Tony Latone Ran Like a Runaway Mining...

Anthony "Tony" Latone April 18, 1897, an American football player of Lithuanian descent, carved out an impressive six-season career in the early days of the National Football League (NFL). Despite not having a college football background, Latone's natural talent and toughness made him one of the most productive players of his era, and he is unofficially considered the leading rusher of the 1920s.

Latone's on-field achievements are notable, especially when compared to those of Red Grange, a Pro Football Hall of Famer. Over their respective careers, Latone accumulated more rushing yards (2,648 to 2,616) and touchdowns (26 to 21) than Grange, all while playing in 30 fewer games. His powerful running style was so impactful that he was one of the few players known to have knocked Grange out of a game. Grange himself acknowledged Latone's formidable nature, famously stating that even his barnstorming earnings from George Halas weren't enough to compensate for the hits he took from Latone.

Latone's career is also highlighted in the book "Marooned: The Rise, The Fall, and the Redemption of the 1925 Pottsville Maroons," which chronicles the story of the Pottsville Maroons and their controversial loss of the NFL championship. Latone's contributions to the team and the league during this formative period of professional football history are a testament to his skill and resilience. His career serves as a testament to the many talented players who helped establish the NFL in its early years.