Football History

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The New Buff Duds and culture help them win for Coach Sanders

Born amidst the bustling energy of Austin, Texas, the Longhorns football program has a history as rich and vibrant as the state itself. Its origins trace back to 1893, when a group of students led by the visionary William T. Conner formed an informal team. Their passion and dedication ignited a fire that would blaze a path for future generations of Longhorn athletes.
The early years were characterized by a spirit of determination and resourcefulness. Despite limited resources and infrastructure, the Longhorns carved their own path, competing against local teams and gradually building a reputation for grit and tenacity. Their first official season in 1894 marked the beginning of a legacy that would transcend generations, establishing the Longhorns as a force to be reckoned with in the nascent world of college football.
Through the early decades of the 20th century, the Longhorns navigated a landscape of evolving rules and growing competition. Yet, their unwavering spirit continued to shine through. Coaches like E.J. "Doc" Steckel and Blair Cherry instilled a sense of discipline and tactical acumen that helped the Longhorns rise to prominence.
The journey of the early Longhorns was one of unwavering spirit, remarkable resilience, and a deep-seated love for the game. These foundational years laid the groundwork for the program's future success, paving the way for legendary coaches, iconic players, and countless victories that would solidify the Longhorns' place among college football's elite.

The Wyoming Cowboys football program, established in 1891, boasts a long and proud history. Though national championships remain elusive, the Cowboys have carved their niche in college football through unwavering grit, resilience, and a commitment to developing talent.
Early Days and Regional Success (1891-1940s):
The program's early years were marked by independent play and competition against regional rivals.
The Cowboys experienced early success, including undefeated seasons in 1891 and 1903.
Legendary coach John Corbett led the Cowboys to Rocky Mountain Conference championships in 1939 and 1940, solidifying the program's regional presence.
Turbulent Times and Conference Shifts (1950s-1970s):
The mid-20th century saw periods of inconsistent play and coaching changes.
The Cowboys joined the Skyline Conference in 1959, seeking more competitive challenges.
Despite sporadic success, including a Skyline Conference championship in 1976, the program faced challenges in attracting top talent and achieving sustained success.
Resurgence and Bowl Appearances (1980s-2000s):
The 1980s marked a resurgence under head coach Dennis Erickson, leading the Cowboys to their first-ever bowl appearance in the 1988 Holiday Bowl.
The Cowboys continued their success in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), winning conference championships in 1987 and 1993.
The program solidified its reputation as a bowl contender, participating in six bowl games between 1988 and 2004.
Modern Era and Mountain West Competition (2010s-Present):
Since joining the Mountain West Conference in 2012, the Cowboys have faced stiffer competition.
The program has experienced periods of both success and struggle, including a Mountain West Conference championship in 2019.
The Cowboys remain a competitive force in the conference, consistently developing NFL talent and fostering a winning culture.
For the latest news on the program and more, the GOWyo.com website is the place.

The Arizona State Sun Devils and the Arizona Wildcats football rivalry, known as the "Duel in the Desert," is one of the oldest and most intense in college football. Dating back to 1899, the rivalry transcends the gridiron, reflecting the political and cultural differences between the two universities and the state of Arizona.
Early Years and Political Tensions (1899-1950s):
The rivalry began early, with the first game played just two years after Arizona State's founding. The games were often fiercely competitive, mirroring the growing political tensions between the University of Arizona, established in 1885, and the newly formed Arizona State College.
The Territorial Cup and Shifting Landscapes (1950s-2000s):
The "Territorial Cup" was introduced in 1988, adding another layer of significance to the rivalry. The trophy, awarded to the winner of the annual game, symbolized the ongoing battle for bragging rights within the state. The late 1950s saw a particularly heated period, fueled by Arizona State's rise to university status, a move opposed by the University of Arizona.
Modern Era and Renewed Intensity (2000s-Present):
The rivalry has continued to be a highlight of the college football season in recent years. Both teams have experienced periods of success, contributing to dramatic and unpredictable matchups. The rise of social media has added a new dimension to the rivalry, allowing fans to engage in passionate online discussions and banter.
Beyond the Game: A Shared Legacy and Community Spirit:
Despite the intense competition, the rivalry is also rooted in mutual respect and a shared history. Both universities contribute to the vibrant educational and cultural landscape of Arizona, and the "Duel in the Desert" serves as a unifying event for the state's football fans.

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The Georgia Southern Eagles football program, with its iconic blue turf and triple-option offense, boasts a unique and fascinating history. But where did it all begin?


Early Glimpses:


1909: The seeds of Eagles football were sown as early as 1909, with unofficial teams like "The Culture" playing local squads.
1924: The Eagles officially took flight, fielding their first continuous team under the nickname "Blue Tide."
1941: World War II grounded the program for nearly four decades, with players, like many Americans answering the call to duty.


