Football History

On July 18, the world of American football celebrates the birthdays of some of its most legendary figures, marking a day of reflection on the sport's rich history. Among those honored are Hall of Fame inductees who have left an indelible mark on the game. From groundbreaking players who transformed positions to visionary coaches whose strategies changed the dynamics of play, July 18 is a reminder of the legacy and passion that drive the sport forward. These icons not only excelled on the field but also became influential in shaping football culture, inspiring generations of fans and athletes alike.

Join us as we delve into the remarkable lives of these Hall of Famers, exploring their groundbreaking careers and unforgettable moments that defined their eras. We'll uncover fascinating anecdotes, significant milestones, and the lasting impact they've had on the game we love. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this tribute to football greatness on July 18 is sure to spark your passion for the sport's history. Don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate these legends and their extraordinary contributions!

In our salute to Football History for July 3, we let it be known about a development in the Nation's Capitol over a possible name change and the Hall of Fame celebration of a couple of powerful D-linemen and a crafty running back on their birthday! We will provide you with a little bit of football nostalgia. This daily football history segment features the Great events, Franchise formation anniversaries as well as the birthdays of notable Hall of Fame players, coaches or anyone else in our great game and many more Legendary stories of the Gridiron.

In this edition of the Football History Headlines, we discuss the entry of two New York City area teams into the early National Football League, the sale of the Chicago Cardinals the tragic passing of a Chicago Bears star player as well as many more HOF Legendary stories.

Join us each and every day as we explore some of the highlights from American football that occurred.

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Football Archaeology takes an in-depth look at a unique down and distance measuring device from the late 1930s called the Honest Headlinesman.

The concept was said to be more accurate on the poorly lined grass fields of the era and would allow for a more "fair and level playing field " for the participants and an easier discernment by officials if the line to gain had been reached.

Football Archaeology has excellent details on the concept and some images of it and its use. Timothy Brown has a nose for the unique stories from football antiquity and can tell a tale to enlighten us of what those in the gridiron past were doing.

The 1974 Florida Blazers were an American football team that played in the short-lived World Football League (WFL). Their story is one of ambition, turbulence, and, ultimately, disappointment.
Early Days and Formation:
In 1974, oceanographic engineer E. Joseph Wheeler purchased the WFL rights to the Washington, D.C., area.
The team was initially named the Washington Ambassadors, but due to a conflict with the NHL expansion team of the same name, it was changed to the Florida Blazers.
The team was slated to begin play in July 1974 and was to be housed in Orlando, Florida.
Turbulent Season:
Despite the promise of a new league and a fresh start, the Blazers' season was marred by instability.
The team faced financial difficulties, ownership changes, and logistical challenges.
They played in four different cities throughout the season – Orlando, Jacksonville, Memphis, and San Antonio – and had seven different nicknames, including the Suns, Express, Southmen, and Wings.
On-field performance was inconsistent, with the team finishing 7-7 and missing the playoffs by one game.
League Demise and Legacy:
The WFL itself folded after only one season due to financial problems.
The Blazers, along with all other WFL teams, disbanded, and their legacy faded.
However, the 1974 Florida Blazers represent a fascinating chapter in football history, highlighting the challenges and uncertainties of a new league and the fleeting nature of success.

The Arizona Wildcats football program boasts two iconic mascots, Wilbur and Wilma Wildcat, but their journey began with a very real bobcat named Rufus Arizona. Let's rewind a bit and explore the fascinating origin story:

The Original Wildcat (1915):

In 1915, the freshman football team purchased a live bobcat for $9.41 from an army blacksmith. They named him Tom Easter, but the student body soon christened him "Rufus Arizona," after then-university president Rufus B. von KleinSmid.
Rufus became an instant campus celebrity, attending pep rallies, football games, and even leading cheers.
Sadly, Rufus's reign was short-lived. In 1916, while playfully performing acrobatics in a tree, he fell and died a tragic death.
Legacy Lives On (1916-1959):

