here were times when teams did not have letdowns after emotional victories. Players today have really bloated salaries which may account for lack of motivation.
1957 Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and Cleveland Browns.
Western Division Playoff December 22, 1957 Detroit vs. San Francisco
The Lions and 49ers tied for first place with 8-4 records. By the tiebreaker, total points I suspect, the playoff was in San Francisco at Kezar Stadium. The clubs split their rivalry during the year. San Francisco had the home field advantage. Bobby Layne, the Lions' legend, broke his leg during the season. Their number one runner, John Henry Johnson, was injured and out for the game. The whole responsibility rested on second string quarterback Tobin Rote and a little known rather stumpy running back. The 49ers were heavy favorites and with a 27 to 7 early in the third quarter, it looked safe.
Then came Tom Tracy, who gained 86 yards on 11 carries, including a 58 yard touchdown. Rote threw touchdown passes to Gene Gedman and Steve Junker as the 49er defense fell apart. Final Detroit 31 San Francisco 27.
NFL Championship Game December 29, 1957 Detroit vs. Cleveland
In Cleveland's favor
1. The Browns 9-2-1 record was 1 1/2 games better than Detroit's
2. Detroit had played an extra game while Cleveland had the week off
In Detroit's favor
1. Home Field at Briggs Stadium
2. They defeated Cleveland during the year, at Detroit 20 to 7-pretty impressive given the Browns offense.
Final Detroit 59 Cleveland 14 No comments required.
The Detroit Lions had no letdowns in 1957 nor did the New York Giants the following year. 1958 was the year when the NFL went big time. To be continued.
Teams Without Emotional Letdowns
Re: Teams Without Emotional Letdowns
That is when the 49ers lost their mojo, and wouldn't be back in the playoffs for 13 years.