Football History

The Steel Curtain Defense was a dominant force in the NFL during the 1970s. The D-line was in the foundation of the squad led by players like Mean Joe Greene, L.C. Greenwood, Ernie Holmes, and Dwight White, the defense was known for its ferocious pass rush and ability to shut down opposing offenses.

They won four Super Bowls during their reign of dominance, and their legacy as one of the greatest defenses in NFL history lives on to this day.

-Stifling Defense is Built Through the Draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers of the 1970s are synonymous with defensive dominance. At the heart of this dynasty lay the Steel Curtain, a unit that redefined defensive strategy and instilled fear in the hearts of opposing quarterbacks. This essay explores the rise of the Steel Curtain, its key components, and its lasting impact on the game of football.

-From Humble Beginnings to Defensive Greatness (1960s-1970s)

The Steelers of the 1960s were a team in flux, lacking a consistent winning identity. However, the arrival of head coach Chuck Noll in 1969 marked a turning point. Noll, a defensive mastermind, prioritized building a dominant unit. He drafted cornerstone players like defensive tackle Joe Greene and linebacker L.C. Greenwood, who formed the foundation of what would become the Steel Curtain. With the addition of savvy veterans like linebacker Jack Ham and safety Mike Wagner, the Steelers defense began to take shape.

- A Star-Studded Unit (1970s)

The Steel Curtain wasn't just about individual talent; it was a cohesive unit where every player understood their role. Greene, nicknamed "Mean Joe," anchored the defensive line with his unyielding presence. Greenwood, known for his power and speed, provided relentless pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Ham, the "Jack of All Trades," patrolled the middle of the field with exceptional tackling ability and play recognition skills. Wagner, the ball-hawking safety, terrorized quarterbacks with his interceptions and ability to shut down passing lanes. This core group, along with other talented contributors, formed a nearly impenetrable wall.

-A Dynasty Built on Defense (1970s)

The impact of the Steel Curtain was undeniable. The Steelers transformed from a struggling team to a perennial contender. Their defense became the cornerstone of four Super Bowl victories in six years (1974, 1975, 1979, 1980). Opposing offenses were left frustrated, unable to penetrate the Steel Curtain's suffocating pressure and zone coverage schemes. Their dominance revolutionized defensive strategy, showing teams the importance of a well-drilled, cohesive unit over individual superstars.

The echoes of "O-H-I-O" and the crimson tide of fans paint a vivid picture for even the most casual college football observer. But beneath the spectacle lies a rich tapestry woven over more than a century, one that tells the story of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Dive in, and prepare to be captivated by triumphs and tribulations, legendary figures, and moments that cemented the Buckeyes' place as gridiron giants.

Our journey begins not on the manicured turf of the Horseshoe, but in the nascent years of American football. In 1890, a group of students dared to challenge their counterparts at Michigan, igniting a rivalry that would become the fiercest in college football. We'll witness the birth of the iconic "Buckeye" nickname, a testament to the resilience and fighting spirit that would define the program.

We'll then travel through the early decades, encountering the legendary coach Chic Harley, who instilled the foundation of discipline and excellence that still resonates today. We'll relive the "Golden Age" of the 1940s, where Woody Hayes, "The General," built a dynasty, conquering national championships and etching his name forever in Buckeye lore.

Along the way, we'll meet iconic players who embodied the Buckeye spirit. From the electrifying Howard "Hopalong" Cassady to the stoic Archie Griffin, the first two-time Heisman winner, each generation offered its own heroes who left their mark on the field and in the hearts of fans.

But the journey isn't without its share of adversity. We'll delve into the lean years, the coaching controversies, and the moments that tested the very fabric of the program. Yet, through it all, the unwavering passion of the Buckeye Nation shone through, proving that the spirit of "Fight On" lives on even in the face of defeat.

As we approach the modern era, we'll explore the triumphs of Jim Tressel, the "King" who restored order and brought home another national title. We'll analyze the Urban Meyer era, a complex period marked by both unparalleled success and controversy. And most importantly, we'll turn our gaze to the future, examining the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the scarlet and gray.

