboys had shut out the Broncos in the first half. In the third quarter, the Broncos kicked a field goal to make the score 13-3. Later in the third quarter, Staubach threw a 45 yard touchdown pass to Butch Johnson to give the Cowboys a 20-3 lead. Less than a minute later, Denver's Rob Lytle scored on a one yard touchdown run to make the score 20-10. The Cowboys put the game away with 7:04 left in the game when running back Robert Newhouse threw a 29 yard touchdown pass to Golden Richards to close out the scoring. The Dallas Cowboys defeated the Denver Broncos 27-10 in Super Bowl X.
After the 1978 season, the Cowboys and Steelers played in Super Bowl XIII. The winner of this game would probably be known as the team of the 1970's. It was a rematch of Super Bowl X, which had been considered one of the best Super Bowls. Super Bowl XII would also be a good game.
In the first quarter, the Steelers recovered a fumble by the Cowboys who were attempting a reverse. Bradshaw threw a 28 yard touchdown pass to John Stallworth to give the Steelers a 7-0 lead. After the Cowboys recovered a Steeler fumble, Staubach threw a 39 yard touchdown pass to Tony Hill to even the score at 7-7. In the second quarter, linebacker Mike Hegman recovered a Steeler fumble and ran it in for a 37 yard touchdown. Dallas had it's first lead of the game, 14-7. Then Bradshaw threw a 75 yard touchdown pass to John Stallworth and a 7 yard touchdown pass to Rocky Bleier to give the Steelers a 21-14 lead at the half.
In the third quarter, the Cowboys kicked a field goal to make the score 21-17. Dallas shut out Pittsburgh in the third quarter. However, Pittsburgh would score two touchdowns in the 4th quarter to take command of the game. Steelers' running back Franco Harris scored on a 22 yard run , and Bradshaw threw a 18 yard touchdown pass to Swann to make the score 35-17. Towards the end of the 4th quarter, the Cowboys scored two touchdowns in an attempt to get back in the game. Staubach found Billy Joe Dupree for a 7 yard touchdown pass and threw a 4 yard touchdown pass to Butch Johnson. An onside kick failed, and the Pittsburgh Steelers held on for the victory. The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Dallas Cowboys 35-31 in Super Bowl XIII.
In the early 1980's, the Cowboys continued to win. They advanced to the NFC championship game three straight seasons. However, they lost all three games. After the 1980 season, Dallas lost to Philadelphia 20-7 in the NFC championship game. After the 1981 season the Cowboys lost to the 49ers 28-27 for the right to go to the Super Bowl. After the 1982 season, Dallas lost to Washington 31-17 in the NFC championship contest. Once again, the Cowboys were in the thick of things, but in all three situations the Cowboys fell short.
Between 1983 and 1989, the Cowboys were an average team, but they started to rebuild when Jimmy Johnson took over in 1989. By his fourth year, Johnson had the Cowboys in the Super Bowl.
After the 1992 season, the Cowboys played the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXVII. Dallas' quarterback Troy Aikman three for 273 yards and 4 touchdowns. Running back Emmitt Smith ran for 108 yards and one touchdown. The Bills committed 9 turnovers. The Cowboys recovered two fumbles for touchdowns. In Super Bowl XXVII, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Buffalo Bills 52-17. Aikman was named the game's MVP. It was the third Super Bowl championship for the Cowboys.
After the 1993 season, the Bills and the Cowboys met again in the Super Bowl. The Bills lead the Cowboys 13-6 at halftime. However, the Dallas defense shut out Buffalo the rest of the game. Aikman threw for 207 yards and Smith ran for 132 yards and two touchdowns. Smith was the game's MVP. In Super Bowl XXVIII, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Buffalo Bills 30-13 for the team's second straight Super Bowl title. It was the fourth Super Bowl championship for Dallas.
After the 1994 season, the Cowboys lost the NFC championship game to 49ers. There would be no third consecutive Super Bowl championship. However, after the 1995 season, the Cowboys made it to Super Bowl XXX. They would play against the Steelers, their former rival from the 1970's.
