1945 NFL Season and Championship

The 1945 NFL season was played in the shadow of a world recovering from the devastation of World War II. As the nation began to rebuild, the NFL, like many other American institutions, was in a state of transition. This season is a fascinating snapshot of a league adapting to extraordinary circumstances, showcasing both the challenges and the enduring appeal of professional football.

The Impact of World War II

The most significant factor shaping the 1945 NFL season was the lingering impact of the war. Many NFL players had served in the armed forces, and their return (or continued absence) significantly affected team rosters and the overall landscape of the league. Teams grappled with depleted rosters, as some players had not yet returned from service, while others had returned but were not yet in playing shape. This led to some unusual team compositions and player movement.

Key Rule Changes and League Developments

Hash Mark Adjustment: One notable rule change in 1945 was the movement of the inbounds lines, or hash marks, closer to the center of the field. This change, though seemingly minor, had a significant impact on offensive strategies, opening up the field and influencing play calling. This rule change is a testament to the league's constant evolution.

Team Mergers and Instability: The war's impact on player availability continued to force teams to make difficult decisions. In some cases, this resulted in temporary mergers or unusual roster configurations. This season stands as a reminder of the challenges the league faced and its resilience in overcoming them. The Brooklyn Tigers and the Boston Yanks merged for the season to form "The Yanks".

The 1945 Season Standings

The 1945 NFL season saw the emergence of strong contenders and surprising outcomes. Here's a quick look at how the divisions shaped up:

Western Division: The Cleveland Rams dominated the Western Division with an impressive 9-1 record. Their strong performance throughout the season made them the team to beat. The Detroit Lions followed with a 7-3 record, and the Green Bay Packers finished with a 6-4 record.

Eastern Division: The Washington Redskins secured the top spot in the Eastern Division with an 8-2 record. The Philadelphia Eagles were close behind at 7-3.

Key Players and Performances

Despite the challenges of the war years, several standout players left their mark on the 1945 season:

Bob Waterfield (Cleveland Rams): The Rams' quarterback was a key figure in their success, showcasing his talent and leading his team to the championship. Waterfield's performance earned him the Joe F. Carr Trophy (Most Valuable Player). He threw for 1,609 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Sammy Baugh (Washington Redskins): A legendary quarterback, Baugh continued to demonstrate his exceptional skills, leading the league in passer rating. He threw for 1,669 yards.

Steve Van Buren (Philadelphia Eagles): Van Buren led the league in rushing, showcasing his power and speed. He rushed for 832 yards.

Jim Benton (Cleveland Rams): Benton led the league in receiving with 1,067 receiving yards.

Sid Luckman (Chicago Bears): Luckman led the league in passing yards, throwing for 1,727 yards.

The 1945 NFL Championship Game: Cleveland Rams vs. Washington Redskins

The 1945 NFL Championship Game was played on December 16th, 1945, at Cleveland Stadium. The game pitted the Western Division champion Cleveland Rams against the Eastern Division champion Washington Redskins.

The Game: The game was a close and hard-fought contest, played in extremely cold conditions (-8°F). The Cleveland Rams ultimately prevailed, defeating the Washington Redskins by a score of 15-14. This victory marked a significant moment for the Rams franchise and the city of Cleveland.

Key Moments: The game was a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to move the ball consistently in the freezing temperatures. A safety against Sammy Baugh gave the Rams an early lead. Bob Waterfield threw two touchdown passes for the Rams, while Frank Filchock threw two for the Redskins. Ultimately, the Rams' defense held strong, securing the narrow victory.

Significance: The 1945 Championship Game was the last game the Cleveland Rams played in Cleveland before relocating to Los Angeles in 1946. The game is also remembered for its frigid conditions, which significantly impacted the game and attendance. Redskins owner George Preston Marshall was particularly incensed about a play in the game, which led to a rule change.

The Legacy of the 1945 Season

The 1945 NFL season is a unique chapter in the league's history. It reflects the challenges and triumphs of a nation emerging from war, and the ways in which football adapted to those circumstances. The season showcased the resilience of the NFL, the dedication of its players, and the enduring passion of its fans. It serves as a reminder of how the sport of football can provide a sense of normalcy and excitement even in the most extraordinary of times. The 1945 season is a testament to the enduring power of football.