Sneakers Switch: How Footwear Changed the 1934 Championship

On December 9, 1934, the New York Giants defeated the Chicago Bears 30-13 in the NFL Championship Game, which was played at the Polo Grounds in New York City. This game, often referred to as the "Sneakers Game," is one of the most famous and influential games in NFL history.

The 1934 NFL Championship Game was played in freezing temperatures on a field covered in ice. The Giants, who were trailing 13-3 at halftime, made a bold decision to switch from their traditional cleats to basketball shoes (sneakers) for better traction on the slippery surface. This unconventional move was suggested by Giants' head coach Steve Owen, who sent his assistant, Abe Cohen, to purchase sneakers from Manhattan College during halftime.

In the second half, the Giants, now equipped with better footing, mounted an impressive comeback. The sneakers allowed the Giants' players to make quick cuts and maintain their balance on the icy field, giving them a significant advantage over the Bears, who were still wearing cleats.

The Giants scored 27 unanswered points in the fourth quarter, led by the strong performance of running back Ken Strong, who scored two touchdowns. Quarterback Ed Danowski also played a crucial role in the comeback, throwing a touchdown pass to Ike Frankian and running for another score.

The Giants' victory in the "Sneakers Game" not only secured their second NFL championship but also changed the way football was played in adverse weather conditions. The use of alternative footwear became more common in games played on frozen or slippery fields, and the NFL eventually banned the use of sneakers in 1956 to maintain a level playing field.

The 1934 NFL Championship Game remains a testament to the importance of adaptability and quick thinking in sports. It showcases how a simple change, like switching to sneakers, can significantly impact the outcome of a game and, in this case, NFL history. The Giants' victory in the "Sneakers Game" will forever be remembered as one of the most iconic moments in football history.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI