When Was Super Bowl I Played? Key Facts & History

By Sarah Miller · October 7, 2051

The first Super Bowl, known as Super Bowl I, was played on January 15, 1967. It featured a matchup between the Green Bay Packers of the NFL and the Kansas City Chiefs of the AFL, with the Packers winning 35–10.

What Was Super Bowl I?

Super Bowl I marked the beginning of one of the most iconic annual events in American sports. Officially called the "First AFL-NFL Championship Game," it was retroactively renamed Super Bowl I. This game was the culmination of the merger agreement between the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL), two rival professional football leagues.

Key Facts About Super Bowl I

Date: January 15, 1967
Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, California
Teams: Green Bay Packers (NFL) vs. Kansas City Chiefs (AFL)
Final Score: Packers 35, Chiefs 10
MVP: Bart Starr, Quarterback, Green Bay Packers
Attendance: 61,946
Halftime Show: University of Arizona and University of Southern California marching bands

Historical Context Behind the First Super Bowl

Prior to 1967, the NFL and AFL operated as competing leagues, each crowning its own champion. The announcement of a merger in 1966 led to the creation of a single championship game to determine the true pro football champion.

Why Was the First Super Bowl Created?

To unify the NFL and AFL under one national championship
To prove which league had superior talent
To increase national interest in professional football
To lay the foundation for modern NFL dominance

Game Highlights and Performance

The Green Bay Packers, coached by legendary Vince Lombardi, dominated the game with a balanced offensive attack and a strong defense. Quarterback Bart Starr threw for 250 yards and two touchdowns, earning MVP honors. The Packers built a 21–7 lead by halftime and pulled away in the second half.

Notable Players in Super Bowl I

Bart Starr (Packers QB): 16/23 passes, 250 yards, 2 TDs
Max McGee (Packers WR): 7 receptions, 138 yards, 2 TDs — despite minimal practice due to a late arrival
Len Dawson (Chiefs QB): 12/17 passes, 142 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Willie Wood (Packers S): Key interception that shifted momentum

Statistic	Green Bay Packers	Kansas City Chiefs
First Downs	20	13
Total Yards	382	277
Passing Yards	265	142
Rushing Yards	117	135
Turnovers	1	3
Time of Possession	36:30	23:30

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical advantage held by the Packers in first downs, total yards, and time of possession highlights their control over the game. Their ability to limit turnovers while forcing three from the Chiefs was pivotal in securing victory.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Although Super Bowl I did not have the massive cultural footprint of later editions, it laid the groundwork for what would become the biggest single-day sporting event in the United States. Today's multi-billion-dollar broadcasts, celebrity-packed halftime shows, and global viewership all trace their origins back to this historic game.

Common Questions About Super Bowl I

When was Super Bowl I played?

Super Bowl I took place on January 15, 1967.

Who won the first Super Bowl?

The Green Bay Packers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs with a final score of 35–10.

Where was the first Super Bowl held?

The game was played at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California.

Was it always called the Super Bowl?

No. The term "Super Bowl" was not officially used until later. The game was initially called the "AFL-NFL World Championship Game." The name "Super Bowl" was popularized by media and fans before being adopted officially.

How many people watched Super Bowl I?

An estimated 51.2 million viewers watched the game on CBS and NBC, which jointly broadcast the event. This dual-network broadcast was unique in Super Bowl history.