In the first quarter, the Cowboys went ahead 10-0 after a field goal by Chris Boniol and a touchdown pass from Aikman to tight end Jay Novacek. Boniol would kick another field goal in the second quarter. The Steelers scored on a touchdown pass from Neil O'Donnell to wide receiver Yancey Thigpin. At the end of the first half, the score was Dallas 13 Pittsburgh 7.
In the third quarter, Smith scored on a touchdown run to give the Cowboys a 20-7 lead. The Steelers' Norm Johnson kicked a field goal to make it 20-10. With 6:36 left in the game, Bam Morris scored for Pittsburgh to make it 20-17. The Cowboys' corner back Larry Brown intercepted two of Neil O'Donnell's passes to stop two Steeler drives. Brown was the game's MVP. The Cowboys closed out the scoring when Smith ran for a touchdown to make it 27-17. In Super Bowl XXX, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-17. The Cowboys had won three Super Bowls in four years. No other team in the history of the NFL has done that. This was the Cowboys' 5th Super Bowl title in 8 appearances.
Since their Super Bowl XXX championship, the Cowboys have been inconsistent. They have won few playoff games and not made it back to the Super Bowl. However, they have improved their team in recent years.
The Dallas Cowboys have made an impact on the history of the NFL. The organization was a model of consistency from 1965 through the mid 1980's. After, several difficult seasons, the Cowboys rebounded to win 3 Super Bowls in the early to mid 1990's.
The Cowboys have become one of the most recognizable teams in American professional sports. Even casual sports fans have heard of the Dallas Cowboys. Since the team made it's debut in 1960, people have been interested in the team. The Cowboys are the most valuable NFL franchise and one of the most talked about teams in the NFL.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers were founded in 1933. The Steelers have won 6 Super Bowls, 8 conference championships and 23 division titles. They have made the playoffs 31 times.
Since 1969, the Steelees have had only three head coaches - Chuck Noll, Bill Cowher and Mike Tomlin. The Steelers have been a model of consistency, continuity and stability. All three coaches have won Super Bowls. Noll is a hall of farmer, Cowher may be in the hall of fame one day and Tomlin has the best winning percentage of the three. The Steelers have chosen good head coaches for the last 49 years.
After the 1974 season, the Steelers played the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IX.
In Super Bowl IX, both defenses played well in the first quarter. Both offenses were unable to score. Early in the second quarter, Viking quarterback Fran Tarkenton rocovered a Viking fumble in the end zone and was tackled by Pittsburgh's Dwight White for a safety. Pittsburgh lead 2-0. Neither team could score for the rest of the first half.
Minnesotta's Bill Brown fumbled the kick off to begin the second half. Pittsburgh recovered the ball at the Minnesota 30 yard line. Pittsburgh's Franco Harris ran 24 yards to make it first and goal. Eventually, Harris scored on a touchdown run to make it 9-0. Neither team scored the rest of the third quarter. Pittsburgh had shut out Minnesota for three quarters.
In the 4th quarter, Minnesota blocked a Pittsburgh punt and recovered it in the end zone. Minesotta's Fred Cox missed the extra point, but the gap was closed to 9-6. Despite poor offensive play, the Vikings had a chance to win the game. However, the Steelers would score on a 4 yard touchdown pass from Bradshaw to Larry Brown to close out the scoring. In Super Bowl IX, the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Minnesota Vikings 16-6.
As previously stated, after the 1975 season, the Steelers defeated the Cowboys 21-17 in Super Bowl X. They would also defeat the Cowboys three years later in Super Bowl XIII, 35-31.
After the 1979 season, the Steelers played the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl XIV. In the first quarter, Pittsburgh scored on a field goal to take the lead. Los Angeles' running back Cullen Bryant scored on a touchdown run to give the Rams the lead 7-3. Early in the second quarter, Pittsburgh scored on a one yard run by Franco Harris to give the Steelers a 10-7 lead. The Rams' Frank Corral kicked a field goal to tie the game at 10-10. Corral later added another field goal to give the Rams a 13-10 lead at the half.
