Packers set interception mark, 1943

Nine interceptions against Lions set NFL mark

Newspaper account of the game from the Hall's archives

On October 24, 1943, the Green Bay Packers became the first team in National Football League history to intercept nine passes in a single game.  The feat came against the Detroit Lions.

The Packers' ground attack that featured Hall of Famer Tony Canadeo stalled against the Lions defense. So, they Pack went to the air. It proved to be a smart move as the legendary Don Hutson paced the Green Bay offense. He went to work scoring a touchdown, setting up another, booting three extra points and kicking a 13-yard field goal. Before it was over, the Packers had chalked up 326 yards through the air.

But, on this day, it was the Packers defense that made history. The Lions attempted to match Green Bay's aerial attack but fell victim to an NFL record nine interceptions which were returned for 137 yards by the Packers. Four of those turnovers turned into three Packer touchdowns and a pair of Green Bay field goals to give them a 27-6 win.

Hutson, who caught 6 passes on offense in the game, also contributed on the other side of the ball as he intercepted two Lions' passes. Green Bay's interception total for the 1943 season reached a record 42 steals. That mark, which still ranks second all-time, was surpassed when the San Diego Chargers intercepted 49 passes in 1961.

Record Days:

Interceptions by Packers (10/24/43): Charley Brock, Tony Canadeo, Irv Comp, Bob Flowers, Charles Goldenberg, Don Hutson (2), Joe Laws, Andy Uram

Interceptions by Eagles (12/12/65): Maxie Baughan, Irv Cross, Jim Nettles (3), Nate Ramsey, Joe Scarpati (2), George Tarasovic

Most Passes Intercepted, Game