George Halas’ Family Complains Namesake Trophy is “Lame”

Even the Halas Family Has to Admit: The Lombardi Trophy is Cooler.

Amidst the hype and anticipation of this Sunday’s NFC Championship game between the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears, descendents of the legendary Bears’ coach are complaining to NFL officials that the Halas Trophy is “lame” – particularly compared to the Lombardi Trophy, which is awarded to the NFL’s top team and Super Bowl champion.

“Our grandfather would have rolled over in his grave if he knew Lombardi had a better trophy than him,” quipped Halas’ grandson, Patrick McCaskey.  “What the hell is it, anyway?  Who wants a bronze relief of a bunch of offensive linemen that looks like a cave drawing?”

In the last and only postseason meeting between the Packers and Bears on December 14, 1941, Halas led the Bears to a 33-14 victory over Curly Lambeau's Packers.  The game was necessitated after the Packers fluffed up their record by clobbering the Kenosha Cardinals, who weren’t even technically in the NFL, 65-2 in the final game of the season.  George Halas complained it wasn't fair, but the inequity of the respective coaches' trophies is an even greater stain on his legacy.

“I’m tired of Halas Trophies getting shoved behind Lombardi Trophies,” complained McCaskey.  “Nobody wants to be the second place prize.”

Although it might feel like a runner’s up prize for teams that win the Halas Trophy without sealing the deal with the Lombardi Trophy, one thing is undeniable – and that is the recent dominance of the NFC North division in contending for the NFC Championship.  Perhaps it’s the oft-complained about “East Coast Bias,” but it seems most seasons the NFC East is pointed to as the toughest division.  In fact, NFC North teams have had 5 appearances in the last 5 years – more than any other NFC division (the Packers twice, the Bears twice, and the Vikings once).  NFC South teams have made it twice (both Saints), NFC East twice (Giants and Eagles) and NFC West once (Cardinals) in the last five seasons.

It’s only fitting that the toughest division and the NFL’s longest rivalry would be the final match up to decide who represents the NFC in the Super Bowl.  And we’ll be glad to take “George” home – even if his family doesn’t think he’s cool.