February 28

In this episode of the Football History Headlines, we discuss the birthdays of Baltimore Colts gridiron legends like B. Smith, R. Berry along with a facts about them and more.

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 28, 1931 -  The Canadian Rugby Union officially adopts the forward pass

February ? , 1963 - Original NY Titans AFL owner Harry Wismer runs into financial difficulties midway through the 1962 season and is forced to sell the bankrupt team in February 1963 according to the Heritage Sports Art website. The AFL itself runs the franchise from November 1962 until the conclusion of the ’62 season, when it is bought by a group of 5 – spearheaded by Sonny Werblin – for $1,000,000. 

February 28, 2001 - NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue is named the Sports Industrialist of the Year by the Sports Business Daily.

February 28, 1933 - Corpus Christi, Texas -  The great pass catching end from Southern Methodist University, Raymond Berry celebrates his birth. For more on this legend, please click his name.

February 28, 1945 - Orange, Texas - Michigan State’s giant of a defensive end, Bubba Smith was born. Read more about the this top player by clicking his name.

February 28, 1976 - The stalwart tight end from the University of California, Tony Gonzalez was born. Tony was the 13th overall  pick in the 1997 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. The Pro Football Hall of Fame tells of how he was an impact player right from the onset and in his seventeen year career he never caught  less than 59 passes in a season. He played with KC for many seasons and then was traded to the Atlanta Falcons. His 1325 pass receptions ranked as the second most in NFL history when he retired and he still has the record with 16 consecutive seasons of over 50 receptions in a season.Tony Gonzalez received his Gold Jacket and posed for his bronze bust in Canton in 2019.

Happy Birthday to our everything IT hero Bill Noble who keeps this train rolling each and every day with his behind the scenes work. WE couldn't be doing this each and every day if it were not for Bill, so a Very Happy Birthday to you sir!

In honor of former Baltimore Colts HOF Raymond Berry's birthday, the picture in the banner above is from the US Library of Congress' collection and was contributed by photographer Alfred Harrell circa 1980 and is titled "Horseshoes."