Who Won Super Bowl in 1997? Packers Defeated Patriots

By Sarah Miller · October 19, 2052

The Green Bay Packers won Super Bowl XXXI in 1997, defeating the New England Patriots 35-21 to claim their first NFL championship in 29 years.

Super Bowl XXXI: A Historic Victory for the Packers

Super Bowl XXXI took place on January 26, 1997, at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Green Bay Packers, led by quarterback Brett Favre and head coach Mike Holmgren, secured a decisive 35-21 victory over the New England Patriots. This win marked the Packers' third Super Bowl title and their first since Super Bowl II in 1968, ending a nearly three-decade championship drought.

The game was notable for its high-energy offense and pivotal momentum shifts. The Packers entered the game as slight favorites, carrying a 13-3 regular-season record, while the Patriots, under head coach Bill Parcells, made a surprising run to the Super Bowl with an 11-5 record.

Key Highlights from the Game

Brett Favre threw for 246 yards and two touchdowns, earning MVP honors.
Desmond Howard delivered a game-changing 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, the first such score in Super Bowl history.
The Packers built a 27-13 halftime lead after a dominant second quarter.
New England mounted a comeback attempt in the fourth quarter but fell short.
Levon Kirkland recorded a safety, contributing crucial defensive points.

Team Rosters and Coaching Staff

Both teams featured future Hall of Famers and standout performers who defined the era.

Green Bay Packers Key Players

Brett Favre – Quarterback, Super Bowl MVP
Reggie White – Defensive end, legendary pass rusher
Desmond Howard – Kick returner, special teams dynamo
Antonio Freeman – Wide receiver, key target
LeRoy Butler – Safety, defensive leader

New England Patriots Key Players

Drew Bledsoe – Starting quarterback
Ben Coates – Pro Bowl tight end
Willie McGinest – Versatile linebacker
Todd Collins – Backup QB who played due to injury
Leon Perry – Running back, primary rusher

Game Statistics and Performance Analysis

The Packers controlled the tempo and outperformed the Patriots in critical statistical categories, especially in the passing game and special teams.

Statistic	Green Bay Packers	New England Patriots
Final Score	35	21
Total Yards	350	313
Passing Yards	246	242
Rushing Yards	104	71
Turnovers	2	3
Time of Possession	30:22	29:38
Third-Down Efficiency	8/15 (53%)	5/13 (38%)
Penalties	7 (65 yards)	8 (76 yards)

Table data source:1, 2

The Packers held a slight edge in total yardage and dominated on third downs, converting over half of their attempts. Their rushing attack, though not explosive, provided balance, while the defense limited the Patriots’ ground game to just 71 yards. Desmond Howard’s 99-yard kickoff return significantly impacted field position and momentum.

Despite throwing for 242 yards, Drew Bledsoe struggled with consistency and was replaced briefly by Todd Collins after suffering an injury. The Patriots’ three turnovers proved costly, especially a fumble inside the red zone in the second quarter.

Legacy of Super Bowl XXXI

Super Bowl XXXI marked the resurgence of the Green Bay Packers as a powerhouse franchise. Under general manager Ron Wolf and head coach Mike Holmgren, the team rebuilt around Brett Favre, restoring pride in one of the NFL’s most storied franchises.

Desmond Howard’s MVP performance on special teams remains one of the most memorable individual efforts in Super Bowl history. His 99-yard return is still referenced as a turning point in how special teams can influence championship games.

The loss served as a foundation for the Patriots’ future success. Though they wouldn’t win their first Super Bowl until 2002, this appearance signaled the beginning of a competitive era that would later evolve into a dynasty under Tom Brady and Bill Belichick.

Frequently Asked Questions About Who Won Super Bowl in 1997

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl XXXI in 1997?

Desmond Howard of the Green Bay Packers was named Super Bowl MVP, becoming the first and only special teams player to earn the honor primarily for his kick return performance, including a 99-yard touchdown.

What was the final score of Super Bowl 1997?

The final score was Green Bay Packers 35, New England Patriots 21.

Where was Super Bowl XXXI played?

Super Bowl XXXI was held at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, on January 26, 1997.

Did Brett Favre win a Super Bowl?

Yes, Brett Favre won Super Bowl XXXI as the starting quarterback for the Green Bay Packers. It was the only Super Bowl victory of his career.

How many Super Bowls have the Green Bay Packers won?

The Green Bay Packers have won four Super Bowls: I, II, XXXI, and XLV. They also won three pre-Super Bowl era NFL championships, recognized as part of their legacy.