A League in Flux:

The 1931 NFL season, the league's 12th, unfolded against the backdrop of the Great Depression. Financial hardship forced the Newark Tornadoes and Minneapolis Marines to fold, and the Frankford Yellow Jackets, champions of 1926, also succumbed to the economic pressures. This left the NFL with a mere nine teams by season's end. However, amidst the turmoil, the Cleveland Indians joined as an expansion team, and the Portsmouth Spartans emerged as a formidable force, starting with seven consecutive wins and allowing only 16 points in those games.

The Packers' Path to Glory (and Controversy):

The Green Bay Packers, led by the legendary Curly Lambeau, were on a mission to secure their third consecutive NFL championship. They started strong, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. The season culminated in a controversial decision that ultimately crowned the Packers champions.

The Packers, with a 12-2 record, were scheduled to play the 10-3 Portsmouth Spartans. However, the Packers' brass refused to play, knowing a loss would result in a tie for the championship. The Spartans protested, but NFL Commissioner Joe Carr sided with Green Bay, awarding them the title and leaving Portsmouth with a bitter second-place finish.

The Stars of the 1931 Packers:

The Packers' success was built on a foundation of exceptional talent. Let's delve into some of the key players who contributed to their historic three-peat:

✦ Laverne "Lavvie" Dilweg:
A dominant defensive end, Dilweg's talent is often overlooked.
He amassed an astounding 27 career interceptions, a feat unmatched by most of his contemporaries.
As Ken Crippen of the Football Learning Academy pointed out, Dilweg was considered one of the best ends of the pre-modern era, yet he has not received the Hall of Fame recognition he deserves.

✦ Vern Lewellyn:
Lewellyn, the Packers' star halfback, was a crucial part of their championship runs.
Chris Willis of NFL Films highlighted Lewellyn's consistent performance, even suggesting he would have been a back-to-back MVP in 1929 and 1930.
Again, a player whose Hall-of-Fame credentials are powerful.

✦ Curly Lambeau:
The founder of the Packers franchise and a visionary coach.
Lambeau was instrumental in popularizing passing plays and strategic offensive schemes.
As Larry Schmitt noted, Lambeau's leadership guided the Packers to six championships, surpassing even Vince Lombardi's record.

✦ Cal Hubbard:
A rare athlete who excelled in both football and baseball, earning induction into both Halls of Fame.
Hubbard was a dominant force on the offensive and defensive lines, contributing to four championship teams.
George Bozeka, PFRA president, detailed Hubbard’s amazing career.

✦ Johnny "Blood" McNally is a versatile player who made significant contributions.

✦ Mike Michalske, a Hall of Fame blocker who paved the way for the Packers' running game.

✦ Arnie Herber, who was in the early part of his Hall-of-Fame career.

A Legacy Forged in Controversy and Triumph:

The 1931 season was a pivotal moment in NFL history. Though achieved amidst controversy, the Packers' three-peat solidified their place as one of the league's early dynasties. Their roster was filled with legendary players who helped shape the game.

The 1931 season was the last year in which the NFL championship was awarded without a championship game. The next year the NFL would have a championship game. The NFL would continue to evolve, but the legacy of the 1931 Green Bay Packers remains a testament to their remarkable talent and enduring spirit.