Washington Redskins Reportedly Used Play From President Nixon During Playoff Game

Published on May 12th, 2025 6:41 pm EST
Written By: Dave Manuel


In the winter of 1971, things were looking up for Washington Redskins coach George Allen.

The Redskins had clinched their first playoff berth in 25 years, and would ultimately finish the season with a record of 9-4-1.

The Redskins had a solid offensive attack plus one of the best defensive cores in the league, and were looking to make some noise in the playoffs.

One evening in December of 1971, the phone rang in George Allen's office.

"The President of the United States wishes to speak with you," said the voice on the other end of the phone.

Allen smiled and leaned back in his chair - his friend, President Richard Nixon, was calling to wish him well in the playoffs.

The two men, who had met during their time at Whittier College, exchanged pleasantries.

After a bit of chit-chat, President Richard Nixon said that he wanted to suggest a play to Allen to use in a future game.

Nixon, who was an avid football fan, suggested that the Redskins use an end-around in their playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers. Allen thanked the President for his contribution and continued to plan for the game against the 49ers.

Here's the thing - at the time of the call, Allen was in a strategy meeting with the quarterback of the Redskins, Billy Kilmer. Kilmer overheard the conversation, and overheard President Nixon telling Allen that he should use an end-around in the game.

It was late in the second quarter of the December 26th, 1971 playoff game between the Redskins and 49ers.

The Redskins were up 10-3 and were marching down the field. They were on the 8 yard-line of the 49ers when the coach called an end-around.

Billy Kilmer likely smiled to himself, thinking that this was President Nixon's play.

Unfortunately for the Redskins, the play didn't work, as the 49ers were onto the misdirection and stopped the Redskins for a 13-yard loss.

The Redskins weren't able to get any valuable points on the drive, and ultimately lost the game by a 24-20 score.

There is some dispute as to what actually happened with "Nixon's Play".

Some swear it happened exactly as how it was described above.

Others claim that an assistant coach of the Redskins talked to President Nixon beforehand and suggested the play.

In the end, "Nixon's Play" ended up much like President Nixon's presidency - in flames.