When Was the First Super Bowl? Facts & History

By Sarah Miller · March 25, 2051

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

What Was Super Bowl I?

Super Bowl I marked the beginning of what would become one of the most-watched annual sporting events in the world. Originally called the 'AFL-NFL World Championship Game,' it was retroactively renamed Super Bowl I. The game was the culmination of a merger agreement between the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL), designed to determine which league had the superior team.

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
Broadcast Networks: CBS (NFL contract) and NBC (AFL contract) — the only time two networks televised the same Super Bowl

Why Was the First Super Bowl Created?

The creation of the Super Bowl stemmed from the 1966 merger agreement between the NFL and AFL. Before the merger, both leagues operated independently and competed for talent. To solidify the unification and establish a true national champion, the leagues agreed to have their respective champions face off in a single championship game.

Objectives Behind the First Super Bowl

To validate the legitimacy of the AFL against the more established NFL
To promote the upcoming full merger, finalized in 1970
To showcase professional football's growing popularity
To create a premier event that could capture national attention and advertising revenue

Game Highlights and Key Players

Coached by legendary Vince Lombardi, the Green Bay Packers dominated the Kansas City Chiefs in the second half after a close first half. Bart Starr threw for two touchdowns, including a crucial 64-yard pass to Max McGee, who scored two touchdowns despite minimal preparation.

Notable Performances

Bart Starr: Completed 16 of 23 passes for 250 yards and two touchdowns
Max McGee: Unexpected star; caught seven passes for 138 yards and two TDs
Jim Taylor: Added a rushing touchdown
Herb Adderley: Returned an interception 60 yards for a touchdown

Statistic	Green Bay Packers	Kansas City Chiefs
First Downs	20	17
Total Yards	382	277
Rushing Yards	123	52
Passing Yards	259	225
Passes Completed-Attempted-Interceptions	16–23–1	11–19–2
Punts-Average	6–39	5–37
Fumbles-Lost	2–1	3–2

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical breakdown shows the Packers' balanced offensive attack and superior ball control. Their 123 rushing yards and 259 passing yards highlighted a well-rounded performance, while the Chiefs struggled on the ground with only 52 rushing yards. Green Bay also capitalized on turnovers, forcing three fumbles and two interceptions.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Although Super Bowl I did not yet carry the massive cultural footprint of modern editions, it laid the foundation for future growth. The game was not sold out, and many tickets went to sponsors and media, reflecting its uncertain status at the time. However, the broadcast reached over 51 million viewers combined via CBS and NBC, signaling strong public interest.

Over time, the Super Bowl evolved into a global phenomenon, combining high-stakes football with elaborate halftime shows and multimillion-dollar commercials. The term 'Super Bowl' itself, coined by AFL founder Lamar Hunt after seeing his child play with a 'Super Ball,' became official starting with Super Bowl III.

Frequently Asked Questions About the First Super Bowl

When was the first Super Bowl played?

The first Super Bowl was played on January 15, 1967.

Who played in the first Super Bowl?

The Green Bay Packers (NFL champions) faced the Kansas City Chiefs (AFL champions) in Super Bowl I.

Where was the first Super Bowl held?

Super Bowl I took place at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California.

Who won the first Super Bowl?

The Green Bay Packers won the first Super Bowl, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 35–10.

Who was the MVP of the first Super Bowl?

Bart Starr, quarterback of the Green Bay Packers, was named MVP of Super Bowl I for his outstanding performance, throwing two touchdowns and leading the team to victory.

Did the first Super Bowl sell out?

No, Super Bowl I did not sell out. Despite an attendance of 61,946, the stadium has a capacity of over 90,000, and many tickets were distributed to league officials, media, and sponsors rather than sold to the general public.

Which networks broadcast the first Super Bowl?

CBS and NBC both broadcast Super Bowl I, making it the only Super Bowl to be televised by two different networks simultaneously. CBS carried the game to NFL markets, while NBC covered AFL regions.