At #23 on our list of Greatest NFL Games, and as the first Super Bowl, we have the 1987 Super Bowl (played in 1988) between the Denver Broncos and the Washington Redskins. The game was…not close–in fact, at the time it happened, it was just behind the Bears Super Bowl XX drubbing of the Patriots in terms of Super Bowl blowouts. It is notable, though, for the record breaking performance of the Redskins’ offense, and in particular Doug Williams, who was the first ever African-American to start a Super Bowl at quarterback (and to win the game…and to be named MVP).
Was This Game in the Original List From The Book?
This is the first game in our list that happened before the book was published–but it’s not in the book as one of their greatest games, likely due to the blowout nature of the game, combined with the fact that the book likely wasn’t looking at games from a social impact perspective.
Super Bowl XXII
Held on January 31, 1988, at Jack Murphy Stadium in San Diego, California, is celebrated (at least by ChatGPT) as one of the most memorable and remarkable games in NFL history. This game featured the Washington Redskins defeating the Denver Broncos with a staggering score of 42-10. The significance of this game lies not only in the overwhelming victory but also in the numerous records set, the historic performances, and the dramatic turn of events that unfolded during the game.
Pre-Game Context
The Denver Broncos, led by quarterback John Elway, entered Super Bowl XXII with high hopes. Elway, known for his strong arm and playmaking ability, had guided the Broncos to a 10-4-1 record during the regular season and a dominant run in the playoffs. The Redskins, under head coach Joe Gibbs, were also a formidable team, having posted an 11-4 record and showcasing a balanced attack on both offense and defense.
The First Quarter: Broncos Strike First
The game began with a bang as the Broncos quickly took the lead. On the very first play from scrimmage, John Elway connected with wide receiver Ricky Nattiel for a 56-yard touchdown pass, putting Denver ahead 7-0. The Broncos then added a field goal, extending their lead to 10-0. At this point, it seemed like the Broncos were on their way to a commanding victory.
The Second Quarter: Redskins’ Unprecedented Explosion
What followed in the second quarter was nothing short of historic. The Washington Redskins orchestrated one of the greatest comebacks in Super Bowl history, scoring 35 unanswered points. This incredible outburst remains the most points scored by a team in a single quarter in Super Bowl history.
- Doug Williams’ Heroics: Quarterback Doug Williams, who became the first African American quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl, delivered an unforgettable performance. Despite suffering a knee injury early in the game, Williams returned to the field and threw four touchdown passes in the second quarter alone.
- Ricky Sanders‘ Record Day: Wide receiver Ricky Sanders was the primary beneficiary of Williams’ precise passes, catching two touchdown passes and amassing a Super Bowl-record 193 receiving yards.
- Timmy Smith‘s Ground Attack: Rookie running back Timmy Smith also made history by rushing for a Super Bowl-record 204 yards and scoring two touchdowns. His unexpected breakout performance remains one of the most remarkable in Super Bowl lore.
The Third and Fourth Quarters: Redskins Dominate
With a 35-10 lead at halftime, the Redskins continued to control the game in the second half. They added another touchdown in the third quarter, extending their lead to 42-10. The Broncos, unable to recover from the second-quarter onslaught, were held scoreless in the second half.
The Redskins’ defense also played a crucial role, shutting down the Broncos’ offense and preventing any further scoring. The Broncos’ vaunted passing attack was neutralized, and John Elway was sacked five times, forcing him into multiple turnovers.
Post-Game Analysis and Legacy
The final score of 42-10 highlighted the Redskins’ dominance and underscored the magnitude of their achievement. Doug Williams was named Super Bowl MVP, finishing the game with 340 passing yards and four touchdown passes. His performance shattered stereotypes and paved the way for future African American quarterbacks in the NFL.
Several factors contribute to Super Bowl XXII’s inclusion in the list of top 25 NFL games of all time:
- Historic Quarterback Performance: Doug Williams’ second-quarter performance was a masterclass in quarterback play, and his story of overcoming adversity added a layer of inspiration and significance to the game.
