1945 Championship Victory

Lore & Background

The atmosphere surrounding this championship reflected a nation emerging from World War II, seeking new heroes and entertainment. Winning in Washington D.C. at Griffith Stadium solidified the franchise's reputation for excellence before the historic move to Los Angeles was announced. This era defined the early identity of the Rams as innovators rather than traditionalists, setting a precedent for future success across different cities.

In Their Own Story

The air in Griffith Stadium is thick with December chill and cigarette smoke. Bob Waterfield grips the leather ball, his breath visible in the cold night. The crowd roars as the clock ticks down on the fourth quarter. A single field goal will decide the destiny of the franchise. He places the sphere carefully, steps back, and the snap flies true through the gloom.

Reader's Guide

Founded in Cleveland in 1937, the franchise established its identity through innovation under coach Clark Shaughnessy. The pivotal moment arrived in December 1945 when the Rams secured their first NFL Championship against Washington at Griffith Stadium. This victory proved the viability of the T-formation offense on a national stage. Following this triumph, owner Dan Reeves made a bold decision to relocate westward for the 1946 season. The move marked a significant identity shift from Midwest industrial roots to Hollywood glamour, becoming the first NFL team based in California. This transition set the stage for breaking racial barriers with Kenny Washington and Woody Strode shortly after arrival. While the franchise would later move to St. Louis in 1995 before returning to Los Angeles in 2016, the 1945 title remains a foundational pillar of their legacy. It represents the golden age of Shaughnessy's coaching and Waterfield's brilliance before the modern era took hold. The championship cemented the Rams as a dynasty-in-waiting during the post-war expansion period. Their success in Cleveland validated the risk of moving to Los Angeles, creating a lasting connection between the franchise's origins and its future western dominance. This era defined the team's early competitive spirit and ambition that persists through decades of relocation and rebuilding efforts across the nation.

Did You Know?

• The Rams won this title while still playing in Cleveland before moving to Los Angeles for the 1946 season.
• Clark Shaughnessy is credited with popularizing the T-formation offense during this championship run.
• Bob Waterfield was a dual-threat quarterback and halfback who led the team's scoring attack.
• This victory occurred just before the franchise broke the NFL color barrier in 1946.