History of the National Football League championship

The National Football League (NFL) championship refers to the annual title awarded to the team that wins the league’s championship game. The history of the NFL championship is divided into two main eras: the pre-Super Bowl era (1920–1969) and the Super Bowl era (1970–present).

Pre-Super Bowl era (1920–1969)

The NFL was founded in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association (APFA) and renamed the National Football League in 1922. From its inception through 1932, the NFL championship was awarded to the team with the best regular-season record. No playoff games were held, and ties in standings were sometimes resolved using winning percentage or team votes.

In 1933, the NFL split into two divisions, the Eastern and Western Divisions. The winners of each division met in the NFL Championship Game to determine the league champion. This system continued until 1966. During this era, several teams became dynasties, including the Green Bay Packers under Vince Lombardi and the Chicago Bears.

Super Bowl era (1970–present)

In 1966, the NFL agreed to merge with the American Football League (AFL). The first Super Bowl was played following the 1966 season between the NFL champion and the AFL champion. The merger was completed in 1970, creating the modern NFL structure with the National Football Conference (NFC) and American Football Conference (AFC).

Since the merger, the NFL champion has been the winner of the Super Bowl. Teams must win their respective conference championship to advance to the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl era has seen dynasties such as the New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers, and San Francisco 49ers.

Championship records

Evolution of the championship

The format and determination of the NFL champion have changed over time:

  • 1920–1932: Best regular-season record
  • 1933–1965: NFL Championship Game between division winners
  • 1966–1969: NFL champion played AFL champion in Super Bowl
  • 1970–present: Conference champions meet in the Super Bowl

See also


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