June on the Gridiron: Milestones, Mergers, and Memories
June marks a fascinating period in American football history, a month that has witnessed both foundational shifts in the sport's structure and the celebration of legendary figures. From the groundbreaking merger of the NFL and AFL that shaped the modern game, to the birthdates of iconic players who left an indelible mark on the field, June is a month rich with pivotal moments and compelling narratives.
This series will delve into the key events that unfolded during the month of June, exploring the landmark decisions that altered the league's landscape and honoring the individuals whose contributions continue to resonate. Join us as we journey through June's gridiron chronicles, revisiting the mergers, milestones, and memories that have helped define the enduring legacy of American football.
College HOF
"Al Sparlis' Journey from UCLA to the NFL and Beyond"
Last updated 📅 2025-05-20
Discover the inspiring story of Al Sparlis, the UCLA standout whose football career was intertwined with courageous service in World War II and the Korean War.
Born on May 20, 1920, in Los Angeles, California, Albert Alexander "Al" Sparlis was a determined individual from a young age. Working his way through college at UCLA (1941-1942, 1945) as a guard, his burgeoning football career was significantly impacted by World War II...
EventDay
"May 20th: A Day of Milestones and Missed Opportunities in Football History"
May 20th weaves an intriguing thread through football history, marking both the arrival of influential figures and potential turning points. This date has seen the birth of individuals who would leave indelible marks on the sport, from Hall of Fame talents who electrified fans to coaching minds that shaped dynasties. It also hints at pivotal moments, like the early professional aspirations of players and the swirling rumors that often accompany leadership changes within storied programs.
Continuing this exploration of May 20th's impact, we see the emergence of players who defied expectations and coaches who left lasting legacies. The early professional landscape saw individuals like Frank Leahy, though his most significant impact wouldn't be with the Georgetown Hoyas but later with Notre Dame, where he built a legendary program. The coaching carousel, even in earlier eras, saw speculation and potential program revivals. On this same date, future Hall of Famer Leroy Kelly was born, a running back who would electrify the Cleveland Browns. Finally, May 20th also connects us to the journeys of multifaceted individuals who shaped the game in various ways. From the coaching brilliance of Bud Grant, who transitioned from a successful playing career in both football and basketball to lead the Minnesota Vikings, to the tenacious play of Tim Krumrie, a defensive force for the Cincinnati Bengals after his time with the Wisconsin Badgers...
College HOF
"Andy Wyant College Football Hall of Fame"
Last updated 📅 2025-05-20
Witness the remarkable endurance of Andy Wyant, a dominant force in the nascent stages of college football who played an astounding 73 consecutive games.
Born on May 20, 1867, in Kittanning, Pennsylvania, Andy Wyant was a formidable presence on the early American football landscape. Playing the demanding positions of center and guard during the era of single-platoon football, Wyant showcased exceptional durability and skill for both Bucknell University (1887-1891) and the University of Chicago (1892-1894) under the legendary coach Amos Alonzo Stagg...
College HOF
"Herman Wedemeyer: Squirmin' Herman or The Flyin' Hawaiian Who Conquered the Gridiron and Hollywood"
Last updated 📅 2025-05-20
Uncover the captivating story of Herman Wedemeyer, the elusive halfback from Hawaii who became a college football legend and a beloved television star.
Born on May 20, 1924, in the picturesque town of Hilo, Hawaii, Herman Wedemeyer, affectionately known as "Squirmin' Herman," left an indelible mark on American culture through his athletic prowess and later his acting career...
Football Hall of Fame
"Bud Grant: Great Athlete and Legendary Coach"
Last updated 📅 2025-05-20
May 20, 1927, marked the birth of a remarkable figure in the sports world: Bud Grant, born in Superior, Wisconsin. While many primarily remember him for his legendary coaching career in the Canadian Football League (CFL) and with the NFL's Minnesota Vikings, Grant's athletic prowess extended far beyond the sidelines. He was a gifted multi-sport athlete, even showcasing his talents in the National Basketball Association (NBA) before fully dedicating himself to football.
