The New York Jets’ improbable run to Super Bowl III began on , at Shea Stadium, with a 27-23 victory over the heavily favored Oakland Raiders in the American Football League Championship Game. The win wasn’t just a championship; it was a pivotal moment that paved the way for the NFL-AFL merger and, arguably, the modern NFL as we know it.
A Rematch Steeped in History
The 1968 AFL Championship Game was a rematch of a controversial regular-season contest earlier that year, famously known as the “Heidi Game.” While the Heidi Game itself was memorable for its abrupt television cut-off during a crucial moment, the championship game carried far greater weight. The Raiders, boasting a 12-2 record, had already navigated a playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs to secure their spot in the championship, while the Jets (11-3) enjoyed a bye week as the Eastern Division champions.
Jets Rise to the Occasion
Despite the Raiders’ superior regular-season record, the Jets were considered slight favorites entering the game. That perception proved accurate as New York capitalized on an early opportunity. A 28-yard punt by Oakland’s Mike Eischeid set the Jets up on the Raiders’ 44-yard line. Joe Namath then orchestrated a swift, four-play drive, culminating in a 14-yard touchdown pass to Don Maynard, giving the Jets an early 7-0 lead.
Lamonica Struggles Early
The Raiders’ quarterback, Daryle Lamonica, struggled to find his rhythm early in the game, completing only one of his first 13 pass attempts. This offensive inefficiency allowed the Jets to maintain control and build their lead. The game unfolded as a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading scores and momentum swings.
A Tight Contest to the Finish
The Raiders battled back, and the game remained fiercely competitive throughout. The final score of 27-23 reflects the tight margin and the intensity of the contest. The Jets’ defense proved crucial in containing the Raiders’ potent offense, and Namath’s leadership and playmaking ability were instrumental in securing the victory.
More Than Just a Game: The Road to the Merger
The significance of the Jets’ win extended far beyond the AFL Championship. As one observer noted, “If the Jets don’t win that game, they don’t have the NFL the way We see today, the merger.” The victory validated the American Football League and its players, demonstrating that the upstart league could compete with the established NFL. This success was a key factor in convincing NFL owners to seriously consider a merger, which ultimately occurred in 1970.
Super Bowl III Beckons
With the AFL Championship secured, the Jets earned the right to represent the league in Super Bowl III against the heavily favored Baltimore Colts, who were representing the NFL. That game, played on , would become legendary, with Namath and the Jets stunning the Colts 16-7 in what is widely considered one of the greatest upsets in Super Bowl history. However, that story began with the hard-fought victory over the Raiders at Shea Stadium.
A Rivalry Forged in Competition
The Jets and Raiders developed a fierce rivalry, fueled by the competitive nature of the AFL and the high stakes of their championship encounters. According to reports, the animosity between the two teams was palpable. The intensity of the rivalry contributed to the drama and excitement surrounding their games, and it remains a significant part of both franchises’ histories.
Shea Stadium as the Stage
Shea Stadium, located in Queens, New York City, served as the backdrop for this historic championship game. The stadium, which also housed the New York Mets baseball team, was filled with 62,627 spectators eager to witness the clash between the two AFL powerhouses. The atmosphere was electric, and the game lived up to the hype.
Namath’s Leadership
Joe Namath’s performance and leadership were central to the Jets’ success. His ability to make plays under pressure and inspire his teammates was a defining characteristic of the 1968 Jets team. The victory over the Raiders solidified Namath’s status as a superstar and a cultural icon.
A Legacy of Innovation and Competition
The 1968 AFL Championship Game represents a pivotal moment in NFL history. It was a game that showcased the talent and competitiveness of the American Football League and ultimately paved the way for the merger that created the modern NFL. The Jets’ victory over the Raiders was more than just a championship win; it was a catalyst for change and a testament to the power of competition.
