February 16

In this episode of the Football History Headlines, we discuss a small college Defensive back named Teel, Dick “Lil Mo” Modzelewski and Jerome Bettis birthdays as well as many more Hall of Fame Legendary stories.

As we flip the calendar page, we delve into another chapter of pigskin history. From legendary comebacks that defied the odds to record-breaking performances that left fans speechless, remarkable moments unfolded on this very date. So, buckle up and get ready to relive iconic plays, celebrate trailblazing athletes, and revisit the captivating stories that continue to shape the ever-evolving narrative of professional football. Let's lace up our cleats and journey back in time to witness the incredible feats that transpired on this historic day in the NFL!

February 16, 1999 - O.J. Simpson's 1968 Heisman Trophy is sold for $230,000 to help settle a $33.5 million civil judgement against Simpson for the deaths of his ex-wife and her friend per the OnThisDay.com website.

February 16, 1931 - West Natrona, Pennsylvania - The University of Maryland’s great Tackle Dick “Lil Mo” Modzelewski was born. Dick was one of three brothers that had collegiate careers for the Terps. According to the NFF’s website bio on Lil Mo in his  three varsity years, Maryland had a 22-game unbeaten streak. In 1951 Maryland was ranked third in the nation and knocked off the top ranked team, Tennessee, in the Sugar Bowl, 28-13. Dick was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1993 after the National Football Foundation tallied their votes.

February 16, 1964 - London, Kentucky - Teel Bruner the outstanding safety from Centre College arrived into this life. Learn more about this Hall of Fame player from the college ranks by clicking his name.

February 16, 1972 - Detroit, Michigan - The powerful running back from the University of Notre Dame, Jerome Bettis celebrates his birthday. The St Louis Rams selected Jerome as their first round pick, and 10th overall in the 1993 NFL Draft. In just his first season as a Pro, Bettis received Rookie of the Year honors as was second in yardage in the League that year and third in total yards from scrimmage per the ProFootballHOF.com. A few years later he was famously traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers where he remained for the balance of his 13 year career. He led the Rams in rushing in three seasons and the Steelers in 8. When he retired he had amassed 13662 yards rushing which at the time listed him as the fifth highest total in NFL history.  He was an All-Pro in a couple of different seasons and played in 6 Pro Bowl games. Jerome Bettis was selected for enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015’s class of inductees.

The picture in the banner above is from the US Library of Congress' collection and was contributed by photographer F.J. Rentschler circa 1902 and is titled "Football scrimmage scene."