Football History

August 27, 1921 - The Minneapolis Marines/Redjackets team joins the AFPA/NFL for the 1921-24 and again rejoined the NFL for the 1929 and 1930 seasons as the Minneapolis Red Jackets. The Marines were founded in 1905 by a group of working-class teenagers. They played their home games at Nicollet Park, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Marines were one of the most successful teams in the early days of professional football, winning four local championships from 1913 to 1916.

Quarterback Rube Ursella and tackle Walt "Big Boy" Buland were the Minneapolis star players who played as teens in the early years of the team right up through the professional ones in the early 1920s. A stout defense was what the Marines were known for, as Ursella and Big Boy played both ways.

Born March 12, 1880, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was legendary pro football player, and College Football Hall of Fame back, Bobby Marshall. Marshall played end for the football team of the University of Minnesota from 1904 to 1906. He was the first African American to play football in the Western Conference, later to be known as the Big Ten. Bobby graduated in 1907 and played with Minneapolis pro teams, the Deans and the Marines. From 1920 through 1924, he played in the National Football League with the Rock Island Independents, the Minneapolis Marines, and the Duluth Kelleys.

Reuben John Ursella, known to all as "Rube," wasn't your typical football player. He wasn't a hulking lineman or a flashy running back. Instead, Ursella was a cerebral quarterback, a coach before his time, and the architect of an offensive scheme that revolutionized the early NFL. Though less celebrated than some gridiron giants, his legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to the game.

Born in 1890 in Minneapolis, Ursella began his football career at the University of Minnesota. He honed his understanding of the "Minnesota Shift," a complex offensive strategy developed by coach Henry L. Williams there. The shift involved a series of pre-snap movements by the linemen, creating unexpected gaps and angles for the ball carrier. The Minnesota Shift was a potent weapon in the hands of a skilled quarterback like Ursella, leaving defenses bewildered and fans enthralled.

After stints in various professional leagues, Ursella returned to his hometown in 1921 as the head coach of the Minneapolis Marines. This marked the beginning of his most significant contribution to football history. He installed the Minnesota Shift as the Marines' core offense, tailoring it to fit the talents of his players. With Ursella at the helm, the Marines became an offensive juggernaut, averaging over 20 points per game in a league where such scores were rare.

But Ursella's impact extended beyond his team. He readily shared his knowledge of the Minnesota Shift with other coaches and players, spreading the offensive philosophy across the fledgling NFL. Soon, teams like the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears were incorporating elements of the shift into their playbook, forever changing the landscape of professional football.

Ursella's career continued for another decade as both player and coach. He captained the Rock Island Independents to a league championship in 1926, showcasing his leadership beyond the offensive playbook. His playing days ended in 1929, but his coaching influence lingered for years.

Though Rube Ursella's name may not be etched like other NFL legends, his contributions to the game remain undeniable; he was a pioneer of offensive strategy, a coach who prioritized intelligence and teamwork, and a leader who left an indelible mark on the early years of professional football. The next time you see a quarterback shift the offensive line before a snap, remember Rube Ursella, the mastermind who brought the Minnesota Shift to the gridiron, forever changing how the game is played.

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Author R C Christiansen shares his knowledge on the shared paths of early football in both the United States and Canada. He wrote a book, The Border Boys, which touches on the subject. Mr. Christiansen found it so intriguing he dove deeper into the history of both countries' fascination and evolution of the gridiron. He also Penned "Mill City Scrum" on early Minnesota Pro Football History and the Minnesota Marines. R.C. has a couple of great websites that support both stories.

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Reuben "Rube" Ursella wasn't a household name in the fledgling years of professional football, but his impact on the game stretches from the sandlots to the early days of the National Football League (NFL). This essay explores Ursella's career, highlighting his role as a player-coach who helped bridge the gap between the sport's rough beginnings and a more organized future.

Ursella's football journey began in his hometown of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He played quarterback for various amateur and semi-professional teams from 1907 to 1917, a time when football was a brutal and evolving sport. In 1916, he even served as a "ringer" for a team in West Duluth, showcasing his talent and versatility.

During World War I, Ursella's athletic prowess continued to shine. He played football for his unit's service team in France, demonstrating his dedication to the sport even amidst the chaos of war. Upon returning home, Ursella chose to settle in Rock Island, Illinois, where he took on the dual role of player and coach for the Rock Island Independents.

