1929 NFL Title

The 1929 NFL season was a landmark year, marked by expansion, officiating changes, and a dominant Green Bay Packers team. The league welcomed new franchises, including the Orange Tornadoes, Staten Island Stapletons, and Minneapolis Red Jackets, while the Buffalo Bisons returned after a year's hiatus. Notable team shifts included the Pottsville Maroons becoming the Boston Bulldogs, the New York Yankees folding, and the Detroit Wolverines merging with the New York Giants.

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champs? Check it out here NFL Champions.

A significant development was the introduction of the Field Judge, a fourth on-field official, to enhance game coverage. This position, though initially optional, aimed to improve the visibility of plays, particularly in the deep secondary and along the sidelines, which were increasingly utilized with the growing popularity of the forward pass.

The undefeated Green Bay Packers and the formidable New York Giants dominated the season's narrative. Their highly anticipated November 24th clash, touted as the unofficial championship game, lived up to expectations. The Packers emerged victorious, defeating the Giants 20-6 and securing a crucial lead in the standings. Both teams continued their winning streaks, but with a 12-0-1 record, the Packers clinched their first NFL championship. The Giants finished a close second at 13-1-1.

In their final game, the Packers' victory over the Chicago Bears, 25-0, solidified their undefeated season. Carl Lidberg and Eddie Kotal delivered standout performances, with Kotal's spectacular one-handed catch being a highlight. The team's defensive prowess was also notable, allowing only 22 points throughout the season and recording eight shutouts. The Packers’ roster was filled with talent, and the team featured many players who would be considered game legends.

The first night game in professional football history was played on November 6, 1929, at Kinsley Park in Providence, Rhode Island. The Providence Steam Roller hosted the Chicago Cardinals in this historic contest.

The season also highlighted individual brilliance, with players like Bull Behman, Tony Plansky, Ernie Nevers, and Benny Friedman delivering exceptional performances. The Packers' championship win was celebrated with a "Championship Fund" initiated by the Green Bay Press-Gazette, raising over $5,000 for the players despite the recent stock market crash. Each player received $220 and a watch, a testament to the community's support.

Sources:

Pro-Football-Reference.com

Packers.com

Newspapers.com

https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/205713961.html