Football History

July 10, 1926 - The Brooklyn Lions franchise formed in the NFL. The article talks of Brooklyn Lions President and Manager Eddie Butler signing up players to his recently founded Lions team. The team was put together there with support from the League offices so as to counter the first AFL’s deployment of their team the Brooklyn Horsemen. According to Wikipedia in the months before the regular season began, both leagues battled with each other for fan support and the right to play at Ebbets Field. The NFL emerged as the winner, as the Lions signed the lease to use the stadium on July 20. On November 12, 1926, the Horsemen withdrew from the AFL and merged with Lions. The new team created by the merger was initially called the Brooklyn Lions and competed in the NFL from November 22, 1926. The team used the Horsemen name for the last three games of 1926 to finish the season. After three consecutive losses, the Lions/Horsemen disbanded their franchise.

Tony Canadeo carved out a unique legacy in the National Football League (NFL) during the 1940s and 1950s. While not a household name today, his impact on the Green Bay Packers and the game itself is undeniable.

Anthony "Tony" Canadeo, nicknamed the "Gray Ghost of Gonzaga," carved his name into football history with the Green Bay Packers. Drafted in 1941, he was a triple-threat offensive force before serving in World War II. Upon his return, he transitioned to primarily rushing, becoming the third player in NFL history to surpass 1,000 yards in a season (1949).

-Here's a summary of Tony Canadeo's Remarkable NFL Career:

-A Multifaceted Threat: Canadeo wasn't just a running back but a true offensive weapon. He excelled at rushing, passing, receiving punts and kickoffs, and even played some defense. This versatility made him a nightmare for opposing teams, creating matchup problems and keeping defenses guessing.

-A Green Bay Legend: Canadeo was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1941, but his career was put on hold due to World War II. Upon his return, he became a pivotal part of the Packers' offense. His retirement left a lasting mark, holding franchise records for career carries and rushing yards.

-A Statistical Marvel: Canadeo's career was a testament to his exceptional abilities. He rushed for over 4,000 yards and 26 touchdowns, passed for over 1,600 yards and 16 touchdowns, and caught nearly 70 passes for over 500 yards and five more scores. His all-purpose yardage totals were unparalleled for his time.

-Beyond Stats: Leadership and Impact: Canadeo's impact wasn't limited to statistics. He was a leader on the field, respected by his teammates for his work ethic and dedication. His versatility helped shape the Packers' offensive strategy and contributed to the game's growth by showcasing the potential of a more multifaceted offensive player.

-A Legacy of Innovation: Canadeo's career coincided with a period of offensive evolution in the NFL. His ability to do it all on the field helped pave the way for future players who defied traditional positional boundaries, influencing the game's direction.

Tony Canadeo's legacy is one of versatility, leadership, and innovation. While his name might not be as prominent as some other NFL stars, his contributions to the Green Bay Packers and the evolution of offensive football remain significant.

Born May 5, 1919, in Chicago, Illinois, was the Swift halfback from Gonzaga, Tony Canadeo. Tony was often referred to in his college days as the "Gray Ghost of Gonzaga." Canadeo ended up signing on with the Green Bay Packers as a two way star. The Pro Football Hall of Fame tells us that as an offensive weapon he averaged 75 yards of total production per game for a span of 116 games! The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Tony Canadeo in 1974.

Canadeo's versatility was unmatched. He rushed for 4,197 yards, passed for 1,642 yards, and even caught passes and returned punts and kickoffs, accumulating a jaw-dropping 8,667 total yards. His grit and determination were legendary, earning him praise from teammates like Bob Forte: "Tony was all desire."

Born June 20, 1935, in Alliance, Ohio, was Pro Football Hall of Fame Quarterback Len Dawson. He played college football at Purdue.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame states that Dawson is among the elite in Pro quarterbacks with an 82.56 QB rating over a span of 19 seasons in the NFL.

He was the top pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1957's NFL Draft. He served as a backup there and, later, in Cleveland until in 1962, he found his way onto the AFL's Dallas Texans roster. After the move to Kansas City and rebranding the team as the Chiefs, Dawson cemented himself as the starter.

