Football History

Born on April 12, 1966, in Hollywood, Florida, Lorenzo White became a dominant running back at Michigan State University. His remarkable talent and record-breaking performances solidified his place as a Spartan legend.  

-College Career

Lorenzo White was the cornerstone of the Michigan State Spartans' offense from 1984 to 1987. While in East Lansing, White etched his name into the school and Big Ten Conference record books. He remains the Spartans' all-time leading rusher, a testament to his consistent excellence and prolific output. According to the National Football Foundation, White holds nearly every significant Michigan State career rushing record, including 1,082 rushing attempts, 4,887 rushing yards, 43 rushing touchdowns, and an impressive 23 100-yard rushing games. After his collegiate career, his 4,887 rushing yards stood as the second-most in Big Ten history and still rank among the top ten. White also boasts two of the top three single-game rushing performances in Spartans history, highlighted by a career-best 292 yards against Indiana in 1987. He spearheaded the Spartans' charge to a Big Ten title in 1987, earning them a coveted Rose Bowl berth against USC. In his final collegiate game, White delivered a memorable performance, rushing for 113 yards and two touchdowns in a victory over No. 16 USC, helping Michigan State secure a final No. 8 national ranking. His outstanding college career was recognized with unanimous First Team All-American honors in 1985 and consensus First Team All-American accolades in 1987. He also finished fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting in both of those remarkable seasons.  

-Road to the Pro Game

White's exceptional collegiate achievements made him a highly sought-after prospect for the National Football League. In the 1988 NFL Draft, the Houston Oilers selected him in the first round, signaling the beginning of his professional career.  

-Football Legacy

Lorenzo White's football legacy is firmly rooted in his record-shattering career at Michigan State. His durability, power, and ability to consistently gain yardage made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He single-handedly carried the Spartans' offense for much of his tenure and led them to significant success, including a Big Ten Championship and a Rose Bowl victory. His numerous rushing records at Michigan State stand as a testament to his dominance and impact on the program. While his professional career with the Houston Oilers (seven seasons, including a Pro Bowl selection in 1992) and a final season with the Cleveland Browns (1995) was also notable, it is his remarkable accomplishments in the green and white of Michigan State that truly define his enduring football legacy. The College Football Hall of Fame enshrined his collegiate achievements with a display in his honor in 2019, further solidifying his place among the game's all-time greats.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Michigan State Spartans All-Time Leading Rusher (4,887 yards)  

-Michigan State Career Rushing Attempts Leader (1,082)

-Michigan State Career Rushing Touchdowns Leader (43)

-Michigan State Career 100-Yard Rushing Games Leader (23)

-Two-time First Team All-American (Unanimous in 1985, Consensus in 1987)  

-Two-time Heisman Trophy Finalist (4th in 1985 and 1987)  

-Big Ten Champion (1987)  

-Rose Bowl Champion (1988)  

-First Round NFL Draft Pick (1988, Houston Oilers)  

-Pro Bowl Selection (1992)  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2019)

April 11, 1962, in Ames, Iowa, marked the birth of Terry Hoage, a dominant safety who became a legendary figure for the University of Georgia Bulldogs from 1980 to 1983. His exceptional playmaking ability was evident early in his career, as highlighted by the National Football Foundation. In the 1981 Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame, Hoage blocked a crucial field goal attempt, contributing significantly to Georgia's victory, undefeated 12-0 season, and national championship title.  

-College Career

Hoage's impact on the Georgia defense was profound. As a sophomore in 1981, he established himself as a key playmaker. His junior season in 1982 was nothing short of spectacular, as he led the entire nation with an astounding 12 pass interceptions. This remarkable performance earned him his second All-America selection, alongside his first Academic All-America award, showcasing his excellence both on and off the field. His senior year in 1983 was equally impressive, garnering him consensus All-America honors for the second time and his second Academic All-America award, as well as his third All-SEC academic selection. He was also named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year for the second time that season. With Hoage anchoring the defensive backfield, the Bulldogs amassed an incredible 43-4-1 record, the best among all major division teams during his tenure.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Terry Hoage's stellar college career naturally led him to the professional ranks. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 1984 NFL Draft. Over a successful decade-long NFL career, Hoage played for several teams, including the New Orleans Saints (1984-1986), the Philadelphia Eagles (1987-1989), the Washington Redskins (1990-1993), and the Arizona Cardinals (1994). He was a key contributor to the Redskins' Super Bowl XXVI victory.  

