Football History

Born August 22, 1909, Mel Hein is often remembered as a football legend from the early decades of the sport. His name is synonymous with greatness, and his legacy continues to inspire players and fans alike. But behind the glitz and glamour of his success, Hein faced numerous challenges and obstacles throughout his career.

Despite the hurdles he encountered, Mel Hein's determination and passion for the game never wavered. From his humble beginnings to becoming an unstoppable force in football, Hein's journey is a testament to hard work and perseverance.

One of the key moments that defined Mel Hein's legacy in football history was his remarkable performance in crucial games. Whether it was a game-winning play or a record-breaking achievement, Hein always rose to the occasion and left a lasting impact on the sport.

In conclusion, Mel Hein's impact on the sport of football is undeniable. His legacy lives on through his incredible achievements and the inspiration he continues to provide to players of all generations. Mel Hein will always be remembered as a true icon of the game.

Before we wrap up, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more legendary football content. Join us in celebrating the legacy of Mel Hein and stay tuned for more stories of football greatness. Thank you for watching!

Hello, my football friends. This is Darin Hayes of the Pigskin Dispatch! Today, we're diving into the story of a man nicknamed "Cappy"—the legendary Mel Hein.

Melvin Jack Hein was Born August 22, 1909, at Redding in Shasta County, California, to native Californian parents of German ancestry: Herman Hein, an electrician at the local power plant, and his wife Charlotte. Before 1920, the family moved to Glacier in Whatcom County, Washington, where Herman found work as a lineman on transmission lines. They later moved to Fairhaven, where Mel attended High School and starred in basketball.

Mel Hein's gridiron journey began on the fields of Washington State University in the late 1920s. Back then, players weren't confined to one side of the ball. Hein dominated as a center, leading his team to the Rose Bowl in 1931. But his defensive prowess couldn't be ignored as he played what we would now call middle linebacker, and his extreme athleticism allowed him to defend man passes that flew his way.

This versatility caught the eye of the New York Giants, who drafted Hein in 1931. He didn't disappoint. Hein became a stalwart on both offense and defense, a true Ironman.

That's right! This wasn't a one-trick pony. Hein excelled as a center, anchoring the offensive line and calling plays. But he transformed into a formidable force on defense, often lining up at linebacker.

Hein's toughness was legendary. He played through injuries most would find unbearable. His only recorded injury in 25 years of football was a concussion and a broken nose…all in one game!

Talk about dedication! But Hein wasn't just tough; he was a leader. He captained the Giants for a decade and earned eight consecutive All-Pro selections as a center, an unheard-of feat at the time.

1938 was a particularly remarkable year. Hein became the first offensive lineman to be named the NFL's Most Valuable Player and led the Giants to a championship victory.

Throughout his 15-year career, Hein played in seven NFL championship games, winning two. He set a record for consecutive games played and was a constant presence on the field, a wall on offense, and a relentless defensive tackler.

Mel Hein's legacy goes beyond statistics and trophies. He embodied the spirit of the early NFL – a time of grit, determination, and sheer physical dominance. He pioneered, paving the way for future generations of offensive linemen who dared to dream of offensive glory.

After playing, Hein continued to contribute to the game as a coach and supervisor of officials. He was inducted into the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame, a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.

Mel Hein's nickname, "Old Indestructible," wasn't just about his toughness. It represented his dedication, versatility, and leadership. He was a true legend, and his story continues to inspire generations of football fans.

-Basic Bio of the Football Career of Mel Hein

Born August 22, 1909 - Mel Hein was a Washington State center who entered into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954. Hein was also a great pro player in the NFL for the New York Football Giants. He was also enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963 and was selected to the 50th, 75th and 100th Anniversary All-Time Teams. Hein was an All-Pro in 8 consecutive seasons from 1933 through 1940.

Per Wikipedia, Hein also served as the head football coach at Union College from 1943 to 1946 and as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Dons of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) from 1947 to 1948, the New York Yankees of the AAFC in 1949, the Los Angeles Rams in 1950, and the USC Trojans from 1951 to 1965. He was also the supervisor of officials for the American Football League from 1966 to 1969 and for the American Football Conference from 1970 to 1974.

Elmer Layden's football career can be summarized in three distinct chapters: his playing days as a bruising fullback for Notre Dame (1922-1925), As College Coach (1925-1941), and his later role as the executive of the NFL.

Layden had an amazing career in football, covering almost every aspect of the sport on multiple levels. He had an impact and made a name for himself at almost every stop along the way.