Early in the second half, Bradshaw threw a 47 yard touchdown pass to John Stallworth to give the Steelers a 17-13 lead. The Rams Lawrence McCutcheon threw a 24 yard touchdown pass to Ron Smith which gave the Rams a 19-17 lead. Corral missed the extra point. For the first time in their appearances in the Super Bowls, the Steelers trailed entering the fourth quarter. However, on a 3rd and 8 play, Bradshaw threw a 73 yard touchdown pass to Stallworth to give Pittsburgh a 24-19 lead. Then later in the fourth quarter, Harris scored on a one yard run to make it 31-19. The Steelers had won their fourth Super Bowl in the 1970's. They had firmly established themselves as the team of the decade.
16 years later, after the 1995 season, the Steelers lost to the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl XXX. This was the third time that the Steelers and the Cowboys played in the Super Bowl. The Cowboys won 27-17. It was the first time that the Steelers lost in the Super Bowl.
10 years later, after the 2005 season, the Steelers played the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XL. In the first quarter, both defenses played well. Seattle lead 3-0 after the first quarter. Pittsburgh did not have one first down on offense. Late in the second quarter, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger scored on a one yard run to give the Steelers a 7-3 halftime lead.
Early in the second half, Pittsburgh running back Willie Parker scored on a 75 yard touchdown run. This gave Pittsburgh a 14-3 lead. Later in the third quarter, Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck threw a 16 yard touchdown pass to Jeramy Stevens to close the game to 14-10. In the fourth quarter, Pittsburgh scored when Roethlisberger gave the ball to Antwan Randle El who threw a 43 yard touchdown pass to Hines Ward to give Pittsburgh a 21-10 lead. The Steelers held on for their fifth Super Bowl title.
After the 2008 season, the Steelers played the Arizona Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII. Both defenses played well in the first quarter. The Steelers help the Cardinals scoreless in the first quarter. Jeff Reed kicked a field goal for Pittsburgh which gave the Steelers a 3-0 lead after the first quarter. Early in the second quarter, Pittsburgh running back Gary Russell scored on a one yard run to give the Steelers a 10-0 lead. The Cardinals scored when Kurt Warner completed a one yard touchdown pass to Ben Patrick which made the score 10-7. On the final play of the first half, Warner was intercepted by linebacker James Harrison who ran it 100 yards for a touchdown to give the Steelers a 17-7 lead at the half. Harrison's play at the time was the longest touchdown in Super Bowl history. It was one of the most memorable plays in Super Bowl history and gave Pittsburgh momentum entering halftime.
In the third quarter, Reed kicked a field goal to give Pittsburgh a 20-7 lead. This was the only scoring in the third quarter, as both defenses played well. In the fourth quarter, Warner threw a touchdown pass to Larry Fitzgerald to make score 20-14 after the extra point. Later the Cardinals scored a safety when a Pittsburgh offensive lineman was called for holding in the end zone. Later, Warner threw a 64 yard touchdown to Fitzgerald to give the Cardinals their fist lead of the game 23-20. However, with 23 seconds left in the game, Roethlisberger threw a 6 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Antonio Holmes to give the Steelers a 27-23 lead. The Cardinals got the ball to the Steelers 44 yard line, but with 15 seconds left, Warner fumbled to end the game.
So, in the Super Bowl era there has been no team better than the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers have won 6 Super Bowl championships in 8 appearances. The franchise is known for their "steel curtain defense" of the 1970's and their consistency as an organization. The people of Pittsburgh are justifiably proud of the Steelers and their many accomplishments.
3. New York Giants
It's impossible to imagine the NFL without the New York Giants. The Giants, who began playing in the NFL in 1925, are one of the oldest and proudest franchises. Sometimes referred to as "Big Blue", the Giants have earned the respect of fans throughout the NFL. They have made their fans proud and represented the New York metropolitan area with distinction and class.
The Giants have won 8 NFL championships, including 4 Super Bowl titles. They have won 11 conference championships and 16 division titles. They have made the playoffs 32 times.
