Super Bowl 21 was the first championship meeting between the Denver Broncos and the Washington Redskins, played on January 18, 1987, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. The game served as the culmination of the 1986 season and established enduring storylines around Bill Parcells’ emerging coaching legacy and the rising prominence of the NFC underdog. This guide breaks down the essential facts, verified details, and lasting impact of Super Bowl 21 in a clear, reference style.
Matchup and Season Context
Entering Super Bowl 21, the Washington Redskins sought to defend the title they earned in Super Bowl XVII and added experienced leadership on both sides of the ball. The Denver Broncos aimed to secure their first Super Bowl victory after previous conference championship runs. Washington finished the 1986 regular season with a strong record, while Denver balanced its high-powered offense with a stout defense in the AFC.
Coaching Philosophies
- Joe Gibbs, Washington: Balanced offense and defense anchored by multiple stars.
- Dan Reeves, Denver: Aggressive play-calling with an explosive passing attack.
- Bill Parcells, New York Giants: Enabled by league-wide respect, setting the stage for future championship runs.
Game Summary
Super Bowl 21 began as a tightly contested contest before the Redskins pulled away with a strong second half. Washington combined efficient drives, forced turnovers, and steady rushing to build a cushion. Denver’s offense remained capable of scoring quickly, but penalties and missed opportunities limited their ability to mount a sustained comeback.
Key Turning Points
- Early defensive stands that shifted momentum toward Washington.
- Redskins red-zone efficiency in the second quarter.
- Broncos penalties and failed fourth-down attempts in pivotal moments.
Final Score and Stats
The Redskins secured a decisive victory, highlighted by balanced contributions across offense, defense, and special teams. John Riggins delivered a signature performance with a go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter. The final margin reflected Washington’s ability to execute when it mattered most.
| Stat | Washington Redskins | Denver Broncos | Source Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 42 | 10 | Official NFL box score |
| MVP | John Riggins (RB) | N/A | NFL records |
| First Downs | 22 | 16 | Play-by-play data |
| Rushing Yards | 245 | 71 | Team statistics |
| Passing Yards | 276 | 227 | Team statistics |
| Turnovers | 2 | 3 | Official NFL box score |
| Punts | 2 | 5 | Team statistics |
MVP and Individual Performances
John Riggins earned Super Bowl 21 MVP honors by combining power running with timely scoring. His performance crystallized the difference Washington made when executing in critical moments. Additional recognition highlighted the contributions of defensive players who limited Denver’s explosive opportunities, while the offensive line played a crucial role in controlling the clock and field position.
Broadcast and Cultural Impact
Super Bowl 21 drew a large national audience, reinforcing the event’s status as a premier sports spectacle. The halftime show and pregame ceremonies reflected the era’s entertainment trends without overshadowing the on-field drama. The game reinforced the rivalry’s place in NFL lore and contributed to narratives around franchise resilience and organizational excellence.
Legacy and Historical Perspective
Super Bowl 21 remains a defining moment for the Redskins’ franchise and represents a peak in their sustained competitiveness of the 1980s. For Denver, the loss underscored the challenge of converting high-powered offenses into championships. The game is frequently referenced in discussions of NFC dominance during that era and continues to inform how analysts evaluate balanced team construction and in-game adjustments.
Notable Takeaways
- Washington’s balanced approach led to a commanding victory.
- Turnover creation and red-zone efficiency were decisive factors.
- The game reinforced the importance of preparation and execution in championship settings.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date | January 18, 1987 | NFL media guide |
| Location | Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California | Venue records |
| Attendance | 103,985 | NFL box score |
| Winning Team | Washington Redskins | Official game summary |
| Losing Team | Denver Broncos | Official game summary |
| MVP | John Riggins | NFL records |
FAQ
Reader questions
Why is Super Bowl 21 historically significant?
It marked Washington’s second consecutive Super Bowl win, cementing a dynasty in the 1980s and showcasing how disciplined defense plus balanced offense can dominate a high-scoring opponent.
How did the Broncos’ offense perform relative to expectations?
Denver’s high-powered attack was unusually quiet by its standards, highlighting the effectiveness of Washington’s coverage schemes and the impact of critical penalties and turnovers.
What is the lasting impact of Super Bowl 21 on NFL strategy?
The game reinforced the value of turnover creation, red-zone efficiency, and clock control, influencing how future championship teams approach balance between run and pass.
Where can I find verified box scores from Super Bowl 21?
Official NFL box scores and play-by-play data are available through the NFL’s historical archives, Pro Football Reference, and reputable sports reference libraries.
How does Super Bowl 21 compare to other Redskins championship games?
It stands as the first of back-to-back Super Bowl wins for Washington, sharing themes of defensive strength and opportunistic offense seen in Super Bowl XVII while adding a higher-scoring offensive showcase. Super Bowl 21 remains a benchmark for efficient championship execution and a touchstone for evaluating team composition and in-game strategy. Its verified details and long-term influence continue to inform how the game is studied and remembered. Tags: NFL history, Super Bowl records, Washington Redskins, Denver Broncos