Cindy, Namath And ‘1984’: The Most Iconic Super Bowl Ads In WFT History

Written By Dann Stupp on January 13, 2022
Super Bowl ads

Over the past few decades, Super Bowl ads have transformed into an indisputable and unapologetic cultural phenomenon in America.

Indeed, television pitches hold tremendous commercial value. Throughout the years, companies have invested billions of dollars, eagerly vying for a fleeting moment of viewers’ attention during the annual NFL championship game.

Super Bowl LV in 2021 attracted an enormous global TV viewership, with the broadcast alone capturing nearly 92 million viewers in the United States.

Super Bowl ads draw significant investments from companies, leading to the emergence of highly innovative ideas from their advertising teams.

Which ones are the most memorable for Washington Football Team supporters?

Choosing the best Big Game ads

Numerous Super Bowl commercials remain memorable and withstand the test of time, leaving a lasting impression even after several years. In fact, when considering the Washington Football Team and its numerous Super Bowl appearances, the game itself and the TV ads are likely inseparable in one’s recollection.

If you happen to be a fan of the 49ers, there’s a good chance you still vividly recall the impressive 49-26 victory over the Chargers during Super Bowl XXIX back in 1995. Additionally, that particular night is likely etched in your memory as the moment we were first introduced to the Budweiser Frogs.

Which Super Bowl commercials are remembered by fans of the Washington Football Team (formerly the Washington Redskins)? Which advertisements made an impression during the team’s Super Bowl seasons?

In preparation for Super Bowl LVI next month, we made the decision to delve into the realm of film. Our objective was to analyze the finest Super Bowl advertisements that were featured in each WFT title game. Within those five Super Bowl appearances, we were captivated by a collection of truly legendary TV spots.

These are our favorites:

Best commercials for each WFT Super Bowl

What are the qualities that define a great Super Bowl advertisement?

The majority of people simply desire laughter, while some prefer sentimental moments. However, there are those who take pleasure in witnessing chaos unfold, and unfortunately, a multi-million-dollar advertising campaign transforms into a catastrophic failure.

Above all, the truly exceptional ones endure the test of time.

These are the Super Bowl ads that we still remember from when the WFT played for the Vince Lombardi Trophy in “The Big Game.”

Super Bowl VII in 1973

Miami is leading with a score of 14, while Washington has 7.

Top Super Bowl ad pick: Noxzema’s “Face Cream Delight”

The Noxzema “Cream Your Face” Super Bowl ad was undoubtedly attention-grabbing during its era. Noxzema took a bold step in making their zit cream appear sexy and enlisted popular figures like Farrah Fawcett and Joe Namath to endorse it. This advertisement perfectly captures the essence of 1970s television.

Super Bowl XVII in 1983

Washington defeats Miami with a score of 27-17.

Miller High Life’s “Welcome to Miller Time” is undoubtedly the top Super Bowl ad.

The reason for the ad’s success can be attributed to the fact that in 1983, when Washington won its first Super Bowl, viewers did not encounter the extravagant TV-ad spectacle that would become prevalent in subsequent decades. Miller High Life introduced their “Welcome to Miller Time” series during this time, which proved to be quite captivating. For beer enthusiasts, this ad portrayed their hobby as incredibly enjoyable and wholesome, disregarding any unpleasant consequences like hangovers. Even in an era before expensive Super Bowl advertisements became the norm, this particular ad still stood out as impressive.

Super Bowl XVIII in 1984

The final score reads: Los Angeles Raiders 38, Washington 9.

Apple’s “1984” Super Bowl ad is widely regarded as the greatest.

The reason behind the ad’s success: Dubbed as the best Super Bowl ad to date, it provided a glimmer of hope for Washington Redskins fans amidst their disappointing Super Bowl defeat. The advertisement showcased the initial Apple Macintosh computer, albeit not explicitly featuring it. However, with renowned director Ridley Scott incorporating the “1984” concept into a dystopian backdrop, the Apple commercial became the main topic of conversation the following day. Moreover, it established a benchmark for the subsequent high-budget Super Bowl ads.

Super Bowl XXII in 1988

The final score of the game was Washington 42, Denver 10.

The top Super Bowl commercial: Bartles & Jaymes’ captivating “Bugle” ad.

The reason behind the success of the ad: When the Broncos were defeated by Washington in Super Bowl XXII, we were introduced to Frank Bartles and Ed Jaymes. These individuals, who represented Bartles & Jaymes, made frequent television appearances throughout the 1980s to express gratitude for our support. It was during the 1988 Super Bowl that we first witnessed their straightforward and witty style of communication.

Super Bowl XXVI in 1992

The final score of the game was Washington 37, Buffalo 24.

Pepsi’s “Cindy Crawford” takes the crown for the top Super Bowl ad.

The reason behind the success of this ad can be attributed to various factors. As a 14-year-old at the time, I was immediately captivated by its appeal. The combination of featuring the iconic supermodel Cindy Crawford, accompanied by a seductive melody, created an irresistible allure. It was a moment when a simple beverage like Pepsi transformed into an alluring temptation. Even today, this ad has stood the test of time and is considered a classic Super Bowl commercial. Its impact has been so significant that it has been extensively analyzed, recreated, and even parodied. Additionally, for fans of the Washington football team, it holds a special place as the enduring image associated with their last Super Bowl victory.

 

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Dann Stupp

Dann Stupp, residing in Lexington, Virginia, is an experienced sports journalist who has contributed to reputable publications such as The Athletic, USA Today, ESPN, and MLB.com, both as a writer and editor.

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