Rebirth and Rise to Prominence:
1978: President Dale Lick, recognizing the potential of football for the university and community, championed the program's revival.
1981: Enter Erk Russell, a legendary defensive coordinator from the University of Georgia, tasked with building the Eagles from scratch.
1984: The Eagles, now sporting their iconic "Eagles" nickname, joined the NCAA Division I-AA (now FCS) ranks, ready to soar.

Golden Age under Erk Russell:


1985-2000: This period marked the Eagles' dominance in I-AA, capturing a record-setting six national championships under Coach Russell's leadership.
Triple-Option Takeover: The Eagles became synonymous with the innovative and exciting triple-option offense, led by stars like running backs Tracy Ham and Adrian Peterson.
"The Prettiest Little Stadium in America": Paulson Stadium, with its intimate atmosphere and iconic blue turf, became a beloved symbol of Eagles football.

Transition to FBS and Beyond:


2014: The Eagles embarked on a new chapter, joining the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and the Sun Belt Conference.
Facing New Challenges: The transition to FBS brought stiffer competition and adjustments to new rules, requiring the Eagles to adapt and evolve.
Sun Belt Champions: Demonstrating their resilience, the Eagles captured their first Sun Belt Conference title in their FBS debut season, proving their continued competitiveness.

Present and Future:


2023: The Eagles continue to soar in the Sun Belt, aiming for further conference championships and national recognition.
Developing Champions: The program emphasizes player development and academic success, nurturing well-rounded individuals both on and off the field.
A Legacy of Soaring: With a dedicated coaching staff, passionate fanbase, and rich traditions, the Georgia Southern Eagles football program is poised for continued success and exciting chapters in its ongoing story.

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The 1961 Texas-TCU football game was one of the most shocking upsets in college football history. The #1 ranked Texas Longhorns, led by legendary coach Darrell Royal and featuring future Heisman Trophy winner Jimmy Saxton, were heavily favored against the unranked TCU Horned Frogs. However, TCU pulled off a stunning 6-0 victory that sent shockwaves through the college football world.

Pre-game Hype and Expectations:

The 1961 Longhorns were a dominant team, boasting an 8-1 record and a high-powered offense led by Saxton.
They were heavily favored to defeat TCU, who were 2-4-1 at the time.

The game attracted a sell-out crowd of 60,000 fans at Memorial Stadium in Austin, Texas, eager to witness the Longhorns' anticipated victory.

Unforeseen Turn of Events:

The game started according to script, with the Longhorns driving down the field on their opening possession.
However, disaster struck when Saxton was hit by a vicious knee to the head by TCU's Bobby Plummer.
Saxton left the game with a concussion, and the Longhorns' offense sputtered without their star player.

TCU capitalized on the momentum shift, scoring the game's only touchdown on a 50-yard pass from Ron Gibbs to Tommy Iles in the second quarter.

The Longhorns, despite having numerous opportunities to score, failed to convert, missing two crucial field goals.

A Shocking Upset and Lasting Legacy:

The final score of 6-0 stunned the college football world.
It marked the first time that a #1 ranked team had lost to an unranked opponent since 1950.

The upset also spoiled the Longhorns' hopes of winning their first national championship.

The 2015 Michigan State vs. Michigan football game wasn't just another rivalry clash. It was a game etched in college football lore, a chaotic masterpiece decided by a last-play Hail Mary that sent shockwaves through the Big Ten. With a final score of 27-23, Michigan State won an improbable victory, forever remembered as one of the most incredible finishes in college football history.

A Tale of Two Halves:

The game unfolded like a classic rivalry script. Under first-year coach Jim Harbaugh, Michigan dominated the first half, leading 23-3 at halftime. The Wolverines' offense looked unstoppable while the Spartans struggled to find footing. But the tide turned in the third quarter. Michigan State's defense stiffened, shutting out Michigan in the second half. The Spartans' quarterback, Connor Cook, rallied his team, leading two touchdown drives to narrow the deficit.

The Hail Mary Heroics:

With seconds remaining and the Spartans trailing by three, Cook dropped back to pass. Under intense pressure, he launched a desperation Hail Mary into the end zone. The ball soared through the air, seemingly destined to fall harmlessly incomplete. But then, the magic happened.
Jalen Watts-Jackson, a redshirt freshman wide receiver, rose above the Michigan defenders and snagged the ball out of the sky. He landed in the end zone, the ball cradled securely in his outstretched arms, as the Spartan Stadium erupted in a frenzy. The impossible had happened. Michigan State had snatched victory from the jaws of defeat on the game's final play.

