This guide dives into 25 must-know NFL trivia facts, perfect for testing your football knowledge or hosting a trivia night. From Super Bowl records to historic milestones, here’s what you’ll learn:
- Most Super Bowl Wins: Patriots & Steelers lead with 6 each.
- Passing Touchdowns Leader: Tom Brady holds the record with 649.
- NFL Founding Year: Began in 1920 as the APFA.
- First 2,000-Yard Rusher: O.J. Simpson in 1973.
- Longest Field Goal: Justin Tucker’s 66-yarder in 2021.
- Undefeated Seasons: Only the 1972 Dolphins achieved perfection.
- Youngest Super Bowl QB: Dan Marino at 23 years old.
Quick Comparison: Super Bowl Wins by Team
| Team | Wins | Appearances | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|
| New England Patriots | 6 | 11 | 54.5% |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 6 | 8 | 75.0% |
| Dallas Cowboys | 5 | 8 | 62.5% |
| San Francisco 49ers | 5 | 8 | 62.5% |
Whether you're brushing up on NFL history or planning a trivia night, this list covers everything from iconic players to record-breaking games. Let’s dive into the details!
NFL Legends and Records Trivia Quiz
1. Team with Most Super Bowl Wins
The New England Patriots and the Pittsburgh Steelers share the top spot for the most Super Bowl wins in NFL history, with six championships each. While their success is equal in number, the journeys of these two franchises are quite different.
The Patriots have appeared in 11 Super Bowls, achieving a 6–5 record. Their latest victory came in Super Bowl LIII (February 2019), where they defeated the Los Angeles Rams 13–3. This win also cemented quarterback Tom Brady's legacy as the player with the most Super Bowl rings - six in total.
On the other hand, the Steelers have been highly efficient in their Super Bowl appearances, boasting a 6–2 record. Here's a quick comparison of these legendary teams and their closest competitors:
| Team | Super Bowl Wins | Appearances | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|
| New England Patriots | 6 | 11 | 0.545 |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 6 | 8 | 0.750 |
| Dallas Cowboys | 5 | 8 | 0.625 |
| San Francisco 49ers | 5 | 8 | 0.625 |
The Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers are tied for third place, each with five Super Bowl wins. This underscores how difficult it is to maintain dominance in the NFL - especially since no team has ever managed to win three Super Bowls in a row.
Up next, let’s dive into some individual NFL record holders.
2. Most Career Passing Touchdowns Record
Let's dive into one of the most iconic individual records in NFL history.
Tom Brady holds the record for the most career passing touchdowns in the NFL, with an incredible 649 touchdown passes. He achieved this milestone during his time with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Brady claimed the top spot in 2020 and continued to build on his total until his retirement in March 2023.
The numbers show just how far ahead Brady is compared to other legendary quarterbacks. Here's a breakdown of the all-time leaders in career passing touchdowns:
| Rank | Quarterback | Career TDs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tom Brady | 649 | Retired 2023 |
| 2 | Drew Brees | 571 | Retired |
| 3 | Peyton Manning | 539 | Retired |
| 4 | Brett Favre | 508 | Retired |
| 5 | Aaron Rodgers | 503 | Active |
Brady's lead is staggering. His 78-touchdown advantage over Drew Brees is larger than the 63-touchdown gap between Brees and Brett Favre.
In his final three seasons alone, Brady threw an impressive 124 touchdown passes. Among the top five, Aaron Rodgers is the only active player, currently sitting at 503 career touchdown passes. With Brady's retirement, his record of 649 touchdowns stands as a monumental achievement in NFL history, spanning nearly a quarter of a century.
3. NFL Founding Year
The NFL started as the American Professional Football Association (APFA) on September 17, 1920. It officially became the National Football League on June 24, 1922. The league was formed during a meeting in Canton, Ohio, where Jim Thorpe of the Canton Bulldogs was named the APFA's first president. Each team paid a $100 membership fee to join.
Out of the original franchises - many of which came from the Ohio League - only two are still active in the NFL today:
| Original Team Name | Current Team Name |
|---|---|
| Decatur Staleys | Chicago Bears |
| Racine Cardinals | Arizona Cardinals |
These foundational steps helped transform the NFL from a small regional league into a massive sports organization. As reported by the Canton Evening Repository, the league aimed to improve professional football by standardizing team schedules and ending bidding wars for players.
Starting with just 14 teams, the NFL has grown into a multi-billion-dollar league, generating around $20.2 billion annually, with media deals exceeding $10 billion per year. Figures like Ralph Hay and Art Ranney played a crucial role in shaping what is now America’s most popular sports league.
4. Super Bowl Victory Guarantee
Before Super Bowl III, Jets quarterback Joe Namath made a bold statement that stunned the sports world:
"We're gonna win the game. I guarantee it"
This was a gutsy declaration, especially since the Jets were 18-point underdogs against the heavily favored Colts. At the time, the AFL was often dismissed as inferior, and many believed the Jets had little to no chance.
Jets rookie safety John Dockery reflected on how Namath's words inspired the team:
"He not only made me believe - he made us all believe. I never saw another fella like him in my life"
Namath backed up his guarantee with a stellar performance, leading the Jets to a 16–7 victory. Here's a breakdown of his game stats:
| Super Bowl III Statistics | Joe Namath's Performance |
|---|---|
| Completion Rate | 17 of 28 passes |
| Passing Yards | 206 |
| Final Score | Jets 16, Colts 7 |
| Individual Honor | Super Bowl MVP |
This victory was historic - it was the first Super Bowl win for the American Football League. Namath’s confidence wasn’t just talk; it symbolized a turning point that helped legitimize the AFL and reshaped the future of professional football.
Years later, Namath reflected on his iconic moment:
"If you want something bad enough and aren't afraid to lay it on the line, you can do it"
Next, we’ll explore another record-setting milestone in NFL history.
5. Decatur Staleys Team History
The Chicago Bears' story begins in Decatur, Illinois, with a company team created by the A.E. Staley Manufacturing Company in 1919. This modest beginning laid the groundwork for a historic journey in professional football.
In March 1920, George Chamberlain, the general superintendent of A.E. Staley, reached out to George Halas. Halas later recalled:
"In March of 1920 a man telephoned me ... George Chamberlain and he was general superintendent of the A.E. Staley Company ... In 1919, [the company's Fellowship Club] had formed a football team. It had done well against other local teams but Mr. Staley wanted to build it into a team that could compete successfully with the best semi-professional and industrial teams in the country".
The Decatur Staleys officially joined the APFA (American Professional Football Association) on September 17, 1920, paying a $100 franchise fee. Under Halas's leadership, earning $50 a week, the team delivered an impressive debut season:
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Season Record | 10 wins, 1 loss, 2 ties |
| First Game Result | Defeated Arcola 41-0 |
| Coach's Salary | $50 per week |
| Player Compensation | $125 per game |
The team's early achievements set the stage for a major transition. In 1921, A.E. Staley gave Halas $5,000 and the green light to move the team to Chicago. By 1922, the Staleys had rebranded as the Chicago Bears, coinciding with the APFA's transformation into the National Football League. George H. McCaskey, the current Bears chairman, reflected:
"He was only 25. He had this dream, this vision, this idea. He just needed somebody to give him a little support, a little backing. That's what Mr. Staley provided".
The Staley Museum honors this legacy, highlighting the pivotal role A.E. Staley played in football history:
"A.E. Staley deserves his footnote in the history of sports in America. He had the determination to put together the best team possible and the vision to let that team go on and become one of the charter members of the National Football League. Not a bad call for a starch salesman…".
6. First 2,000-Yard Rushing Season
In 1973, O.J. Simpson achieved a historic milestone for the Buffalo Bills by rushing for 2,003 yards in a 14-game season. He averaged an impressive 6 yards per carry and racked up 143.1 rushing yards per game.
Since then, nine players have joined the exclusive "2,000-yard club":
| Player | Team | Season | Total Yards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eric Dickerson | Los Angeles Rams | 1984 | 2,105 |
| Adrian Peterson | Minnesota Vikings | 2012 | 2,097 |
| Jamal Lewis | Baltimore Ravens | 2003 | 2,066 |
| Barry Sanders | Detroit Lions | 1997 | 2,053 |
| Derrick Henry | Tennessee Titans | 2020 | 2,027 |
| Terrell Davis | Denver Broncos | 1998 | 2,008 |
| Chris Johnson | Tennessee Titans | 2009 | 2,006 |
| Saquon Barkley | Philadelphia Eagles | 2024 | 2,005 |
| O.J. Simpson | Buffalo Bills | 1973 | 2,003 |
Some seasons stand out even more. In 2009, Chris Johnson set an NFL record with 2,509 scrimmage yards. Terrell Davis not only rushed for 2,008 yards in 1998 but also scored 21 touchdowns and led his team to a Super Bowl victory. Similarly, Saquon Barkley in 2024 became just the second player, after Davis, to pair a 2,000-yard season with a Super Bowl win.
Several of these players have received individual honors for their achievements. Simpson, Barry Sanders, Davis, and Adrian Peterson were named AP MVPs in their respective seasons. Additionally, Simpson, Eric Dickerson, Sanders, and Davis earned their place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Next, let’s dive into another record-breaking NFL achievement.
7. Longest NFL Playoff Drought
Two of the longest playoff droughts in NFL history belong to the Arizona Cardinals (1949–1973, when they were the Chicago/St. Louis Cardinals) and the Washington Commanders (1946–1970, formerly the Redskins). Both went 25 seasons without a playoff appearance.
Here’s a look at some other lengthy playoff droughts:
| Team | Drought Period | Seasons |
|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 1948–1971 | 24 |
| New Orleans Saints | 1967–1986 | 20 |
| Buffalo Bills | 2000–2016 | 17 |
| Cleveland Browns | 2003–2019 | 17 |
These numbers reflect the challenges teams can face over decades, showing how playoff struggles can define team histories.
Among active streaks, the New York Jets hold the longest playoff drought, having missed the postseason for 14 straight seasons since 2010. Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins have the longest active playoff win drought, with their last postseason victory dating back to 2000 - a span of 24 seasons. Historically, the Arizona Cardinals endured a staggering 50 seasons without a playoff win, from 1948 to 1997.
The Detroit Lions recently made headlines by breaking a streak of nine consecutive playoff losses, securing their first playoff victory since 1991. That drought lasted from 1992 to 2022.
Currently, the Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons are tied with seven-season droughts, as neither team has made the playoffs since 2017.
8. Three-Time MVP Winner
Six players in NFL history have claimed three or more MVP awards. Among them, Tom Brady, Brett Favre, Jim Brown, and Johnny Unitas each secured exactly three. Here’s a closer look at their achievements:
- Tom Brady earned his three MVP titles with the New England Patriots in 2007, 2010, and 2017.
- Brett Favre, the only player to win three consecutive MVPs, achieved this with the Green Bay Packers from 1995 to 1997.
- Jim Brown, the sole non-quarterback in this group, won his MVPs with the Cleveland Browns in 1957, 1958, and 1965.
- Johnny Unitas, celebrated as the Baltimore Colts' quarterback, claimed his MVP awards in 1959, 1964, and 1967.
Two players have exceeded the three-MVP milestone:
| Player | Total MVPs | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Peyton Manning | 5 | Holds the all-time record |
| Aaron Rodgers | 4 | Second-highest in history |
This small group of three-time MVP winners highlights the extraordinary individual success these players achieved in the NFL.
9. Super Bowl Trophy Name
The Vince Lombardi Trophy, the official Super Bowl trophy, was renamed in September 1970 to honor Vince Lombardi, the legendary Packers coach who led his team to win the first two Super Bowls and retired undefeated.
The trophy’s design has an interesting origin story. In 1966, Oscar Riedener, a vice president at Tiffany & Co., sketched the initial concept on a napkin during a meeting with NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle. After that quick sketch, the trophy’s production involves traditional silversmithing techniques. It takes about 72 hours of work over four months to complete, using methods like spinning, silversmithing, hand engraving, and polishing.
Standing 22 inches tall and weighing 7 pounds, the silver trophy features a regulation football positioned for a kick on a three-sided base. The base is engraved with the words Vince Lombardi Trophy, the Super Bowl’s Roman numerals, and the NFL shield.
Victoria Reynolds, Tiffany & Co.’s chief gemologist, highlights the craftsmanship required:
"It's really a work of art. And because it's so simple, any type of mistake would show right away. So, it really has to be perfect."
The trophy also symbolizes Lombardi’s incredible legacy. Under his leadership, the Packers not only won Super Bowls I and II but also achieved three straight NFL Championships - five titles in just seven years. The first trophy, awarded to the Packers on January 15, 1967, was engraved with "World Professional Football Championship", marking the start of what is now the ultimate achievement in professional football.
