The Chiefs’ 1970 Victory Was a Turning Point for the AFL

Before the AFL-NFL merger, the NFL was seen as the superior league. However, the Chiefs changed that perception by dominating the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IV. And there’s no denying that this game played a significant role in solidifying the AFL-NFL merger in 1970.

The Chiefs’ defense, led by Hall of Famers Willie Lanier and Bobby Bell, shut down the Vikings’ offense, while quarterback Len Dawson controlled the game efficiently. Their 23-7 victory was a defining moment for the AFL and showed that its teams could compete with and defeat the best the NFL had to offer.