Who Won Super Bowl XXI in 1987? Giants Beat Broncos

By Sarah Miller · November 5, 2050

The New York Giants won Super Bowl XXI, defeating the Denver Broncos 39-20 on January 25, 1987. The game took place at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, marking the Giants' first Super Bowl victory in franchise history. Quarterback Phil Simms was named Super Bowl MVP after completing 22 of 25 passes for 268 yards and three touchdowns.

Super Bowl XXI: Key Details and Historical Context

Super Bowl XXI was a pivotal moment in NFL history, showcasing elite quarterback play and a dominant performance by the New York Giants. As the culmination of the 1986 NFL season, this championship game featured the NFC champion Giants against the AFC champion Denver Broncos, led by future Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway.

Why Was Super Bowl XXI Significant?

It marked the New York Giants' first Super Bowl win after a long franchise rebuild.
Phil Simms delivered one of the most efficient passing performances in Super Bowl history.
John Elway suffered his second consecutive Super Bowl loss, intensifying scrutiny over his playoff capabilities.
The game was played in front of 101,063 fans at the Rose Bowl, one of the largest crowds in Super Bowl history.
It solidified Bill Parcells as one of the premier head coaches in the NFL.

Game Statistics and Performance Breakdown

The Giants controlled the game through balanced offensive execution and timely defensive stops. Their ability to sustain drives and protect the football contrasted sharply with the Broncos' late-game struggles.

Statistic	New York Giants	Denver Broncos
First Downs	24	17
Total Yards	319	344
Passing Yards	268	304
Rushing Yards	51	40
Pass Completions - Attempts	22-25	29-52
Turnovers	1	2
Time of Possession	35:08	24:52

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical analysis reveals that while the Broncos outgained the Giants in total yardage, New York’s efficiency—especially on third down and in turnover margin—was decisive. Phil Simms’ 88% completion rate remains one of the highest in Super Bowl history. The Giants’ superior time of possession limited Denver’s high-powered offense from gaining rhythm.

Key Players and MVP Performance

Phil Simms was unquestionably the star of Super Bowl XXI. His near-perfect passing performance set a tone of precision and composure under pressure. He connected with eight different receivers, spreading the ball effectively across the offense.

Notable Performances:

Phil Simms (QB, NYG): 22/25, 268 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT – Super Bowl MVP.
Lawrence Taylor (LB, NYG): Recorded 13 tackles and constant pressure on Elway.
John Elway (QB, DEN): 29/52, 304 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs – struggled with accuracy and protection.
Mark Bavaro (TE, NYG): 10 receptions for 154 yards, including a key 3rd-quarter touchdown.

Legacy of Super Bowl XXI

This victory signaled the resurgence of the Giants as an NFL powerhouse. Under head coach Bill Parcells, the team built a tough, disciplined identity that culminated in multiple playoff runs throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. For the Broncos, the loss extended their Super Bowl drought, which would continue until 1998.

Super Bowl XXI is also remembered for Simms’ post-game interview quote: “I’m going to Disneyland,” which launched a now-iconic tradition for MVPs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl XXI

Who won Super Bowl XXI in 1987?

The New York Giants won Super Bowl XXI, defeating the Denver Broncos 39-20 on January 25, 1987.

Where was Super Bowl XXI held?

Super Bowl XXI was played at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, home of UCLA and host to multiple Super Bowls during the 1970s and 1980s.

Who was the MVP of Super Bowl XXI?

Quarterback Phil Simms of the New York Giants was named Super Bowl MVP after completing 88% of his passes for 268 yards and three touchdowns.

What was the final score of Super Bowl 21?

The final score was New York Giants 39, Denver Broncos 20.

Did John Elway win Super Bowl XXI?

No, John Elway did not win Super Bowl XXI. He lost to the Giants and would go on to lose two more Super Bowls before finally winning Super Bowls XXXII and XXXIII with the Broncos.