10. Single-Game Passing Yards Record
The NFL's single-game passing yards record is an incredible 554 yards, set by Norm Van Brocklin of the Los Angeles Rams on September 28, 1951, in a game against the New York Yanks. What’s even more striking? This record has stood the test of time for over 70 years.
To give you an idea of how rare this feat is, only 20 quarterbacks in NFL history have ever thrown for more than 500 yards in a single game. The closest to Van Brocklin’s record are Matt Schaub and Warren Moon, both reaching 527 yards while playing for the Houston Texans - just 27 yards shy of the all-time mark.
Here’s a look at the top single-game passing performances in NFL history:
| Rank | Player | Team | Yards | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Norm Van Brocklin | Los Angeles Rams | 554 | 1951 |
| 2 | Matt Schaub | Houston Texans | 527 | 2012 |
| 2 | Warren Moon | Houston Texans | 527 | 1990 |
| 4 | Joe Burrow | Cincinnati Bengals | 525 | 2021 |
| 5 | Ben Roethlisberger | Pittsburgh Steelers | 522 | 2014 |
| 5 | Boomer Esiason | Arizona Cardinals | 522 | 1996 |
The most recent quarterback to come close was Joe Burrow, who threw for 525 yards in 2021 with the Cincinnati Bengals. As of October 4, 2024, Kirk Cousins holds the highest passing performance of this season with 509 yards. Van Brocklin’s record continues to stand as a towering achievement, even in today’s high-powered offenses.
11. Team with Most Hall of Fame Players
The Chicago Bears hold the top spot in the NFL with 39 Hall of Fame members honored in Canton. This accounts for over 10% of the 378 total inductees in the Pro Football Hall of Fame as of 2024. Recent additions to this list include Steve McMichael and Devin Hester.
Here’s how the leading NFL teams compare when it comes to Hall of Fame inductees:
| Rank | Team | Hall of Famers |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chicago Bears | 39 |
| 2 | Green Bay Packers | 34 |
| 3 | Dallas Cowboys | 32 |
| 3 | New York Giants | 32 |
| 3 | Washington Commanders | 32 |
| 3 | Pittsburgh Steelers | 32 |
The Bears’ dominance in this area highlights their strong history and staying power in the league. Factors like their early establishment, consistent success, legendary players, and standout defenses have all played a role in building their legacy.
On the other end of the spectrum, younger franchises such as the Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston Texans, and Carolina Panthers have the fewest Hall of Fame inductees. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers, the Bears’ closest rival in this category, follow with 34 members in Canton.
12. The Refrigerator Nickname Origin
In NFL history, few nicknames stand out like "The Refrigerator." William Perry earned this iconic title during his time at Clemson University when a teammate jokingly compared his massive size to a refrigerator. The nickname stuck, becoming a defining part of NFL culture, especially during the Chicago Bears' legendary 1985 season.
Weighing in officially at 335 pounds, Perry reportedly reached up to 390 pounds during college. Standing 6-foot-2, the defensive tackle turned heads and made history as the heaviest player ever to score a touchdown in a Super Bowl.
"One of the most colorful figures in NFL history", said Roger Bennett of Men in Blazers.
"If you didn't like the Fridge you didn't like anybody", added Bears coach Mike Ditka.
His teammates also gave him the nickname "Biscuit", a lighthearted nod to his size.
Here are some quick facts about "The Refrigerator":
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches |
| Playing Weight | 335 pounds |
| Super Bowl Ring Size | 23–25 (the largest in NFL history) |
| Rookie Season TDs | 3 (2 rushing, 1 receiving) |
Perry's combination of size, athletic skill, and personality made him a true standout.
"The Santa Claus of the National Football League", broadcaster Brent Musburger once called him.
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13. First Undefeated Regular Season
Achieving perfection in the NFL is an extraordinary feat, and only a handful of teams have come close. The 1972 Miami Dolphins remain the only team in league history to complete a flawless season, finishing with a perfect 17-0 record. This included a spotless 14-0 regular season, three playoff wins, and a Super Bowl VII victory over Washington.
