The 1943 National Football League season unfolded against the backdrop of World War II, yet it demonstrated remarkable resilience and continued growth for professional football. Running from September 19 to December 26, 1943, the season saw a shortened schedule of ten games for each team. Despite the global conflict and the adjustments it necessitated, the league maintained its popularity, drawing a significant number of fans. This period was marked
by competitive division races, a historic scoreless tie, and ultimately, the Chicago Bears emerging as the league champions.
Sustained Popularity Amidst Wartime Challenges
Despite the ongoing war, the NFL's popularity continued to grow in 1943. The league recorded a cumulative attendance of 1,072,462 fans. This figure was less than 7,000 short of the record set in the previous year, even though 15 fewer games were played across the league. This sustained and nearly record-breaking attendance was attributed to the increased competitiveness of the weaker squads, suggesting that more balanced play across the league contributed to greater fan engagement and interest.
The ability of the NFL to maintain such strong attendance figures during wartime speaks to the role of sports in providing a sense of normalcy and entertainment during difficult times. The league's operations, including its shortened schedule, were adaptations to the national effort, yet they did not deter the public's enthusiasm for professional football. This period showcased the enduring appeal of the sport and its capacity to thrive even under extraordinary circumstances.
Defining Moments and Division Battles
The 1943 season featured several key matchups and intense division races. In the Eastern Division, the Phil-Pitt team initially led, winning its first two games. However, Washington quickly became a strong contender. In the Western Division, the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers started strong, with a 21-21 tie in their first game. By Week Five, the division leaders faced off, with the Bears defeating the Steagles 48-21 and the Redskins beating the Packers 33-7, solidifying their positions at the top.
A particularly unique event occurred on November 7, when the Detroit Lions and New York Giants played to a 0-0 tie. This game holds the distinction of being the last scoreless tie in NFL history. While scoreless ties were more common in earlier eras, they had become increasingly rare by the 1930s and early 1940s. This specific game marked a historical turning point, as no NFL game since has ended without either team scoring. The Redskins and Bears remained unbeaten deep into the season, eventually meeting on November 21, where the Redskins secured a 21-7 victory. The Bears ultimately clinched the Western Division with an 8-1-1 record, while the Eastern Division title was decided by a playoff between the Washington Redskins and New York Giants, which Washington won 28-0, earning the right to play for the championship.
The Road to the Championship
After clinching their respective divisions, the Washington Redskins and Chicago Bears met in the 1943 World Championship Game. The Bears, having finished their regular season on November 28 with an 8-1-1 record, had to wait for three weeks for the Eastern Division champion to be determined. The Redskins and Giants played two consecutive Sundays in December, with the Giants winning both to force a tie. A third game between them, a playoff, saw the Redskins emerge victorious. Ultimately, the Chicago Bears won the championship, capping off a season that highlighted both the challenges and the enduring spirit of the NFL during wartime.
