The 1996 Green Bay Packers

The Lombardi Trophy was on its way back to Lombardi Country. Vince Lombardi's Packers won Super Bowls I and II in the mid-1960s by playing with confidence and faith. Nearly 30 years later, Green Bay's 1996 team, led by coach Mike Holmgren, used those same virtues to carry the franchise to its third Super Bowl title. Holmgren was known for his intensity on game days, and an ability to mentor quarterbacks, qualities that would serve him well with the Packers. By '96, Holmgren had molded Brett Favre into an NFL MVP who could use his West Coast system in spectacular fashion. Statistically speaking, the Packers had never played better. Led by Favre and All-Pro defensive end Reggie White, Green Bay tied a franchise record for wins, led the league in scoring, and gave up the fewest points. But on a team renowned for its star power, it was return man Desmond Howard -- considered a disappointment in the pros at that point - who made the greatest impact against New England in Super Bowl XXXI. Yes, there was a 29-year wait between celebrations. But in Titletown, U.S.A., it was worth it.