Other teams have also had undefeated regular seasons, though their journeys ended differently:
| Team | Season | Regular Season | Final Record | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1934 Chicago Bears | 1934 | 13-0 | 13-1 | Lost NFL Championship |
| 1942 Chicago Bears | 1942 | 11-0 | 11-1 | Lost NFL Championship |
| 1972 Miami Dolphins | 1972 | 14-0 | 17-0 | Won Super Bowl VII |
| 2007 New England Patriots | 2007 | 16-0 | 18-1 | Lost Super Bowl XLII |
The 2007 New England Patriots made waves by becoming the first team to complete a 16-0 regular season after the NFL expanded to a 16-game schedule in 1978. With quarterback Tom Brady at the helm, the Patriots dominated the regular season but fell short in Super Bowl XLII, losing to the New York Giants.
Interestingly, the Dolphins’ undefeated legacy has sparked a unique tradition. Each year, surviving members of the 1972 team come together to toast when the last unbeaten team of the season takes its first loss. This celebration highlights just how challenging it is to stay perfect in the NFL.
To put the difficulty into perspective, only 12 of the 58 Super Bowl champions were the last undefeated team of their season. Even more surprising, 11 teams have failed to make the playoffs after being the final undefeated team during their respective seasons.
14. Longest Field Goal Record
The NFL's longest field goal record is a testament to the growing skill of kickers. Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens holds the record with a jaw-dropping 66-yard field goal. This incredible kick happened on September 26, 2021, at Ford Field during a game against the Detroit Lions. The ball hit the crossbar before bouncing through the uprights, sealing a dramatic 19-17 win for the Ravens.
At the time of this record-breaking kick, Tucker had an impressive streak of 49 consecutive field goal conversions and led the NFL with a 90.5% career field goal accuracy rate. During the 2021 season, he missed just two of his 37 attempts and was perfect on all six field goals from beyond 50 yards.
To achieve this record, Tucker used a "crow hop" technique to generate extra power, surpassing Matt Prater's previous 64-yard record.
The history of the NFL's longest field goals reflects the evolution of kicking talent:
| Year | Distance | Kicker | Team | Notable Detail |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1953 | 56 yards | Bert Rechichar | Baltimore Colts | First modern-era record |
| 1970 | 63 yards | Tom Dempsey | New Orleans Saints | Held the record for 43 years |
| 2013 | 64 yards | Matt Prater | Denver Broncos | Broke Dempsey's long-standing record |
| 2021 | 66 yards | Justin Tucker | Baltimore Ravens | Current record holder |
These milestones highlight how NFL kickers have consistently pushed the boundaries of their craft.
15. First Super Bowl Winner
On January 15, 1967, the Green Bay Packers claimed victory in the first-ever Super Bowl, held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. They defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 35–10, with quarterback Bart Starr leading the charge. Starr, who threw two touchdown passes, was named MVP of the game. This win marked the beginning of what would become the NFL's premier championship tradition. The game attracted 61,946 fans to the stadium and was broadcast on both CBS and NBC.
Here are some key details from the historic event:
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Ticket Prices | $6, $10, and $12 |
| Player Bonuses | Winners: $15,000 each; Losers: $7,500 each |
| Total Viewership | 51.18 million viewers |
| Commercial Cost | $42,000 per 30 seconds |
These numbers showcase not only the Packers' accomplishment but also the growing public interest in this groundbreaking championship.
The atmosphere before the game was intense. NFL announcer Frank Gifford described a Chiefs player's nervousness, while Chiefs coach Hank Stram remained hopeful, even after the loss:
"I honestly thought we would come back and win it",
Stram reflected.
Interestingly, the term "Super Bowl" was initially an unofficial name coined by AFL founder Lamar Hunt. It later became the official title. The game captivated audiences nationwide, achieving a combined television market share of 79%, a testament to the massive attention this event commanded.
16. Tuck Rule Change
The Tuck Rule, in effect from 1999 to 2013, stated that if a quarterback lost the ball while tucking it during a forward pass, the play would be ruled incomplete instead of a fumble.
This rule became infamous during the 2001 AFC Divisional Playoff game on January 19, 2002, between the New England Patriots and Oakland Raiders. Raiders cornerback Charles Woodson hit Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, causing Brady to lose the ball. Initially ruled a fumble, referee Walt Coleman overturned the decision after review, citing the Tuck Rule. This controversial call not only impacted the game’s outcome but also sparked debates about the rule's application in critical moments.
