Football History

The Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Owls football team, established in 1996, boasts a relatively young history compared to college football giants. However, their helmet design has undergone interesting transformations, reflecting the program's growth and evolving identity. Let's take a look at the headwear that has protected the Owls throughout the years.

Early Days: The Simple Start (1996-2000)

In their inaugural season, the FAU Owls took the field sporting a simple yet bold helmet design. It featured a white shell with a kelly green stripe running down the middle, mirroring the school's primary colors. A chrome or silver owl head logo adorned both sides of the helmet, establishing the mascot's presence. This initial design prioritized clarity and recognizability, allowing the fledgling program to build its visual identity.

Embracing the Nest: A Touch of Complexity (2001-2012)

As FAU football gained a foothold, their helmet design incorporated more intricate elements. The kelly green stripe remained central, but it was flanked by thinner white stripes. The owl logo received a makeover, with a more detailed and aggressive depiction. Notably, a stylized "FAU" inscription was incorporated within the design, showcasing a growing sense of program pride. The most significant addition was a nest encircling the owl logo on one side of the helmet. This symbolized the team's home – FAU Stadium, nicknamed "The Nest."

A Shift in Focus: The Angry Owl Era (2013-2016)

In 2013, the FAU Owls opted for a more aggressive look. The helmet retained the white shell and green stripe combination, but the owl logo underwent a dramatic transformation. The new logo featured a more stylized and fierce-looking owl, with a prominent beak and sharp eyes. The nest element was removed, placing all emphasis on the predatory nature of the mascot. This design shift coincided with a period of success for the Owls under head coach Charlie Partridge, and the aggressive owl logo became associated with a winning program.

A Return to Roots with Modern Flair (2017-Present)

The year 2017 saw a return to a more classic look for the FAU Owls' helmets. The white shell and kelly green stripe remained, but the aggressive owl logo was softened. The design incorporated a more balanced and defined depiction of the mascot, with a focus on its intelligence and determination. Notably, a chrome or silver beak was added, providing a touch of modern flair. This return to a classic design with subtle refinements reflected a renewed focus on building a sustainable winning tradition under head coach Lane Kiffin.

Fielding Yost coached at Ohio Wesleyan, Nebraska, Kansas, and Stanford in consecutive seasons before he was hired as the head coach of the Michigan Wolverines. He had great teams at those other schools, but his best coaching work was yet to come. He used everything he learned from his playing days and tenure as the field boss to mold his squads into the top tier of gridiron squads.

Fielding Yost's impact was immediate as the head coach of the Michigan Wolverines. In his first five years, his high-powered teams were virtually unstoppable, compiling a record of 55–1–1. They played with a stifling defense and a fast-paced offense, always on the lookout for any weaknesses in their opponent's defense. The results were staggering, with these Michigan teams outscoring their opponents by a massive margin of 2,821 to 42.

The teams from 1900 to 1905 became known as Yost's "Point-a-Minute" teams because their offensive production resulted in an average of at least one point being scored for every minute of play.

Our guest in the podcast above is Dr. John Behee and he is the author not one but two biographies on Coach Fielding Yost. His latest, after over 50 years of research is titled Coach Yost: Michigan's Tradition Maker. Dr. Behee achieved a degree in History and then furthered his education at the University of Michigan and even got to spend some time as a graduate assistant coach for the Wolverines during his stay there. This kindled his passion for the football program's history and traditions and when he looked into them, the name Fielding H. Yost jumped off the pages, and the campus. Behee wrote his dissertation for his PhD on Coach Yost. Some 50 years later after that original published work, he recollected his notes dug a bit deeper and found even more revelations about this amazing coach from the early 20th century.

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Chris Willis's book, The Columbus Panhandles: A Complete History of Pro Football's Toughest Team, 1900-1922, dives into the largely forgotten story of a unique and successful professional football team: the Columbus Panhandles.

From Railroad Yard to Championship Contenders:

The book chronicles the rise and fall of the Panhandles, a team formed in 1901 by workers at the Pennsylvania Railroad's Panhandle shops in Columbus, Ohio. These immigrant railroad workers honed their football skills during lunch breaks on the sandlots of the railroad yards.

