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The Rise of Red Grange

The biggest story of the 1925 season was undoubtedly the emergence of Red Grange. The "Galloping Ghost" was a star halfback from the University of Illinois who captivated the nation with his incredible speed and elusiveness. After the college season, Grange signed with the Chicago Bears, and his presence instantly transformed the league. Huge crowds flocked to see him play, and he became a national sensation, bringing unprecedented attention to professional football.  

The Pottsville Maroons Controversy

The Pottsville Maroons were a dominant team in 1925, boasting a 10-2 record. They even defeated the Chicago Cardinals, their main rivals, late in the season. However, a controversial decision by NFL Commissioner Joseph Carr cost them the championship. The Maroons scheduled a game against a team of former Notre Dame players in Philadelphia, which was considered to be in the territory of the Frankford Yellow Jackets. Despite warnings from Carr, the Maroons played the game, leading to their suspension from the league and the forfeiture of their right to compete for the championship.  

The Cardinals Claim the Crown

With the Pottsville Maroons out of the picture, the Chicago Cardinals, who had finished the season with an 11-2-1 record, were declared the NFL champions. It was a bittersweet victory for the Cardinals, as they had not defeated the Maroons on the field. Owner Chris O'Brien would NOT accept the title; however, in 1933, when the Bidwell family took over ownership of the franchise, they did embrace the title, marking the franchise's first NFL championship.

A League in Flux

The 1925 season highlighted the challenges the NFL faced in its early years. The league was still relatively young and lacked the stability and structure of later decades. Controversies like the Pottsville Maroons suspension and the constant movement of franchises were common occurrences. However, the emergence of stars like Red Grange and the growing popularity of the game were signs that professional football was on the rise.

The Legacy of 1925

Despite the controversies and challenges, the 1925 NFL season played a significant role in the development of the league. The excitement generated by Red Grange helped to attract new fans and solidify the league's place in the American sports landscape. The lessons learned from the Pottsville Maroons incident likely contributed to future rule changes and a greater emphasis on league uniformity. While the Cardinals' championship may have come under somewhat unusual circumstances, it still stands as a testament to their strong season and their place in NFL history.