"Oh, yeah. I thought the game's over. For the record, I was pulling the ball down."
| Outcome | Result |
|---|---|
| Game Impact | Patriots kept possession, tied the game with a field goal, and won 16–13 in overtime |
| Season Result | Patriots advanced and won Super Bowl XXXVI |
| Final Status | Abolished on March 20, 2013, by a 29–1 vote |
Bruce Allen, a former Raiders executive, criticized the rule’s wording:
"The rule itself doesn't bother me, but the way the rule is written, it was a fumble"
Joe Gibbs, head coach of the Washington Redskins, shared his frustration:
"It makes no sense to me. It's the way it's worded. I think everybody probably sees that and says it's a bad rule"
In 2013, the NFL officially eliminated the rule. Only the Pittsburgh Steelers opposed its repeal, while the New England Patriots and Washington Redskins abstained from voting. Mike Pereira, the NFL’s former vice president for officiating, had already withdrawn his support for the rule after a Chiefs–Ravens game in 2010. The Tuck Rule and its eventual repeal highlight how NFL regulations can shape the league's history.
17. Youngest Super Bowl QB
Dan Marino holds the record as the youngest quarterback to start in a Super Bowl. At just 23 years and 127 days old, he led the Miami Dolphins against the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XIX on January 20, 1985. Despite his early achievement, the Dolphins lost 38–16.
Here’s a quick look at other quarterbacks who started their Super Bowl journeys at a young age:
| Quarterback | Team | Age | Super Bowl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dan Marino | Miami Dolphins | 23 years, 127 days | XIX |
| Ben Roethlisberger | Pittsburgh Steelers | 23 years, 340 days | XL |
| Brock Purdy | San Francisco 49ers | 24 years, 46 days | LVIII |
| Patrick Mahomes | Kansas City Chiefs | 24 years, 138 days | LIV |
| Tom Brady | New England Patriots | 24 years, 184 days | XXXVI |
Marino’s record as the youngest starting quarterback still stands. Ben Roethlisberger came close, starting in Super Bowl XL at 23 years and 340 days. More recently, Brock Purdy joined this exclusive group, starting for the 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII at 24 years and 46 days.
Interestingly, Mike Tomczak holds the title of the youngest quarterback to win a Super Bowl. He was 23 years and 95 days old when his team claimed victory, though he achieved this as a backup. Starting or even participating in a Super Bowl before turning 25 is a rare accomplishment that places these players in a special category.
18. Teams Never in Super Bowl
Four NFL teams still haven’t made it to the Super Bowl: the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Detroit Lions came close in the 2023 season, advancing to the NFC Championship game but losing to the San Francisco 49ers. That playoff run marked their first postseason win since 1992. The Jacksonville Jaguars also had a strong showing in 2017, reaching the AFC Championship Game. They led by double digits but ultimately fell to the New England Patriots.
Here’s a quick look at these teams’ histories:
| Team | Founded | Last Conference Championship Appearance | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleveland Browns | 1946 | 1989 | Won 7 championships before Super Bowl era |
| Detroit Lions | 1930 | 2023 | 4 championships before Super Bowl era |
| Houston Texans | 2002 | Never | Youngest NFL franchise |
| Jacksonville Jaguars | 1995 | 2017 | 4 playoff appearances in first 5 seasons |
The Cleveland Browns haven’t reached a conference championship game since 1989, when they lost to the Denver Broncos. Meanwhile, the Houston Texans are the only team in this group that has never advanced to a conference title game.
These struggles stand in stark contrast to teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots, each with six Super Bowl wins. It’s a reminder of why Super Bowl success is the ultimate measure of greatness in the NFL.
19. Highest-Scoring NFL Game
On November 27, 1966, the Washington Redskins beat the New York Giants 72–41, setting the record for the highest-scoring game in NFL history. This unforgettable matchup showcased an incredible offensive performance from both teams.
The game featured an astounding 16 touchdowns - 10 by Washington and 6 by the Giants. Washington's points came from all phases of the game: offense, defense, and special teams. They scored on a fumble recovery, an interception return, and a punt return. Brig Owens made headlines with a 70-yard fumble return for a touchdown, celebrating by tossing the ball into the crowd. Kicker Charlie Gogolak capped off the game with a late field goal in the final seven seconds.
"Washington and the Giants combined for an NFL-record 113 points and scored a staggering 16 total touchdowns, including a fumble return, an interception return and a punt return (all by Washington) in their Week 12 matchup of the 1966 season. Washington's 72 points remain the most scored by a team in a single NFL game."