Key Figures and Strategies:

Willis highlights the role of innovative team manager Joseph Carr, who later became the NFL commissioner. Carr used perks like free railroad travel for employees and the star power of the Nesser brothers, a family of talented players, to build a strong traveling team.

Season-by-Season Account:

The book delves into a season-by-season account of the Panhandles' journey. Willis utilizes original interviews, newspaper reports, and photographs to recreate the team's triumphs and heartbreaks. Readers get a glimpse into the team's playing style, known for its physicality and toughness, earning them the nickname "Pro Football's Toughest Team."

The iconic moniker “Crimson Tide” is synonymous with Alabama football, a name that evokes images of power, tradition, and dominance. Yet, the origins of this legendary name are rooted in a muddy, underdog tale.

In 1907, Alabama faced off against a heavily favored Auburn team in Birmingham. The iron-rich soil of the region transformed into a quagmire under the relentless downpour, dyeing the white jerseys of the Alabama players a deep crimson hue. As the underdogs battled through the treacherous conditions, they managed to hold Auburn to a tie, a feat that defied expectations.

It was then that sportswriter Hugh Roberts of the Birmingham Age-Herald penned a poetic description of Alabama’s performance. He likened the team to a relentless, crimson wave surging through the muddy field, overpowering their opponents. The phrase “Crimson Tide” was born, capturing the essence of Alabama’s gritty determination and unexpected triumph.

Elephant Stampede

The iconic image of an elephant has become synonymous with Alabama football, but its origins may surprise many. The story begins in 1930 when a sportswriter, struck by the sheer size and power of Alabama's offensive line, famously described them as "elephants." The comparison was apt; the linemen were massive, immovable forces that paved the way for their talented backs.

The nickname stuck, and soon the entire team was referred to as the "Crimson Tide Elephants." While the "elephants" part of the moniker eventually faded, the image of the powerful animal remained deeply ingrained in the Alabama football psyche. Over the years, live elephants made occasional appearances at games, further solidifying the connection. Eventually, the beloved costumed mascot, Big Al, was born, bringing the legendary elephant to life on the sidelines. Today, the elephant stands as a proud symbol of Alabama football, representing strength, power, and tradition.

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The Power T, synonymous with Tennessee Volunteers athletics, doesn't owe its origins to sophisticated design teams or elaborate brainstorming sessions. Instead, it sprung from a napkin sketch, its simple yet powerful form capturing the essence of Vol spirit.

In 1964, head football coach Doug Dickey sought a visual identity that transcended numbers on helmets. Legend has it, he doodled a T while discussing ideas with a graphic designer, creating the now-iconic silhouette. This bold symbol quickly replaced numerals on the Vols' helmets, signaling a new era.

But the Power T's journey wasn't always smooth. Some fans initially found it too modern, a departure from traditional script logos. However, its versatility and adaptability won them over. The T served as a canvas for creativity, adorned with stripes, checkerboards, and even Rocky Top lyrics. It appeared on everything from jerseys to water bottles, becoming a ubiquitous symbol of Vol pride.

In 1983, the Power T faced another transformation. Johnny Majors, seeking a more distinct identity for the women's athletic programs, introduced a separate T adorned with a blue stripe and star. This "Lady Vols" logo, later renamed "Summitt Blue" in honor of legendary coach Pat Summitt, coexisted with the original orange Power T, each representing different branches of the Vol family.

Today, the Power T reigns supreme, a unifying symbol for all Tennessee athletics. It adorns Neyland Stadium, roars alongside Smokey the mascot, and pulsates in the hearts of countless Vol fans. Its simple lines hold immense power, evoking memories of legendary victories, passionate rivalries, and generations of unwavering support.

Looking back, the Power T's journey seems fitting. A casual sketch, borne from a conversation amidst the bustle of college football, transformed into a ubiquitous emblem of one of the nation's most storied athletic programs.

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The Kentucky Wildcats football uniform, like the team itself, is a story of evolution, tradition, and a dash of Southern swagger. While the iconic blue and white remain constant, the details have danced across decades, reflecting changing trends and team identities.


Early Days (1892-1930s):

-The early years saw a hodgepodge of styles, from simple white jerseys with blue lettering to striped socks and even leather helmets.