-Playing Career (1922-1925): A Dominant Force at Notre Dame

Layden was a crucial figure in Knute Rockne's legendary Notre Dame Fighting Irish teams of the early 1920s. Known for his power running and relentless determination, Layden earned the nickname "The Galloping Ghost" for his ability to break tackles and churn out yards. He played a pivotal role in Notre Dame's undefeated seasons in 1923 and 1924, contributing significantly to the program's rise to national prominence.

Layden played some spot promotional games professionally with the Notre Dame All-Stars exhibition team and even a game or two with some NFL-caliber squads, including joining his Four-Horseman mates on the Hartford Blues roster for one game in 1925.

-Coaching Career Blossoms

Elmer was the head football coach at Columbia College in Dubuque, Iowa, for the 1925–26 campaign, holding a winning record. However, he moved back towards the East, and from 1927 to 1933, he was head coach at Duquesne University.

In 1934, he returned to his Alma Mater to become the Athletic Director and head football coach of Notre Dame, posts that he held for seven seasons. Layden's Irish teams sported a respectable 47–13–3 record.

-A Legacy of Impact

Though his coaching career was brief, Layden's influence on the game is undeniable. His innovative "man in motion" concept paved the way for future offensive strategies. As a player, he was a crucial figure in Notre Dame's early dominance, impacting the program's history. Elmer Layden's career represents a unique blend of on-field prowess and strategic innovation, securing his place as a noteworthy figure in the annals of football history.

- Quick Summary of the Football life of Elmer Layden

Born May 4, 1903, in Davenport, Iowa, was the famous Notre Dame Fighting Irish fullback of 1922 to 1924, Elmer Layden was born. Elmer was one of the famed Four Horsemen of Notre Dame. He was not only a player, but also served as a coach, college athletics administrator, and professional sports executive. After his collegiate playing days he played pro ball in the original AFL in 1925 and in 1926 with three clubs, the Hartford Blues, the Brooklyn Horsemen, and the Rock Island Independents. He began his coaching career during the same two seasons at Columbia College in Dubuque, Iowa, now known as Loras College. Layden then served as the head coach at Duquesne University from 1927 to 1933 and at his alma mater, Notre Dame, from 1934 to 1940, where he also held the position of athletic director. From 1941 to 1946, Layden was the commissioner of the National Football League (NFL). He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame as a player in 1951.

Born May 21, 1940 - Bryan, Texas - James Saxton Jr. the great university of Texas halfback from 1959 to 1961, arrived via stork delivery. The NFF states that Saxton was one of the quickest players in college football history. Longhorn’s Coach Darrell Royal envisioned James, who was also referred to as the "Rabbit," as a running quarterback but moved him to running back in 1960. Saxton would go on to lead the team in rushing that season with 407 yards and an average of 5.4 yards per carry. Saxton thrived in the running back role and by the time his senior season rolled around he had tallied up nine touchdowns and was leading the high-scoring Longhorn attack with runs of 80, 79, 66, 56, 49 and 45 yards. A unanimous selection that year, he became the first running back in Longhorn history to become an All-American and finished third in the voting for the Heisman Trophy, trailing only Hall of Famers Ernie Davis (Syracuse) and Bob Ferguson (Ohio State). Oh and the way he completed his college career! It ended with a 12-7 victory over Ole Miss in the 1962 Cotton Bowl Classic as the pivotal play of the contest may have been a record setting 73-yard quick kick from Saxton to ice it. James Saxton Jr. was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1996 after the National Football Foundation tabulated their votes. James was chosen as the 146th pick of the St. Louis Cardinals in the NFL’s 1962 Draft and the 75th pick of the Dallas Texans of the AFL. He signed with Dallas, but after one season he decided to enter the banking business.

Eric Dickerson, a name synonymous with running back excellence, etched his legacy into the annals of football history with unparalleled dominance.

His journey from a standout college star to an NFL legend is a testament to his extraordinary talent and unwavering determination.  

At Southern Methodist University, Dickerson formed a dynamic duo with Craig James, powering the "Pony Express" offense. His explosive speed, elusive moves, and powerful running style made him a nightmare for defenders. As a college standout, he showcased his potential to become one of the greatest running backs of all time.  

Selected second overall by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1983 NFL Draft, Dickerson immediately made his presence felt. His rookie season was nothing short of sensational as he shattered records, capturing the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. The following year, he redefined the position, amassing an astonishing 2,105 rushing yards, a single-season record that still stands today. His ability to break tackles, find creases, and outrun defenders was unmatched.  

