The NFL has provided fans with countless thrilling moments and unforgettable games throughout its storied history. Among these memorable contests, some stand out due to the sheer volume of points scored, turning games into offensive showcases that left spectators in awe. These high-scoring affairs often feature a perfect storm of strategic play-calling, exceptional athleticism, and sometimes even dramatic comebacks.
In this article, we delve into the top 10 highest scoring games in NFL history,
Washington Redskins vs New York Giants (1966)
The game between the Washington Redskins and the New York Giants on November 27, 1966, stands as the highest-scoring game in NFL history, with a combined 113 points. The Redskins triumphed 72-41, marking an astonishing offensive output. This matchup was notable not just for the sheer number of points but for the variety of ways they were scored. The game featured 16 touchdowns, two punts returned for scores, a pick-six, and a last-minute field goal.
The standout performer was Redskins safety Brig Owens, who contributed three interceptions and a 62-yard fumble return for a touchdown. Redskins quarterback Sonny Jurgensen also shined, completing 10 of 16 passes for 145 yards and three touchdowns.
This game was significant in NFL history for its unprecedented offensive display. Despite the high score, the stat sheet wasn’t filled with eye-popping individual performances in terms of yardage, highlighting how team effort and opportunistic defense played crucial roles. The game ended in controversy when, with just seconds left, Redskins Hall of Fame linebacker Sam Huff insisted on kicking a field goal, rubbing salt in the Giants’ wounds.
Cincinnati Bengals vs Cleveland Browns (2004)
On November 28, 2004, the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns played an electrifying game that ended with the Bengals winning 58-48. The combined 106 points made it the second-highest-scoring game in NFL history. The game was a showcase of offensive firepower, with both teams demonstrating their ability to move the ball efficiently and score at will.
Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer threw four touchdown passes while running back Rudi Johnson added two rushing touchdowns. On the other side, Browns quarterback Kelly Holcomb threw five touchdown passes, keeping the game close until the very end. This game is remembered not just for its high score, but for the drama and excitement that came with nearly every drive.
Los Angeles Rams vs Kansas City Chiefs (2018)
The Monday Night Football game between the Los Angeles Rams and Kansas City Chiefs on November 19, 2018, was an offensive extravaganza that ended with the Rams winning 54-51, combining for 105 points. This game featured two of the league’s most potent offenses and was widely anticipated as a potential preview of the Super Bowl.
Rams quarterback Jared Goff threw for 413 yards and four touchdowns, while Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes passed for 478 yards and six touchdowns. The game had numerous lead changes and big plays, including two defensive touchdowns by the Rams. The high-octane offenses, combined with crucial defensive plays, made this game one of the most exciting and memorable in recent NFL history.
Oakland Raiders vs Houston Oilers (1963)
In a historic AFL matchup on December 22, 1963, the Oakland Raiders defeated the Houston Oilers 52-49, combining for 101 points. This game was notable for its offensive explosiveness and the dramatic fashion in which it unfolded.
Raiders quarterback Tom Flores threw for 407 yards and six touchdowns, leading his team to victory. The Oilers matched the Raiders’ offensive output for much of the game, but a missed extra point and a failed two-point conversion attempt ultimately cost them the win. This game is remembered as one of the highest-scoring in AFL history and a precursor to the high-scoring games that would become more common in the NFL.
New Orleans Saints vs New York Giants (2015)
On November 1, 2015, the New Orleans Saints and New York Giants engaged in a thrilling game that ended with the Saints winning 52-49, totaling 101 points. This game featured stellar performances from both quarterbacks. Saints quarterback Drew Brees threw for 511 yards and an NFL-record-tying seven touchdown passes, while Giants quarterback Eli Manning threw for 350 yards and six touchdowns.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with the lead changing multiple times. The Saints won on a last-second 50-yard field goal by Kai Forbath. This game is remembered for the sheer number of passing touchdowns and the dramatic ending, cementing it as one of the greatest regular-season games in NFL history.
Denver Broncos vs Dallas Cowboys (2013)
The Denver Broncos defeated the Dallas Cowboys 51-48 on October 6, 2013, in a game that combined for 99 points. Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning continued his MVP-caliber season by throwing for 414 yards and four touchdowns, while also rushing for a rare score. Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo threw for a franchise-record 506 yards and five touchdowns.
The game was characterized by offensive fireworks, with both teams moving the ball at will. The Cowboys had a chance to win the game, but a late interception by Romo led to a game-winning field goal by Broncos kicker Matt Prater. This game is remembered for its high-scoring nature and the dramatic finish.
Seattle Seahawks vs Kansas City Chiefs (1983)
The Seattle Seahawks defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 51-48 on November 27, 1983, also totaling 99 points. This game was a testament to the offensive capabilities of both teams, with the Seahawks ultimately prevailing in a close contest.
Seahawks quarterback Dave Krieg threw for 280 yards and four touchdowns while running back Curt Warner added 207 rushing yards and three scores. The Chiefs kept pace with a balanced attack but fell short in the end. This game remains one of the highest-scoring and most exciting regular-season games in NFL history.
Washington Redskins vs Green Bay Packers (1983)
In what is still the highest-scoring Monday Night Football game, the Green Bay Packers defeated the Washington Redskins 48-47 on October 17, 1983, combining for 95 points. The game featured outstanding performances from both offenses, with Packers quarterback Lynn Dickey throwing for 387 yards and three touchdowns, and Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann throwing for 398 yards and two touchdowns.
The game was notable for its back-and-forth nature, with both teams trading scores throughout. The Packers won on a last-second field goal, making it one of the most memorable games in Monday Night Football history. This game was iconic not only for entertainment purposes but also for the level of gameplay involved.
San Diego Chargers vs Miami Dolphins (1982)
The AFC playoff game between the San Diego Chargers and Miami Dolphins on January 2, 1982, ended with the Chargers winning 41-38 in overtime, combining for 79 points. Known as the “Epic in Miami,” this game is widely regarded as one of the greatest in NFL history.
Chargers quarterback Dan Fouts threw for 433 yards and three touchdowns, while Dolphins backup quarterback Don Strock, who replaced injured starter David Woodley, threw for 403 yards and four touchdowns. The game featured numerous dramatic moments, including a hook-and-lateral play by the Dolphins that resulted in a touchdown and forced overtime. The game ended with a field goal by Chargers kicker Rolf Benirschke, sealing the victory.
Los Angeles Rams vs New York Yanks (1950)
On November 19, 1950, the Los Angeles Rams defeated the New York Yanks 65-24, combining for 89 points. This game was notable for the Rams’ offensive dominance and remains one of the highest-scoring games from the early years of the NFL.
Rams quarterback Bob Waterfield threw for 303 yards and six touchdowns, leading his team to a lopsided victory. The Rams’ 65 points remain one of the highest single-game totals in NFL history, showcasing the offensive firepower that defined the team during that era.
Conclusion
These ten games represent some of the most thrilling and high-scoring contests in NFL history. They highlight the league’s evolution toward a more offense-oriented game and demonstrate the excitement and unpredictability that make the NFL so popular. From record-breaking performances to dramatic finishes, these games are etched in the memories of fans and continue to be celebrated for their historical significance.
The top 10 highest scoring games in NFL history showcase the thrilling unpredictability and offensive prowess that make football so captivating. These games highlight incredible individual performances, strategic brilliance, and moments of sheer excitement that have etched themselves into the annals of NFL lore. Check out the 7 main differences between NFL and XFL.