The University of Pittsburgh Panthers football program boasts a rich and storied history, deeply woven into the fabric of Western Pennsylvania and the national landscape of college football. From humble beginnings to national championships and legendary figures, the Panthers have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with.

The program's roots trace back to 1889, making it one of the oldest in the nation. Early success came under the legendary coach Pop Warner, who led the Panthers to their first national championship in 1916. This golden era continued in 1918 with another national title, solidifying Pitt's reputation as a powerhouse.

Following Warner's departure, Pitt faced a period of transition but continued to produce talented players and coaches. Johnny Majors, a future Hall of Famer, led the Panthers to an undefeated season in 1976 and solidified himself as a fan favorite.

The 1980s and 1990s saw the emergence of another legendary figure, head coach Jackie Sherrill. Under his leadership, Pitt established itself as a consistent contender in the highly competitive Big East Conference. Sherrill's tenure culminated in a thrilling victory in the 1997 Fiesta Bowl, a game etched in the minds of many Pitt fans.

The turn of the millennium brought further chapters to the Panthers' story. Walt Harris, a defensive mastermind, led Pitt to an appearance in the 2004 BCS Championship game, showcasing the program's continued ability to compete at the highest level.

In recent years, Pitt has navigated the changing landscape of college football, joining the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in 2013. The program has continued to attract talented players and coaches, with Pat Narduzzi leading the team to consistent bowl appearances and victories over ranked opponents.

Beyond wins and losses, the Pitt Panthers program has produced numerous NFL players, including Hall of Famers Mike Ditka and Joe Greene. Additionally, the program has fostered a passionate and dedicated fanbase known for their unwavering support and unique traditions, like the iconic "turnover chain."

The history of Pitt Panthers football is a testament to the program's resilience, dedication to excellence, and unwavering commitment to its community. As the Panthers continue their journey, the legacy they have built inspires future generations of players, coaches, and fans to carry the torch forward and add their own chapters to the program's storied history.

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Our guest is historian and collector Jeff Payne, who joins us to discuss an incredible portion of his vintage gridiron collection concerning the 1948 Cleveland Browns. The 1948 Cleveland Browns cemented themselves in football history by achieving the seemingly impossible: an undefeated season. This summary details their dominant run:

Building the Team:

-Head coach Paul Brown continued to refine his squad after winning the previous two AAFC championships.

-Key additions included linebacker Alex Agase and halfbacks Ara Parseghian and Dub Jones.

Dominating the Regular Season:

-The Browns kicked off the season with a victory against the LA Dons and never looked back, winning all 14 regular season games.

-Their closest contests were two close wins against the San Francisco 49ers, who also finished with a strong record.

-The Browns offense averaged 27.8 points per game, the second-best in the league, while their defense held opponents to a league-low 13.6 points per game.

Securing the Championship:

-Finishing the season with a perfect 14-0 record, the Browns secured the Western Division title.

-They faced the Buffalo Bills, who had won the Eastern Division through a playoff in the AAFC Championship game.

-The Browns capped off their undefeated season by defeating the Bills 49-7, earning their third consecutive AAFC championship.

It's important to note that while the Browns' undefeated season is considered remarkable, it occurred in the AAFC, which merged with the NFL in 1950. The NFL does not officially recognize AAFC records, making the 1972 Miami Dolphins the only team in NFL history to complete an undefeated season.

However, the 1948 Cleveland Browns remain a legendary team, showcasing outstanding coaching, a well-rounded roster, and a dominant playing style that brought them perfection on the field.

Bonus stories in the Video
In the conversation with Jeff Payne, we chat about football-related stories outside the Browns. How about George Halas during wartime? Or Crazy Legs Hirsch connection to the AAFC? Or Johnny Unitas reason for wearing Black high-tops?

The Arkansas Razorbacks football program, a tale of passionate fans, gridiron battles, and moments etched in Hog lore, stretches back to 1894. Here's a glimpse into their Early Days with:

-The "Cardinals" era, with Latin professors as coaches and simple leather helmets.

-First coach John Futrall coined the "Razorback" nickname after a tough win against LSU.

-Struggles and inconsistency marked the early decades, with flashes of success under coaches like Hugo Bezdek.

The Golden years under legendary coach Frank Broyles, with 16 conference titles and 3 national championship appearances.


The SEC Challenge (1990s-Present):

-Transitioning to the SEC was tough, with initial struggles to reach previous heights.

-Coaching changes brought new strategies and philosophies, like Danny Jones' run-heavy approach and Houston Nutt's passionate leadership.

-Highs like the 1995 SEC West title and 2006 SEC Championship game appearance, mixed with challenges and rebuilding periods.


Modern Eras and New Hope (2010s-Present):

-Sam Pittman's arrival in 2020 signaled a renewed optimism with an emphasis on recruiting and physicality.

-Exciting victories over Texas and rival Missouri, as well as strong bowl performances, fueled excitement for the future.

-Razorbacks football remains deeply rooted in Arkansas culture, where Saturday becomes synonymous with cheering on the Hogs in Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

The first legal forward pass in football was thrown by Bradbury Robinson on September 5, 1906, in a game between Saint Louis University and Carroll College. Robinson was a quarterback for Saint Louis, and he threw the pass to Jack Schneider, who was a wide receiver. The pass was completed for a touchdown, and it helped Saint Louis win the game 22-0.

The forward pass was not originally allowed in football. The rules of the game at the time only allowed players to advance the ball by running or kicking. However, in 1905, there were a number of serious injuries and deaths in college football games. In response, President Theodore Roosevelt called for reforms to the game, and one of the reforms was to allow the forward pass.

Robinson's forward pass was a major turning point in the history of football. It opened up new possibilities for offense, and it made the game more exciting and unpredictable. The forward pass is now an essential part of the game, and it is responsible for many of the most memorable plays in football history.

Robinson was a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and he played college football at Saint Louis University from 1904 to 1907. He was a two-time All-American, and he led the nation in passing in 1906. After college, Robinson played professional football for the Milwaukee Badgers and the Chicago Cardinals. He retired from football in 1915.

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They say art imitates life, and this may be true in many cases. But could we also say life is imitated by our sports?

Conditioning football players to play the rugged game is nothing new but there have been multiple approaches and theories to do so and a multitude of drills. Our passion for pigskin history meets better fitness as we are being inspired to better health through studying the history of football conditioning.

So what are some of the roots of conditioning for football? In 2023 I spoke to Dr. Randall Balmer auhtor of the book Passion Plays.

Dr Randall Balmer told me in a 2023 interview, "I focus on the four major team sports in North America, that would be baseball, football, hockey, and basketball. And all four of those sports really develop for the most part, roughly from the middle of the 19th century to the middle of the 20th century. By that time, by the middle of the 20th century, those sports have more or less assumed their current form. But as these sports are developing in the 19th century, they develop against the background of the Industrial Revolution. And what's happening in America, North America, more generally, is that men in particular are beginning to work outside the home and outside the farm. They're no longer engaging in subsistence living. They're beginning to work in factories, textile mills, and so forth. And many of them also in sedentary office jobs. So there's a great deal of concern in the Anglo -American world, that is both in North America as well as back in Britain, that men are becoming too sedentary. That is, they're becoming, they're not getting outside enough. They're not engaging in athletics. They're becoming weak and even sisified. And a number of religious leaders are noticing that. And they, very cleverly, I think, try to combine religion, in this case Protestantism, with athleticism. And they come up with a movement that is known to historians as muscular Christianity. That is to say that we want to appeal to men, to be athletics, to be virile, and also to be in the churches. And one of the complaints is that the women have had charge of the church work long enough. And we need to find a way to lure men back to the faith and back to the churches. And part of the strategy for doing that was to combine religion with sports or with athletic endeavors. And probably the best example of that institutionally would be the YMCA, the Young Men's Christian Association, that provided both religion and YMCA's really were quite religious. They're not less so today, but in the beginning, that was at the core of the YMCA, to combine religion with recreation."

Wow the YMCA insturmental in bringing football along. Let's go back to last year when some thoughts that Timothy Brown of Football Archaeology had on the Y and early football.

Timothy Brown said on our Pigskin Dispatch program once that, "So, different kinds of organizations have influenced football's growth and one that is vastly underestimated, I think, by many is the YMCA. And so it came about in a couple of different ways. One is that, back in, you know, one of the arguments for playing football and justification for football was the Muscular Christianity Movement that came out of England. And so it's just kind of this, this belief in the mind and the body and the spirit and that, you know, football was a way to meld, you know, that all three of them came together in football and provided good training for young men who needed to be hardy"

The YMCA among other organizations are beating the drum towards young guys getting active in sports like football you say?

The Springfield Mass YMCA school mentioned was indeed a catalyst for football innovation. Famous Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg went there right after playing on the gridiron for Walter Camp at Yale. Stagg worked with another famous sports pioneer on a training device for football. Jennifer Taylor Hall in a 2021 interview about her book Amos Alonzo Stagg Football's Man in Motion shared some great information about the game of basketball being developed initially as a training method for football and baseball players during the winter offseason.

Dr. John Behee added that Fielding H. Yost of Michigan would train players in the off season along the shores of Lake Huron. Conditioning and nutrition were important elements to football in the early twentieth century.

-Disclaimer:

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any existing health conditions. They can help you determine if this program is safe and appropriate for you and create a personalized plan to reach your fitness goals.

-The History of the Burpee

The burpee, a unique full-body exercise, is often referred to as an 'up-down'. It combines a squat thrust with an additional standing jump between repetitions. What's fascinating is that while it's primarily anaerobic when performed individually, it can transition into an aerobic exercise when strung together in rapid succession over longer durations.

Contrary to the quirky theory many of us might have had, the origin of the name 'burpee 'Is not related to bodily function. It's a fascinating story that's quite different from what we might expect.

The burpee exercise, developed by Royal Huddleston Burpee Sr., a US physiologist, has its roots in 1939. Burpee, who earned his PhD in applied physiology from Teachers College, Columbia University, in 1940, developed it as part of his doctoral thesis. This simple yet challenging exercise was a quick and easy fitness test to assess agility and coordination.

As a side note, it returns to the belch history; Dictionary.com states, "The first records of the word burp come from around 1930. It is an Americanism that is meant to imitate the sound a person makes when they burp." If true, could we connect Mr. Burpee and his exercise to the slang term "burp?"

-Oklahoma Drill History

The Oklahoma drill, a staple of American football training camps, is synonymous with intense competition and the development of elite linemen. Its origins trace back to a single coach and his innovative vision for defensive dominance.

The Visionary: Bud Wilkinson and the 5-2 Defense

In the 1940s, Bud Wilkinson, the head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners, introduced a groundbreaking defensive strategy—the 5-2 defense (a precursor to the modern 3-4). This system relied heavily on three interior linemen who could control multiple gaps and swiftly shed blocks to disrupt plays. However, traditional drills failed to replicate the specific demands of this aggressive style, necessitating the creation of a new training method.

The Drill Emerges: Refining Technique in Confined Chaos

Wilkinson, known for his meticulous approach, needed a way to train his defensive linemen for the unique situations they'd encounter in the 5-2. Thus, the Oklahoma drill was born. It pitted offensive and defensive linemen head-to-head in a confined space, surrounded by tackling dummies. A ball carrier would enter the scene, forcing the defender to shed the block and make a play. This intense, full-contact environment replicated the chaos and quick reactions needed in a real game.

A Legacy of Competition and Grit

The Oklahoma drill became a cornerstone of the Sooners' training regimen, and its effectiveness spread throughout football. It wasn't just about developing defensive technique; it fostered a culture of competition and grit, prized qualities for any successful football team.

-Big Thanks to Our Guest Experts

Big Thanks to our guests Coach David Hashemi of Southern Connecticut University, and

Passion Plays: How Religion Shaped Sports in North America

Timothy Brown of Football Archaeology

Amos Alonzo Stagg: College Football's Man in Motion

Coach Yost:Michigan's Tradition Maker by Dr. John Behee

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The All-American Football Conference lasted only four seasons, but its impact on professional football was enormous. One big reason is the success of the league's top team, the Cleveland Browns.