– Keith Jenkins, ESPN
Interestingly, 14 footballs ended up in the stands - 13 after extra point attempts and one after Owens' celebratory fumble return. Washington's 72-point total still holds the record for the most points scored by a single team in an NFL game.
| Scoring Category | Washington | New York Giants |
|---|---|---|
| Touchdowns | 10 | 6 |
| Total Points | 72 | 41 |
| Special Teams/Defense TDs | 3 | 0 |
20. Single-Season Sacks Record
The NFL's official single-season sacks record stands at 22.5. Michael Strahan set this mark in 2001 while playing for the New York Giants, and T.J. Watt matched it in 2021 with the Pittsburgh Steelers - achieving it in just 15 games. (Before sacks were officially tracked starting in 1982, Al Baker of the Detroit Lions unofficially recorded 23 sacks in 1978.)
Other top-tier pass rushers, like Justin Houston, Mark Gastineau (1984), and Deacon Jones, have come close, each reaching 22 sacks in a season. T.J. Watt’s record-tying performance stands out due to his efficiency - he averaged 1.54 sacks per game that year. This level of performance highlights the dominance required to achieve such a milestone. Watt's prowess didn’t stop there; he led the league again in 2023 with 19 sacks.
The shift from unofficial pre-1982 stats to today's detailed tracking emphasizes how this record has become a symbol of defensive excellence in the NFL.
21. Tom Brady's Draft Team
Draft day can change the course of a team's history. The New England Patriots picked Tom Brady as the 199th overall selection in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft. He was the seventh quarterback taken that year, despite a less-than-impressive combine showing (40-yard dash: 5.28 seconds).
The Patriots got the compensatory pick used for Brady after losing punter Tom Tupa to free agency in 1999. That pick turned into one of the greatest draft surprises in NFL history. To put it into perspective, the six quarterbacks drafted before Brady combined for 191 starts and 258 touchdowns. Brady? He racked up 278 wins and threw 710 touchdowns.
"We weren't seeking a tall, lanky quarterback with a 5.3 time; we valued his mental makeup - he was the leader we needed."
- Jason Licht, current Bucs general manager and then-member of the Patriots personnel staff
Brady's career with the Patriots was nothing short of legendary. He threw for 74,571 passing yards and 541 touchdowns, all for a single team. His confidence was evident from the start, famously declaring, "I'm the best decision this organization has ever made".
| Patriots Career Highlights | Statistics |
|---|---|
| AFC East Titles | 17 |
| Super Bowl Championships | 6 |
| Career Passing Yards | 74,571 |
| Career Touchdowns | 541 |
| Consecutive Games Won | 21 |
This draft pick underscored the value of prioritizing a player's mindset and leadership qualities over physical metrics.
22. First Black Super Bowl Coach
In February 2007, Tony Dungy made NFL history by becoming the first African American head coach to win a Super Bowl. He led the Colts to a 29–17 victory over the Bears in Super Bowl XLI. This game also marked the first time two Black head coaches faced off in a Super Bowl, with Dungy’s Colts competing against Lovie Smith’s Bears.
Dungy’s impact goes far beyond this historic win. Of the 16 Black head coaches who followed him, six had previously worked under his leadership.
"The pipeline is full of people. We've just got to get ownership to notice and to see some of these guys and get that to become the trend." – Tony Dungy
Despite his groundbreaking achievements, challenges remain in diversifying NFL coaching roles. Studies reveal that Black coaches perform just as well as their White counterparts but are twice as likely to be dismissed after a .500 season.
| Dungy's Super Bowl XLI Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Colts 29, Bears 17 |
| Year | 2007 |
| Opponent Coach | Lovie Smith |
| Historical Significance | First Black head coach to win a Super Bowl |
Dungy’s win not only opened doors for future generations of coaches but also highlighted the need for greater representation in NFL leadership. His legacy continues to spark conversations about diversity and opportunity in professional football, setting the stage for future milestones.
23. Career Interceptions Leader
Paul Krause holds the NFL record for career interceptions with an incredible 81, a milestone he reached on December 2, 1979. This record has stood strong for over four decades, and given the way football has evolved, it may remain unchallenged for many years.
