The Washington Redskins secured a commanding 42-10 victory over the Denver Broncos to claim Super Bowl XXII on January 31, 1988, at Jack Murphy Stadium in San Diego. This dominant performance marked the franchise's second Super Bowl win in three years, solidifying their status as the NFL's premier team during the late 1980s.
The Path to Super Bowl XXII
Washington entered the 1987 season as the defending Super Bowl XXII champions, looking to build on their explosive 42-10 rout of the Seattle Seahawks. The Redskins, under head coach Joe Gibbs, were propelled by a powerful offensive trio known as "The Hogs" along with quarterback Doug Williams and a ferocious defensive line. Their 12-4 regular season record positioned them as a top seed in the NFC, setting the stage for a deep playoff run.
Key Matchups in the Playoffs
Before facing the Broncos, Washington navigated a challenging path. They defeated the Minnesota Vikings 17-10 in the NFC Championship Game, a gritty performance that showcased their resilience. This victory propelled them into the Super Bowl against a Denver team that had advanced through the AFC with relative ease, including a 38-36 win over the Cleveland Browns.
Game Summary and Dominance
From the opening kickoff, the Redskins imposed their will on the Broncos, who were playing without star running back Bobby Humphrey due to a suspension. Washington's offense moved methodically down the field, with quarterback Doug Williams showcasing precision and calm authority. The defense, led by Dexter Manley and Charles Mann, consistently pressured quarterback John Elway, forcing critical mistakes and turnovers that shifted momentum decisively.
First Quarter: Washington struck early with a touchdown, establishing immediate control.
Second Quarter: The Redskins added two more touchdowns, extending their lead to 21-0 at halftime.
Third Quarter: Washington continued to pour it on, scoring another touchdown to make it 28-0.
Fourth Quarter: The game turned into a rout, with Washington adding 14 more points to secure the 42-10 final.
Turning Point and Key Performances
The turning point came in the second quarter when the Redskins scored 21 unanswered points to build a commanding 21-0 lead. This surge effectively ended any hope of a Broncos comeback. Williams, playing in his first Super Bowl, was named the game's MVP after completing 18 of 29 passes for 340 yards and four touchdowns, with no interceptions. His performance was a clinic in efficiency and poise on the grandest stage.
Legacy of the Victory
This Super Bowl victory was a defining moment for the franchise and solidified the Redskins' legacy as one of the NFL's elite teams of the era. The win provided a sense of closure and validation for the organization, following their dramatic victory just months prior. For the players, it represented the pinnacle of their careers, showcasing the result of meticulous preparation and exceptional talent within the Gibbs offense.