Dickerson's impact extended beyond statistics. His runs were often punctuated by highlight-reel plays, such as his iconic 99-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers. His presence transformed the Rams into a formidable offensive force. While his career spanned multiple teams, including the Indianapolis Colts, Los Angeles Raiders, and Atlanta Falcons, his peak years with the Rams remain etched in the minds of football fans.

With a career rushing total surpassing 13,000 yards and numerous accolades, including six Pro Bowl selections and induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Eric Dickerson's legacy is secure. His impact on the game, both as a player and as a standard-bearer for running backs, is immeasurable. He remains an inspiration for aspiring running backs and a cherished figure in the pantheon of football greats.  

Big Thanks to Pro-Football-Reference.com for supplying the stats and information.

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Angelo Bertelli, nicknamed the "Springfield Rifle," carved out a successful yet somewhat short-lived football career.

Born June 18, 1921, in West Springfield, Massachusetts, was the starting quarterback of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish from 1941 to 1943, Angelo Bertelli. Bertelli, the "Springfield Rifle," played in only six games during the 1943 season, yet won the Heisman Trophy per the National Football Foundation.

Just prior to the seventh game of the season Bertelli was called into service with the Marine Corps where he served as an officer at Iwo Jima and Guam. They were calling him the greatest passer in Notre Dame history as Bertelli completed 69 percent of his passes for 10 touchdowns. During that 1943 campaign The Irish averaged 43 points a game in the season's first six contests. Notre Dame finished 9-1 losing only to the Great Lakes Naval Station 19-14 in the final 30 seconds of play, yet they retained their number one ranking and the national championship.

Angelo was an instant sensation at Notre Dame as he was second in the Heisman voting as a sophomore tailback. When the Irish switched to the T formation in his junior season, Bertelli became the team's quarterback and won the first of his two All-American awards. In a game against Stanford he completed 10 consecutive passes and threw for four touchdowns. Angelo Bertelli was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1972 after the National Football Foundation tabulated their votes.

Following military service he played with the Los Angeles Dons and Chicago Rockets in the All-American Football Conference in 1946-1948.

Here's a breakdown of his accomplishments:

College Stardom (Notre Dame):

Played for the Fighting Irish from 1940-1943 (missed 1942 due to military service).
Led Notre Dame to a dominant stretch, losing only 3 games in his three seasons.
Won multiple awards:
All-American (1942, 1943)
Heisman Trophy Winner (1943) - Despite playing only 6 games due to military service, he impressed with a 69% completion rate and 10 touchdowns.
Known for his accuracy and leadership, Bertelli was considered one of the best passers in Notre Dame history at the time.
Professional Career (Limited by Injury):

Drafted 1st overall by the Boston Yanks (later renamed the New York Bulldogs) in the 1944 NFL Draft while still on active duty.
Played for the Los Angeles Dons (AAFC) and Chicago Rockets (AAFC) from 1946-1948.
Injuries, particularly to his knee, hampered his professional career and forced him to retire after just three seasons.
Legacy:

Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1972.
Remembered for his college dominance and leadership at Notre Dame despite a shortened professional career.

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Born August 21, 1954, in Columbus, Ohio, was the two time Heisman Trophy Winner from Ohio State University, Archie Griffin. Griffin is considered one of the greatest college football players of all time. Griffin won four Big Ten Conference titles with the Buckeyes and was the first player ever to start in four Rose Bowls. Selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 1976 NFL Draft.

Archie played seven seasons in the NFL, rushing for over 4,100 yards and scoring 32 touchdowns. He also played professionally for the Jacksonville Bulls of the United States Football League (USFL).He is forever enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame since 2000.

Archie Griffin is synonymous with Ohio State football. A native of Columbus, he became a Buckeye legend during his collegiate career. Renowned for his exceptional running ability, durability, and leadership, Griffin was the heart and soul of the Ohio State offense.

His most remarkable feat is being the only player in history to win the Heisman Trophy twice, in 1974 and 1975. This achievement solidified his status as one of the greatest college football players of all time. Beyond the individual accolades, Griffin was a pivotal part of Ohio State's success, leading the Buckeyes to four Big Ten championships and four Rose Bowl appearances.

