The backdrop of the war significantly impacted the composition of NFL teams. Many star players were serving in the armed forces, leading to a reliance on older veterans, younger, less experienced players, and even some who were classified as 4-F (unfit for service). Some teams were more affected than others, leading to imbalances in competition. For example, the Brooklyn Tigers and the Boston Yanks merged for the season to form "The Yanks" due to player shortages. This amalgamation was a stark reminder of the challenges the league faced in maintaining its operations. Despite these challenges, the NFL pressed on, providing a form of entertainment and normalcy for a nation grappling with the uncertainties and sacrifices of wartime.
The 1945 season saw some notable performances and developments. In the Western Division, the Cleveland Rams emerged as a dominant force, finishing with a 9-1 record. Led by rookie quarterback Bob Waterfield, who won the league's MVP award, the Rams showcased a potent offense. Waterfield's performance was a bright spot in a season marked by the absence of many established stars. The Rams' journey to the championship game demonstrated the resilience of a team that was able to capitalize on its strengths despite the challenges of the era.
In the Eastern Division, the Washington Redskins, coached by Dudley DeGroot, secured the top spot with an 8-2 record. Quarterback Sammy Baugh, a seasoned veteran, continued to be a key player for the team. The Redskins' path to the championship game highlighted their ability to navigate a competitive division and maintain a high level of play throughout the season.
The 1945 NFL Championship Game between the Cleveland Rams and the Washington Redskins, played in Cleveland, was a memorable contest. Played in frigid conditions, with temperatures well below freezing, the game was a low-scoring, hard-fought battle. The Rams ultimately prevailed with a narrow 15-14 victory. The game was decided by a single point and featured a controversial play that had a lasting impact on NFL rules. A safety was awarded to the Rams when Baugh's pass in his own end zone struck the goalpost. Because at that time, the goalposts were on the goal line, the play was ruled a safety. This odd play became a major talking point after the game and directly led to a rule change. Soon after the season, the NFL changed the rule, so a forward pass hitting the goalposts is ruled incomplete.
The 1945 NFL Championship Game, beyond the immediate result, symbolized the league's perseverance during a tumultuous period in American history. The fact that the league was able to complete the season and stage a championship game was a testament to the enduring appeal of football and its role in American culture. Even with diminished rosters and the backdrop of war, the game provided a sense of continuity and excitement.
