The highest scoring NFL game took place on November 27, 1966, when the Washington Redskins beat the New York Giants 72-41, totaling 113 points. This is still the record for the most points in an NFL game.
Stay tuned with us as we dive into the exciting details of the highest scoring NFL game ever! We’ll explore the record-breaking moments, key players, and everything that made this game unforgettable.
What Is the Highest Scoring Game in NFL History?
On November 27, 1966, the Washington Redskins defeated the New York Giants in a spectacular offensive shootout with a final score of 72–41.That’s a combined total of 113 points—the most ever scored in a single NFL game.
Quick Game Snapshot:
| Matchup | Washington Redskins vs. New York Giants |
| Date | November 27, 1966 |
| Final Score | Redskins 72, Giants 41 |
| Total Points | 113 |
| Venue | D.C. Stadium, Washington, D.C. |
| Season Context | NFL regular season |
Historical Context: What Was the NFL Like in 1966?
The NFL in 1966 was a very different league:
- There were only 15 teams (before the 1970 AFL-NFL merger).
- It was the first year the Super Bowl was conceptualized (although it was called the AFL-NFL World Championship).
- Teams were running more basic offensive and defensive schemes.
- Player specialization was less common, and most teams didn’t have deep rosters.
The 1966 season was also marked by inconsistent defenses. The New York Giants allowed 501 points in total—an NFL record that still stands today.
Inside the Game: How 113 Points Were Scored?
How did the two teams put up over 100 points in just 60 minutes of play?
Washington Redskins Highlights:
- 10 touchdowns scored, including 1 interception return and 1 blocked punt return.
- Sonny Jurgensen, the Redskins QB, threw 3 touchdown passes and managed the game expertly.
- Charlie Gogolak, the kicker, converted 9 extra points.
New York Giants Highlights:
- Tom Kennedy and Gary Wood combined for over 300 passing yards.
- Despite the score, they managed 5 total touchdowns and a field goal.
Notable Play Types:
- Defensive scores: Pick-six and blocked punt TD.
- Multiple long touchdown passes.
- Short-yardage goal-line scores.
How Did This Game Influence the League?
This game served as a wake-up call. It led to a league-wide reassessment of defense, game management, and rule enforcement. Here’s what changed over time:
Defensive Investments
Teams started drafting and trading for defensive talent more aggressively, particularly cornerbacks and pass rushers.
Game Rules Adjusted
Although not directly from this game, over time the NFL:
- Tightened rules around pass interference.
- Standardized player safety measures.
- Evolved overtime and clock rules to balance offense and defense.
Scoring Became a Strategic Tool
Teams realized that outscoring an opponent could be just as effective as shutting them down. This shift birthed offensive-minded coaching philosophies in the 1970s and 1980s.
Modern Era: Could Today’s Teams Break the Record?
With more dynamic offenses and rules favoring quarterbacks, could today’s NFL see a new highest-scoring game?
Top Modern Contenders:
Rams vs. Chiefs (2018)
- Score: Rams 54, Chiefs 51
- Total Points: 105
- Why It Mattered: It was the first game in NFL history where both teams scored over 50 points. Featured superstars like Patrick Mahomes and Jared Goff.
Bengals vs. Browns (2004)
- Score: Bengals 58, Browns 48
- Total Points: 106
- Highlight: Carson Palmer vs. Kelly Holcomb in a wild, back-and-forth scoring bonanza.
Giants vs. Saints (2015)
- Score: Saints 52, Giants 49
- Total Points: 101
- Fun Fact: Drew Brees threw for 7 touchdowns.
Although close, none of these surpassed the 113-point barrier. Still, with teams like the Chiefs, Bills, and 49ers showcasing electric offenses today, it’s always a possibility.
Scoring Trends Over the Years
The NFL’s scoring trends have evolved in the past few decades:
| Decade | Avg. Total Points/Game |
| 1960s | 41.1 |
| 1980s | 43.4 |
| 2000s | 44.0 |
| 2010s | 46.7 |
| 2020s | 48.4 (as of 2023) |
The NFL has clearly trended toward higher scores, thanks in part to:
- Rule changes protecting quarterbacks.
- Innovative offensive schemes (e.g., West Coast, spread, RPO).
- Kickoff and pass interference reforms.
Fantasy Football and High-Scoring Games
For fantasy football enthusiasts, games like Redskins vs. Giants 1966 are gold mines.
Why?
- More touchdowns = more points for your fantasy roster.
- QBs, WRs, and RBs in high-scoring matchups are often top performers.
- Defensive struggles can mean big stat-padding days for offensive players.
Pro Tip: In fantasy matchups, always consider game totals and Vegas over/under lines. They often predict shootouts.
Where to Watch or Learn More?
If you want to relive historic shootouts or catch modern ones:
- NFL+: Offers full game replays and condensed versions.
- YouTube (NFL Throwback): Great for historical highlights.
- ESPN Classic & NFL Network: Often showcase legendary games.
- Pro Football Reference: For diving into stats and box scores.
FAQ’s
1. Have any playoff games come close to 113 points?
No. Playoff games are typically more defensively focused. The highest-scoring playoff game was the Cardinals vs. Packers in 2009 (96 points).
2. What’s the highest-scoring tie in NFL history?
In 1964, the Raiders and Patriots tied at 43–43 in an AFL matchup, totaling 86 points.
3. Which active NFL teams have been in the most high-scoring games?
The Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys have all been involved in multiple games with combined totals over 90 points since 2010.
4. Can rule changes make it easier to break the 113-point record?
Yes, especially rules that limit contact in the secondary or encourage passing—both increase scoring.
5. Has any team scored 70 points since the 1966 Redskins?
Yes, the Miami Dolphins scored 70 points against the Denver Broncos in the 2023 season—but their opponent scored only 20, keeping the total to 90 points.
Conclusion:
The 113-point record has stood tall for nearly 60 years—and for good reason. It’s extremely rare for both teams to be clicking offensively and floundering defensively in the same game. But with explosive players like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson in the league, it’s not impossible.
One thing’s for sure: when it happens, fans will remember it forever—just like they did in 1966.
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