The Giants won their first NFL championship after the 1927 season, their third season in the NFL. In 1927, the Giants finished 11-1-1. That year there was no championship game. The Giants won the championship because they had the best record in the NFL that season. The Giants had an excellent defense that year. New York gave up only 20 points in 13 games. The Giants shut out their opponents 20 times during the 1927 season. This is one of the best defensive performances in the history of the NFL.
The Giants won their second championship in 1934. The Giants defeated the Chicago Bears 30-13 at the Polo Grounds in New York city. The Bears were the favorite. The had been undefeated at 13-0, while the Giants were 8-5. The Bears led 10-3 at the half. The field was wet from rain. The Giants players asked the coaches if they could switch from cleats to sneakers. So, the Giants players got sneakers from the basketball players that had been previously used by Manhattan University players. Nine players on the Giants switched to sneakers to gain better traction.
The Bears scored on a field goal to make it 13-3 in the third quarter. However, the Giants outscored the Bears 27-0 in the fourth quarter to win the game 30-13. Many Bears players mentioned afterwards that they noticed the Giants' improved traction after halftime.
In the 1938 NFL championship, the Giants defeated the Green Bay Packers 23-17. The Giants lead the Packers 9-0 after the first quarter. In the second quarter Green Bay scored when Arnie Herber threw a touchdown pass to Carl Mulleneaux to make it 9-7. Ed Danowski threw a touchdown pass to Barnard to make it 16-7. Carl Hinkle scored on a one yard run for Green Bay to make it 16-14. In the fourth quarter, Green Bay scored a field goal to go ahead 17-16. However, the Giants went ahead for good when Hank Soar caught a 23 yard touch down pass from Danowski to make it 23-17. The Giants had won their third NFL championship.
The Giants played the Chicago Bears in the 1956 NFL championship game. After the first quarter, the Giants lead the Bears 13-0. At half time, the Giants lead the Bears 34-7. They added two more touchdowns in the second half to beat the Bears 47-7. Mel Triplett, Alex Webster, Henry Moore, Kyle Rote and Frank Gifford all scored touchdowns for the Giants. The New York Giants had won their fourth NFL championship.
The Giants played the Baltimore Colts in the 1958n NFL championship game. In the first quarter, Pat Summerall kicked a 36 yard field goal to give the Giants a 3-0 lead. In the second quarter, Alan Ameche scored on a 2 yard run and Raymond Berry scored on a 15 yard touchdown pass from Johnny Unitas to give Baltimore a 14-3 lead. In the third quarter Triplett scored on a one yard run to make it 14-10. In the fourth quarter, the Giants went ahead when Gifford caught a 15 yard touchdown pass from Charley Connerly to make it 17-14, Giants. Steve Myhra kicked a field goal for the Colts to tie the game at 17-17. In overtime, Ameche scored on a one yard run to give the Colts the 23-17 win. It was the first time that the Giants had lost in an NFL championship game. Both teams played well in what was one of the best games in NFL history.
After a difficult stretch, head coach Bill Parcells helped the Giants to improve.
After the 1986 season, the Giants made it to their first Super Bowl. They played the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI. In the first quarter, Rich Karlis kicked a 48 yard field goal to give the Broncos the 3-0 lead. The Giants came back when Phil Simms threw a 6 yard touch down pass to Zeke Mowatt. Towards the end of the first quarter, Broncos quarterback John Elway scored on a four yard touchdown run to give the Broncos a 10-7 lead. In the second quarter, both defenses played well. Neither team scored an offensive touchdown. The Giants' George Martin sacked Elway in the end zone for a safety to make the score 10-9.
In the third quarter, Simms threw a touch down pass to tight end Mark Bavaro to give the Giants a 16-10 lead. Then Raul Allegre kicked a field goal to stretch the Giants' lead to 19-10. Later on in the third quarter, Joe Morris scored a running touch down to give the Giants a commanding 26-10 lead.
