Super Bowl Highlights Season 1 Episode 22 1988 Super Bowl XXII: Washington Redskins Vs. Denver Broncos
- January 31, 1988
The 22nd episode of the first season of Super Bowl Highlights takes a look back at the thrilling 1988 Super Bowl XXII matchup between the Washington Redskins and the Denver Broncos. The game saw two talented teams face off in front of a packed Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, with both sides hoping to lift the famous Vince Lombardi Trophy.
The opening few minutes of the show set the scene, with footage of the pre-game build-up and interviews with key players and coaches from both teams. The camera then cuts to the coin toss, which was won by the Washington Redskins, giving them the all-important first possession of the game.
As the first quarter got underway, it was clear that the Broncos were struggling to find their rhythm, with quarterback John Elway throwing an early interception to Redskins cornerback Barry Wilburn. Washington took full advantage of the opportunity, with quarterback Doug Williams finding wide receiver Ricky Sanders for a 80-yard touchdown pass, giving the Redskins an early lead.
The Broncos were quick to respond, however, with Elway finding wide receiver Ricky Nattiel for a 56-yard touchdown pass. The game was now tied at 7-7, with both teams looking evenly matched.
The second quarter proved to be a turning point in the game, with the Redskins exploding into life. Williams, who had struggled in the first quarter, suddenly found his rhythm, throwing touchdown passes to Sanders, Gary Clark, and Clint Didier, as well as rushing for a touchdown himself. The Broncos, on the other hand, struggled to make inroads on offense, with Elway throwing another interception to Wilburn before being replaced by backup quarterback Gary Kubiak.
As the halftime whistle blew, the Redskins were in complete control, leading 35-10 and looking like they could score at will. The commentators reflected on the incredible turnaround in the game, with Williams' impressive performance drawing particular praise.
The third quarter was a quieter affair, with both teams struggling to mount sustained attacks. The Redskins managed to add a field goal to their tally, extending their lead to 38-10, but the Broncos defense stepped up and prevented any more points from being scored.
The final quarter saw the Broncos mount a comeback of sorts, with Kubiak finding wide receiver Steve Sewell for a touchdown pass, before running back Sammy Winder added another touchdown. The Redskins were rattled, but managed to hold on, with linebacker Kurt Gouveia intercepting Kubiak's final pass to seal the victory for his team.
The episode concludes with footage of the Redskins lifting the trophy, celebrating with their fans, and reflecting on their incredible turnaround in the game. Williams, who had thrown for four touchdowns in a single quarter, was named the game's MVP, and the Redskins cemented their place in Super Bowl history as one of the most dominant teams to ever lift the trophy.
Overall, the 22nd episode of Super Bowl Highlights is a fascinating look back at one of the most memorable Super Bowls of all time. The game itself is packed with drama, excitement, and incredible individual performances, and the commentary and analysis provided by the show's hosts helps to put the game into context and highlight its key moments. Fans of American football, and those who want to learn more about the history of the Super Bowl, will find much to enjoy in this episode.