If you love high-scoring NFL games that keep you on the edge of your seat, this list is for you. Here, we cover some of the most explosive regular-time NFL games where both teams combined to score at least 100 points without needing overtime. These games showcase offensive fireworks, remarkable player performances, and unforgettable moments for fans who crave action-packed football.
Los Angeles Rams vs. Kansas City Chiefs (54-51, 2018)
On November 19, 2018, the Rams and Chiefs combined for 105 points in a Thursday Night Football classic. The Rams won 54-51 in a game filled with big plays, including 14 combined touchdowns and multiple lead changes. Patrick Mahomes threw for 478 yards and six touchdowns, while Todd Gurley scored three rushing touchdowns, making this one of the highest-scoring regulation games in NFL history.
Washington Redskins vs. New York Giants (72-41, 1966)
This 113-point shootout on November 27, 1966, remains one of the highest-scoring games ever. The Redskins defeated the Giants 72-41, combining for 113 points without overtime. Washington’s Charley Taylor and Sonny Jurgensen led a relentless offensive attack, while the Giants couldn’t keep up despite scoring over 40 points themselves.
Los Angeles Rams vs. New Orleans Saints (54-51, 2019)
On November 19, 2019, the Rams and Saints matched their 2018 shootout with another 105-point thriller, this time in New Orleans. The Rams prevailed 54-51, with Jared Goff throwing for 413 yards and four touchdowns. Alvin Kamara’s 155 yards and three touchdowns kept the Saints in the fight, but the Rams’ offense proved unstoppable in regulation.
Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears (61-7, 1945)
While not a close game, the Packers and Bears combined for 68 points in 1945, but it’s notable because it was an earlier era’s glimpse into high scoring. The Packers’ dominant 61-7 victory was fueled by multiple touchdowns and a punishing ground game. Although it didn’t reach 100 points, it set the stage for future offensive explosions in the NFL.
New England Patriots vs. New York Jets (54-13, 2009)
In a game that saw the Patriots’ offense dominate, they scored 54 points to the Jets’ 13 for a combined 67 points on November 22, 2009. Tom Brady threw for 378 yards and four touchdowns, while the Patriots’ defense forced multiple turnovers. This game didn’t hit 100 combined points but remains a notable example of offensive dominance without overtime.
Houston Oilers vs. Cincinnati Bengals (61-7, 1980)
On November 23, 1980, the Oilers crushed the Bengals 61-7, combining for 68 points. Earl Campbell rushed for 127 yards and two touchdowns, leading Houston’s offense. While not breaching the 100-point mark, this game is often cited for its offensive explosion and defensive collapse in the same contest.
San Diego Chargers vs. Oakland Raiders (54-44, 1980)
On November 30, 1980, the Chargers and Raiders combined for 98 points in a thrilling game that nearly reached the 100-point threshold. Dan Fouts threw for 444 yards and five touchdowns, while the Raiders answered with multiple scores of their own. This game is remembered for its fast pace and offensive fireworks.
Buffalo Bills vs. San Francisco 49ers (56-17, 1990)
On November 25, 1990, the Bills dominated the 49ers with a 56-17 victory. Jim Kelly threw for 336 yards and five touchdowns. While the combined total was 73 points, it was a showcase of offensive efficiency and power running, highlighting the Bills’ rise to dominance in the early 1990s.
New Orleans Saints vs. Minnesota Vikings (52-49, 2018)
On December 2, 2018, the Saints edged the Vikings 52-49 in a game that featured Drew Brees throwing for 363 yards and five touchdowns. The Vikings’ Kirk Cousins matched the effort with 456 yards and four touchdowns. This 101-point game was a regular-season thriller with multiple lead changes and last-minute heroics, all settled in regulation.
Denver Broncos vs. Dallas Cowboys (51-48, 2013)
On September 5, 2013, the Broncos and Cowboys combined for 99 points in a season opener that nearly hit the century mark. Peyton Manning threw for 462 yards and four touchdowns, while Tony Romo responded with 450 yards and three touchdowns. Though just shy of 100 combined points, it was one of the most exciting high-scoring games of the decade.
How to Choose
When selecting the most memorable NFL games with 100 or more points scored without overtime, consider several factors. First, look at the competitiveness of the game—close games with multiple lead changes tend to be more thrilling. Next, evaluate standout individual performances, such as record-breaking quarterback stats or historic rushing totals. Also, consider the historical context: some games are famous because they set records or happened during pivotal seasons. Finally, the era matters; scoring trends have shifted, so high-scoring games from past decades often stand out more due to their rarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How rare are NFL games with 100 points scored in regulation?
Very rare. Only a handful of games in NFL history have reached or exceeded 100 combined points without overtime.
Q: What is the highest-scoring NFL game ever?
The highest-scoring NFL game is the Washington Redskins vs. New York Giants in 1966, which ended 72-41, totaling 113 points.
Q: Do most high-scoring games involve overtime?
Many high-scoring games do go into overtime, but some of the most explosive games reach 100+ points in regulation time alone.
Q: Which players are commonly involved in these high-scoring games?
Quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Drew Brees, and Peyton Manning often feature prominently due to their passing prowess in high-scoring matches.
Q: Are there any defensive highlights in these games?
While offense dominates, some games include key defensive plays like forced turnovers or critical stops that swing momentum.
Final Thoughts
High-scoring NFL games with 100 or more combined points in regulation are a thrilling showcase of offensive talent and strategy. Whether you prefer historic classics like the Redskins-Giants 1966 shootout or modern duels like Rams vs. Chiefs, these games highlight the excitement and unpredictability of football. For fans who love fast-paced action and record-breaking performances, these contests are must-watch events that never fail to entertain.
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