There are a whole lot of people in this world who take the National Football League very seriously. But do you know what, the quirky NFL is definitely a thing too.
These quirky facts help to colour the sport’s rich tapestry. From oddball traditions to peculiar records, we love the eccentric side of America’s most loved sport.
The longest field goal
Usually records are made to be broken. Someone will hit the record, a few years later, someone will surpass it. Not so with the longest field goal. This quirky NFL fact means New Orleans Saints kicker Tom Dempsey held the record for 43 years . He kicked a 63-yard field goal in 1970. And, amazingly, Dempsey was born without toes. A few people have matched the record, but none have surpassed it.
There are quite literally two sides to the NFL
And we’re not talking the serious side and the quirky side. You see, the teams that compete in the National Football League first have to qualify from either the American Football Conference or the National Football Conference. Sixteen teams from both the AFC and the NFC then go on to compete for the big titles in the NFL.
Everyone remembers the butt fumble
One of the quirky NFL facts we love the most is one of the most hilarious. NFL fans sure have a sense of humour and that’s why one of the most memorable moments is the infamous butt fumble in 2012…
$69,000 for a ring
When the Super Bowl champs are crowned, they get awarded a ring. And not just any ring. They are solid gold and are set with pricey gems. But not only are they worth a packet because of those precious components, they are also worth a pretty penny because sports collectors are willing to shell out big time for them. In 2008, a 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl ring was sold for a whopping $69.000.
Unlucky number 13
In the world of NFL, the number 13 is look upon with suspicion. The Green Bay Packers won their 13th Super Bowl in 2010 and the team and their fans all rejoiced. But since then, it’s been nada. Does that mean there’s a bit of a curse on them because of those unlucky 13 wins? Only time will tell if they break it with a 14th…
The Lambeau leap
Speaking of the Green Bay Packers, they’ve got a truly kooky tradition that started off in 1993. It happened when LeRoy Butler intercepted a pass. He jumped into the stands at Lambeau Field to celebrate. And since then, the fans have come to expect it from the team.
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