The 1933 NFL Championship Game, held on December 17, 1933, at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois, was a historic event that pitted the Chicago Bears against the New York Giants. This game was not only the culmination of the 1933 season but also the very first official NFL Championship Game, a direct result of the league's decision to divide teams into two divisions and have the winners compete for the title. The Associated Press described the contest
as "probably the most spectacular game of the year" and a "brilliant display of offensive power," a fitting description for a game filled with dramatic plays and strategic innovations.
Early Exchanges and a Giants' Deception
The game began with both teams vying for an early advantage. The Giants, known for their innovative play, attempted a trick play early in the first quarter. This play involved a shift that made center Mel Hein an eligible receiver. After the snap, quarterback Harry Newman handed the ball back to Hein, who then concealed it under his jersey. Newman, pretending he still had the ball, dropped back as if to pass, drawing the defense's attention. Hein, with the ball hidden, ran from the Bears' 45-yard line to their 15. While he might have gained more yardage, he sprinted towards the goal line instead of waiting for his blockers, as he was supposed to. Despite this clever deception, the Giants were unable to score on this drive, as Chicago's defense tightened, and they missed a field goal attempt.
The Bears, however, managed to get on the scoreboard. Jack Manders, their reliable kicker, successfully kicked a field goal late in the first quarter, followed by another in the middle of the second quarter, giving Chicago a 6–0 lead. The Giants responded with a drive that included a 30-yard run, leading to a touchdown. The game continued to be a back-and-forth affair, showcasing the offensive capabilities of both teams.
A Fourth Quarter Thriller and Decisive Plays
As the game progressed into the fourth quarter, the tension mounted. The Giants executed another notable play where the ball was passed to Newman, who then passed it back to Strong for a touchdown. Strong's successful extra point attempt put the Giants ahead 21–16. With less than two minutes remaining, the Bears found themselves trailing but were not deterred. Chicago drove to the New York 36-yard line, setting the stage for a critical play. Bronko Nagurski, a key figure for the Bears, attempted a jump pass. This time, the Giants were prepared for the play, but the Bears had another trick up their sleeve.
As the Giants focused on tackling the intended receiver, Bill Hewitt, Hewitt lateraled the ball to Bill Karr, who then ran 31 yards for the game-winning touchdown. This audacious play, executed with precision, gave the Bears a 22–21 lead. Their subsequent successful extra point attempt extended their lead to 23–21. The Giants made a final push, driving to their own 40-yard line. In a desperate attempt, running back Dale Burnett missed a wide-open Hein on another trick play, throwing a wobbly pass to Hein, who was uncovered on the Bears' 30-yard line. On the game's final play, Red Grange, demonstrating his legendary defensive instincts, tackled Badgro before he could complete the lateral portion of a hook and ladder play the Giants were attempting. Grange correctly diagnosed the play, wrapping up Badgro's arms to prevent him from pitching the ball to Burnett, thus securing the Bears' victory. This win marked the Bears' second consecutive championship and George Halas's second title as head coach.