Despite being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 1950 NFL Draft, Grant initially deferred his NFL debut to pursue a career in professional basketball with the Minneapolis Lakers. This detour proved incredibly successful, as he played forward for the Lakers for two seasons (1949-1951), contributing to their NBA Championship victories in both years...
College HOF
"Tim Krumrie: The Badger Bulldog's Relentless Path to NFL Stardom"
Last updated 📅 2025-05-20
May 20, 1960 - Menomonie, Wisconsin - Tim Krumrie the Wisconsin Badgers defensive lineman from 1979 to 1982 celebrates his date of birth. Tim’s bio on the NFF’s website shares that when he finished up his collegiate career he was the All-Time leading tackler for the University of Wisconsin.
Krumrie was a consensus First Team All-American in 1981 as he registered 135 tackles that season, which is still Wisconsin’s single-season record for a defensive lineman. He is currently third on the school’s career tackles list with 444, and he owns the school record with 276 career solo tackles...
My Podcasts | "WE EXAMINE FRANK LEAHY COACHING RUMORS AS WELL AS SOME GREAT HOF PLAYERS LIKE WYANT & WEDEMEYER!"
- HASHTAGS: #May20 #FrankLeahy #Football
- EVENTDAY: May 20
- FOOTBALL NAME: Frank Leahy
- PODCAST: Football
Football History
"1949: Reagan Bolsters Philly's Dynasty"
Last updated 📅 2025-05-18
The headline in the Elmira, New York Star-Gazette on May 20, 1949, announcing "Reagan Inks Contract with Philly Eagles," marked a significant moment in the career of Frank Reagan, a seasoned player in the early days of the National Football League. This wasn't the future President Ronald Reagan, but Francis "Frank" Reagan, a talented safety and punter who had previously played for the New York Giants. The fact that a local newspaper in Elmira, far from the major media hubs, would highlight this signing speaks to the regional interest in professional football and the recognition of Reagan as a notable player.
Reagan's move to the Philadelphia Eagles was particularly noteworthy because the Eagles were the reigning NFL champions. Having secured the title in the 1948 season, they were a team looking to solidify their dominance...
Football History
"The Hoyas' Lost Hope: When Notre Dame Legend Leahy Tried to Reignite Georgetown Football"
Last updated 📅 2025-05-18
The Lincoln Journal Star's headline on May 20, 1957, "Georgetown, Leahy Back to Football," sparked a wave of optimism for the Georgetown University faithful and college football enthusiasts alike. Frank Leahy, a name synonymous with Notre Dame's golden era, had agreed to take the reins of the Hoyas' football program, which had been dormant since 1950. The decision by Georgetown to revive their gridiron ambitions and lure a coach of Leahy's stature signaled a serious intent to rekindle the football flame at the Washington D.C. institution. Leahy's legendary status, marked by multiple national championships with the Fighting Irish, brought instant credibility and excitement to the prospect of Georgetown once again fielding a competitive team.
The news reverberated beyond the Georgetown campus, capturing national attention due to Leahy's iconic presence in the sport. The anticipation was palpable; many envisioned a resurgence for the Hoyas under the guidance of one of the game's most successful leaders...
Football Hall of Fame
"Leroy Kelly: From Morgan State to Browns Legend & Hall of Fame"
Last updated 📅 2025-05-12
May 20, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Leroy Kelly rose from a multi-sport athlete at Morgan State University to become a dominant running back for the Cleveland Browns and a Pro Football Hall of Famer.
College Career: Kelly attended Morgan State University from 1960 to 1963, where he played under coach Earl Banks. Initially a quarterback, Banks moved Kelly to running back and also utilized him on defense as a defensive back...
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Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there!
Brought to you by Number 80 Productions and Pigskin Dispatch
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Sports Jersey Dispatch
If you like remembering players of the NFL by their numbers then you may also enjoy going uniform number by number in othre team sports as well. We have it for you on our other website in baseball, basketball, hockey and more on the
Sports Jersey Dispatch.
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