-The "Wildcat" nickname emerged in 1920, but wasn't officially incorporated into the uniform until later.


Golden Era (1940s-1960s):

-Coach Bear Bryant ushered in an era of dominance and uniform consistency.

-The now-classic white jersey with blue trim and block "Kentucky" lettering became the norm.

-Blue pants with white stripes completed the iconic "home" look.

-This era also saw the birth of the "Runaway Rupp" logo, adding a playful touch to helmets and later, shoulder pads.


Experimentation and Evolution (1970s-1990s):

-The 70s brought a flurry of changes, including yellow numbers, striped sleeves, and even an all-blue alternate uniform.

-The "K" helmet logo returned in the 80s, accompanied by a return to the classic white-and-blue look.

-The 90s saw the introduction of the "scratching cat" logo, later replaced by the more ferocious "leaping cat" in 1999.


Modern Era (2000s-Present):

-This millennium has seen a focus on refining the classic elements.

-Blue pants now feature a single white stripe, creating a cleaner look.

-Alternate uniforms occasionally emerge, with variations on blue and white themes.

-However, the core identity – the clean white jersey and blue pants – remains unchanged, a symbol of Kentucky football's enduring legacy.

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The story of the Ole Miss Rebels logo isn't just about color palettes and mascots; it's a window into the evolving identity and social narratives of the University of Mississippi itself. From the controversial Colonel Reb to the unexpected Landshark, the journey reflects changing landscapes of tradition, race, and modern sensibilities.

The Colonel, a cartoon caricature of an antebellum gentleman with a handlebar mustache and Confederate sash, emerged in 1936. Initially meant to embody Southern hospitality and chivalry, the image drew immediate criticism for its romanticized depiction of a period steeped in slavery and racial inequality.

Despite protests, the Colonel remained the official mascot for over 70 years. Fans embraced him as a symbol of school spirit, oblivious or dismissive of the inherent racial implications. Yet, the tide of societal change was slowly turning. In 1997, the NCAA banned Confederate symbols at athletic events, forcing Ole Miss to modify the Colonel's uniform and remove the Confederate flag.

In 2017, a student referendum finally brought about the Colonel's demise. By a clear majority, students voted for the Landshark, a playful cartoon shark emerging from a football helmet, inspired by a comedic skit on Saturday Night Live. The change, symbolic of Ole Miss's desire to move beyond a divisive past, sparked mixed reactions. Traditionalists mourned the Colonel, while others saw the Landshark as a fresh start, free from historical baggage.

The Landshark hasn't yet achieved the cultural legacy of the Colonel, but it represents a move towards inclusivity and a modern identity. It is a mascot for all Ole Miss students, regardless of race or background, a playful symbol that emphasizes athletic prowess and school spirit.

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Stewart Ferguson was a college football coach who did things in a style quite differently than most any coach in any sports you have ever known about. Author Peter Oltchick picked up where his dearly departed Father-In-Law, Journalist Bill Bell left off to complete a book on the famed Coach Fergie. From special coaching contracts to barnstorming antics of the gridiron, the adventures of Stewart Ferguson are a refreshing story of a unique coach.

It was From Humble Beginnings to Roaring Gators: The Birth of a Florida Football Tradition.

The University of Florida, synonymous today with the ferocious roar of the Gator chomping on opponents, wasn't always adorned with orange and blue or represented by a giant, toothy reptile. The story of how the Gators became a symbol of Florida athletics is a tale of chance encounters, student spirit, and a mascot that perfectly embodies the state's unique character.

The early days of Florida athletics were a far cry from the modern era of cheering for the Gators. Established in 1853, the university fielded its first football team in 1906. However, a nickname was curiously absent. Teams were simply referred to as the "Florida eleven" or the "University of Gainesville eleven."

The now-iconic Gator connection can be traced back to a seemingly insignificant event in 1907. Austin Miller, a Gainesville native attending law school at the University of Virginia, was tasked with ordering pennants for his father's store back in Florida. Visiting the Michie Company, a manufacturer of such items, Miller realized Florida lacked an official emblem. Inspired by the presence of mascots for other schools and the abundance of alligators in Florida, Miller suggested the "alligators." The manager, unfamiliar with the creature, approved based on a picture Miller procured from the university library.

