What happened today in history?
What happened
today in history?
Oct 10
Back

The First NFL Game of the 1920 Phoenix Cardinals

The Historic Matchup of the 1920 NFL

The 1920 Phoenix Cardinals Step onto the Field

On October 3, 1920, the Phoenix Cardinals, a team that would go on to become one of the oldest franchises in professional football history, played their very first game in the National Football League (NFL). At that time, the team was based in Chicago, Illinois. The Cardinals faced off against their rivals, and the excitement of this inaugural match left an indelible mark on the future of the sport.

A Clash of Determined Teams

The Cardinals took to the field against the Hammond Pros. Fans packed the stands to witness this momentous event in sports history. Although the game ended in a 0-0 tie, the intensity of the match demonstrated the competitive spirit that would characterize the league moving forward.

The Legacy of the 1920 Cardinals

From Chicago to Phoenix: A Journey of Transformation

Over the years, the Cardinals would move from Chicago to St. Louis and eventually to Phoenix, Arizona, cementing their legacy as a resilient team. The 1920 game marked the beginning of their long journey in the NFL, which includes numerous ups and downs, but ultimately led them to becoming one of the league's most storied teams.

Impact on the National Football League

This game was significant not only for the Cardinals but for the NFL as a whole, as it was one of the matches that contributed to the formation of a professional football culture in America. The 1920 season established the foundation for professional football leagues, which would flourish in the decades to come.

Fun Fact

First Ever NFL Game: A Unique Start

The first game of the NFL didn't just involve the players on the field, it was a unique moment in sports history. The Phoenix Cardinals and their opponent, the Hammond Pros, played without the advanced rules and structures we see today, making this tie game a fascinating look into the origins of professional football.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on the NFL’s Early Years

For further exploration into the history of the NFL, consider reading “America’s Game: The NFL at 100” or “The NFL: A History of the League, Its Teams, and Its Players”, both of which offer deeper insights into the formative years of professional football.