-Football Legacy

Terry Hoage's football legacy is defined by his exceptional collegiate career at Georgia, where he set a standard for defensive excellence and academic achievement. His playmaking ability, exemplified by his national-leading interception total and crucial blocked field goal, was instrumental in the Bulldogs' national championship run. His consistent All-America selections, coupled with his multiple Academic All-America awards, underscore his commitment to both athletic and scholastic pursuits. The NCAA recognized his all-around excellence with a prestigious Big Five Award, given to the nation's top five outstanding athletes. Further cementing his legendary status, the SEC named him to its 25-year team (1961-85), and the Walter Camp Foundation honored him on its all-century team. His indelible contributions to college football were celebrated with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. His successful professional career further solidified his reputation as an elite defensive back.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-1981 Sugar Bowl National Championship  

-1982 NCAA Interceptions Leader (12)

-Two-Time All-America Selection (1982, 1983)  

-Two-Time Consensus All-America Selection (1983)  

-Two-Time Academic All-America Selection (1982, 1983)  

-Three-Time All-SEC Academic Selection

-Two-Time SEC Defensive Player of the Year

-NCAA Big Five Award Winner

-SEC 25-Year Team (1961-85) Selection  

-Walter Camp Foundation All-Century Team Selection

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame (2000)

-Super Bowl XXVI Champion (Washington Redskins)

NFL Teams: New Orleans Saints (1984-1986), Philadelphia Eagles (1987-1989), Washington Redskins (1990-1993), Arizona Cardinals (1994)

April 15, 1947, in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, marked the arrival of Theodore "Ted" Kwalick, a transformative figure in the evolution of the tight end position in football, both at Penn State and in the professional ranks.  

-College Career

Ted Kwalick's arrival at Penn State in 1966 coincided with the burgeoning importance of the tight end in modern football offenses. Standing at an imposing 6'4" and weighing 225 pounds, Kwalick possessed a rare combination of size, athleticism, and skill. As a tight end for the Nittany Lions from 1966 to 1968, he excelled as both a powerful blocker and a gifted receiver. Assistant coach Bob Phillips aptly noted his exceptional hands and catching ability, while head coach Joe Paterno famously declared him "what God had in mind when he made a football player." Kwalick's impact was immediate and significant, making him a cornerstone of the Penn State offense. He earned All-American honors in 1967 and was a unanimous All-American selection in 1968, solidifying his status as one of the nation's premier collegiate players.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Kwalick's exceptional college performance naturally paved the way for a successful professional career. He was drafted in the first round of the 1969 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers. In the NFL, Kwalick continued to showcase his versatility and talent as a dominant tight end. He spent several productive seasons with the 49ers, becoming a key offensive weapon known for his reliable hands, blocking prowess, and ability to gain significant yardage after the catch. Later in his career, he joined the Oakland Raiders, further demonstrating his enduring skill and contributing to their success. His transition from a college standout to a respected NFL player underscored his exceptional abilities and the impact he had on the game at both levels.  

-Football Legacy

Ted Kwalick's football legacy is defined by his pioneering role in elevating the tight end position. His combination of blocking strength and receiving finesse set a new standard for the position, influencing how teams utilized their tight ends in both the college and professional ranks. His success at Penn State helped solidify the program's national prominence, and his subsequent achievements in the NFL further cemented his reputation as an exceptional talent. Kwalick's impact extended beyond his individual statistics; he embodied the ideal of a complete tight end, capable of contributing in all facets of the game. His influence on the position is still felt today, as tight ends are now routinely expected to be both effective blockers and dynamic receivers.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

Ted Kwalick's stellar career was marked by numerous accolades. He was a consensus All-American in 1968. His collegiate achievements were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989, a testament to his lasting impact on the college game. In his nine seasons in the NFL, playing for the San Francisco 49ers (1969-1974) and the Oakland Raiders (1975-1977), Kwalick established himself as a premier tight end. While specific career statistics may vary across sources, he was consistently a reliable target, amassing significant receptions and yardage throughout his professional tenure. His consistent performance and recognition as one of the top tight ends of his era underscore his significant contributions to professional football.  

April 8, 1967, in Terre Haute, Indiana, marked the birth of Anthony Thompson, a running back whose tenacity and talent would leave an indelible mark on Indiana University football and beyond. Even legendary Iowa coach Hayden Fry recognized his exceptional abilities: "Anthony Thompson is by far the best running back we’ve seen in years and years and years."  