In the fourth quarter, Simms threw a pass that was intended for Mark Bavaro. Instead, the pass bounced off his hand and into the hands of wide receiver Phil McConkey for a touchdown. The Giants lead 33-10 and were well on their way to their first ever Super Bowl victory. Karlis added a field goal to make the score 33-13. However, the Giants would score another touchdown when running back Ottis Anderson scored a two yard touchdown run. Denver closed out the scoring when Elway threw a 47 yard touchdown pass to Vance Johnson to make it 39-20. The Giants had won their first ever Super Bowl. Coach Bill Parcells was doused with Gatorade by the victorious Giants.
After the 1990 season, the Giants played the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXV. The Bills were the favorite because they had an outstanding offense. In order to counteract the Bills' explosive offense, the Giants tried to take as much time off of the clock during their offensive drives. They did this by running the football.
In the first quarter, the Giants began the scoring when kicker Matt Bahr kicked a 28 yard field goal to give the Giants a three point lead. The Giants took 6:15 off of the clock. The Bills came right back and took just over a minute off of the clock. Scott Norwood of the Bills kicked a 23 yard field goal to tie the game at 3-3. Later Don Smith, the Bills' running back, scored a one yard touchdown run to give the Bills a 10-3 lead.
In the second quarter, Bills' defensive end Bruce Smith sacked Giants' quarterback Jeff Hostetler for a safety to give the Bills a 12-3 lead. Later, Hostetler threw a 14 yard touch down pass to Stephen Baker to make the score 12-10. The half ended with the Giants trailing by 2 points.
In the third quarter, the Giants put together a scoring drive that lasted 9:29. Up until that time, it was the longest scoring drive in Super Bowl history. The scoring drive ended when running back Ottis Anderson scored on a one yard run to give the Giants a 17-12 lead. This was the only scoring of the third quarter.
The Bills scored on the first play of the fourth quarter when running back Thurman Thomas ran 31 yards for a touchdown. The Bills took the lead 19-17. Next the Giants had an offensive drive that lasted 7:32. At the end of the drive, Bahr kicked a field goal which gave the Giants a 20-19 lead. The Giants had once again taken a lot of time off of the clock, which kept Buffalo's outstanding offense off of the field. On the Bills' last possession, Buffalo marched to the Giants 29 yard line with 8 seconds to play. However, Scott Norwood's 47 yard field goal missed wide right, and the Giants won 20-19. The New York Giants had won their second Super Bowl.
After the 2000 season, the Giants advanced to the Super Bowl for the third time. They would play the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XXXV.
The Ravens were known for their outstanding defense during the 2000 season.
In the first quarter, both defenses played well. However, the Ravens scored towards the end of the first quarter, when quarterback Trent Dilfer threw a 38 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Stokely. After the extra point, the Ravens lead 7-0.
In the second quarter, Ravens' kicker Matt Stover made a 47 yard field goal to give Baltimore a 10-0 lead. The Giants had a scoring opportunity later in the second quarter, but Giants quarterback Kerry Collins was intercepted. The Ravens lead 10-0 at the half.
In the third quarter, Ravens defensive back Duane Starks intercepted a Collins pass and brought it back 49 yards for a touchdown. The Giants Ron Dixon returned the ensuing kickoff 97 yards for a Giants touchdown. The Ravens now lead 17-7. However, the Ravens Jermaine Lewis returned the next kickoff 84 yards for a Ravens touchdown. The Ravens now lead 24-7. Three touchdowns were scored on three consecutive plays in 36 seconds.
In the fourth quarter, Jamal Lewis of the Ravens scored on a 3 yard touchdown run to give the Ravens a 31-7 lead. On the Ravens' next possession, Stover kicked a 34 yard field goal to make the score 34-7. Although the Giants were the NFC champions, the Baltimore Ravens won Super Bowl XXXV.
As stated earlier, the Giants would win two more Super Bowls. The Giants defeated the Patriots in Super Bowls XLII and XLVI. The Giants have now won 4 Super Bowls and played in 5 of them. Their victories over the Patriots have maintained the Giants has one of the most successful franchises in NFL history.
The New York Giants continue to be one of the best run franchises. They have a strong fan base and an excellent history. The Giants continue to be one of the more consistent teams in the NFL.
2. Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears have won 9 NFL championships including one Super Bowl. They have won 4 conference championships, 18 division titles and they have made 26 playoff appearances. The Bears were one of the NFL original teams. They began play in 1920.
The Bears played in Staley Field in 1919 and 1920. They played in Wrigley Field from 1921 tp 1970. They have played in Soldier Field from 1971 to the present day. For one season, 2002, they played in Memorial Stadium.
George Halas was part owner of the team from 1921 to 1932. He was the principal owner from 1932 to 1983. Virginia Halas McCaskey has been the owner since 1983.
The Bears won their first NFL championship game in 1921 when they were known as the Chicago Staleys. They beat the Buffalo All Americans 10-7. George 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 the championship game. Buffalo was under the impression that the game would not count in the standings. In Buffalo, New York, the loss became known as the "Curse of the Staleys." It is considered on of the first curses in professional sports.
In 1932, the Bears defeated the Portsmouth Spartans 9-0 to win their second NFL championship. The game was moved form Wrigley Field to the indoor Chicago Stadium because of the inclement weather. Today, games are rarely moved indoors or postponed because of the weather. Additionally, the field was for his 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, when they would defeat the Bears 30-13 in the 1934 NFL championship game.
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, during the regular season the Redskins had the better record. The Redskins were 9-2, while the Bears were 8-3. The game was broadcast on the Mutual Broadcasting 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 beginning to 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 different players had at least one rushing attempt. The "T Formation" probably made it difficult for the defense to know what running back would get the ball. In any event, the Bears implementation of the "T Formation" paved 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 World War II in 1945.
In 1943, the Bears would once again defeat the Redskins in the championship game. Though the score was much closer than the 1940 championship game, the Bears still won 41-21. The Bears held the Redskins to 46 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 people, 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.
The Bears played the Giants again in the 1963 NFL championship. The game was at Wrigley Field before 45,801 fans. In the first quarter, Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle threw a 14 yard touchdown pass to Frank Gifford. After the extra point, the Giants lead 7-0. After intercepting Tittle, the Bears had the ball at the 6 yard line of the Giants. From there, Bears quarterback Billy Wade scored on a run. At the end of the first quarter, the Bears and the Giants were tied at 7-7. In the second quarter, Don Chandler kicked a field goal to give New York the lead 10-7. That was the score at the end of the first half.
After intercepting Tittle, the Bears scored on a another run by Wade. The Bears lead 14-10. Neither team scored in the 4th quarter. The Bears won the 1963 championship 14-10. George Allen, the Bears defensive coordinator, was given the game ball because of how well Chicago's defense played.
In 1985, the Bears won their first and only Super Bowl. The defeated the New England Patriots 45-10 in Super Bowl XX. The Bears dominated the game much like they dominated the season. They had finished the season with a 15-1 record. Their only loss was on Monday night to a good Miami Dolphins team. During the regular season, the Bears outscored their opponents 456-198. While the defense got a lot of credit that season, it was also the most prolific offensive season in Bears' history.
The Chicago Bears have had an illustrious history. Some of the best players in NFL history have played for the Bears. They are one of the NFL's original teams and have been a big part of the history of the league.
1. Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers are the most successful NFL franchise in history.
The Packers have won 13 NFL championships, including 4 Super Bowls. Green Bay has won 9 conference championships and 18 division titles. The Packers have made the playoffs 32 times.
The Green Bay Packers won three consecutive NFL championships between 1929 and 1931. They won those championships because they had the best record in the NFL those years. The NFL did not introduce a championship game until 1933.
In 1929, the Packers were undefeated. They finished with a 12-0-1 record. The Giants finished in second place with a 13-1-1 record. The Packers beat the Giants that year in the regular season 20-6. This was essentially the championship game of the NFL that season.
In 1930, the Packers finished in first place again with a 10-3-1 record. They scored 234 points and allowed 111 points. The Giants, once again, finished in second place with a 13-4 record.
In 1931, the Packers finished in first place for a third consecutive season with a 12-2 record. This time the Portsmouth Spartans finished in second place with a 11-3 record. The Packers scored 291 points and allowed 87 points.
