• This Moment in Sports History for 12-18-2024

  • Dec 18 2024
  • Length: 2 mins
  • Podcast

This Moment in Sports History for 12-18-2024

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  • Summary

  • On December 18, 1932, the Chicago Bears and the Portsmouth Spartans (now known as the Detroit Lions) made history by playing the first ever NFL playoff game. The game was held indoors at Chicago Stadium due to inclement weather, marking the first time an NFL game was played indoors.

    The Bears and Spartans had finished the regular season tied for first place in the league standings with identical 6-1 records. To determine the champion, the NFL arranged for a playoff game to be played on a neutral site.

    The indoor field at Chicago Stadium measured only 80 yards long and 45 yards wide, significantly smaller than a standard football field. The field was also surrounded by a wooden wall to separate the players from the fans, adding an extra element of physicality to the game.

    Despite the unusual circumstances, the game was a thrilling affair. The Bears, led by legendary player and coach George Halas, took an early lead and held on for a 9-0 victory. The only scoring came from a touchdown pass from Bears quarterback Bronko Nagurski to Red Grange, followed by a safety late in the game.

    The Bears' victory earned them their second consecutive NFL championship and cemented their status as one of the league's early dynasties. The game also showcased the popularity and growth of professional football, even in the midst of the Great Depression.

    Today, the 1932 NFL Playoff Game is remembered as a seminal moment in the history of the sport, paving the way for the growth and evolution of the NFL playoffs as we know them today. It's a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the players and coaches who participated in this unique and historic event.
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