He was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 1962 and was selected to play six AFL All-Star games. Dawson also guided the Chiefs to three AFL championships and the franchise's first Super Bowl title in Super Bowl IV, of which he was named MVP. The Chiefs revered Number 16 may be best remembered for his gritty performance as he led Kansas City to a 23-7 upset over the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IV. In that game, Dawson connected on 12 of 17 passes for 142 yards.

Born December 29, 1936 - Ray Nitschke the feared middle linebacker of the Green Bay Packers was born. Ray was the third overall pick in the 1958 NFL Draft by the Packers and he played with the team for 15 seasons according to his bio on the Pro Football HOF.

Nitschke defended both the run and the pass well as his 25 career interceptions would indicate. Ray was a member of 5 champion Green Bay teams and was the MVP of the 1962 NFL Championship game. The Pro Football Hall of Fame placed Ray Nitschke in a gold jacket in 1978.

-College Career

Ray Nitschke's collegiate football career was marked by his time at the University of Illinois. While not a standout star, he displayed a relentless work ethic and a tenacious playing style that would define his professional career. Nitschke's college experience laid the foundation for his future success, instilling in him the discipline and determination necessary to excel at the highest level of the sport.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Selected by the Green Bay Packers in the third round of the 1958 NFL Draft, Ray Nitschke would go on to become one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history. Initially a backup, he quickly rose through the ranks to become a cornerstone of Vince Lombardi's legendary Packers defense. Nitschke's career was synonymous with toughness, relentless pursuit, and a ferocious playing style. He was the heart and soul of the Packers' dominant teams of the 1960s, contributing significantly to five NFL championships and the first two Super Bowl victories.  

Nitschke's impact extended beyond his statistics. He was a vocal leader, inspiring his teammates with his unwavering dedication and work ethic. His ability to consistently deliver bone-jarring tackles and make crucial plays in big games earned him the respect of opponents and fans alike.  

-Football Legacy

Ray Nitschke's legacy is etched in the annals of NFL history as one of the game's most ferocious and respected defenders. His impact on the Green Bay Packers and the sport as a whole is immeasurable. Nitschke's relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with his unwavering toughness, became the blueprint for generations of linebackers.

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Nitschke's character and leadership qualities made him a role model for aspiring football players. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978 was a fitting recognition of his extraordinary career. Ray Nitschke will forever be remembered as one of the greatest to ever play the game.

Born September 11, 1924, in Mission, Texas was Pro Football Hall of Fame Tom Landry. This legend was one of the most successful and influential coaches in NFL history.

Tom Landry's name is synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys. As the team's head coach from 1960 to 1989, he transformed the franchise from a struggling expansion team into a perennial powerhouse. Landry's innovative coaching style and meticulous attention to detail were instrumental in the Cowboys' success.

Landry's impact on the NFL extended far beyond his time with Dallas. He was a pioneer in defensive strategies, introducing the "Flex Defense" that revolutionized the game. His commitment to discipline and teamwork created a winning culture that defined the Cowboys for decades. Landry's legacy is cemented in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, where he is recognized as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history.

He served as the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys for 29 seasons, from 1960 to 1988, and led the team to two Super Bowl victories (1972 and 1978).

Landry was a master tactician and a stickler for discipline. He was also a pioneer in the use of analytics and video technology to prepare for games. Under his leadership, the Cowboys became one of the most dominant teams in the NFL, winning 20 division titles and making 22 playoff appearances.

In addition to his on-field success, Landry was also a respected figure off the field. He was known for his intelligence, integrity, and humility. He was also a devout Christian and a strong advocate for social justice.

Landry was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990.

Born July 15, 1935 was Alex Karras is enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a Defensive Tackle for the Detroit Lions.

