How many quarterbacks have thrown a perfect game? This is a question that has intrigued football fans and analysts alike. A perfect game in football refers to a performance where the quarterback completes every pass thrown, with no interceptions and no sacks. It is a rare feat that showcases the quarterback’s exceptional skill, accuracy, and decision-making abilities. Despite the rarity of this achievement, there have been a few instances where quarterbacks have come close to or achieved this remarkable milestone.
The first recorded perfect game in the NFL was thrown by Sonny Jurgensen of the Washington Redskins in 1965. Jurgensen completed all 17 of his passes for 303 yards and three touchdowns, leading his team to a 49-3 victory over the New York Giants. This performance is often cited as one of the greatest games in NFL history.
Another notable example is Joe Kapp of the Minnesota Vikings, who threw a perfect game against the Green Bay Packers in 1969. Kapp completed 14 of his 15 passes for 267 yards and three touchdowns, guiding his team to a 19-14 win. Kapp’s performance was also recognized as one of the greatest games in NFL history.
In the modern era, there have been a few instances where quarterbacks have come close to throwing a perfect game. Tom Brady of the New England Patriots came within one pass of a perfect game in 2011 against the San Diego Chargers. Brady completed 43 of his 46 passes for 422 yards and four touchdowns, but an interception prevented him from achieving the perfect game.
Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers also came close to throwing a perfect game in 2011 against the Detroit Lions. Rodgers completed 27 of his 30 passes for 408 yards and five touchdowns, but a late interception once again kept him from the perfect game milestone.
Despite these close calls, only three quarterbacks have officially thrown a perfect game in the NFL: Sonny Jurgensen, Joe Kapp, and Peyton Manning. Manning achieved this feat in 2013 against the San Diego Chargers, completing all 52 of his passes for 464 yards and seven touchdowns. Manning’s performance was a testament to his remarkable skill and the offensive prowess of the Denver Broncos.
The rarity of a perfect game in the NFL highlights the exceptional talent and skill required to achieve such a feat. While it may never become a common occurrence, the few instances where quarterbacks have thrown a perfect game will always be remembered as some of the greatest performances in the history of the sport.