Though the initial intent may not have been mascot-related, the alligator quickly gained traction. The pennants bearing the image proved popular, and student publications began referencing the "Florida Gators." This informal adoption resonated with fans and athletes alike. The ferocious nature and resilience of the alligator mirrored the spirit desired in Florida's athletic teams.

The visual representation of the mascot, however, took a more organic path. Unlike some universities with predetermined mascots, the gator gradually permeated the university's identity. Early mentions included references in student publications and the adoption of orange and purple (later changed to gold) as school colors, mirroring the stripes of a tiger (a mistake some believe further fueled the need for a true gator mascot). This unofficial association with the alligator solidified its place as the embodiment of the Florida spirit.

The turning point came in 1936. Inspired by a travelling circus, a group of students, led by athletic trainer Chellis "Mike" Chambers, hatched a daring plan: bring a live gator to campus. Funds were raised from students, a young alligator cub was purchased from a zoo, and he was christened "Sheik." However, recognizing Chambers' pivotal role, the name was soon changed to "Mike," laying the foundation for the now-iconic tradition.

Mike I, as he became known, captivated the hearts of students and fans alike. He served as a living symbol of Florida spirit, attending games and even residing in a makeshift enclosure on campus. Though Mike I tragically passed away in 1956, the legacy of the live gator mascot was firmly established. Subsequent tigers, all named Mike, have continued this tradition, becoming beloved members of the Florida Gators community.

Today, the University of Florida boasts a state-of-the-art habitat for Mike, ensuring his well-being while allowing fans to connect with this unique mascot. From the chance encounter that led to the "alligators" moniker to the arrival of Mike I, the story of the Florida Gators is more than just a mascot adoption. It's a testament to the power of student spirit, the fortuitous alignment with a symbol that embodies the state's natural heritage, and a university's commitment to its mascot's well-being. So, the next time you hear the roar of the Gator chomping down on victory, remember the journey that led this powerful reptile to become a beloved symbol of Florida athletics.

In Joe Carr's Master Plan, the National Football League would rid itself of lesser municipalities like Evansville, Hammond, Green Bay, even his own Columbus, and play exclusively in the nation's largest cities. He'd gained a Philadelphia team in 1924 (although Frankford actually played in a suburb). Chicago had the Bears and Cardinals. Cleveland was the league champ. It was time to get serious about New York. Based on Bob Carroll;s article Red Equals Green 1925.

In the 1920s, the National Football League (NFL) was a vastly different landscape. Teams were primarily concentrated in smaller towns and industrial centers, with limited national exposure. This essay explores the vision of Joseph Carr, then Commissioner of the NFL, to propel the league into a new era by expanding into larger metropolitan areas.

Challenges of the Small-Town NFL:

Prior to Carr's vision, the NFL faced limitations associated with its focus on smaller markets. These towns often lacked the resources to support a professional sports team, leading to limited infrastructure, lower attendance figures, and difficulty attracting top-tier talent. Additionally, media coverage was restricted, hindering the league's national appeal.

Carr's Bold Vision:

Recognizing these challenges, Joe Carr proposed a revolutionary plan for expansion. He envisioned moving teams to larger cities with established media markets, robust infrastructure, and a wider potential fanbase. This strategic move aimed to increase revenue, attract bigger name players, and ultimately, propel the NFL to national prominence.

Carr's vision wasn't met without resistance. Existing team owners in smaller towns feared losing revenue and relevance. Nevertheless, Carr persevered, successfully securing the addition of teams in large cities like Atlanta, Miami, and New Orleans. This influx of new franchises marked a turning point in the NFL's history.

Joe Carr's bold vision for expansion proved to be a masterstroke. The influx of teams in major cities boosted attendance, television viewership soared, and the league's national profile skyrocketed. This expansion paved the way for the NFL to become the multi-billion dollar powerhouse it is today.

Joe Carr's vision for NFL expansion transcended a simple geographical shift. It was a strategic move that revolutionized the sport's business model, fan engagement, and national appeal. His legacy lies in his foresight and unwavering belief in the potential of the NFL to become a true national phenomenon.