On January 26, 1986, the Chicago Bears faced the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans. The Bears’ legendary “46 Defense” overwhelmed New England from start to finish, leading to a dominant 46–10 victory and the franchise’s first Super Bowl title.
Winner: Chicago Bears (46–10)
MVP: Richard Dent, Defensive End
Game Recap and Highlights
First Half: Bears Build Commanding Lead
Chicago took control early with rushing touchdowns from Matt Suhey and Jim McMahon, along with three Kevin Butler field goals. The Patriots managed only a field goal, as the Bears’ defense forced multiple turnovers and shut down New England’s offense. The halftime score was 23–3 in favor of Chicago.
Second Half: Total Domination
The Bears continued their dominance after the break. William “The Refrigerator” Perry’s 1-yard touchdown run became one of the most iconic moments in Super Bowl history. McMahon added another rushing touchdown, while New England’s lone highlight was a late touchdown by Irving Fryar. Chicago’s defense sealed the 46–10 rout.
Key Figures
Richard Dent: With 1.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and constant pressure on the Patriots’ quarterbacks, Dent earned MVP honors and proved himself as one of the league’s elite pass rushers.
William “The Refrigerator” Perry: His touchdown run symbolized the Bears’ dominance and playful personality, making it one of the most memorable plays in Super Bowl lore.
Impact and Legacy
Super Bowl XX confirmed the 1985 Chicago Bears as one of the most dominant teams in NFL history. Head coach Mike Ditka and defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan built a unit that smothered opponents, while the Bears’ 46 points remain among the highest in Super Bowl history. The Patriots, meanwhile, struggled under the relentless pressure of Chicago’s defense.
Global Reach and Cultural Significance
The “Super Bowl Shuffle” music video turned the Bears into pop culture icons, while Perry’s touchdown became a symbol of the team’s swagger.
Key Moment: William Perry’s 1-yard touchdown run in the third quarter epitomized the Bears’ creativity and dominance, cementing the 1985 team as one of the most memorable in NFL history.
Final Thoughts
Super Bowl XX showcased the Chicago Bears at their absolute peak. Richard Dent’s MVP performance, Buddy Ryan’s “46 Defense,” and the team’s larger-than-life personalities secured a 46–10 victory that remains one of the most lopsided in Super Bowl history. International broadcasts further boosted the NFL’s global profile, with millions tuning in to see the Bears’ unforgettable triumph.