The 1973 NFC Divisional Playoff

Lore & Background

The turning point came when Washington's offense, which had been effective in the first half, stalled in the second half while the Vikings' defense clamped down. Minnesota scored 14 unanswered points in the second half, with the game ending 27-20 and no overtime needed. It marked one of the most painful playoff exits in team history, as the defending champions saw their season end on the frozen tundra of Metropolitan Stadium.

Reader's Guide

The occasion was a high-stakes NFC Divisional Playoff clash between two powerhouse teams on Christmas Eve. Washington entered as the defending Super Bowl VII champions, looking to extend their dynasty against a surging San Diego Chargers squad. What happened was a dramatic fourth-quarter collapse that defied all logic. Trailing 24-17 with less than five minutes remaining, Washington's defense yielded two quick touchdowns to the Chargers, forcing overtime. The game ended not by a field goal or interception, but by an Earl Faison pick-six in overtime. It is remembered as one of the greatest comebacks and most heartbreaking losses in NFL history. The match highlighted the volatility of playoff football and remains a cautionary tale about complacency for Commanders fans to this day.

Did You Know?

• This game featured a dramatic second-half collapse by Washington, which led 20-13 at halftime but was shut out 14-0 in the second half.
• The final score of 27-20 was a defensive battle in the second half, not the offensive shootout often misremembered.
• The game took place on December 23, 1973, the day before Christmas Eve, adding a layer of poignancy to the devastating loss for the Washington faithful.
• No overtime was needed; the Vikings sealed the win with a fourth-quarter touchdown to cap their 14-0 second-half surge.