Super Bowl XXII
The
Washington Redskins defeated the
Denver Broncos 42-10 in
Super Bowl XXII. This was the Redskins second Super Bowl triumph in six years. Washington established not a Super Bowl record but also a post-season record with 35 points in a quarter (the 2nd Quarter) to put the game away before halftime. Much was made about the fact that Washington quarterback
Doug Williams was the first African-American to start at that position in a Super Bowl, and he did not disappoint. He threw for 340 yards and four touchdowns, and was named the game's
Most Valuable Player. The game was held for the first time in
San Diego, and it marked the third time in four years that
California was the host state.
Fast Facts
- January 31, 1988
- Site: Jack Murphy Stadium
- Location: San Diego
- Attendance: 72,302
- MVP: Doug Williams
- Television: ABC
Another Player Revolt
For the second time in league history, the NFL Players Association elected to walk off the job. But unlike 1982, the owners were prepared, or so they thought, by using replacement players. Week 3 was canceled while the replacement players were given extra time to prepare. Then during weeks 4 through 6, replacement players made up approximately 85 percent of the rosters. The regular players eventually drifted back in, and the season was only 15 weeks instead of 16. 1987 would be the last season affected by any labor strife.
Byner needs a hug
The Broncos were aiming to reach the Super Bowl for a second straight season. After compiling a 10-4-1 record, they easily eliminated Houston, and were clinging to a 5 point lead in the AFC Championship Game against Cleveland. But for the second straight season, Cleveland fans had their hearts broken by the Broncos; this time, it was defensive back Jeremiah Castille who forced and then recovered a fumble by Browns running back Ernest Byner, who was about to score the go-ahead touchdown 1:12 to play. Byner was a dominant player in the game, and went on to win a Super Bowl ring with Washington. But he will forever be known for what is simply called "The Fumble".
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