In 1936, the Packers finished the regular season in first place of the Western Division with a 10-1-1 record. Green Bay played the Boston Redskins in the 1936 NFL championship game. The game was played at the Polo Grounds in New York city before 29,545 fans.
In the first quarter, Don Hutson caught a 48 yard touchdown pass from Arnie Herber. After Ernie Smith's extra point, the Packers lead 7-0. In the second quarter, Pug Rentner scored on a two yard touchdown run. The extra point failed, and Green Bay lead 7-6 at the half. In the third quarter, Milt Gantenbein scored on a 8 yard touchdown pass from Herber. After the extra point, the Packers lead 14-6. Green Bay closed out the scoring when Bob Monnett scored on a two yard run. Paul Engebretsen kicked the extra point to give the Packers a 21-6 win. The Packers had won their fourth NFL championship and their first championship game. The Packers had further established themselves as the NFL's model franchise.
In 1939, the Packers played the Giants in the championship game. The Giants had won the championship the year before and finished with a 9-1-1 record as Eastern division champions. The Packers, champions of the Western Division, finished with a 9-2 record. The game was played at the Dairy Bowl in Wisconsin before 32,379 fans.
In the first quarter, the Packers scored when Milt Gantenbein scored on a 7 yard touchdown pass from Herber. Engebretsen kicked an extra point to make the score 7-0. Both defenses played well in the second quarter and neither team scored.
In the third quarter, Engebretsen kicked a 29 yard field goal to give Green Bay a 10-0 lead. Later in the third quarter, Joe Laws caught a 31 yard pass from Cecil Isbell. After Engbretsen's kick, the Packers lead 17-0. In the fourth quarter, Ernie Smith kicked a 42 yard field goal to make the score 20-0. Ed Jankowski closed out the scoring with a one yard run. Smith made the score 27-0 after his extra point. Green Bay won the 1939 championship 27-0. It was the first ever shut out in an NFL championship game. It was the Packers' 5th NFL championship in 11 years. They continued to dominate the NFL.
In 1944, the Packers once again played the Giants for the NFL championship. The Giants won the Eastern Division with a 8-1-1 record. The Packers won the Western Division with 8-2 record. The game was played in the Polo Grounds in New York city on December 17th, 1944.
In the first half, the Packers shut the Giants out. The Packers scored two touchdowns in the second quarter. Ted Fritsch scored on a one yard run, and Fritsch scored on a 28 yard touchdown pass from Irv Comp. Both extra points were good, and Green Bay lead New York 14-0 at the half.
No one scored in the third quarter. In the 4th quarter, the Giants avoided a shut out by scoring on a one yard touchdown run by Ward Cuff. After the extra point by Ken Strong, the Giants trailed the Packers 14-7. This would turn out to be the final score. The Packers had won their 6th NFL championship.
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 coach Vince 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 a championship game under Lombardi.
In 1961, the Packers beat the Giants for the NFL championship 37-0. The game was played in Wisconsin during the day on New Year's Eve in 20 degree weather. Paul 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 kicker and booted three field goals and one extra point. The Green Bay Packers had been to three straight NFL championship games, and they had won two in a row.
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 Hornung and a touchdown pass by Bart Starr. After a two year absence, the Packers were once again champions.
Before the 1966 season, the NFL and AFL merged into one entity. The winner of the AFL 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 championship legacy with a Super Bowl win.
The Packers played the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl II. The game was played at the Orange Bowl in Miami Florida on January 14th, 1968.
In the first quarter, Don Chandler kicked a 39 yard field goal to give Green Bay a 3-0 lead. This was the only score in the first quarter. In the second quarter, Chandler added to the Packers' lead when he kicked a 20 yard field goal to give Green Bay a 6-0 lead. With 4:35 remaining in the second quarter, Bill Miller scored on a 23 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Daryle Lamonica. After George Blanda's extra point, Oakland had narrowed the score to 13-7. With 22 second remaining in the first half, Chandler kicked his third field goal of the game to give the Packers a 16-7 lead at the end of the first half.