-College Career:

Alex Karras' football journey began at the University of Iowa, where he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. A two-time First-team All-American (1956, 1957), Karras dominated as a defensive tackle. His relentless aggression and exceptional technique earned him the respect of teammates and the fear of opposing offenses. In 1957, Karras' dominance reached new heights. He captured the prestigious Outland Trophy, awarded to the nation's best interior lineman, and finished as runner-up to Heisman Trophy winner John David Crow. This marked the highest finish for a tackle in Heisman voting history. Karras also proved his athletic versatility, winning the collegiate heavyweight wrestling championship. Leading the Hawkeyes to a Rose Bowl victory in 1956 cemented his status as an Iowa legend.

-Road to the Pro Game:

Following his decorated college career, Karras entered the 1958 NFL Draft as a highly coveted prospect. The Detroit Lions, yearning for defensive stability, snatched him up in the first round. This would mark the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership.

-Football Legacy:

Karras' 12-year career with the Detroit Lions solidified his place as one of the greatest defensive tackles of his era. His ferocious style of play earned him the nickname "The Spoiler." Despite his intimidating presence, Karras was surprisingly durable, missing just one game during his entire career and starting an astonishing 153 consecutive games.

Accolades followed Karras throughout his career. He earned nine Pro Bowl selections, a testament to his consistent excellence. Three First-team All-Pro selections and six Second-team recognitions further illustrate his dominance. Karras' impact extended beyond individual accolades. He was a cornerstone of the Lions' defense during a competitive era, helping the team reach several NFL Championship games in the 1960s, though they ultimately fell short of a Super Bowl appearance.

Karras' legacy transcends the traditional metrics of success. His influence extended beyond the field. He was known for his outspoken personality and confrontational style, clashing with officials and often drawing fines. This rebellious streak resonated with some fans, solidifying his image as a maverick within the sport.

Following his retirement in 1970, Karras embarked on a successful career as a sportscaster, injecting his signature wit and candor into the Monday Night Football booth. He later transitioned into acting, with a memorable role as Mongo in the classic comedy film "Blazing Saddles."

In 2020, Alex Karras was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his on-field dominance and enduring influence on the game. He left an indelible mark on the Detroit Lions franchise and the landscape of professional football, remembered as a fearless player, a captivating personality, and a true gridiron legend.

July 15, 1952 - John Stallworth is a Pro Football Hall of Fame Wide Receiver that played his entire NFL career for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The standout receiver played his college ball at Alabama A & M. Stallworth was a very productive play maker in the Steelers dynasty of the 1970's where they won four Super Bowls in a span of 6 seasons. He finished his career having been selected as a First Team All-Pro for the 1979 season and made the Pro Bowl in 3 different seasons.

His NFL career stats bio-line 537 receptions for 8,723 yards and 63 touchdowns. Stallworth's reception total was a franchise record until being surpassed by Hines Ward in 2005. Stallworth was the Steelers' two-time MVP and NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 1984. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

Ken Strong's career was a spectacle of unparalleled versatility and dominance, spanning college and professional leagues. His record-breaking college days and championship performance with the New York Giants left an indelible mark on the game, earning him a place in both the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame. His journey wasn't just about football; it was a testament to the power of human potential.

Born August 6, 1906, in West Haven, Connecticut, was Elmer Kenneth "Ken" Strong. His journey to greatness began in high school, where he shone brightly. His exceptional talent was evident with two All-Connecticut selections and his instrumental role in elevating West Haven High to prominence. This was just the start of a career that would leave an indelible mark on American football.

It is reported that his NYU coach Chic Meehan's idea of making games more entertaining for home fans somewhat backfired spectacularly due to Strong. The coach had planned a celebratory cannon blast for every score by his squad but hadn't anticipated the offensive juggernaut that was Ken Strong Jr. Strong, a tireless fullback, racked up points so quickly that the cannoneers struggled to keep up, their gunpowder reserves dwindling under the relentless barrage of touchdowns.

As a college fullback, Ken led the nation in scoring in 1928, amassing a staggering 162 points and over 2,000 rushing yards. His exploits earned him comparisons to the legendary "Red" Grange, a testament to his exceptional speed and power.

