The NFL has a long history full of outstanding performances that have made a lasting impact on the league.
From incredible individual achievements to record-breaking team efforts, these moments show the skill and hard work that define the sport.
Here are some of the most exciting records in NFL history that still resonate with fans and players today.
5. Most Sacks in a Game: 7
On November 11, 1990, Derrick Thomas, a linebacker-defensive end for the Kansas City Chiefs, gave one of the best defensive performances in NFL history.
Thomas recorded an incredible seven sacks in one game against the Seattle Seahawks. Despite his amazing effort, the Chiefs lost 17-16 after Thomas almost got his eighth sack, but Seattle’s quarterback, Dave Krieg, managed to escape and throw a game-winning touchdown.
Reflecting on the game, Thomas remarked, “Down the road, it may mean a lot. But today it doesn’t mean anything. Our objective is to win the ballgame.” His head coach, Marty Schottenheimer, praised Thomas’s relentless effort, saying, “That kind of effort is the thing you build championships on.” This record is significant, especially since sacks were not officially counted as a statistic until 1982. Sadly, Thomas passed away in a car accident in 2000, but his legacy lives on; he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NFL stories via Google! Follow Us
Also Read: Fact Check: Is The NFL Rigged? Debunking Viral Rumors About The National Football League
4. Most Touchdowns in a Game: 6
Alvin Kamara made history on December 25, 2020, during a Christmas Day game between the New Orleans Saints and the Minnesota Vikings. Kamara rushed for a record-tying six touchdowns, leading the Saints to a huge 52-33 victory.
This achievement placed him among a select group that includes legendary players like Ernie Nevers, Dub Jones, and Gale Sayers, who also scored six touchdowns in a game, but Kamara is the only player to do it in the NFL since 1970.
Kamara’s extraordinary performance not only showed off his skill but also ended the Vikings’ hopes for the playoffs, causing Minnesota’s head coach, Mike Zimmer, to say, “Yeah, this is a bad defense. Worst one I’ve ever had.” The game was held at the Superdome in New Orleans, where attendance was limited to 3,000 fans because of COVID-19 restrictions, making this performance even more memorable for those lucky enough to see it.
3. Most Receiving Yards in a Game: 336
In an impressive show of skill and determination, Flipper Anderson of the Los Angeles Rams set a record in the NFL for the most receiving yards in a single game on November 26, 1989. In a crucial overtime win against the New Orleans Saints, Anderson gained 336 yards on 15 receptions. His performance was surprising, especially since he had to step up in the absence of star receiver Henry Ellard, who was out due to a hamstring injury.
Anderson’s achievement left him in disbelief. “I never even dreamed of having a day like this,” he shared with the Los Angeles Times. Rams head coach John Robinson praised Anderson’s performance, calling it “the greatest performance I’ve ever seen by a wide receiver.” Anderson’s record remains a goal for wide receivers, showing the potential for greatness in the passing game.
Also Read: 5 NFL Teams That Should Hire Bill Belichick As Their Coach ASAP… And 5 Teams He Should Avoid
2. Most Touchdown Passes in a Game: 7
On October 28, 1962, New York Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle gave an amazing performance against the Washington Redskins, throwing for seven touchdowns in a thrilling 49-34 win. Tittle joined an elite group of quarterbacks who have achieved this feat, including Sid Luckman, Adrian Burk, George Blanda, Joe Kapp, Nick Foles, Peyton Manning, and Drew Brees.
Despite his impressive performance, Tittle chose not to attempt an eighth touchdown pass in the final minute of the game, explaining, “Not with one minute to play. It would look kind of like too much individualism.” His humility and dedication to the team connect with football fans, strengthening his legacy as a player who cared more about the team’s success than his own achievements.
1. Largest Margin of Victory: 73 points
The largest margin of victory in NFL history was recorded on December 8, 1940, when the Chicago Bears completely dominated the Washington Redskins in the NFL Championship Game with a staggering 73-0 score. This record still stands, showing the Bears’ dominance that day. Interestingly, just three weeks before, the Bears had lost to the same team, 7-3.
Reflecting on the huge win, Bears coach George Halas said, “It was just one of those days. Everything we did, we did right. Everything they did, they did wrong.” Washington owner George Marshall humorously commented about his team’s lack of effort, suggesting that some players were more focused on playoff bonuses than on the game itself. This historic loss has since become a warning tale, showing how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL.
These records show NFL players’ amazing talent and hard work throughout the league’s history. Each new generation of athletes pushes the limits of what can be done on the field. These milestones inspire and remind everyone of the great achievements that have influenced the game.
Also Read: 5 Worst Quarterback Trades In NFL History