Emlen Tunnell follows closely behind with 79 interceptions, while Rod Woodson sits at 71. For context, the current active leader, Patrick Peterson, has managed only 36 interceptions as of 2025.
| Rank | Player | INT |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paul Krause | 81 |
| 2 | Emlen Tunnell | 79 |
| 3 | Rod Woodson | 71 |
| 4 | Dick Lane | 68 |
| 5 | Ken Riley | 65 |
Krause’s achievement becomes even more striking when you consider how the game has changed. Back in 1971, quarterbacks threw interceptions on 5.78% of their passes. By 2018, that number had dropped to just 2.37%. This decline makes it increasingly unlikely that anyone will surpass Krause's record.
The shift in NFL offenses has played a big role in this trend. Rule changes, like the "Mel Blount Rule" and the 1978 adjustments allowing offensive linemen to use their hands during blocks, have made life tougher for defenders. On top of that, modern offensive strategies have further driven down interception rates, solidifying Krause's place in the record books.
24. Joe Montana After 49ers
After an incredible run with the 49ers (1979–1992), Joe Montana was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs on April 22, 1993. The deal included Montana, safety David Whitemore, and the 49ers' 1994 third-round draft pick, with Kansas City sending back a first-round selection.
In his two seasons with the Chiefs, Montana led the team to an 11–5 record in 1993 and secured playoff spots both years. He even guided them to the AFC Championship that same season, earning his eighth and final Pro Bowl selection.
Here’s a breakdown of his stats during those two seasons:
| Season | Completions/Attempts | Passing Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | 181/298 | 2,144 | 13 |
| 1994 | 299/493 | 3,283 | 16 |
Across 25 games with the Chiefs, Montana achieved an 85.0 passer rating, throwing for 5,427 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. Notably, he set a Chiefs record for most passes completed in a single game with 37 completions against San Diego.
One of his standout moments came in 1994 when he faced his former team, the 49ers. Montana led the Chiefs to a 24–17 victory, throwing for 203 yards and two touchdowns. His overall regular-season record as the Chiefs' starter was an impressive 17–8.
"Joe Montana, simply stated, was the greatest quarterback ever to play the game. And I don't think we'll see the likes of him again."
– Edward DeBartolo Jr., Former San Francisco 49ers Owner
Even in the twilight of his career, Montana continued to dominate, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
25. NFL Instant Replay Start
The NFL's journey with instant replay began in 1976 when Art McNally, then the league's director of officiating, tested the use of video reviews during a Monday Night Football game. Armed with a stopwatch and a video camera, McNally aimed to understand how video reviews might impact game duration. This early test eventually led to the NFL's official adoption of a limited instant replay system for the 1986 season.
The system had specific guidelines:
- Replay officials in stadium booths were the only ones allowed to initiate reviews.
- Calls could only be overturned if there was undeniable visual evidence.
- Reviews focused on possession calls, sideline rulings, and clear rule violations.
- The system required annual approval through league voting.
In its first season, the system averaged 1.6 reviews per game across 224 games. A total of 374 plays were reviewed, with 10% of those calls being overturned.
| Category | 1986 Season Data |
|---|---|
| Average Reviews Per Game | 1.6 |
| Total Plays Reviewed | 374 |
| Reversal Rate | 10% |
| Games Covered | 224 |
This data highlighted both the potential and the challenges of the early replay system.
"Replay gives us a better chance to walk off the field error-free."
– Art McNally
Despite its promise, the system faced significant hurdles. Over six seasons (1986–1991), only 13% of reviewed plays were overturned. In 1991 alone, nine out of 90 calls were incorrectly reversed, prompting the league to vote against renewing the system.
"Basically, it was a great theory that didn't work in practice."
– Norman Braman, owner of the Philadelphia Eagles
One major issue was that only replay officials - not coaches or on-field referees - could initiate reviews, which often led to game delays. While this initial system had its flaws, it laid the groundwork for the advanced replay technology and coach challenges that are now a key part of the NFL's review process. These early efforts were crucial in shaping the modern system used today.
Conclusion
These NFL trivia questions are perfect for hosting a fun and competitive trivia night.
Combine questions of different difficulty levels, keep teams small, use a mix of formats (like picture and audio rounds), and make sure everyone understands the rules to keep things running smoothly. Hosting your event during playoff weeks or right before the Super Bowl can also help draw a bigger crowd.
Beyond testing knowledge, these questions encourage conversations among fans of all ages, celebrating the NFL's journey from its beginnings in 1920 to the incredible moments we see today. Whether you're planning a casual hangout or a more serious competition, these trivia nights offer a great way to honor football's history and bring fans together through their love of the game. Get ready for a night filled with energy, memories, and a shared passion for football!