Unusual events marked 1976 Cardinals-Chargers Mainichi Star Bowl

The St. Louis Cardinals faced the San Diego Chargers on August 16, 1976, in Tokyo, Japan, marking the NFL's first international game. Many bizarre incidents occurred during this preseason match, which included a long flight, food poisoning, and cultural missteps. The game was financed by Frank Takahashi, a local farmer who hoped to bring an NFL team to Japan. Players experienced turbulence on their flight, with one player struggling in an aircraft restroom and another having a notable encounter with sake. Despite being a historic event, players treated it as an interruption during training camp, impacting their preparation.

• 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — Weird and unusual happenings that occurred during the 1976 Cardinals-Chargers “Mainichi Star Bowl”