-College Career:

Thompson's career at Indiana University was nothing short of spectacular. Despite a delayed start to his freshman season in 1986 due to a deep thigh bruise that kept him out of the first six weeks of practice, he burst onto the scene in his first start in week eight, setting a Big Ten freshman rushing record with 207 yards. He continued his impressive performance in his sophomore year, surpassing 100 rushing yards in five games. His junior season in 1988 saw him achieve consensus All-American honors and finish ninth in the Heisman Trophy voting, while ranking third nationally in rushing and second in scoring with 24 touchdowns. Thompson also proved to be a versatile threat, showcasing his ability to catch passes out of the backfield. His senior campaign in 1989 was truly remarkable. He narrowly missed winning the Heisman Trophy in a historically close vote but secured the Maxwell and Camp Awards, recognizing him as the nation's top player. That year, he led the nation in both rushing and scoring and ranked fourth in all-purpose yardage. By the end of his collegiate career, Thompson held the all-time Division I record for touchdowns. Indiana University now honors its most valuable player with the Anthony Thompson MVP Award.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

While the provided information doesn't explicitly detail Thompson's professional career, his dominant college performance undoubtedly made him a highly sought-after prospect for the NFL. Further research would be needed to specify the professional teams he played for and the details of his NFL career.

-Football Legacy:

Anthony Thompson's legacy extends far beyond his impressive statistics. He is remembered as a powerful and determined runner who consistently defied expectations. His record-breaking performances and numerous accolades cemented his place as one of the greatest players in Indiana University football history. The fact that the university's MVP award bears his name speaks volumes about the impact he had on the program. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2007 further solidified his national recognition and lasting impact on the sport.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-Big Ten Freshman Rushing Record (207 yards)

-Consensus All-American (1988)

-Heisman Trophy Finalist (1989)

-Maxwell Award (1989)

-Camp Award (1989)

-Led NCAA in Rushing (1989)

-Led NCAA in Scoring (1989)

-Fourth in NCAA All-Purpose Yardage (1989)

-All-Time Division I Record for Touchdowns (at the end of his college career)

-Indiana University MVP Award is named in his honor

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2007)

Jon Arnett, born on April 20, 1935, in Los Angeles, California, was a dynamic and versatile halfback whose electrifying performances earned him the nickname "Jaguar Jon." He left an indelible mark on both college and professional football.

-College Career

Arnett's college career at the University of Southern California (USC) from 1954 to 1956 was nothing short of spectacular. He was a true all-around threat, excelling as a runner, punt returner, and even passer. In 1954, he led the Trojans in rushing with 601 yards, scored 55 points, recorded 129 punt return yards, and intercepted three passes. He also completed 17 passes for 164 yards.

In 1955, Arnett continued his dominance, leading USC in multiple categories, including rushing, total offense, and punt return yardage. As a senior in 1956, he rushed for 625 yards and averaged an impressive 6.3 yards per carry, also leading the team in scoring. He won the Voit Trophy as the best player on the Pacific Coast in both 1955 and 1956. Arnett was also a track athlete at USC.

-Road to the Pro Game

Arnett's exceptional college career paved the way for a successful professional football journey. The Los Angeles Rams selected him with the second overall pick in the 1957 NFL Draft, ahead of the legendary Jim Brown.

-Football Legacy

Arnett's football legacy is defined by his electrifying play, versatility, and impact at both the college and professional levels. At USC, he was one of the most exciting and productive players in the nation. In the NFL, he was a dynamic player for the Rams and the Chicago Bears, showcasing his speed, agility, and playmaking ability.

Arnett's exciting play extended into his professional career, where he was known for his speed, agility, and big-play ability. He became a Pro Bowler in his first five seasons.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2001)

-First-team All-American (1955)

-Second-team All-American (1956)

-Two-time Voit Trophy winner (1955, 1956)

-Two-time First-team All-PCC (1955, 1956)

-Five-time Pro Bowl selection

-All-Pro selection

Arnett's college stats include leading USC in multiple categories, including rushing, scoring, and punt returns. In his NFL career, he rushed for 3,833 yards, had 2,290 receiving yards, and over 3,000 kick return yards. He was also a prolific punt returner.

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Born May 4, 1938, Hampton, Arkansas, was Wayne Harris who played center for Arkansas from 1958 to 1960. The NFF states that Wayne was  an excellent blocker on offense and a fierce tackler on defense keeping his on the field most of the game as a two-way player. A First Team All-America selection, Harris set an Arkansas single-season record for tackles with 174 in 1960.

A two-time First Team All-Conference selection, he was named Southwest Conference Player of the Year in 1960.  Harris was nicknamed "Thumper" for his hard hits, and the Arkansas coaches now honor the best defensive player with the Thumper Award. A true scholar-athlete, Harris was named First Team Academic All-America in 1959 and twice earned First Team Academic All-Conference honors.

Wayne Harris was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004 after the National Football Foundation tabulated their votes. He was further honored in 1976 when the Canadian Football Hall of Fame inducted him for his play with the Calgary Stampeders.

Hub Bechtol was born on April 20, 1926, in Amarillo, Texas, and became a legendary figure in Texas football history. His college career was marked by exceptional talent and accolades, and he left a lasting legacy both on and off the field.