Despite Rufus's passing, the bobcat mascot had become ingrained in the university's identity. Several successor bobcats took on the mantle, each named Rufus Arizona, carrying the legacy forward.
However, concerns about animal welfare and logistics eventually led to the decision to phase out live mascots.
Enter Wilbur and Wilma (1959-Present):

In 1959, two University of Arizona roommates, Richard Heller and John Paquette, created Wilbur, the costumed wildcat we know today. The head-to-toe fur costume, with an American flag patch and cartoonish features, was an immediate hit.
Wilbur evolved over time, with his design undergoing minor tweaks and his antics becoming more elaborate.
In 1986, Wilbur found his perfect partner, Wilma, completing the dynamic duo. They were even "married" on the field before a football game, solidifying their place as beloved teammates.

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Our passion for preserving football history has gone to a new level, the trivia question. For the past three weeks we have challenged you with a series of YouTube Shorts puzzles on gridiron history.

In this edition we take it up a notch bay adding another format of a "three-fer." Buckle up that chinstrap and dive head first into this array of trivia questions that take less than a minute, unless you dare hit pause.

Enjoy this challenge to your football brain. We have three downs of trivia in this special format.

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Howard Schnellenberger wasn't your average football coach. He was a firebrand, an innovator, and a man who left an indelible mark on the programs he touched. This essay explores his multifaceted career, from his early days as an assistant to his role in building Miami's dynasty.

Schnellenberger's journey began under the legendary Bear Bryant at Alabama, where he learned the fundamentals of winning football. He quickly rose through the coaching ranks, displaying a keen tactical mind and an ability to motivate players. His early success culminated in a head coaching position with the Baltimore Colts, but his tenure there was short-lived.

In 1979, Schnellenberger made a move that would forever change college football. He took the reins of a struggling Miami Hurricanes program. Recognizing the untapped potential in South Florida, he envisioned a team that would not only win, but also captivate. He implemented his "Miami Vice" defense - a ferocious, attacking unit designed to stifle opposing offenses.

However, Schnellenberger's greatest contribution to Miami might not have been his defensive scheme. He recognized the importance of recruiting elite athletes, particularly African-American players from the South. This innovative approach, combined with his charismatic personality, laid the foundation for Miami's future dominance.

History buffs and die-hard football fans, rejoice! Today, we delve into a remarkable date in the annals of American football: July 12th. Believe it or not, this seemingly ordinary summer day witnessed the birth of not one, but three future NFL franchises!

Strap yourselves in as we explore the stories behind:

-Portsmouth Spartans/Detroit Lions franchise forms
-Cleveland Indians
-Brooklyn Dodgers


This post promises a fascinating glimpse into the origins of these iconic NFL franchises. Join us as we celebrate their founding day and delve into the events that shaped their legacies!
Plus we have the birthdays of College and Pro Football Hall of Famers included for the day.

In the rich tapestry of American football history, July 21st stands as a date marked by significant milestones, controversies, and game-changing moments that have shaped the sport into the cultural phenomenon it is today. From historic signings to pivotal rule changes, each event has left an indelible mark on the game and its passionate followers.

One of the most memorable events on July 21st occurred in 1990, when the NFL announced the reinstatement of one of its most iconic players, after a controversial suspension. This decision sparked intense debate among fans and analysts alike, underscoring the intersection of sports and larger societal issues. Additionally, in 2011, a groundbreaking agreement was reached between the NFL owners and players, ending a lengthy lockout that threatened to disrupt the upcoming season. This resolution not only preserved the integrity of the sport but also set a precedent for labor relations in professional athletics.

As we reflect on these pivotal moments and their enduring impact, we gain a deeper appreciation for how American football has evolved, transcending mere entertainment to become a central pillar of American culture. Join us as we delve into these top events and explore their significance in shaping the sport we love.