1966 Founding Era
The year the South got its second NFL team since the pre-war era as the Falcons took flight.
The 1966 Founding Era marks the birth of the Atlanta Falcons as a pivotal expansion franchise that revitalized NFL presence in the South, joining the league just six years after the Dallas Cowboys arrived in 1960. Led by founder Rankin Smith and head coach Norm Van Brocklin, this era established the team's identity through a mix of optimism, early struggles, and the construction of their iconic home stadium, the Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium.
- Division
- NFL Eastern Conference (Capitol Division)
Lore & Background
The inaugural season was a rollercoaster of hope and heartbreak. Despite finishing with a 3-11 record, the team's identity was forged in the fires of their first home game against the St. Louis Cardinals on September 25, 1966. The atmosphere at the Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium was electric, with fans embracing the falcon logo and the red-and-black colors as symbols of Southern pride and resilience.
In Their Own Story
The humid Georgia air hung heavy over the newly built stadium on August 28, 1966. As the crowd roared for the first time in franchise history, Norm Van Brocklin paced the sideline, his eyes scanning the green field where his new Falcons were about to make their mark. It wasn't just a game; it was the dawn of an era, a moment when Atlanta finally had its own team to call home.
Reader's Guide
The 1966 season began with high expectations and the challenge of building a roster from scratch through expansion drafts. Coach Norm Van Brocklin immediately implemented a disciplined style of play, emphasizing fundamentals over flash. The team's identity shifted rapidly as they navigated their first losses against established powers like the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers. Despite early setbacks, the Falcons showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in their defensive efforts which often kept games competitive. By mid-season, the team had found its footing, securing key victories that energized the local fanbase. The era concluded with a realization: while the road to contention was long, the foundation laid in 1966 would support decades of future growth and passion.
Did You Know?
- While the Dallas Cowboys joined in 1960, the Atlanta Falcons became a major Southern force upon their arrival in 1966.
- Norm Van Brocklin never led the Falcons to a winning season during his tenure from 1966 to 1970.
- Rankin Smith personally funded much of the early operations before securing corporate sponsorships.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Atlanta Falcons officially begin play?
The Atlanta Falcons officially began operations in 1966 as part of the NFL's expansion efforts to bring professional football back to the South. This era marked the team's entry into the league just six years after the Dallas Cowboys joined.
Who were the key leaders during this time?
Rankin Smith served as the primary founder and owner, while Norm Van Brocklin was hired as the first head coach to guide the new squad. Their leadership set the initial tone for the franchise's identity and competitive structure.
What stadium did they use for home games?
During this founding period, the team constructed and played at the Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium as their iconic home venue. This facility served as the central hub for fans during those early expansion years.
Which division were they assigned to?
Upon joining the league, the Falcons were assigned to the Capitol Division within the NFL Eastern Conference. This alignment placed them against established teams while navigating the challenges of being a new franchise.
Why is this era significant for fans?
This period revitalized the NFL's presence in the region by establishing the South's second major team since the pre-war era. It laid the essential groundwork for the organization despite facing early struggles and growing pains.
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