Background
The Giants, coached by Allie Sherman, were known for their powerful offense, which scored 448 points in 14 games. They were led by quarterback Y. A. Tittle who threw 36 touchdown passes during the season, then an NFL record. Other contributing players on offense were Pro Bowlers Del Shofner and Frank Gifford. Wide receiver Shofner caught 64 passes for 1,181 yards and 9 touchdowns. Although he normally was a running back, and only recorded four rushing attempts in 1963, Gifford had 42 receptions for 657 yards and 7 touchdowns. The Giants also used a plethora of players at running back, with the main two being Phil King and Joe Morrison. Although neither one had significant individual statistics, they combined for 1,181 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns.
The Giants defense allowed 280 points, ranking 5th overall in the NFL. This group was led by future Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Sam Huff. Other contributing players on defense were defensive linemen, Jim Katcavage, and John LoVetere; linebacker Tom Scott; and defensive backs Erich Barnes and Dick Lynch.
Meanwhile, the Bears were known for their defense, nicknamed the Monsters of the Midway. Led by defensive coordinator George Allen, this unit yielded 144 points in 14 games. The defensive line consisted of Ed O'Bradovich, Fred Williams, Stan Jones, and future hall of famer Doug Atkins. The linebacking core was led by Joe Fortunato, Bill George, and Larry Morris, while the defensive backs were led by Richie Petitbon and Rosey Taylor. Accomplishments by the Bears defense during the regular season included surrendering only 1 touchdown in two games versus the Green Bay Packers, and not allowing any passing touchdowns in its two games against quarterback Johnny Unitas and the Baltimore Colts. Writers in New York were especially fearful of the trio at linebacker, stating that Tittle had yet to see a group like them all year.
Chicago's offense did not come close to the Giants offense in terms of points scored or yards gained. The group only scored 301 points, ranking 10th out of the league's then-14 teams. Led by quarterback Bill Wade, the number 1 overall pick in the 1952 NFL Draft. Wade ran a simplified game plan, nicknamed "three yards and a cloud of dust", in which they would play it safe by running the ball in almost every play instead of giving up an interception. Occasionally Wade would throw short passes to tight end Mike Ditka and wide receiver, Johnny Morris.
Read more about this topic: 1963 NFL Championship Game
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