Steve Bartkowski MVP Opener vs Los Angeles Rams

Lore & Background

Bartkowski was drafted first overall by the Falcons in 1975. After struggling in his early seasons, he helped the Falcons reach the postseason for the first time in 1978. In 1980, he threw for three touchdowns in a 35–10 win over the San Francisco 49ers on December 14, clinching the Falcons' first NFC West division title. That season, the Falcons finished 12–4.

In Their Own Story

The lights hummed above the turf at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium as the crowd roared. Bartkowski stepped into the pocket, scanning the field through the night air. The Rams defense rushed hard, but he slipped out to his right, buying seconds that didn't exist on paper. With a flick of his wrist, the ball spiraled toward the end zone.

Reader's Guide

Bartkowski's MVP season was 1980, not the mid-1970s. The Falcons have always been based in Atlanta; there was no relocation from Milwaukee.

Did You Know?

• Bartkowski was the first overall pick in the 1975 NFL draft.
• He led the Falcons to their first playoff berth in 1978.
• In 1980, Bartkowski threw three touchdown passes to win the NFC West division title.
• The Falcons have always been based in Atlanta since their founding in 1965.