- Unprecedented Scoring: The Redskins’ 35-point second quarter remains an unmatched feat in Super Bowl history. The rapid succession of touchdowns showcased the explosive potential of the Redskins’ offense.
- Record-Breaking Plays: The game set multiple Super Bowl records, including Timmy Smith’s rushing yards and Ricky Sanders’ receiving yards. These records still stand, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the Redskins’ performance.
- Cultural Impact: Doug Williams’ victory had a profound impact on the NFL and sports culture, breaking barriers and challenging preconceived notions about African American quarterbacks.
Conclusion
Super Bowl XXII is more than just a game; it is a historic moment in NFL history that exemplifies the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of football. The Washington Redskins’ remarkable comeback, record-breaking performances, and Doug Williams’ trailblazing achievement combine to make this game one of the greatest in the annals of the sport. For fans and historians alike, Super Bowl XXII stands as a testament to the drama, excitement, and transformative power of football.
This game will forever be remembered not only for the lopsided score but also for the way it was achieved, demonstrating that in football, anything can happen, and history can be made in the blink of an eye. Whether you’re a Redskins fan, a Broncos fan, or simply a lover of the game, Super Bowl XXII is a reminder of the magic that can unfold on the gridiron.
Loading ...
Are you kidding me?
Did “AI” come up with this blowout-by-halftime?
Not even in the Top 25 Super Bowls. Did I miss today being April 1?
Only if you were a Redskins fan! LOL I agree, maybe a woke person came up with the list and included it because of Doug Williams? Are they allowed to say Redskins when referring back. :) I heard there’s a push to bring back the name. LOL I still think they should have named the Team the Braves. Can’t be Indians. lol Maybe next on the hit list are the Chiefs? lol
Yes, the list was generated by AI–I 100% agree that this game shouldn’t be on it…but no doubt the generative AI found another list somewhere that said the cultural impact of this game outweighed the closeness of some other game. That’s one issue that “AI” has is source bias…no doubt this list will show signs of recency bias as well. I probably could have avoided it by being more specific with my prompt–I also have found that these AI lists are better when it’s top 10 vs top 25…but that’s part of the fun of the debate after the fact!
Even in terms of “impact” the game is overrated. Williams had a great game, so what? He won a divisional playoff against the Eagles in 1979 for TB!
He was only a starter for the Redskins for what, five games replacing Jay Schroeder? He had a great game, even overcoming injury but the defense for the Broncos played badly, allowing over 600 yards total offense. A big win but Williams went right back to the bench just a season later …
Started two games in the strike shortened season (after not playing in the NFL since 1982, other than one pass attempt in 1986), but we’re not evaluating his season or his career–just the game. Most TDs thrown in s SB half/quarter still to this day, I believe, and at the time most passing yards in a Super Bowl (lasted one year). Ricky Sanders set the records for most receiving yards, total yards, TDs in a quarter, receiving yards in a quarter, and longest TD (some of those may have been broken–I know the last one was). Timmy Smith set the record for most rushing yards in a Super Bowl. And the first African-American to start/win a Super Bowl…hence the “social impact.”
So, lot of records, and some important moments. Doesn’t mean I think it makes the list, but I can see why some people that make lists like this (that ChatGPT would use as a source) might put it ahead of other games in the criteria of “games that have meaningful “impact”.
I agree Brian. That 1979 season was intriguing with the Bucs being led by a Black QB but even more so by how pathetic the Bucs had been, And it’s not like Williams was great completing 41% of his passes. He threw a nice deep ball and was mobile but it was the Defense that was stellar. No I always thought James Harris before him was more impressive. He showed everyone that a black QB could lead an NFL team effectively. Before him Jefferson Street Joe Gilliam of the Steelers had some moments.
So Williams’ SB while historic on some level, him being the starting QB for a winning SB Team always has felt overblown by the media for the reasons I stated. Go figure! lol It was the start of everything being about race.
It is what it is nothing more or less. It’s only really something if you buy into the narrative that Black people can’t achieve which I never did. They only needed the opportunity. Same with the media making such a big deal of Lovie Smith facing Tony Dungy in the SB.