Football History

---

Born August 16, 1862, in West Orange, New Jersey, was College Football Hall of Fame Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg. Stagg was a great innovator of many items we know in football such as the huddle, man in motion, and more. Most of his career was as the head man for the University of Chicago Maroons. Biographer Jennifer Taylor Hall discusses the great Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg and his many contributions to football and sports in general.

Here is the transcript of Ms. Hall's conversation with us:

---

July 10, 1926 - Hartford Blues franchise is accepted into the NFL and survives only during the inaugural season in the League. According to the ConnecticutHistory.org website the Blues were the only NFL team to have called the State of Connecticut their home, that is except for the New York Giants who played at the New Haven Yale Bowl in 1973 and 1974 awaiting their new Meadowlands stadium to be completed. The Blues team actually started in Waterbury, Connecticut according to writer Andy Piaskic in the article. George Mulligan a local sports promoter started the Waterbury Blues in 1924 as an independent pro football team. Mulligan in 1926 moved the team to Hartford and paid the NFL entry fee and they became a member in the League. It was a rough year as they played against some great players including Ernie Nevers and Johnny Blood of Duluth, Guy Chamberlin of the Frankford Yellow Jackets, Harry Stuhldreher (one of the famed Four Horsemen of Notre Dame) who played for Brooklyn in 1926, Steve Owen of the Giants,  and Pete Henry of Canton. They were supposed to also face Jim Thorpe when playing against the Bulldogs but he was injured for that game and did not participate. The Blues only manage to finish the season with a 3-7 record despite playing all home games save two. The NFL in 1927 wanted to shed some of its numbers thus after a vote Hartford was dropped from its ranks.

---

We have discussed it in other parts of this series on this series, but 1926 and the formation of the 1st American Football League, or Red Grange League as it is remembered, had a tremendous impact on so many levels of the pro game.

Hiistorian Larry Schmitt has recently released a article on Big Blue Interactive to get into more detail that any one has in almost a century. You can find the post in its entirety here: The Giants, New York and the Pro Football War of 1926.

We had a great discussion with Larry on the story that you can enjoy in the video above once you have read the article.

Michigan Wolverines football, a legacy etched in gridiron glory, boasts an illustrious history woven with legendary players. Choosing just a number among them is a daunting task, yet, here are few titans who etched their names in maize and blue lore:

-Tom Harmon ("The Golden Tornado"): This Heisman Trophy winner (1940) electrified the 1940s with his passing prowess, leading Michigan to two national championships and earning a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame.

-Anthony Carter ("Mr. Sunshine"): Carter dazzled on the gridiron in the 1980s, shattering receiving records and becoming the first Wolverine to win the Biletnikoff Award for best wide receiver (1986). His electrifying touchdown catches remain etched in Big House memories.

-Charles Woodson ("The Heisman Hurdler"): This versatile athlete shone at corner, receiver, and even punt returner. His defensive dominance earned him the Heisman Trophy (1997) and the Defensive Player of the Year award (1997) – a feat unmatched in NCAA history.

-Tom Brady ("The Sixth Round Sensation"): Before becoming an NFL legend, Brady honed his skills in Ann Arbor. Despite being a sixth-round draft pick, his leadership and clutch performances still resonate with Wolverine fans.

-Desmond Howard ("The Heisman Return"): This electric punt returner etched his name in college football history with his Heisman-clinching punt return touchdown against Ohio State in 1991. His electrifying play and infectious personality left an indelible mark on the program.

-Ronnie Johnson ("The Natural"): This running back possessed a rare blend of power and grace, racking up over 2,600 rushing yards in just two seasons. His tragic passing in 1985 remains a heartbreaking chapter in Michigan history.

---

The Louisville Cardinals football program boasts a history of thrilling victories and unexpected upsets. Here are a few of their most memorable games:

-1950 Heisman Tie: In a game forever etched in college football history, Louisville battled the heavily favored and undefeated Miami (FL) Hurricanes to a 13-13 draw. Notably, a fumble recovery by Lee Corso, Louisville's future head coach and ESPN personality, led to the tying touchdown.

-2006 Shutout of West Virginia: This resounding 41-0 victory over West Virginia, then ranked number 6 in the nation, marked a significant upset and solidified Louisville's presence as a rising power in the Big East Conference.

-2012 Sugar Bowl Victory: The Cardinals reached a pinnacle moment with a thrilling 33-24 win over the Florida Gators in the 2012 Sugar Bowl. This victory capped off a perfect 12-0 season and cemented head coach Charlie Strong's legacy.