This dominance continued in the professional ranks. Many assumed that the NYU connection would place the youngster directly into the Giants fold, but instead, Strong signed with the Staten Island Stapletons in 1929 and played with that club for four seasons until they folded in 1932. Ironically, the Stapes got their NFL charter from Mara and then held the rights to the coveted Ken Strong for all four years of their NFL franchise existence wearing the Number 2 jersey. Tim Mara finally would get his man after financial woes shuttered the doors of the Staten Island squad.

1933, Ken moved across the boroughs to sign a contract with the New York Football Giants. It is as if Giant Strong made his biggest impact on NFL football. Eight of his thirteen seasons in pro ball were recorded with the G-men, helping the franchise secure an NFL title and individually appearing on three All-Pro rosters.

Ken Strong's talent was not confined to a single position. He was a master of versatility, excelling as a halfback, fullback, defensive back, and kicker. This was a rare feat in an era of more specialized roles, and it made him a formidable opponent. His kicking skills, in particular, were legendary. Red Cagle, a College Football Hall of Famer, praised Strong's all-around ability in 1937, saying, "Strong...can do everything. He's a great punter, placekicker, pass thrower, and how he could carry his 198 pounds!" This ability to excel in multiple positions made him a constant threat, keeping opposing teams on their toes.

Strong's accolades speak volumes. He was a four-time All-Pro selection, leading the NFL in scoring during the 1934 season. This year, he also etched his name in history. In the iconic 1934 NFL Championship Game, played on an ice-covered field, Strong's versatility proved pivotal. The iconic contest is remembered in NFL lore as the Sneaker Game because the Giants wore tennis shoes to get better footing on the ice-covered field at the Polo Grounds. Their opponents, the Chicago Bears of George Halas, were heavily favored. In a surprising upset against the undefeated Chicago Bears, the Giants relied on gym shoes and Strong's kicking prowess. He contributed a remarkable 17 points - two touchdowns, two extra points, and a field goal - a record that stood for nearly 30 years. This performance solidified his reputation as a clutch player who could rise to the occasion on the biggest stage.

In a surprise move, Strong jumped to the second edition of the American Football League in 1936 and played for the New York Yankees. When he returned to the Giants in 1939 (after a season of being banished to the Jersey City minor league Giants), he wore #30 instead of his usual #50. He was just a kicking specialist for the remainder of his career. 

Ken Strong's influence on the game extended far beyond his brilliance on the field. His success as a multi-talented player sparked a more flexible approach to player roles. In an era where specialization was becoming increasingly prominent, Strong's versatility was a beacon of innovation, inspiring coaches to consider players with diverse skill sets. His legacy is a powerful reminder of the role adaptability plays in shaping the future of football, a contribution that continues to be appreciated in the sport today.

Even injuries and a brief retirement couldn't keep Ken Strong away from the game he loved. The player shortages during World War II presented an opportunity for the Giants to entice him back in 1944, this time primarily as a kicking specialist. Strong's experience and reliability were invaluable, even at an advanced age for the sport. He continued to play until 1947, displaying remarkable longevity and dedication to the game. He retired from professional football after that '47 season at age 41, leaving a legacy that would endure.

Ken Strong's career transcended statistics and accolades. He embodied the spirit of a true competitor, showcasing dominance and adaptability. His versatility and impact on the game's strategic evolution solidify his place among football's all-time greats. Strong's legacy reminds us of the beauty of a multifaceted player who could change the course of a game with a powerful run, a clutch kick, or a well-timed tackle.

-Basic Bio of Ken Strong

Born August 6, 1906, in West Haven, Connecticut was Halfback/placekicker Elmer Kenneth "Ken" Strong. According to a Yahoo.com article Ken was an All-American at NYU from 1926 through the 1928 season and later was one of the NFL’s early stars. Strong once scored two touchdowns, two extra points, and a field goal in one game to lead the New York Giants to victory in the 1934 NFL Championship Game, remembered in NFL lore as the Sneaker Game because the Giants wore sneakers to get better footing on the ice-covered field at the Polo Grounds. Besides playing with the Giants from 1933 through 1935 and later in the 1940's per the article, Ken also signed with Staten Island Stapletons in 1929 through 1932, the AFL's New York Yankees for the seasons of 1936-37. Ken Strong was a five-time First-team All-Pro as well as a member of the NFL 1930s All-Decade Team. He is the second player in NFL history to devote an entire season to placekicking. Strong’s  jersey No. 50 was retired by the Giants in 1947. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967 and into the Giants Ring of Honor in 2010.