The UMass Minutemen football program, dating back to 1879, has a rich history of triumphs and challenges. Starting as members of independent leagues, they eventually settled into the Yankee Conference, later known as the Atlantic 10 and Colonial Athletic Association. Their early years saw modest success, including a 9-1 season in 1903 and a New England Championship in 1955. However, the program struggled throughout the 20th century, experiencing long periods of losing seasons and coaching changes.
A significant shift came in 1998 when they captured the FCS National Championship under coach Mark Whipple, defeating Appalachian State 55-43. This victory marked a turning point, injecting new life into the program and raising expectations. In 2011, UMass boldly decided to move up to the FBS level, joining the Mid-American Conference. This transition proved challenging, with the team facing the competition and financial demands of the higher division. Despite the difficulties, the Minutemen have shown flashes of potential, including a 3-9 record in 2018, their best season yet as an FBS team.
While national championships and consistent winning seasons remain elusive, the UMass Minutemen football program strives to progress and build upon its legacy. Their journey embodies resilience, a spirit of competition, and a commitment to developing young athletes on and off the field. The program's future remains open, but the unwavering dedication of players, coaches, and fans fuels the hope for future success and a brighter chapter in the history of UMass football.

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The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas football game, played on November 1, 2008, at Jones AT&T Stadium, will forever be etched in the memories of fans on both sides. This Big 12 Conference clash witnessed a dramatic comeback victory by Texas Tech over the heavily favored Longhorns in a game filled with thrilling moments and unexpected twists.

A Tale of Two Halves:

The game began with Texas dominating the first half, building a comfortable 24-10 lead. Quarterback Colt McCoy orchestrated the Longhorns' offense, throwing two touchdown passes and leading them to a seemingly insurmountable advantage. Texas' defense also played a strong role, stifling the Red Raiders' offense and holding them to just one touchdown.

However, the second half unfolded in a completely different direction. Texas Tech, led by head coach Mike Leach and quarterback Graham Harrell, staged a remarkable comeback. Harrell, known for his "Air Raid" offense, unleashed a torrent of passes, targeting his favorite receiver, Michael Crabtree. Crabtree caught six passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns, spearheading the Red Raiders' offensive revival.

The Red Raiders' defense also stepped up, forcing turnovers and limiting Texas' scoring opportunities. With each touchdown, the momentum shifted, and the crowd at Jones AT&T Stadium erupted in a frenzy of excitement.

A Last-Minute Miracle:

With just 1:29 remaining on the clock, Texas clung to a 33-32 lead. After a crucial defensive stop by Texas Tech, the Red Raiders took over possession at their own 37-yard line. Needing a touchdown to secure the victory, Graham Harrell orchestrated a flawless final drive. He completed passes to three different receivers, including a 20-yard strike to Crabtree on a 4th and 11, giving the Red Raiders a fresh set of downs.

With seconds remaining on the clock, Harrell found Crabtree on a slant route in the end zone for a game-winning touchdown. The stadium erupted in pandemonium as the Red Raiders completed their improbable comeback, winning the game 39-33.

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Rivalry games are the best, as teams get up to play their most hated opponents. The game to circle in the Big Ten today and in 1969 is the annual Buckeyes and Wolverines contest.

The 1969 Michigan vs. Ohio State football game was more than just a rivalry matchup. It was a monumental showdown with national championship implications, etched in history as "The Upset of the Century."

Defiance in the Face of Expectations:

The undefeated and heavily favored Ohio State Buckeyes, led by legendary coach Woody Hayes, were widely considered the superior team. They had won 22 straight games and were ranked #1 in the nation. Facing them were the #12 Michigan Wolverines under first-year head coach Bo Schembechler, determined to prove themselves against the mighty Buckeyes.

A Defensive Masterclass:

The game unfolded as a defensive battle. Michigan's defense, led by Jim Mandich and Tom Darden, shut down the Buckeyes' high-powered offense, forcing six interceptions and limiting Rex Kern to a dismal performance. Ohio State's vaunted running game, anchored by Jim Otis, was also neutralized by the Wolverines' tenacious defense.

Michigan's Rise to Glory:

On offense, Michigan relied on a balanced attack. Quarterback Don Moorhead connected with Billy Taylor for a 54-yard touchdown pass, while the running back duo of Garvie Craw and Barry Pierson punched in two crucial touchdowns.

A Nation Stunned:

As the final seconds ticked away, Michigan secured a shocking 24-12 victory, silencing the Ohio State crowd and sending shockwaves through the college football world. This unexpected triumph marked the beginning of the iconic "Bo Schembechler vs. Woody Hayes" rivalry and cemented Michigan's place in the national championship picture.