June 14

While the roar of fall Saturdays feels distant in mid-June, American football history is a sprawling narrative, with fascinating chapters penned on nearly every calendar day. This series delves into the often-overlooked events of June 14th, exploring how this specific date has contributed to the sport's rich and complex tapestry.

Beyond the headlines, June 14th has witnessed a surprising array of moments that shaped careers, teams, and the very fabric of football. From the birth of versatile legends like Tom Matte, who later earned a Super Bowl ring with the Baltimore Colts and famously played emergency quarterback, to administrative decisions like the NFL awarding Super Bowl XIV to Pasadena in 1977, we'll uncover the intriguing stories that prove football history isn't confined to the playing field. Join us as we explore the quiet yet significant ways this date has left its mark.

The Newspapers.com Football History Headline of the Day comes from the June 15, 2003 edition of The Missoulian in Missoula, Montana when it posted in bold:

Frankfurt Galaxy beat Rhein in World Bowl
Yes they were absolutely covering the June 14, 2003 story of the NFL Europe's Frankfurt Galaxy becoming the first team to win three World Bowls, defeating the Rhein Fire 35-16 to win World Bowl XI. Former San Diego State runner Jonas Lewis ran for a World Bowl record 126 yards in the contest. Lewis had played two years with the San Francisco 49ers after college before being waived by the club. "NFL Europe let me showcase my talent and show that I can still play football... in a big-time atmosphere," the game MVP explained in a post game interview. 

Lewis never did make back in the NFL but his great play on the big stage did allow him to get on the field once again in North American professional gridiron as he played for the CFL's Montreal Alouettes from 2004 to 2005