Super Bowl XX: The Chicago Bears' Dominant Victory
Super Bowl XX stands as one of the most lopsided contests in NFL history, marking the moment the Chicago Bears cemented their legacy as one of the greatest teams to ever play the game. Played on January 26, 1986, at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, the game pitted the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Bears against the American Football Conference (AFC) champion New England Patriots.
The victory was more than just a trophy for Chicago; it ended a 23-year championship drought for the franchise and the city, delivering their first Super Bowl title in a commanding 46–10 win.
Key Facts
- Final Score: Chicago Bears 46, New England Patriots 10.
- MVP: Defensive end Richard Dent.
- Date: January 26, 1986.
- Venue: Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Historic Feat: Jim McMahon became the first quarterback to score two rushing touchdowns in a Super Bowl.
- Defensive Dominance: The Bears' "46 defense" led the league in several categories during the 1985 season.
The Road to New Orleans
The Powerhouse Chicago Bears
The Bears entered Super Bowl XX as heavy favorites, having finished the regular season with a 15–1 record. Their success was built on the revolutionary 46 defense—a high-pressure scheme designed to overwhelm the offensive line. This unit allowed the fewest points, total yards, and rushing yards in the league. Led by Defensive Player of the Year Mike Singletary, the defense recorded two postseason shutouts and a staggering point margin of 456–198 during the regular season.
Offensively, the Bears were led by Pro Bowl quarterback Jim McMahon and legendary running back Walter Payton, who entered the game as the NFL's all-time leading rusher.
The Cinderella New England Patriots
In contrast, the New England Patriots were viewed as the underdogs. Despite an 11–5 record, they entered the playoffs as a wild card. They defied expectations by winning three consecutive road playoff games to reach the championship. Their defense was formidable, ranking 5th in the league for yards allowed and featuring standout linebacker Andre Tippett, who led the AFC with 16.5 sacks.
Game Summary: A Defensive Masterclass
First Half Momentum
Chicago took control early. After a trade of punts, Richard Dent and Steve McMichael forced a fumble that set up a 24-yard field goal by Kevin Butler. Shortly after, Dent forced another fumble, which Mike Singletary recovered, leading to an 11-yard touchdown run by Matt Suhey. By the end of the first half, the Bears had established a commanding lead that the Patriots could not overcome.
The Third Quarter Surge
The third quarter was a landslide. Following a record 62-yard punt by New England's Rich Camarillo, the Bears responded with a historic 96-yard drive. Jim McMahon capped the drive with a 1-yard touchdown run. The momentum shifted further when Reggie Phillips intercepted a pass and returned it 28 yards for a touchdown, extending the lead to 37–3.
Closing the Game
The Patriots managed a lone touchdown in the fourth quarter on an 8-yard pass from Steve Grogan to Irving Fryar. However, the Bears' defense remained relentless. The game concluded with a safety when Henry Waechter tackled Grogan in the end zone, finalizing the score at 46–10.
Individual and Team Performances
Jim McMahon's versatility was on full display as he completed 12 of 20 passes for 256 yards and added two rushing touchdowns. Willie Gault provided the big plays, recording 129 receiving yards on just four catches. On the defensive side, Richard Dent's relentless pressure earned him the MVP award.
The Patriots struggled offensively, recording only 123 total yards—the second-lowest total in Super Bowl history. Starting quarterback Tony Eason became the first Super Bowl starter to finish a game without a single pass completion (0 for 6).
| Statistic | Chicago Bears | New England Patriots |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 46 | 10 |
| Total Net Yards | 408 | 123 |
| Rushing Yards | 167 | 7 |
| Passing Yards | 241 | 116 |
| Turnovers | 2 | 6 |
| Time of Possession | 39:15 | 20:45 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the MVP of Super Bowl XX?
Defensive end Richard Dent was named the MVP for his dominant performance as part of the Bears' defensive line.
What was the "46 defense"?
The 46 defense was a revolutionary defensive scheme used by the Chicago Bears that focused on putting extreme pressure on the opposing quarterback and offensive line.
How many rushing touchdowns did Jim McMahon score?
Jim McMahon scored two rushing touchdowns, becoming the first quarterback in Super Bowl history to do so.
What was significant about Tony Eason's performance?
Tony Eason became the first starting quarterback in a Super Bowl to complete zero passes, finishing the game 0 for 6.
Where was Super Bowl XX played?
The game was held at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.