Kerry entered the championship as the defending champions.

Notably, the All-Ireland final was postponed specifically because both semi-finals were drawn and required replays.

On 22 September 1985, Kerry won the championship following a 2-12 to 2-8 defeat of Dublin in the All-Ireland final.

Dublin's Barney Rock was the championship's top scorer with 3-28.

Kerry's Jack O'Shea was the choice for Texaco Footballer of the Year.