Ursella's leadership and strategic mind were instrumental in the Independents' success. He even led the team to a self-proclaimed national championship in 1919, a testament to their dominance in the region. His coaching philosophy, likely honed through years of playing the game, emphasized discipline and teamwork, elements that were becoming increasingly important as professional football gained structure.

Beyond the Rock Island Independents, Ursella's career extended to stints with several early NFL teams, including the Minneapolis Marines/Red Jackets, Akron Indians, and Hammond Pros. While his individual playing statistics are not readily available, his presence on these rosters indicates his continued skills and dedication to the sport.

Rube Ursella retired in 1926 after a remarkable career that spanned the early years of professional football. He witnessed the game's transformation from a loosely organized competition to a more structured league. His contributions as a player, coach, and leader helped pave the way for the sport's continued growth and evolution. Though his name may not be etched in the record books, Rube Ursella's legacy lies in his role as a pioneer who helped bridge the gap between football's formative years and the organized professional sport we recognize today.

Born January 11, 1890 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was legendary professional football player and Coach, Rube Ursella. Ursella began his pro football career in 1907 with the Minneapolis Marines. Rube Ursella was the true centerpiece of the team. He was both an offensive and defensive standout, as well as a skilled kicker and punter. During his NFL career Rube played for the Minneapolis Marines, Akron Indians, Hammond Pros, Minneapolis Red Jackets and the Rock Island Independents.

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Lost to the tides of time, Bobby Marshall's name rarely surfaces in discussions of football greats. Yet, his story deserves a prominent place in the annals of the sport. Marshall wasn't just a talented athlete; he was a trailblazer who shattered racial barriers and paved the way for future generations of Black players in professional football.

Born in 1880, Marshall excelled in multiple sports, showcasing his athletic prowess in football, baseball, hockey, and even wrestling. He carved his place in history at the University of Minnesota, becoming the first African-American to play football in 1903. Marshall's talent was undeniable, earning him All-American honors and solidifying his place as a college star.

Despite his success, Marshall faced blatant racism throughout his career. Opportunities in professional football were virtually non-existent for Black players at the time. However, Marshall's determination would be strong. He continued to play on semi-pro teams, excelling both offensively and defensively.

In 1920, at the age of 40, a groundbreaking opportunity arose. The newly formed American Professional Football Association (APFA), soon to become the National Football League (NFL), welcomed Marshall as one of the first two Black players. Marshall defied expectations, signing with the Rock Island Independents and proving his skills against younger players.
While his professional career was relatively short, Marshall's impact transcended statistics. He symbolized perseverance and excellence, demonstrating that Black athletes belonged on the gridiron. His presence challenged the racial norms of the time, paving the way for future stars like Fritz Pollard, who joined the league shortly after.

Marshall's story isn't just about breaking barriers; it's about resilience and dedication. He excelled in multiple sports, defying the limitations placed on Black athletes of his era. Even after his playing days ended, Marshall remained involved in sports, coaching high school football and serving as a role model for young people.

In conclusion, Bobby Marshall's legacy deserves recognition. He wasn't just a gifted athlete but a pioneer who challenged the status quo. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the contributions of Black athletes to the game of football and the importance of diversity and inclusion in sports. Though his name may not resonate as loudly as some of today's stars, Bobby Marshall's place in football history is undeniable – a testament to his talent, courage, and unwavering passion for the game.

This book is a fantastic and well-researched look at the early history of Minnesota professional football and in particular the Minnesota Marines. Author R.C. Christiansen has dived deep into newspaper archives, and other sources to set the record straight on this legendary team from long ago.

Mill City Scrum is a captivating historical account of the Minneapolis Marines, an independent professional football team that rose to prominence in the early 20th century.

The book delves into the team's formation, their rise to dominance, and the challenges they faced during their time in the National Football League. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, author R.C. Christiansen brings to life the gritty determination and unwavering spirit of the Marines players.

Mill City Scrum is a must-read for football enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a glimpse into the golden age of the sport.

Born April 5, 1888, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was early gridiron legend Fred Chicken. His real name was Fred S. Slepicka, which when translated means "chicken." Fred was a tailback/halfback who played for the Minneapolis Marines (1915-1918), prior to that team's entry into the NFL. With him the Marines team went 34-3-1 between the years of 1913 thru 1917. 1918 during World War I Fred coached and played for the St. Paul Aviators School. He later played for the Rock Island Independents.