July 8

INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPH TITLE: Gridiron Milestones: Franchise Births, Hall of Fame Legacies, and a President's Football Journey

BULLET STATEMENT: This day marks the birth of NFL franchises like the Steelers and the fleeting Cincinnati Reds, celebrates the legacies of Hall of Famers Jack Lambert, John David Crow, and Pete Mauthe, and recalls the football background of a U.S. President.

KEYWORDS: NFL history, Cincinnati Reds football, Pittsburgh Steelers, Gerald Ford, O.J. Simpson, CFL expansion, Jack Lambert, John David Crow, Pete Mauthe, football legends, Hall of Fame, Heisman winner, pro football origins.

This day in July holds a rich tapestry of American football history, marking the inception of foundational NFL franchises, spotlighting the extraordinary careers of Hall of Fame players, and even touching upon significant legal and political intersections with the sport. It was on this date that the landscape of professional football expanded with the official formation of two key franchises: the Pittsburgh Steelers (originally known as the Pirates) and the short-lived Cincinnati Reds football team in 1933. While the Steelers would go on to become one of the NFL's most iconic and successful organizations, the Reds' tenure was brief, highlighting the challenges of early pro football viability.

Beyond franchise beginnings, this day also brings to mind the unique connection between football and the highest office in the land, with a notable mention of Gerald Ford. Before his presidency, Ford was a standout college football player at the University of Michigan, showcasing leadership and athletic prowess that would shape his character and later, his public service. The day also recalls more somber football-related events, such as the preliminary trial proceedings for O.J. Simpson, a stark reminder of how figures from the gridiron can become entangled in broader societal narratives.

The Canadian Football League's historical foray into the U.S. market is also relevant, with the Shreveport Pirates being part of that ambitious, though ultimately unsuccessful, expansion. This period in the CFL's history saw Canadian football attempt to gain a foothold south of the border, facing cultural and competitive hurdles.

Moreover, this day celebrates the birthdays of three distinct football legends:

Jack Lambert, born on this day, exemplified the fierce intensity of the Steel Curtain defense. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1974 from Kent State, this undersized linebacker became a Pro Football Hall of Famer, known for his relentless pursuit and intimidating presence. His career was integral to the Steelers' multiple Super Bowl triumphs.

Also born on this day, John David Crow, a versatile halfback, left a significant mark on both collegiate and professional football. A Heisman Trophy winner at Texas A&M, where he wore jersey number 44, Crow went on to play professionally for the Chicago Cardinals (later Arizona Cardinals) and the San Francisco 49ers, showcasing his all-around talent at multiple offensive positions, including wearing NFL jersey number 44. He is enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame.

Finally, Pete Mauthe, another College Football Hall of Famer born on this day, was a dominant fullback for the Penn State Nittany Lions in the early 20th century. Mauthe, who wore jersey number B4 (or similar historical variations for position, as precise numbers weren't universally standardized), was known for his powerful running and was a key figure in Penn State's successful teams of that era.

July 8, 1933 - The National Football League divided into two divisions for the first time, with the plan to have the winner of each division play for the NFL Title, according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Before this, the League crowned the team with the best record as Champions. This practice has often sparked controversy.

The St. Louis Gunners, an independent team in St. Louis, Missouri, played the Reds’ final three games of the set schedule.