On this day in Redskins history in 1947, Slingin’ Sammy Baugh led the Washington Redskins to a stunning 45-21 dismantling of the Chicago Cardinals.
It was 70 years ago, but Baugh was posting modern numbers in the game he was revolutionizing. He completed 25 of his 33 passes for 355 yards, with an incredible 6 of those passes for touchdowns. That would be an impressive statline for any quarterback on any Sunday, let alone in 1947.
Redskins Dick Poillion had an impressive and interesting scoreline that day too. He put up 15 points on the strength of one touchdown pass, one field goal, and six PATs.
Paul McKee led all Redskin receivers with 7 receptions for 103 yards, including touchdown receptions of 4 and 28 yards, while Hugh Taylor (34 yards), Sal Rosato (16 yards) and George Wilde (9 yards) all had a touchdown reception each.
The win came at Griffith Stadium with 35,362 in attendance.
It was a huge upset for the Redskins, who came into the game at 2-6 and were not expected to give the 6-2 Cardinals much trouble.
That was 70 years ago today – November 23rd, 1947.
Despite the upset, the Redskins would finish the season at 4-8 and out of the playoff hunt at 4th in the East, but ironically, the Cardinals would go on to win the 1947 Championship game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Hail to the Redskins!