1981 AFC Championship Game on NBC vs. 1981 NFC Championship Game on CBS

Attribute	1981 AFC Championship Game on NBC	1981 NFC Championship Game on CBS
Network	NBC	CBS
Date	January 11, 1981	January 11, 1981
Location	San Diego Stadium, San Diego, California	Candlestick Park, San Francisco, California
Teams	San Diego Chargers vs. Oakland Raiders	Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers
Announcers	Dick Enberg and Merlin Olsen	Pat Summerall and Tom Brookshier

Introduction

The 1981 AFC and NFC Championship Games were pivotal moments in the NFL season, determining which teams would advance to the Super Bowl. The AFC Championship Game was broadcast on NBC, while the NFC Championship Game was broadcast on CBS. Both games featured intense competition, high stakes, and memorable moments that have gone down in football history. In this article, we will compare the attributes of these two championship games, looking at the broadcasting, gameplay, and overall impact on the sport.

Broadcasting

The 1981 AFC Championship Game on NBC was called by legendary announcer Dick Enberg, who brought his signature enthusiasm and knowledge to the broadcast. Enberg's play-by-play commentary was complemented by the insightful analysis of color commentator Merlin Olsen, creating a dynamic and engaging viewing experience for fans. On the other side, the 1981 NFC Championship Game on CBS featured the iconic duo of Pat Summerall and John Madden in the broadcast booth. Summerall's smooth delivery and Madden's colorful commentary made for a memorable broadcast that captivated audiences across the country.

Gameplay

In the 1981 AFC Championship Game, the Cincinnati Bengals faced off against the San Diego Chargers in a thrilling matchup that went down to the wire. The game featured standout performances from Bengals quarterback Ken Anderson and Chargers running back Chuck Muncie, as both teams traded blows throughout the contest. Ultimately, the Bengals emerged victorious with a 27-7 win, punching their ticket to the Super Bowl. On the NFC side, the 1981 Championship Game saw the San Francisco 49ers take on the Dallas Cowboys in a classic showdown between two powerhouse teams. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with the 49ers coming out on top with a 28-27 victory, thanks to a game-winning touchdown pass from Joe Montana to Dwight Clark in the final minutes.

Impact

Both the 1981 AFC and NFC Championship Games had a lasting impact on the NFL and the sport of football as a whole. The Bengals' victory in the AFC Championship Game marked the first time the franchise had advanced to the Super Bowl, setting the stage for future success in the years to come. On the NFC side, the 49ers' dramatic win over the Cowboys solidified their status as a dominant force in the league, paving the way for a decade of success under head coach Bill Walsh. The memorable moments and performances from these championship games continue to be celebrated by fans and historians alike, showcasing the enduring legacy of these iconic matchups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 1981 AFC and NFC Championship Games were pivotal moments in NFL history, showcasing the best of what the sport has to offer. From the thrilling gameplay to the iconic broadcasting, these championship games left a lasting impact on the league and its fans. Whether you were rooting for the Bengals or the 49ers, there's no denying the excitement and drama that unfolded on the field during these historic matchups. As we look back on these games, we can appreciate the talent, passion, and dedication of the players and broadcasters who made them unforgettable.