1980 Edition 5
For our fifth trip to the vault this season, we head to early December of the 1980 season. At this stage of the season, Steve was 2 picks up on Rick while Doug was 5 behind, Mundo was 6 back, and Jay was still in striking range at 8 back. As was tradition, the first page focused on picking results (check out that Myster Picker!). NFL referee Norm Schachter contributed a guest article on the second page. Most days that would be the highlight, but in this issue Mr. Schachter was overshadowed by local Brillion legend Shorty Beidenbender who provided some commentary on the state of Green Bay's drafting prowess (or lack thereof).
On This Date
Green Bay limped into Week 14 holding on to the dimmest of hopes for a playoff berth. After a number of closely fought contests went against them, the Packers travelled south to Soldier Field (when it still actually looked cool) to take on the Bears. Earlier this season, the Packers knocked off the Bears via the Marcol Miracle and hopes of doing something similar. Instead, on this December 7th contest, the Packers met an infamous fate of their own.
As has been my habit this year, I watched the game while working on the Post Pattern. For the life of me, I can't imagine why any of you would want to do the same. Despite a competitive first quarter where the teams ended in a draw, the tide turned in the second quarter. A few Walter Payton rushing scores and an errant punt snap from Green Bay's center lead Chicago to a 21-0 lead. Green Bay was able to get some points on the board late in the half courtesy of a Dickey to Lofton touchdown (XP provided by newly acquired Jan Stenerud) but that was the last time Green Bay found the end zone . For the rest of the game, the Packers defense looked as soggy as the soaked carpet they played this game on.
Final score:
Chicago 61
Green Bay 7
The result left the all time record at 66-51-6 (in favor of the Bears...my how things have changed!)
Norm Schacter: