Won't start, backfires

[JET4x4]

So I replaced the valve cover gaskets in my 69 yesterday. I steam cleaned the engine afterward and it was running great. Drove it home and parked it. Went out to start it this morning and no start. It cranks over but backfires out of the exhaust. I don't see anything loose under the hood as far as wiring or anything like that. I grounded a plug wire and it seems to have spark, still has the original points distributor. The dist isn't loose so I'm assuming it's not a timing issue. I guess my question is if the points/condenser crapped out, would that cause the engine to back fire? I'm going to do away with the points setup no matter what, just looking for some input on where else to look for a problem.