On this Redskins throwback for October 1, the Washington Redskins lost to the New York Giants 24-21. They played their very first game in D.C. Stadium — later known as RFK Stadium — in 1961.
The Redskins christened their new home with a competitive battle against the Giants. They staked out a quick 21-7 lead by the end of the first quarter, but New York battled back and pulled out a close victory in front of a packed crowd.
The game marked the beginning of a new era for Washington football at the historic stadium.
Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle was 24 of 41 for 315 passing yards. He threw a touchdown pass and ran for one, but also threw two interceptions and was sacked three times. Receivers Kyle Rote and Del Shofner both had over 100 yards receiving. Charlie Conerly started for the Giants and also threw for a touchdown and an interception; but was replaced by Tittle.
Norm Snead threw two touchdown passes, but was just 12 of 24 for 124 yards. He threw an interception and was sacked three times. Washington managed a paltry 145 total net yards.
Key Moments in the Game
- The Giants had 415 total net yards to Washington’s 145 yards.
- New York amassed 30 first downs, while the Redskins had just 8.
- Dale Hackbart returned a 48 yard interception for a touchdown.
- Legendary broadcaster Pat Summerall had a 27 yard field goal for New York.
- Attendance was listed as 36,767.
Historic First Game at Future RFK Stadium
This matchup officially opened D.C. Stadium to professional football. The venue would go on to become one of the most iconic stadiums in NFL history.
The game was also notable for protests against the Redskins’ segregated roster, which was the last all-white team in the NFL. The following season, Washington became the final professional American football franchise to integrate.
This 1961 contest remains significant as the first game ever played at what became legendary RFK Stadium. It marked the start of arguably the most memorable chapter in Redskins history.
The loss dropped the Redskins to 0-3 on the season. They would finish 1-12-1, and 7th in the NFL East Division. The Giants finished 10-3-1 and won the division, but were battered 37-0 by the Green Bay Packers in the Championship.
“New RFK Stadium”
Washington will be going back to the old RFK Stadium site in 2030 when their new stadium is completed. New renderings of the soon-to-be-built stadium were released earlier this year.
