The NFL's largest point differential remains an astonishing 73-point margin set over eight decades ago, a record that epitomizes football's potential for domination. These five games showcase the most extreme point spreads in league history.
The Undisputed Record Holder
Washington 73, New York Giants 0 (1940 NFL Championship)
- Margin: 73 points
- Date: December 8, 1940
- This championship game shocker featured 10 touchdowns by Washington, including an NFL Championship record 55-point first half. The Giants managed only 9 first downs.
World War II-Era Dominance
Chicago Bears 73, Washington 0 (1940 Regular Season)
- Margin: 73 points
- Date: November 30, 1940
- Just days before their respective championship runs, George Halas's Bears executed an identical 73-point rout against the same Washington team, exposing vulnerabilities later exploited in the title game.
Postseason Annihilation
Chicago Bears 56, Washington 7 (1943 NFL Championship)
- Margin: 49 points
- Date: December 26, 1943
- The Bears' wartime dynasty overwhelmed Washington again, leading 35-0 before halftime. Sid Luckman threw 5 touchdowns in a performance showcasing the T-formation's destructive power.
Colts Obliterated in '57
Los Angeles Rams 56, Baltimore Colts 0 (1957)
- Margin: 56 points
- Date: October 7, 1957
- The Rams forced 10 Colts turnovers (7 fumbles, 3 INTs), capitalizing relentlessly despite completing only 5 passes. Tom Wilson's 88-yard interception return highlighted the defensive destruction.
Modern-Era Blowout
New Orleans Saints 62, Indianapolis Colts 7 (2011)
- Margin: 55 points
- Date: October 23, 2011
- Drew Brees threw 5 TD passes before halftime, while the Saints scored on 9 consecutive drives against a winless Colts team playing without Peyton Manning. The 700+ total yards set an NFL record for offensive futility allowed.