With a combination of power, speed, and elusiveness, Griffin was a nightmare for opposing defenses. His consistent performance and durability made him a cornerstone of the Ohio State program. His legacy extends far beyond his statistical accomplishments, as he embodies the spirit and tradition of Buckeye football

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The Texas Longhorns football program boasts a rich history dating back to 1893, making it one of the oldest and most successful programs in college football. Here's a glimpse into its journey:

-Early Days and Establishing a Winning Tradition (1893-1925):
The program began modestly, fielding its first permanent team in 1893.
Early success came quickly, with the Longhorns recording undefeated seasons in 1900, 1914, 1918, and 1920.
Notable coaches of this era include John Heisman (1902-1903) and Dana X. Bible (1916-1932).

-Dominant Decades and the Rise of Legends (1926-1976):
The program experienced sustained success under coaches such as Clyde Littlefield (1934-1956) and Darrell Royal (1957-1976).
This era saw the emergence of legendary players like Davey O'Brien (Heisman Trophy winner in 1938), Bobby Layne (Heisman Trophy winner in 1950), and Tommy Nobis (Heisman Trophy runner-up in 1965).
The Longhorns won four national championships during this period: 1963, 1969, 1970, and 1975.

-Ups and Downs and the Quest for Restoration (1977-2009):
After Royal's departure, the program experienced a period of inconsistency, with only occasional flashes of brilliance.


However, the hiring of Fred Akers in 1977 and David McWilliams in 1987 brought some stability and success.
Notable players from this era include Earl Campbell (Heisman Trophy winner in 1977) and Ricky Williams (Heisman Trophy winner in 1998).
Despite individual triumphs, the Longhorns struggled to replicate the dominance of the Royal era.

-The Mack Brown Era and Returning to Glory (2010-2014):
Mack Brown's arrival in 2005 marked a turning point for the program.

He instilled discipline, recruited top talent, and implemented a winning culture.

The Longhorns won the 2005 national championship, their first in 30 years, with Vince Young leading the charge.

The program remained competitive throughout Brown's tenure, consistently ranking among the nation's best.

-Recent Years and the Search for New Heights (2015-Present):
Charlie Strong took over as head coach in 2015, but his tenure was marred by disappointing results.
Tom Herman replaced Strong in 2017, bringing renewed hope and optimism.

While the program has shown improvement under Herman, it has not yet reached the heights of the Mack Brown era.

The Longhorns continue their quest for national championship glory, seeking to add to their rich legacy in college football.

Head coach Steve Sarkisian has the program going in the right direction as it heads to the four-team playoff of the FCS in 2023 and to the SEC in 2024.

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The 1960 Ohio Bobcats football team etched their names in program history with a dominant and undefeated season. Led by the visionary Coach Bill Hess, these Bobcats soared to a perfect 10-0 record, captured the Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship, and shut out five of their ten opponents in a display of defensive prowess.


Key Characteristics of the Team:


Balanced Offense: The Bobcats boasted a diverse offensive attack, featuring a strong running game led by Jim Albert and a reliable passing attack spearheaded by Bob Babbitt.
Defensive Dominance: The Bobcats' defense was a brick wall, shutting out five opponents and allowing only an average of 3.4 points per game. Ron Curtis and Cliff Heffelfinger anchored a formidable defensive line, while Frank Richey's schemes kept opponents off balance.
Poise and Confidence: Under Coach Hess's leadership, the Bobcats displayed remarkable maturity and composure throughout the season. They rarely lost their focus and displayed a relentless determination to win every game.

Memorable Moments:


Thrilling Wins: The Bobcats' season was not without nail-biters. Narrow victories over Kent State and Bowling Green showcased their ability to overcome adversity and win close games.


Shutout Spree: Five shutouts, including impressive performances against rivals Miami (OH) and Marshall, solidified the Bobcats' defensive dominance and sent shockwaves through the MAC.


MAC Championship Triumph: The Bobcats capped their perfect season with a convincing victory over Western Michigan in the MAC Championship game, cementing their place as undisputed conference champions.

Legacy of the 1960 Bobcats:


Unmatched Record: The 1960 Bobcats remain the only team in Ohio University history to achieve a perfect season and hold the record for most wins in a single season.


National Recognition: The Bobcats were recognized as the national "small college" champions by the Associated Press, further solidifying their place among the elite.
Inspiration for Future Generations: The 1960 team's dedication, resilience, and success continue to inspire future Bobcats and serve as a benchmark for excellence in Ohio football history.

The 1960 Ohio Bobcats were more than just a winning team. They were a symbol of unwavering determination, defensive mastery, and offensive balance. Their perfect season and championship victory remain an indelible mark on Bobcat football history, a testament to the program's potential for greatness and a source of inspiration for all who wear the green and white.

