The AFL vs. NFL Rivalry and the Lead-up to Super Bowl III
Before the NFL and AFL merger in 1970, the two leagues were fierce competitors. The NFL was the more established league, dating back to 1920, while the AFL was a newer upstart founded in 1960. The AFL sought to challenge the NFL’s dominance by attracting talented players and offering an exciting, wide-open style of football. However, when the first two Super Bowls (then called the AFL-NFL World Championship Game) took place, the results were one-sided.
- In Super Bowl I (1967), the Green Bay Packers dominated the Kansas City Chiefs, 35-10.
- In Super Bowl II (1968), the Packers again won decisively, beating the Oakland Raiders 33-14.
These results reinforced the belief that the NFL was superior to the AFL. Many sportswriters, analysts, and fans considered the AFL to be an inferior league with less talent and weaker competition.
As Super Bowl III approached, the Baltimore Colts—champions of the NFL—were seen as a powerhouse team. They had finished the regular season with a dominant 13-1 record and were led by head coach Don Shula and veteran quarterback Johnny Unitas, though backup Earl Morrall had started most of the season. The Colts had one of the best defenses in football and had destroyed the Cleveland Browns 34-0 in the NFL Championship Game.
On the other side, the New York Jets, champions of the AFL, had an equally impressive 11-3 record. They were led by the charismatic Joe Namath, a strong-armed quarterback who had become the face of the AFL. However, despite their success, few believed the Jets had a realistic chance to defeat the mighty Colts. The betting odds reflected this sentiment, with the Colts listed as 18-point favorites—one of the largest spreads in Super Bowl history.
Joe Namath’s Bold Guarantee
In the days leading up to the game, the media openly dismissed the Jets, predicting another easy NFL victory. However, on January 9, 1969, at the Miami Touchdown Club, Joe Namath made history with a statement that shocked the football world.
“We’re going to win the game. I guarantee it.”
At the time, such a declaration was unprecedented. Namath was already known for his flamboyant personality, wearing fur coats, dating high-profile celebrities, and embracing the nickname “Broadway Joe.” His brash confidence often drew criticism, but this prediction took things to another level.
Many believed his words were reckless, adding unnecessary pressure to his team. Others saw it as a publicity stunt. The Colts, already confident, took Namath’s statement as arrogance. However, inside the Jets’ locker room, Namath’s teammates rallied around their leader, inspired by his unwavering belief.
Super Bowl III: The Shocking Upset
On January 12, 1969, at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida, Super Bowl III kicked off with over 75,000 fans in attendance and millions watching on television. The football world expected the Colts to dominate, but from the opening drive, it was clear that the Jets had come prepared.
Namath’s Masterful Performance
Namath didn’t have an eye-popping statistical game—he finished with 206 passing yards, no touchdowns, and no interceptions—but his leadership and control of the game were remarkable. He managed the Jets’ offense with precision, making smart decisions and avoiding mistakes.
- The Jets relied on running back Matt Snell, who rushed for 121 yards and a touchdown, dominating the Colts’ defense.
- New York’s defense, led by coach Weeb Ewbank, executed a brilliant game plan, shutting down the Colts’ passing attack.
- The Colts struggled offensively, as Earl Morrall threw three interceptions in a disastrous performance.
By the fourth quarter, the Jets led 16-0, and the reality of the upset began to sink in. Johnny Unitas, who had been sidelined with an injury most of the season, was finally brought in to replace Morrall. Although he led a late touchdown drive, it was too little, too late. The game ended with a final score of 16-7, and the New York Jets had shocked the world.
The Aftermath and Impact on Football
Joe Namath’s Legacy
Namath didn’t just guarantee victory—he delivered. His confidence, leadership, and performance made him an instant icon. He was named Super Bowl MVP and solidified his place as one of the most famous quarterbacks in history.
Legitimizing the AFL
Before Super Bowl III, the AFL was seen as an inferior league. However, the Jets’ victory proved that AFL teams could compete with and defeat NFL teams. This helped pave the way for the official NFL-AFL merger in 1970, creating the modern NFL as we know it.
Changing the Super Bowl’s Importance
The first two Super Bowls were largely seen as exhibitions. However, Namath’s guarantee and the dramatic upset gave the game new meaning. From that point forward, the Super Bowl became a cultural event, capturing the attention of sports fans worldwide.
The Rise of Quarterback Confidence
Namath’s guarantee also changed how quarterbacks were viewed. His boldness and leadership set the tone for future players. Today, quarterbacks are expected to inspire confidence, both on and off the field.
Conclusion
Joe Namath’s guarantee in Super Bowl III remains one of the boldest statements in sports history. It wasn’t just talk—he backed it up with a legendary performance that changed the course of professional football. The Jets’ victory legitimized the AFL, elevated the Super Bowl’s significance, and cemented Namath’s status as an icon.
More than 50 years later, whenever an athlete makes a bold prediction, Namath’s name is invoked. His guarantee was more than just words—it was a defining moment in sports history, proving that confidence, preparation, and belief can overcome even the longest odds.