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March 22

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March 22 Football History

In this episode of the Football History Headlines, we discuss players like Jimbo Covert, Ross Browner and Russell Maryland as well as many more HOF Legendary stories.


Football History Headlines of March 22

1989 - Pete Rozelle announces his retirement as NFL commissioner after 29 years. Rozelle if you remember was a surprise choice to become NFL Commissioner to replace the legendary Bert Bell who had very suddenly and tragically passed away at a Steelers versus Eagles game. Ironically two teams that he had formerly owned. Pete at the time was in the front office of the Los Angeles Rams and had recently completed deals like the blockbuster one that brought running back Ollie Matson to the Rams from the Cardinals for 11 players. Rozelle of course was eventually replaced by Paul Tagliabue.


Hall of Fame Birthdays for March 22

What Football Hall of Famers were born on this day? The date of March 22 is not just for football events, where we tell you what happened on the 22nd in football history, but we also tell you who was born on March 22 of people in the Football Halls of Fame. Enjoy some of the greatest pro and college football players with March 22 famous birthdays in history!


College HOF

"Billy Vessels Oklahoma Sooner's 1st Heisman Winner"

Last updated 📅 2025-03-22

Born March 22, 1931, in Cleveland, Oklahoma, was Billy Vessels, the fine halfback from the Oklahoma Sooners.

Image courtesy of "HEISMAN.COM"

Billy Vessels occupies a special place. A diminutive running back with a larger-than-life spirit, Vessels defied expectations and captured the 1952 Heisman Trophy, etching his name in college football history. This essay explores his remarkable journey from overcoming adversity to becoming a national icon.

Vessels faced hardship at a young age. Left behind by his family during the Great Depression, he spent his formative years in Cleveland, working odd jobs and displaying a natural athletic talent. This grit and determination would become his defining characteristics. There is so much more to explore, so check out our other stories of Oklahoma Sooners football history.

Vessels's athletic exploits on the high school gridiron caught the attention of Bud Wilkinson, the legendary Oklahoma coach. Despite concerns about Vessels's size (he was listed at 5'9"), Wilkinson saw a player with exceptional speed, agility, and a ferocious competitive spirit. Vessels arrived in Norman in 1950 and quickly earned his starting spot.

The 1951 season became Vessels's breakout year. He formed a dynamic backfield duo with fellow Sooner legend quarterback Glyn Milburn. Nicknamed "The Little Wonder," Vessels electrified audiences with his elusive running style, ability to break tackles, and knack for finding the end zone. In a thrilling game against Notre Dame, often called the "Game of the Century," Vessels's performance solidified his national reputation. Despite trailing late, he scored two touchdowns in the final minutes, securing a dramatic victory for Oklahoma.

The following year, Vessels cemented his legacy. Leading the Sooners to an undefeated season and a national championship, he captured the 1952 Heisman Trophy. At the time, he was the shortest player ever to win the award, a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.

Vessels's career was tragically cut short by a knee injury in his senior year. However, his impact on Oklahoma football and college football remains undeniable. He helped usher in an era of more open and exciting offensive play, inspiring future generations of smaller running backs.

Beyond his on-field heroics, Vessels's story is one of perseverance. He overcame a challenging upbringing and defied physical limitations to become a national champion and Heisman Trophy winner. His legacy continues to inspire athletes and fans, a reminder that grit, determination, and a love for the game can overcome any obstacle.

  • TITLE: Billy Vessels Oklahoma Sooner's 1st Heisman Winner
  • AWARD: Heisman 1952
  • DOB: March 22
  • EVENTDAY: March 22
  • FOOTBALL: Heisman Winner
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Billy Vessels
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Halfback
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Oklahoma Sooners
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 35
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame

College HOF

"Ross Browner Standout Defensive End"

In Warren, Ohio, Ross Browner, born on March 22, 1954, cemented a legacy as one of football's most dominant defensive forces. His journey, marked by collegiate triumph and professional grit, etched his name into the annals of the sport.  
  • TITLE: Ross Browner Standout Defensive End
  • DOB: March 22
  • EVENTDAY: March 22
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Ross Browner
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Defensive End
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Cincinnati Bengals, Green Bay Packers, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 89
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame
Browner is one of the most decorated college players in NCAA history, as he played defensive end for the Irish in 1973 and then from 1975 through 1977...

College HOF

"Russell Maryland Legendary Defensive Tackle"

Russell Maryland, born on March 22, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois, carved out a distinguished football career marked by collegiate dominance and professional success.  
  • TITLE: Russell Maryland Legendary Defensive Tackle
  • DOB: March 22
  • EVENTDAY: March 22
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Russell Maryland
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Defensive Line
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Dallas Cowboys, Miami Hurricanes
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 67
  • NFL JERSEY: Number 67
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame
He was a big part in the success of the Miami Hurricanes and the Dallas Cowboys NFL Titles. College Career Maryland's journey at the University of Miami began with a unique challenge...

Football Hall of Fame

"Jimbo Covert College and Pro Football Hall of Fame Offensive Lineman"

Jimbo Covert, born on March 22, 1960, in Conway, Pennsylvania, forged a legendary career as an offensive tackle, leaving an indelible mark on both college and professional football.  
  • TITLE: Jimbo Covert College and Pro Football Hall of Fame Offensive Lineman
  • DOB: March 22
  • EVENTDAY: March 22
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Jimbo Covert
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Tackle
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Chicago Bears, Pitt Panthers
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 75
  • NFL JERSEY: Number 74
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame, Pro Football Hall of Fame
The University of Pittsburgh's big offensive tackle, Jimbo Covert, later with the Chicago Bears, solidified his status as one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles...

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