What Is 1973 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 1973 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game was an exhibition game played on August 12, 1973, between the Buffalo Bills and the Washington Redskins at Fawcett Stadium in Canton, Ohio, marking the 10th anniversary of the Hall of Fame Game series.

Key Facts

The 1973 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game occurred on August 12, 1973
It featured the Buffalo Bills vs. the Washington Redskins
The game was held at Fawcett Stadium in Canton, Ohio
It was the 10th annual Hall of Fame Game
Washington won the game 27–17

Overview

The 1973 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game was a significant preseason exhibition that celebrated the 10th anniversary of the annual tradition honoring legendary players and contributors to professional football. Played on August 12, 1973, the game featured the Buffalo Bills and the Washington Redskins in a matchup that combined historical celebration with competitive preparation for the upcoming NFL season.

The game took place at Fawcett Stadium in Canton, Ohio, the permanent home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the traditional site for this annual kickoff event. As part of the Hall of Fame induction weekend festivities, the 1973 edition brought together fans, legends, and current players for a celebration of football heritage and community pride.

August 12, 1973 marks the official date of the 1973 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, making it the 10th such event in the series.
The Buffalo Bills and Washington Redskins were selected as the participating teams, representing the AFC and NFC, respectively.
Played at Fawcett Stadium, the game drew a crowd of approximately 25,000 fans despite being an exhibition contest.
Washington won 27–17, with strong performances from their defensive unit and key offensive drives led by quarterback Billy Kilmer.
The game served as part of the induction ceremonies for new Hall of Fame members, including Joe Namath, who was enshrined that year.

How It Works

The Pro Football Hall of Fame Game functions as both a tribute to football history and a practical preseason event for NFL teams to evaluate talent and strategies. Each year, the NFL schedules two teams to play in Canton, Ohio, typically one week before other preseason games begin.

Annual Tradition: The game has been held every year since 1962, except for cancellations in 2016 and 2021 due to field and pandemic issues.
Location:Fawcett Stadium (later renamed Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium) in Canton, Ohio, has hosted the game since its inception.
Timing: The game traditionally kicks off the NFL preseason in early August, one week before other teams begin exhibition play.
Team Selection: The NFL assigns two teams each year, often based on geographic balance and historical significance to the Hall of Fame.
Charter Flight: The Pro Football Hall of Fame Game flight transports players, staff, and legends from the teams to Canton for the weekend festivities.
Induction Weekend: The game coincides with the enshrinement ceremonies for new Hall of Fame inductees, creating a full weekend of events.

Comparison at a Glance

The 1973 game compared to other Hall of Fame Games across several dimensions including attendance, significance, and historical context.

Year	Teams	Winner	Score	Attendance
1973	Bills vs. Redskins	Redskins	27–17	~25,000
1970	Colts vs. Bears	Colts	19–14	~23,000
1971	Lions vs. Cowboys	Lions	16–6	~24,000
1972	Steelers vs. Giants	Steelers	27–24	~26,000
1974	Chargers vs. Bears	Chargers	24–21	~24,500

The 1973 edition stood out due to the induction of Joe Namath, a marquee figure in NFL history, which elevated public interest and media coverage. While attendance was slightly below the 1972 peak, the game maintained consistent viewership and symbolic importance as part of the Hall’s growing national profile.

Why It Matters

The 1973 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game was more than just a preseason exhibition—it symbolized the growing cultural and historical significance of professional football in America. By linking on-field competition with the honoring of legends, the game reinforced the NFL’s legacy and helped shape fan engagement around tradition.

The game highlighted the transition from 1960s AFL-NFL rivalry to a unified league identity in the 1970s.
It provided exposure for young players on the Bills and Redskins to perform in a nationally recognized setting.
The event strengthened the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a central institution in American sports culture.
It marked the 10th anniversary of the game series, underscoring its staying power and institutional support.
Media coverage expanded the national audience for preseason games, boosting NFL visibility in August.
The induction of Joe Namath added star power and drew attention to the Hall’s role in preserving football history.

Today, the 1973 game is remembered not only for its final score but for its contribution to the ceremonial importance of the Hall of Fame weekend, setting a precedent for future celebrations that blend sport, memory, and community.