In the third quarter, Donny Anderson scored on a two yard touchdown run. After Chandler's extra point, the Packers lead 23-7. Chandler kicked a 31 yard field goal with 2 seconds left in the third quarter to give Green Bay a 26-7 lead. It was Chandler's fourth field goal of the game. With 9:13 remaining in the game, Miller caught another 23 yard touchdown pass from Lamonica to make it 33-14. This would be the final score. The Green Bay Packers defeated the Oakland Raiders 33-14 to win Super Bowl II. The Packers won the first two Super Bowls in NFL history.
The Packers would go 29 years before they played in another Super Bowl. However, the Packers finally made it to the Super Bowl again after the 1996 season. The Packers played the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXI on January 26th, 1997 in the Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.
In the first quarter, the Packers took the lead when quarterback Brett Favre threw a 54 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Andre Risen. Chris Jacke added the extra point, and Green Bay lead 7-0. Later in the first quarter, Jacke kicked a 37 yard field goal to make it 10-0. Later in the first quarter, New England quarterback Drew Bledsoe threw a 1 yard touchdown pass to Keith Byars. Adam Vinatieri added the extra point to make the score 10-7. With 2:33 remaining in the first quarter, Bledsoe threw a 4 yard touchdown pass to Ben Coates. After Vinatieri's extra point, the Patriots lead 14-10.
Early in the second quarter, Favre threw an 81 yard touchdown pass to Antonio Freeman. Jacke's extra point gave Green Bay a 17-14 lead. With 8:15 remaining in the second quarter, Jacke added a 31 yard field goal to give Green Bay a 20-14 lead. With 1:11 remaining in the first half, Favre scored on a two yard touchdown run. After Jacke's extra point, the Packers lead 27-14.
With 3:27 left in the third quarter, Curtis Martin scored on a 18 yard touchdown run for New England. After Vinatieri's extra point, New England had narrowed the score to 27-21. However, Desmond Howard returned the ensuing kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown. Green Bay successfully converted a two point conversion to make the score 35-21.
Neither team would score in the fourth quarter. Green Bay defeated New England in Super Bowl XXXI, 35-21. It was Green Bay's third Super Bowl championship and their 12th overall NFL title. After 29 years, the Packers had finally become Super Bowl champions again.
The Packers would again make it to the Super Bowl after the 2010 season. They played the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLV on February 6th, 2011 in Cowboys stadium in Arlington, Texas before 103,219 spectators.
In the first quarter, quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw a 29 yard touchdown pass to Jordy Nelson. Mason Crosby kicked the extra point to give the Packers a 7-0 lead. With 3:20 left in the first quarter, Nick Collins intercepted a pass by Steeler quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and returned it 37 yards for a touchdown. After Crosby's extra point, the Packers lead 14-0.
In the second quarter, Pittsburgh got on the score board when Shaun Suisham kicked a 33 yard field goal to make the score 14-3. With 2:24 left in the first half, Rodgers threw a 21 yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings. Crosby added the extra point, and Green Bay had a 21-3 lead. Pittsburgh came back when Roethlisberger threw a 8 yard touchdown pass to Hines Ward with 39 seconds left in the first half. After Suisham's extra point, the score was 21-10.
In the fourth quarter, Rodgers threw a 8 yard touchdown pass to Jennings. After Crosby's extra point, the Packers had a 28-17 lead. With 7:34 remaining in the game, Mike Wallace caught a 25 yard touchdown pass from Roethlisberger. The Steelers added a two point conversion, and the score was 28-25. With 2:07 left in the game, Crosby kicked a 23 yard field goal to close out the scoring. The Green Bay Packers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25 in Super Bowl XLV. The Packers won their fourth Super Bowl and their 13th NFL title.
With 13 NFL championships, the Green Bay Packers are the most successful franchise in NFL history. Many other teams have had success as well. The Packers and the other teams in the NFL will continue to compete for Super Bowl championships. Lombardi trophies will be added to the legacies of teams in the future and players and teams will make their contribution to the history of the NFL.
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