Pro football historian George Bozeka recently sat down with us in the Pigpen to tell us about the fascinating origin and history of the Browns in this era. George is the Executive Director of the Professional Football Researchers Association (PFRA).

Arch Ward, the Chicago Tribune editor who was the organizer of the AAFC, saw an opportunity in Cleveland for a pro football franchise after the Cleveland Rams won the NFL Title in 1945 and then abruptly left the city for the West Coast. It was a historic and controversial move, as no other NFL franchise was within a couple thousand miles at the time. Also, the Rams were the first American major league sports franchise on the Pacific Coast. George Bozeka tells us that Rams owner Dan Reeves moved not only for the football opportunities but also for some of his other business ventures.

Ward contacted Arthur "Mickey" McBride, an Eastern Ohio businessman with his hands in everything from real estate to a taxi company in Cleveland. McBride also ventured into a wire service that provided horse racing results to people who needed to know the results, such as bookies. McBride's involvement in this side hustle placed him in the public eye even before he bought the Cleveland franchise. This interest made a part of McBride's persona a bit shady as it put him in the company of organized crime figures who did not continuously operate within the fine lines of the law. But despite this, McBride had a passion for Northeast Ohio, the finances to cover the costs, and a strong desire to win at football. He also knew he needed people with good football knowledge and organization to run his franchise.

Mickey McBride officially joined the All-American Football Conference owners in 1944 by buying the rights to the new Cleveland franchise. Yes, he needed a coach to organize his team and wanted a good one to start things off right. Author Andy Piascik, in his book, The Best Show in Football: The 1946–1955 Cleveland Browns, says that McBride and Leahy even had a handshake deal made for the Fighting Irish coach to leave his very successful program to be the sideline boss of the Cleveland franchise. When Notre Dame officials got wind of the deal, they took action. They appealed to McBride and his loyalty to the school, as McBride's son was an alumnus. Soon, they persuaded Leahy to stay and McBride to make another choice as a coach for his new team.

Fun facts about how the size of the football field has changed in size, shape, and dimensions.

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The 1972 Miami Dolphins weren't just another football team but a phenomenon. This season wasn't just about winning; it was about flawless execution, dominant defense, and an unwavering commitment to perfection. It's a journey worth revisiting, a story in NFL history as the league's only undefeated and untied season.

A Team Forged in Adversity:

The Dolphins were floundering just a few years prior, finishing with a dismal 1-13 record in 1967. However, under the leadership of head coach Don Shula, a culture of discipline, hard work, and unwavering dedication took root. Key acquisitions like Larry Csonka, Jim Kiick, and Bob Griese bolstered the offense, while the "No-Name Defense" became a force to be reckoned with.

Dominating Every Week:

Their 17-0 record speaks volumes, but the details paint an even clearer picture. The Dolphins outscored their opponents by a staggering 385-171, boasting the league's best offense and defense. The rushing attack, featuring Csonka and Kiick, averaged over 200 yards per game, leaving defenses gasping for air. The defense, led by Nick Buoniconti and Bill Stanfill, allowed a mere 12.2 points per game, shutting down even the most potent offenses.

The injury forced Griese to the sidelines for a good portion of the year, but veteran signal-caller Earl Morrall was up to the challenge to cement his legacy.

From Close Calls to Championship Glory:

While the scoreboards screamed dominance, the journey could have been smoother sailing. Close calls against the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Colts tested their mettle, showcasing their composure under pressure. However, a late-season injury to Griese forced Earl Morrall to step in, proving his veteran leadership and securing the team's playoff berth.

The playoffs were a mere formality. The Dolphins dismantled the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and finally, the Washington Redskins in Super Bowl VII, culminating their historic season with a resounding 14-7 victory.

Beyond the Trophy: A Legacy of Excellence:

The 1972 Dolphins achieved the seemingly impossible, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends statistics and trophies. They proved the power of teamwork, discipline, and relentless pursuit of perfection. Their story inspires athletes and teams across all sports, reminding them that anything is possible with unwavering dedication and a shared vision.

The 1972 Miami Dolphins remain the only team to go undefeated and win the Super Bowl in NFL history.