Historic Anniversary: Doug Williams Becomes First Black Quarterback to Win Super Bowl MVP
On January 31, 1988, Doug Williams etched his name into National Football League history by becoming the first Black quarterback to start in and win a Super Bowl. Leading the Washington Redskins (now known as the Washington Commanders), Williams orchestrated a decisive 42-10 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII in San Diego. This event is widely recognized as a watershed moment in professional sports, effectively challenging and dismantling long-standing racial stereotypes concerning the quarterback position.
The path to victory was fraught with significant challenges and skepticism. Leading up to the game, the prevailing narrative in the NFL questioned whether Black quarterbacks possessed the necessary leadership skills and tactical acumen to win a championship. During the game itself, the situation initially appeared grim for Washington. The Denver Broncos, led by John Elway, established a quick 10-0 lead. Furthermore, Williams hyperextended his knee late in the first quarter, an injury severe enough to force him to the sideline. This moment validated the concerns of critics who doubted Washington’s ability to recover against a dominant Denver team, creating a tense atmosphere regarding the team’s prospects.
However, Williams returned to the field to deliver one of the most statistically significant performances in postseason history. Overcoming both the physical injury and the point deficit, he led Washington on an offensive explosion in the second quarter, scoring 35 unanswered points—a Super Bowl record that still stands. Williams finished the game having completed 18 of 29 passes for 340 yards and four touchdowns. His performance earned him the Super Bowl MVP award, securing a legacy that extended far beyond the final score by opening doors for future generations of minority quarterbacks in the league.
