Who Won the First Super Bowl? Packers Victory in 1967

By Sarah Miller · February 6, 2027

The Green Bay Packers won the first Super Bowl, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 35-10 on January 15, 1967, in Los Angeles, California. The game, officially known as the AFL-NFL World Championship Game at the time, marked the first championship matchup between the NFL and AFL champions, with Packers legend Vince Lombardi leading his team to victory.

Understanding the First Super Bowl

The first Super Bowl was a historic event that set the stage for what would become the biggest annual sporting event in the United States. It was not originally called the "Super Bowl"—that name gained popularity later. Instead, it was officially titled the AFL-NFL World Championship Game. This game was the result 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
Head Coach: Vince Lombardi (Packers)
Attendance: 61,946

Historical Context of the AFL-NFL Rivalry

Prior to the merger, the NFL and AFL competed fiercely for players, fans, and television contracts. The 1966 merger agreement required a championship game between the winners of each league. The Packers represented the established NFL powerhouse, while the Chiefs were champions of the younger, more innovative AFL.

This game was crucial in proving the competitiveness of the AFL and legitimizing the merger. Although the Packers dominated this first contest, future games would show the AFL closing the gap—and eventually surpassing—the NFL in performance.

Green Bay Packers' Dominance

Under legendary coach Vince Lombardi, the Packers were the premier team of the 1960s. Their victory in the first Super Bowl was consistent with their dominance throughout the decade. The team had already won NFL championships in 1961, 1962, and 1965.

Key Players from the Winning Team

Bart Starr (QB): Threw for 250 yards and two touchdowns; named Super Bowl MVP
Brett Favre (WR): No, not that Brett Favre—he wasn’t born yet. Key receivers included Max McGee and Boyd Dowler.
Max McGee (WR): Caught seven passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, despite reportedly partying the night before.
Jim Taylor (RB): Powerful running back who added a rushing touchdown.
Vince Lombardi (HC): Iconic leader whose coaching philosophy defined an era.

Team	First Downs	Total Yards	Rushing Yards	Passing Yards	Turnovers
Green Bay Packers	19	382	123	259	2
Kansas City Chiefs	12	279	133	146	4

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical comparison shows that while the Chiefs had a slight edge in rushing yards, the Packers controlled the game through balanced offense and superior ball security. Green Bay's 259 passing yards and only two turnovers contrasted sharply with Kansas City’s four giveaways, which proved decisive in the outcome.

Legacy and Impact of Super Bowl I

Although the game was not televised live in its entirety across the U.S.—due to broadcasting restrictions—it still attracted significant attention. Over time, footage and highlights helped cement its place in sports history.

The success of the first championship game paved the way for the full integration of the AFL into the NFL by 1970. The Super Bowl quickly grew into a cultural phenomenon, combining elite sport, entertainment, and advertising into a single national event.

Vince Lombardi’s leadership and the Packers’ victory established a gold standard for excellence. The trophy awarded to the Super Bowl winner is now named in his honor—the Lombardi Trophy.

Frequently Asked Questions About the First Super Bowl

Who won the first Super Bowl?

The Green Bay Packers won the first Super Bowl, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 35-10 on January 15, 1967.

What was the original name of the first Super Bowl?

The official name was the AFL-NFL World Championship Game. The term "Super Bowl" was coined later by media and fans and became official starting with Super Bowl III.

Where was the first Super Bowl played?

The first Super Bowl was held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California.

Who was the MVP of Super Bowl I?

Bart Starr, quarterback of the Green Bay Packers, was named Most Valuable Player after throwing for 250 yards and two touchdowns.

Did the AFL or NFL win the first Super Bowl?

The NFL champion, the Green Bay Packers, won the first Super Bowl against the AFL champion Kansas City Chiefs.

Why was the first Super Bowl important?

It validated the AFL-NFL merger, demonstrated the potential of inter-league competition, and laid the foundation for the modern Super Bowl as a major cultural and sporting event.