The 1974 NFL Season was the 55th season in the history of the National Football League. It featured 26 teams, divided into two conferences: the AFC and the NFC. The season began on September 8, 1974, and concluded with Super Bowl IX on January 12, 1975. The Pittsburgh Steelers emerged as champions, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 16-6 in the Super Bowl. During the regular season, the Steelers finished with a record of 10-3-1, while the Vikings had a 10-2-2 record. The season is notable for the introduction of the fourth official and the expansion of the playoff format, which allowed more teams to compete for the championship.