-College Career

Bechtol's college football journey began at Texas Tech in 1943. However, his time there was brief, as he joined the Navy's V-12 program. This program led him to the University of Texas, where he played from 1944 to 1946.

At Texas, Bechtol's career flourished. He quickly established himself as a premier end, earning All-America honors in 1944. His exceptional skills and performance led to him being named to multiple All-America squads in 1945 and 1946. This achievement made him the first player from the Southwest Conference to be a three-time All-American.

Bechtol's success was greatly aided by his connection with Hall of Fame quarterback Bobby Layne, and he played under the guidance of Hall of Fame coach Dana Bible. One of the most memorable games of his college career was the 1946 Cotton Bowl, where Texas defeated Missouri 40-27. In this game, Layne completed 11 passes, with Bechtol catching nine of them.

-Road to the Pro Game

Bechtol was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1st round of the 1947 NFL Draft, 5th overall. He was also drafted by the Colts in the 2nd round of the 1947 AAFC Draft, 9th overall. He signed with the Colts in 1947.

-Football Legacy

Bechtol's football legacy is cemented in his outstanding college career. His achievements at Texas, including his All-American honors and his role in the successful Longhorns teams of the mid-1940s, established him as one of the greatest players in the program's history. He was also a solid defensive player. His contributions to college football were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Beyond his playing career, Bechtol remained involved in the Austin community.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1991)

-Consensus All-American (1945, 1946)

-First-team All-American (1944)

-Cotton Bowl Defensive MVP (1946)

-All-Southwest Conference (1944-1946)

Bechtol also lettered twice in basketball while at Texas.

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Bennie Oosterbaan's name is synonymous with excellence at the University of Michigan. Not only was he a legendary player, but he also went on to coach the Wolverines to glory. To understand Oosterbaan's impact, we must explore both facets of his football career.

On the field, Oosterbaan was a force to be reckoned with. Ultimately, he led the Big Ten in scoring in 1925, showcasing his offensive prowess. He earned three All-American selections and established himself as a critical contributor to Michigan's success, playing alongside another legend, quarterback Benny Friedman. Oosterbaan's athleticism was wider than football. He was a three-time letterman in basketball, leading the Big Ten in scoring in 1928, and a talented baseball player, leading the conference in batting average the same year. This versatility solidified his reputation as one of the most gifted athletes in college sports history.

After graduation, Oosterbaan chose to stay at Michigan, not as a player, but as a coach. He began his journey as an assistant, learning the ropes under the legendary Fritz Crisler. Oosterbaan's dedication and strategic mind were evident. In 1948, he was tasked with succeeding Crisler, who had just led Michigan to an undefeated season and a national championship.

Oosterbaan's debut as head coach was nothing short of spectacular. He led the 1948 team, known as the "Goofus Galore" squad, to another undefeated season and a national championship. He became the only coach in NCAA history to achieve this feat in his first year. He built a successful coaching career, winning three Big Ten titles and finishing in the top 20 in the polls most years.

However, Oosterbaan was known for more than wins and losses. He emphasized discipline, sportsmanship, and character development in his players. His quiet leadership style, emphasizing "poise" over yelling and screaming, earned him the respect and loyalty of his teams. He believed in his players and empowered them to excel on and off the field.

Bennie Oosterbaan's legacy extends far beyond wins and championships. He is a symbol of dedication, athletic prowess, and exceptional leadership. He was a role model for generations of players and coaches, proving that success can be achieved through hard work, humility, and a genuine love for the game. His name will forever be etched in the annals of Michigan football history as a true legend.

Born April 24, 1918, was a legendary football player and executive Fred Gehrke. Fred was on the Cleveland Rams team that won the NFL Championship in 1945. Fred Gehrke went to college and suited up for the Utah Utes and also went on and played in the NFL for the Cleveland / Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Cardinals from 1940 through 1950.

Fred started a trend that we can appreciate today.To boost team morale, Gehrke designed and painted the Los Angeles Rams logo in 1948, which was the first painted on the helmets of an NFL team.

-Frequently Asked Question

-Who was the first to paint a logo on a helmet? The answer in the pro game is Fred Gehrke of the Rams in 1948, check out more about it in the story: First Helmet Logo.

The records and stats of the Akron Zips football program are housed and presented quite well on the College Football Reference site.

Sports-Reference is your one-stop shop for college football history and stats. Dive into team and player records, explore past seasons, track rankings, and relive iconic games. Find Heisman winners, conference champs, and all-time leaders. From scores and schedules to rosters and recruiting, delve into the numbers that tell the story of college football's past, present, and future. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual enthusiast, Sports-Reference serves as your ultimate college football knowledge base.

Check out previous seasons, biggest games, origins, logo design, and players for Akron and their accomplishments in the MAC Conference and beyond.