The Washington Redskins 1942 championship stands as one of the greatest revenge stories in NFL history. Two years after suffering the most humiliating defeat in professional football, the Redskins claimed their second NFL title. Moreover, they achieved this victory against the very team that had embarrassed them so thoroughly.
| Date | December 13, 1942 |
|---|---|
| Stadium | Griffith Stadium, Washington, D.C. |
| Favorite | Chicago |
| Attendance | 36,006 |
Scoring Summary
First quarter
No scoring
Second quarter
CHI – Lee Artoe, 52-yard fumble return (kick failed), 6–0 CHI
WAS – Wilbur Moore, 39-yard pass from Baugh (Bob Masterson kick), 7–6 WAS
Third quarter
WAS – Andy Farkas, 1-yard run (Masterson kick), 14–6 WAS
Fourth quarter
No scoring
The Road to the 1942 Championship
The 1942 season began with high expectations for the Washington Redskins. Head coach Ray Flaherty had assembled a talented roster around quarterback Sammy Baugh. Additionally, the team carried motivation from their devastating 1940 championship game loss.
Sammy Baugh threw for 1,524 yards and 16 touchdowns during the regular season. His dual-threat ability as both quarterback and defensive back made him invaluable. Furthermore, he recorded 5 interceptions that year as a defensive back.
The Redskins finished the regular season with a 10-1 record. Their only loss came early in the campaign, but they dominated opponents afterward. Consequently, they earned the Eastern Division title and home field advantage.
World War II cast a shadow over the entire 1942 NFL season. Many players had enlisted or been drafted into military service. The Chicago Bears, defending champions, lost almost half their roster, including HBs George McAfee and Bill Osmanski.
Despite the wartime challenges, the Redskins maintained their championship aspirations. Ray Flaherty’s innovative coaching kept the team focused and prepared. The stage was set for their ultimate redemption story.
Building the Redskins 1942 Championship Team
Ray Flaherty’s coaching innovations were crucial to the Washington Redskins 1942 championship. He developed a 1940s version of the two-platoon system during this championship year. Both units played both ways but specialized in different aspects of the game.
One unit emphasized the passing offense while the second platoon featured the ground game. This substitution strategy gave Washington significant advantages over opponents. The system allowed players to rest while maintaining high performance levels.
Sammy Baugh remained the cornerstone of the Redskins’ 1942 championship team. His versatility as quarterback, punter, and defensive back was unmatched. The Texas legend could single-handedly change games with his arm or defensive skills.
The offensive line provided excellent protection for Baugh’s passing attack. Their blocking schemes opened running lanes and gave Baugh time to find receivers. This balanced approach made the Redskins nearly unstoppable during their championship run.
Flaherty’s strategic mind had already revolutionized NFL offense. In 1937, Ray introduced the behind-the-line screen pass against the Bears. This innovation helped the Redskins win their first championship that year.
The 1940 Nightmare: Setting Up the Redskins 1942 Championship Revenge
The 1940 NFL Championship haunted the Redskins organization. The Chicago Bears trounced the Washington Redskins by a score of 73-0, the largest margin of defeat in NFL history. This humiliation motivated every player and coach in the organization.
The devastating loss exposed weaknesses in Washington’s game plan and execution. Chicago’s innovative T-formation offense completely overwhelmed the Redskins defense. Additionally, turnovers and mental mistakes compounded their problems throughout the game.
Redskins owner George Preston Marshall’s only statement to the press was, “We needed a 50 man line against their power”. This quote reflected the complete domination Chicago had achieved that December afternoon.
The 73-0 defeat became motivation for the Redskins’ 1942 championship pursuit. Every practice, every game plan, and every strategic decision was influenced by that memory. The organization was determined to prove they belonged among the NFL’s elite.
Ray Flaherty used the humiliation as a teaching tool throughout the next two seasons. He reminded players of their potential and the importance of preparation. This psychological approach helped forge the championship mentality needed for 1942.
The Redskins 1942 Championship Game Setup
The 1942 NFL Championship Game was played at Griffith Stadium in Washington, D.C., on December 13, with a sellout capacity attendance of 36,006. The home field advantage proved crucial for Washington’s championship hopes.
It matched the undefeated Western Division champion Chicago Bears (11–0) and the Eastern Division champion Washington Redskins (10–1). Both teams had dominated their respective divisions throughout the regular season.
The Bears entered as heavy favorites despite their roster losses. The Bears were favored by three touchdowns based on their perfect record and previous dominance. Additionally, they were seeking their third consecutive NFL championship.
The Bears were co-coached by Hunk Anderson and Luke Johnsos after George Halas had entered the U.S. Navy.
The Redskins were led by head coach Ray Flaherty and quarterback Sammy Baugh. This proven combination had already delivered one championship in 1937. Their experience and chemistry would prove invaluable in the championship game.
Game Day: The Redskins 1942 Championship Victory
The Washington Redskins executed their game plan to perfection on championship Sunday. They controlled the tempo from the opening kickoff and never allowed Chicago to establish rhythm. Furthermore, their defense completely shut down the vaunted Bears offense.
