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The controversy revolves around the Buffalo All-Americans and their scheduling choices. In 1921, the nascent league struggled with standardized schedules and consistent competition. Teams often played various games, and the definition of a "league game" versus an "exhibition" was frequently blurred. Buffalo's decision to participate in an exhibition game proved pivotal in the championship's ultimate outcome. As discussed in historical football podcasts, this seemingly innocuous decision significantly impacted their official record. Had that exhibition game not been played, or had it been counted towards their league record, Buffalo's standing, and potentially the championship outcome, could have been dramatically different. The very fact that such a decision could have such a profound effect underlines the fluid and, at times, chaotic nature of the early NFL.
Ken Crippen's insights shed light on how these exhibition games, though often overlooked, played a crucial role in determining championship recognition in 1921. In those early years, teams relied on revenue from any and all games, including exhibitions, to survive. These games weren't just for practice but essential for financial stability. While perhaps financially beneficial, Buffalo's choice to play an exhibition ultimately cost them dearly in the championship race.
While Buffalo's fate was intertwined with their scheduling decisions, George Halas and the Chicago Staleys capitalized on the situation. Halas, a shrewd strategist and influential figure in NFL history, played a key role in securing the championship for his team. His persuasive arguments regarding the interpretation of league standings and the impact of exhibition games proved decisive. It’s been suggested that Halas's ability to navigate the league's often murky rules and regulations, combined with his persuasive skills, ultimately swayed the decision in Chicago’s favor.
The 1921 season serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of exhibition games in professional football's early history. These games weren't merely warm-ups; they were vital for a team's survival and, as the Buffalo/Chicago situation illustrates, could influence the championship outcome. With its controversial championship decision, the story of the 1921 season underscores the challenges faced by the early NFL. It highlights the complex interplay of on-field performance, scheduling decisions, and the influence of key figures like George Halas.
1921 Chicago Staleys season
✦ Owner George Halas,
✦ Dutch Sternaman
✦ Head coach George Halas
✦ Home field Staley Field (Decatur),
✦ Cubs Park (Chicago)
Results
✦ Record 9–1–1 APFA
✦ (10–1–1 Overall)
✦ League place 1st APFA
APFA standings
W L T PCT PF PA STK
Chicago Staleys 9 1 1 .900 128 53 T1
Buffalo All-Americans 9 1 2 .900 211 29 L1
Akron Pros 8 3 1 .727 148 31 W1
Canton Bulldogs 5 2 3 .714 106 55 W1
Rock Island Independents 4 2 1 .667 65 30 L1
Evansville Crimson Giants 3 2 0 .600 89 46 W1
Green Bay Packers 3 2 1 .600 70 55 L1
Dayton Triangles 4 4 1 .500 96 67 L1
Chicago Cardinals 3 3 2 .500 54 53 T1
Rochester Jeffersons 2 3 0 .400 85 76 W2
Cleveland Tigers 3 5 0 .375 95 58 L1
Washington Senators 1 2 0 .334 21 43 L1
Cincinnati Celts 1 3 0 .250 14 117 L2
Hammond Pros 1 3 1 .250 17 45 L2
Minneapolis Marines 1 3 0 .250 37 41 L1
Detroit Tigers 1 5 1 .167 19 109 L5
Columbus Panhandles 1 8 0 .111 47 222 W1
Tonawanda Kardex 0 1 0 .000 0 45 L1
Muncie Flyers 0 2 0 .000 0 28 L2
Louisville Brecks 0 2 0 .000 0 27 L2
New York Brickley Giants 0 2 0 .000 0 72 L2
1921 Chicago Staleys season. (2025, February 3). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1921_Chicago_Staleys_season
