Norm Van Brocklin

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Lore & Background

Van Brocklin's tenure in Philadelphia began less than five months after his retirement announcement, driven by a desire to avoid playing under Sid Gillman's offense for the Rams. Under Buck Shaw, he found a system where he held total control, steadily improving the team's attack. The defining moment of this era occurred on December 26, 1960, at Franklin Field against the Green Bay Packers. In a game dominated by defense, Van Brocklin led a crucial fourth-quarter comeback to secure a 17–13 victory. He threw to his favorite receiver, Tommy McDonald—a 5 ft 9 in, 176 lb player—to clinch the title. This win was historically significant as it made the Eagles one of only three teams to defeat the Packers in a playoff game during Vince Lombardi's entire tenure as Green Bay's head coach (the others being the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1964 Playoff Bowl and the Dallas Cowboys in the 1966 NFL Championship Game). Van Brocklin was named NFL Most Valuable Player for this season and earned first-team All-Pro honors, extending his Pro Bowl selections to nine over his career.

In Their Own Story

The atmosphere at Franklin Field on December 26, 1960, was electric yet tense as the Eagles faced the formidable Green Bay Packers. Van Brocklin, playing in a game dominated by defense, orchestrated a fourth-quarter comeback that would define his final year as a player. He relied heavily on his connection with Tommy McDonald, his favorite receiver, to move the chains against a stout Packers defense. The final score of 17–13 stood as a testament to their resilience and Van Brocklin's leadership under pressure. This victory was not just a championship; it was a singular achievement in NFL history, marking the only playoff loss for Vince Lombardi's Green Bay squad during his coaching reign. Following this triumph, Van Brocklin retired from professional football, leaving behind a legacy as one of the few to win championships with two different franchises.

Reader's Guide

For fans looking to understand the peak of Norman Van Brocklin's playing career, the 1960 NFL Championship Game is the essential reference point. This season saw him lead the league in passing and earn MVP honors while guiding Philadelphia to a 10–2 record. The victory over Green Bay at Franklin Field remains a unique historical footnote, as it was the sole playoff defeat for Vince Lombardi's Packers. Van Brocklin's ability to adapt and lead a comeback in a defensive battle showcases his versatility. His time in Philadelphia concluded with him retiring on top, having secured his second NFL title. This period stands out as the pinnacle of his professional journey before he transitioned into coaching with the Minnesota Vikings.

Did You Know?

• Van Brocklin was traded to the Eagles for Buck Lansford, Jimmy Harris, and a first-round draft pick.
• The 1960 Eagles were one of three teams to defeat the Packers in a playoff game during Vince Lombardi's tenure as head coach, along with the St. Louis Cardinals (1964 Playoff Bowl) and the Dallas Cowboys (1966 NFL Champi
• He led a fourth-quarter comeback against Green Bay in the 1960 NFL Championship Game, winning 17–13.
• Van Brocklin was named NFL Most Valuable Player in 1960 and earned first-team All-Pro honors that season.