Our subject player in this edition is a Pro Football Hall of Fame multi-faceted talent of the New York Giants. Born Alphonse Emil Leemans on November 12, 1912, by his admission, he would have accepted any nickname to be recognized on the gridiron. The handle came about when Leemans was a kid, as he often played tackle football on the sandlots with older, bigger kids and was not afraid of the riggers of the more prominent, stronger players. You had to be tough to play with them as a little guy. Thus, Tuffy was an apt description of the ambitious youngster. The name "Tuffy" provided a more than adequate name for a football player and indicated the style Mr Leemans leaned toward. The Moniker was out of necessity to extend his college career into the pro ranks.

Leemans' journey to football stardom began in his hometown high school in Superior, Wisconsin. He then ventured West to play freshman ball in Oregon before deciding to complete his collegiate career at George Washington University. His time with the George Washington Colonials showcased his versatility, as he amassed 2,382 rushing yards, threw for 966 yards, and returned 84 punts for 984 yards, a total of 3142 total NFL yards of production. His ability to excel in multiple roles on the field was a testament to his adaptability and skill.

Thanks to a somewhat improbable course, Tuffy became a second-round pick in the first NFL Draft in 1936. The selection was based on a tip from Tim Marra's son Wellington, who saw Tuffy play at GW while vacationing as a high schooler. Wellington would later reminisce, "If I'm remembered for nothing else, I'd like to be remembered for discovering Tuffy Leemans." This is a pretty humble statement from the guy still referenced in every official NFL football statement, "The Duke." Wellington took it a step further when, as many draftees from the first NFL selection process decided against playing in the still somewhat fledgling League for better pay in other career fields, Mara talked Leemans into playing for the Giants.

Chicago Trib writer Vincent X. Flaherty helped get Tuffy from GW into the Chicago All-Star game in 1936, with some help from the hundreds of votes for the player from the Windy City Fish Wrap readers. It was also a brilliant selection from John Q. Public, the collective name for the average American, as Leemans became the 1936 College All-Star MVP, a testament to his growing popularity and influence in the sport.

The "Duke football's" namesake's suggestion to his father and the rest of the Giants brass proved fruitful. Tuffy Leemans' eight-year career with the New York Giants (1936-1943) was masterclasses in versatility, earning him a well-deserved spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A single position didn't define Leemans; he excelled as a running back, passer, receiver, and defender. This adaptability, coupled with his raw talent, made him a nightmare for opposing teams.

Leemans' impact was immediate. Drafted in the second round of the 1936 NFL Draft, he shattered rookie rushing records, leading the League with a staggering 830 yards. Not only was he the starting fullback as a rookie, but in the era of single-platoon football, he also patrolled the defensive backfield as a safety. He became a fixture on the All-Pro team, earning the distinction twice (1936 and 1939). A surprising passing prowess matched his ability to churn out yards on the ground. Leemans could dissect defenses with his arm, throwing for over 2,300 yards and 25 touchdowns throughout his career.

Leemans' impact on the New York Giants was profound. His two-way dominance, excelling on offense and defense, propelled the team to consistent championship contention. The fact that he was a fantastic defensive player was significant.

He was one of Head Coach Steve Owen's favorites and was a big part of why Owens was confident in implementing his two-platoon system—his A Team and B Team. The A team would play the first and third quarters, and the B team would play the second and fourth quarters. Leemans captained one team, while teammate Ward Cuff headed the alternate squad. What Owens trusted most about both players was their reliability in organizing the defenses properly.

The unselfish playing time may also indicate why Leemans only led the League in rushing his rookie season in 1936, as the talented back only played 30 minutes a game on this big substitution strategy. His stats would've been much higher had he played regularly.
 