The final score was Washington Redskins 14, Chicago Bears 6. This comprehensive victory represented complete redemption for the 1940 humiliation. The Redskins had proved their championship credentials beyond any doubt.
Sammy Baugh’s performance exemplified championship-level quarterbacking. He managed the game brilliantly, avoiding turnovers and making crucial throws when needed. His defensive contributions were equally important in limiting Chicago’s scoring opportunities.
The Redskins defense deserved equal credit for the championship victory. They harassed Chicago’s quarterback and disrupted their offensive timing throughout the game. Additionally, they forced critical turnovers at key moments.
Ray Flaherty’s coaching decisions proved decisive in securing the championship. His strategic adjustments and player substitutions kept Chicago off-balance. The two-platoon system allowed Washington to maintain intensity for four quarters.
Strategic Keys
The Redskins’ 1942 championship victory resulted from superior preparation and strategic execution. Ray Flaherty had studied Chicago’s tendencies and developed specific countermeasures. His innovative coaching gave Washington significant advantages throughout the game.
Ball control became a crucial element of the championship game plan. The Redskins sustained long drives that kept Chicago’s offense off the field. This strategy prevented the Bears from establishing any offensive momentum.
Defensive pressure disrupted Chicago’s passing attack and running game. The Redskins rushed the quarterback effectively while covering receivers downfield. This balanced approach prevented the Bears from exploiting any weaknesses.
Special teams contributed significantly to the championship victory. Washington’s punting and coverage units won the field position battle. These often-overlooked aspects of the game proved crucial in the final outcome.
The home crowd provided tremendous energy for the Redskins’ championship effort. Their support inspired the players and created an intimidating atmosphere for Chicago. This emotional advantage helped Washington maintain focus throughout the contest.
The Aftermath
The Washington Redskins 1942 championship validated Ray Flaherty’s coaching philosophy and strategic innovations. In seven seasons at the helm of the Redskins, Flaherty won four division titles (1936, 1937, 1940, 1942) and two NFL Championships (1937, 1942). His success established him as one of the game’s great coaches.
The Redskins won their second championship in 1942, defeating the Bears 14–6. This victory capped one of the most successful eras in franchise history. The championship also proved the 1940 defeat was an aberration rather than a reflection of true ability.
The triumph had lasting implications for both franchises. Washington established itself as a legitimate NFL power capable of competing with any team. Chicago learned that their previous dominance didn’t guarantee continued success.
Sammy Baugh’s championship performance enhanced his already legendary status. His ability to perform in the biggest games separated him from other quarterbacks. This championship solidified his reputation as one of football’s greatest players.
The victory provided closure for the devastating 1940 championship loss. Players and fans could finally move past that humiliation and celebrate their achievement. The championship represented the complete restoration of organizational pride.
Legacy of the Redskins 1942 Championship
The Redskins’ 1942 championship established a template for future success. The combination of innovative coaching, talented players, and strong organizational culture created a winning formula. This championship laid the foundation for the franchise’s future achievements.
Ray Flaherty’s coaching innovations influenced NFL strategy for decades. His screen pass and two-platoon system became standard practices throughout the league. These contributions earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The championship game demonstrated the importance of redemption and motivation in professional sports. Washington’s ability to overcome their previous failure inspired future teams facing similar challenges. The victory showed that devastating defeats could be overcome with proper preparation.
This substitution plan was particularly effective in the 1942 championship year, Ray’s last season in Washington. Flaherty’s departure after the championship marked the end of an era. His legacy lived on through the systems and culture he established.
The 1942 championship remains one of the most satisfying victories in franchise history. It represented the complete turnaround from humiliation to triumph. Moreover, it established the Redskins as a legitimate championship organization.
Wartime Context of the Championship
The 1942 NFL season occurred during World War II’s early years. Many players had already enlisted or been drafted into military service. This context made the championship achievement even more remarkable for both teams.
The 1942 Redskins team was perhaps the best of that era, after a few disappointing seasons. They overcame wartime challenges to achieve their championship goals. The team’s resilience reflected the national spirit during those difficult times.
The Washington Redskins 1942 championship came just over a year after Pearl Harbor. Football provided a welcome distraction from the war’s harsh realities. Additionally, it demonstrated American resilience and determination to maintain normal activities.
Many championship team members would soon join the military. Their championship victory provided lasting memories before they served their country. This added poignancy to their achievement and sacrifice.
The wartime context enhanced the championship’s historical significance. It represented triumph during one of America’s most challenging periods. The victory provided hope and inspiration to fans during uncertain times.
Conclusion: The 1942 Championship Legacy
The Washington Redskins’ 1942 championship stands as one of sports’ greatest redemption stories. Two years after the most humiliating defeat in NFL history, they achieved complete vindication. The championship validated their talent, coaching, and organizational character.
Ray Flaherty’s innovative coaching and Sammy Baugh’s exceptional play created a championship combination. Their partnership produced two NFL titles and revolutionized offensive strategy. The 1942 championship represented the pinnacle of their collaboration.
The championship game’s 14-6 final score tells only part of the story. Behind those numbers lies a tale of redemption, innovation, and championship character.
The Redskins’ 1942 championship truly defined a dynasty.