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Western Kentucky Hilltoppers football might not be a household name nationwide, but their gridiron history boasts some truly epic moments. From stunning upsets to championship clinchers, here are a few of their biggest games ever:

Early Era Thrills (1942-1973):

1942 Rose Bowl Bid Rejection: Though not technically a game, the Hilltoppers' controversial exclusion from the 1942 Rose Bowl, despite an undefeated season, remains a burning memory and a rallying cry for fans.
1960 Ohio Valley Conference Championship: WKU's first-ever conference championship, a dominant 27-0 shutout over Murray State, cemented their dominance in the OVC and ignited a golden era.
1973 NCAA Division II National Championship Game: Although they fell short against Montana, the Hilltoppers' run to the championship game showcased their rising talent and Division II prowess.
Transition and Upsets (1974-2008):

1979 Upset of Kentucky: As an emerging FBS team, WKU stunned in-state rival Kentucky 20-10, proving their competitiveness against larger programs.
2002 NCAA Division II National Championship Game: Revenge was sweet as the Hilltoppers finally captured the National Championship, defeating Hampton 27-14 and sealing their legacy in the Division II ranks.
2003 Upset of Louisville: Another memorable David vs. Goliath moment, WKU's 27-24 victory over then-ranked No. 17 Louisville announced their arrival as a force in FBS.
Sun Belt Soaring (2009-Present):

2009 Sun Belt Conference Championship Game: Clinching their first Sun Belt title with a gritty 38-17 win over Troy marked a defining moment in WKU's transition to FBS success.
2015 Popeyes Bahamas Bowl: The Hilltoppers reached their first FBS bowl game and capped a 12-2 season with a thrilling 48-21 victory over Louisiana Tech.
2022 Famous Toastery Bowl: A dominant 41-13 win over Appalachian State in the 2022 Famous Toastery Bowl secured WKU's fourth Sun Belt Championship and showcased their current dominance in the conference.
This is just a taste of the biggest games in Hilltopper history. Each matchup represents a turning point, an upset, or a championship triumph, etching itself into the hearts of WKU fans and solidifying the program's place in college football lore.

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Despite its relatively young age, the Old Dominion Monarchs football program boasts a collection of thrilling moments that solidify their place as a rising force in the Sun Belt Conference and beyond. Here are some of the top highlights that paint a vibrant picture of their gridiron journey:


Early Wins and Rise to FBS (2010-2013):


2011 FCS Playoff Upset: Defeating James Madison, a national powerhouse in the FCS playoffs during their inaugural season, announced ODU's arrival on the national stage.
2012 FCS Quarterfinal Appearance: Reaching the FCS quarterfinals solidified the Monarchs' dominance in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) and fueled their transition to FBS in 2013.
2013 First FBS Victory: Toppling UMass in their first FBS game was a symbolic victory, marking their official entry into the big leagues.

Sun Belt Success and Memorable Matchups (2014-Present):


2016 Sun Belt Conference Championship Game Appearance: Battling Appalachian State in the championship game, ODU proved their competitiveness in the Sun Belt despite falling short.
2019 "Foreman Field Return" Victory: After the stadium's renovation, defeating Virginia Tech on opening day in front of a packed and roaring crowd sent shivers down spines and cemented the field's significance.
2022 Louisiana Tech Bowl Upset: Knocking off Louisiana Tech in the 2022 LendingTree Bowl, their first bowl win in program history, showcased their ability to play with and defeat formidable opponents.

Individual Brilliance and Record-Breaking Achievements:


Zach Pascal's Record-Breaking Season (2016): Wide receiver Zach Pascal torched the Sun Belt with 1,450 receiving yards, setting a program record and solidifying his status as a Monarchs legend.
Taylor Heinicke's 2013 Playoff Performance: Quarterback Taylor Heinicke's incredible play in the 2013 FCS playoffs etched his name in ODU lore, leading the Monarchs to impressive victories and national recognition.
Jeremy Cox's All-American Honors (2022): Linebacker Jeremy Cox earned All-American honors in 2022, becoming the first ODU player to achieve such recognition and highlighting the program's defensive prowess.


More Than Just Victories:


These top moments, while exhilarating, represent more than wins and losses. They reflect the Monarchs' unwavering spirit, ability to overcome challenges, and dedication to building a program that continues to write its history. From underdog victories to record-breaking feats, each highlight reinforces the belief that anything is possible for the Old Dominion Monarchs under the lights of Foreman Field.