The 1983 NFC Championship
A freezing night in D.C. where a gritty Redskins defense held off the 49ers for a Super Bowl berth.
The 1983 NFC Championship Game stands as one of the most defining and triumphant moments in Washington Redskins history (now the Commanders). Played on January 8, 1984, at RFK Stadium in a freezing D.C. winter, the game pitted the defending Super Bowl XVII champions against the San Francisco 49ers. It is remembered for a gritty victory that sent Washington to its second consecutive Super Bowl, cementing the team's place among the NFL's elite.
Quick Facts
- Final score
- Redskins 24, 49ers 21
Lore & Background
The turning point came when Washington's defense, which had been impenetrable for most of the season, rose to the occasion against a high-powered 49ers offense led by Joe Montana. The Redskins' offense executed a balanced attack, and a late defensive stand preserved the lead. The freezing temperatures seemed to fuel the home team's resolve as the game ended in regulation, securing one of the most cherished victories in franchise history.
Reader's Guide
The occasion was a high-stakes showdown between two NFC powerhouses, with Washington looking to become only the second team in history to win consecutive Super Bowls. The game began as a masterclass by the Redskins' defense, which held the Rams scoreless until late in the second quarter, building an insurmountable 24-0 advantage. However, the narrative shifted when the Rams' offense, led by Eric Dickerson's rushing prowess, found its rhythm. Washington's offense stalled repeatedly, unable to sustain drives against a resurgent Los Angeles defense. A critical fumble in the fourth quarter gave the ball back to the Rams with time running out, setting up a dramatic comeback. The game is remembered for its heartbreaking conclusion: after forcing overtime, Washington failed to score on their possession, while the Rams kicked a field goal as time expired. The loss remains a stark reminder of how quickly momentum can turn in professional football.
Did You Know?
- Washington entered this game with a 14-2 record and was heavily favored by oddsmakers to win.
- This was the first time since 1982 that Washington had won a playoff game at RFK Stadium.
- The 49ers' offense was held to just 21 points, well below their season average.
- The victory sent Joe Theismann and the Redskins to their second straight Super Bowl, where they would face the Los Angeles Raiders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the 1983 NFC Championship Game?
Washington, the defending Super Bowl champions, hosted the Los Angeles Rams at RFK Stadium on January 7, 1984, and surrendered a commanding lead to lose 26-23 in overtime. The collapse ended their bid for back-to-back Super Bowls and remains one of the most painful defeats in franchise memory.
Who were the key players in the 1983 NFC Championship?
Joe Theismann anchored the Washington offense, while Eric Dickerson powered the Rams' dominant rushing attack. Both stars were at the peak of their careers and carried their teams through a physical, cold-weather battle in D.C.
Where and when was the 1983 NFC Championship played?
The game was held on January 7, 1984, at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. Fans braved a bitterly cold winter night to witness what would become one of the most haunting losses in team history.
What was the final score of the 1983 NFC Championship?
The Los Angeles Rams defeated Washington 26-23 in overtime. The Rams' upset sent them on to Super Bowl XVIII, while the Commanders' season ended in heartbreak on their home turf.
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