Under his leadership, the Giants thrice reached the NFL title game, securing victory in 1938. His grit and determination were instrumental in these triumphs, making him a source of pride and inspiration for the team and its fans.

To further showcase his uncanny athleticism and versatility, the enterprising young man played professional basketball when, in the 1937 NFL off-season, he inked a contract with the Heurich Brewers of Washington, D.C.

Tuffy's versatility rose again when veteran Giants QB Ed Danowski retired and Leemans switched from RB to QB for his final two seasons. Tuffy wasn't a prolific passer by any means, but again, it was Owens's trust in Leemans to call the right plays and his leadership qualities. He was a player/coach in his final season in 1943 and a full-time assistant coach in 1944.

Leemans' career was tragically cut short by injuries. However, his impact transcended his playing days. He briefly coached for the Giants before returning to his alma mater, George Washington University, to coach high school football. His story with the Giants wasn't over, though, and came up again on one of the most infamous days in U.S. history. On December 7, 1941, the Giants celebrated "Tuffy Leemans Day." The franchise was all set to thank their former star with a gift of a silver tray and $1,500 in defense bonds. The War Bonds were quite a segue and a precognitive gift for what occurred during the ceremony. The game's radio broadcast was interrupted by an announcement of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and the in-stadium announcer was persuaded to call out on the Public Address system at the polo grounds, requesting military personnel to report to their Commanding Officers immediately.

Tuffy Leemans' legacy extends far beyond statistics. He was a true pioneer, demonstrating that a player's value wasn't confined to a single position. His enshrinement in the Hall of Fame in 1978 is a permanent reminder of his all-around brilliance and the indelible mark he left on the game. His pioneering spirit continues to inspire players and fans alike, showing that versatility and adaptability are crucial to success in football.

Tuffy Leemans was a standout player in the early days of the National Football League (NFL). Here's a summary of his career:

-College and Early Career: Leemans played college football for both Oregon and George Washington University. Drafted by the New York Giants in the second round of the 1936 NFL Draft, he quickly established himself as a force on the field.

-Dominant All-Around Player: Leemans excelled on both offense and defense. He was a skilled runner, receiver, and passer, while also being a strong defensive player. This versatility made him a valuable asset to the Giants.

-League Leader and Champion: Leemans led the NFL in rushing yards (830) as a rookie, a remarkable feat, and was named a First-Team All-Pro in 1936 and 1939. He helped the Giants win the 1938 NFL Championship and played in the championship games of 1939 and 1941.

-Durability and Accolades: Leemans played eight seasons for the Giants, appearing in 80 games. He finished his career with over 3,100 rushing yards, 2,300 passing yards, and 33 total touchdowns. He was selected to the Pro Bowl twice in his career (1938, 1941) and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978.

-Legacy: Leemans' career embodied the early days of the NFL, where players were often expected to excel on both sides of the ball. His well-rounded skill set and leadership made him a key contributor to the Giants' success in the late 1930s and early 1940s.

Leemans worked briefly as a backfield coach for the Giants and at his alma mater George Washington after his playing days were over.

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July 27, 1929—The Staten Island Stapletons/Stapes franchise formed as the Brooklyn franchise and then was transferred to Staten Island. According to an article in the Professional Football Researchers Association publication Coffin Corner, a 1985 article by Joe Horrigan, the Stapletons started their gridiron existence in 1915, a full five years before the NFL was created as the APFA.

A talented halfback and a native of the working-class neighborhood known as Stapleton, Dan Blaine and three other players formed the team to play other semi-pro squads from New York and New Jersey. It wasn't a career for the players, as the Stapes played more for fun than money. The crowds were small, according to Horrigan, as salaries averaged $10 per game.

The team acquired better players through various means and eventually, in 1929, as an independent team, achieved a record of 10-1-1. The next year, they were permitted to join the National Football League. The Stapletons would never have a winning season in the NFL and would eventually fade into obscurity. I encourage you to read more about the Stapletons in the 1985 Coffin Corner article, including how Tim Marra, owner and founder of the New York Giants, helped the Stapes co-exist with his team in the Big Apple.