-The Lamar Jackson Show: 2016 & 2017 (multiple games): Quarterback Lamar Jackson's electrifying playmaking ability led to a string of unforgettable games. Victories over Clemson in 2016 and Florida State in 2017 stand out, showcasing Jackson's Heisman-caliber talent and Louisville's offensive dominance.

-In a thrilling upset for the 2023 college football season, the #25 ranked Louisville Cardinals stunned the #10 Notre Dame Fighting Irish in a high-scoring affair at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Led by running back Jeremy Brown's 143 yards and 2 touchdowns, the Cardinals' offense put on a dominant display. Despite an early Notre Dame lead, Louisville's defense tightened up, shutting down the Irish offense in the second half. The 33-20 victory secured Louisville's biggest win over a ranked opponent in a decade and extended their overall winning streak to seven games.

---

The Arizona State Sun Devils have carved a unique path in college football history, boasting a rich tapestry of memorable moments. Here are some of the most significant:

-Undefeated 1975 Season:

In 1975, the Sun Devils achieved the pinnacle of success, going undefeated (12-0) and claiming the Western Athletic Conference Championship.

This feat established them as a national powerhouse and culminated in a Fiesta Bowl victory against Nebraska.
This season remains etched in Sun Devil lore as a testament to the program's potential and a source of inspiration for future generations.

-Rose Bowl Appearance and National Championship Contention (1996):

The 1996 season saw another peak for the Sun Devils. They captured the Pac-10 Conference championship with an impressive 11-1 record.

Their dominant performance earned them a coveted Rose Bowl berth, where they narrowly fell to Ohio State.

This season solidified their national presence and showcased their ability to compete at the highest level, even against established powerhouses.

-Giant Killings and Upsets:

The Sun Devils have a history of surprising victories over ranked opponents, earning them the reputation as "giant killers."

In 2007, they stunned the college football world by defeating No. 5 Michigan, a moment forever etched in program history.

Other notable upsets include victories against No. 20 Tennessee (2016) and No. 17 Washington (2018), demonstrating their ability to rise to the occasion against formidable opponents.

-Bowl Wins and Conference Championships:

The Sun Devils have secured 15 bowl victories and 17 conference championships across different conferences.
These triumphs highlight their sustained success and ability to consistently compete for postseason glory.

The Sun Devils' most recent accomplishments include the 2021 Las Vegas Bowl win and the 2013 Pac-12 South Division championship.

-Individual Achievements and Development:

Several Sun Devil players have earned individual accolades and recognition for their exceptional talent and contributions to the program.

Notable examples include:

-Pat Tillman, a decorated NFL player and war hero.

-Terrell Suggs is a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and Super Bowl champion.

-Jake Plummer is a Pro Bowl quarterback and Heisman Trophy finalist.

The Sun Devils' commitment to player development is evident in their track record of producing NFL-caliber talent.

For more on the top ASU Football moments check out the linked article.

---

With a rich history dating back to 1890, Ohio State football boasts a pantheon of legendary players who left their mark on the gridiron. Choosing a definitive "top" is subjective, but considering Heisman wins, individual accolades, and impact on the program, some names consistently rise to the top.

The Heisman Heroes:

-Archie Griffin (1972-75): The only two-time Heisman winner in college football history, Griffin shattered rushing records and led the Buckeyes to a national championship. His legacy of leadership and resilience remains unmatched.

-Les Horvath (1944): A versatile threat, Horvath won the Heisman in 1944, playing running back, quarterback, and defensive back. His leadership during World War II adds another layer to his legend.

-Howard "Hopalong" Cassady (1953): Cassady's Heisman win in 1953 marked Ohio State's first national championship after decades. His electrifying running style and punting prowess made him a triple threat.

Defensive Dominators:

-Orlando Pace (1999-2002): A unanimous All-American and 1st overall NFL draft pick, Pace revolutionized the offensive tackle position with his size, athleticism, and dominance.

-Jack Tatum (1967-69): A ferocious safety and leader on the famed "Super Sophs" defense, Tatum's intimidating presence and game-changing interceptions cemented his place in history.

-Chris Spielman (1984-87): An emotional leader and tackling machine, Spielman's intensity and defensive acumen led the Buckeyes to a Big Ten title and earned him NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Offensive Masters:

-Troy Smith (2004-2006): Smith's dual-threat ability revolutionized the Buckeye offense, leading them to an undefeated season and national championship game appearance in 2006.

-Joey Bosa (2013-2016): A terror on the defensive line, Bosa's speed and relentless pass rush helped lead the Buckeyes to a CFP appearance and earned him the Nagurski Award.

-Curtis Samuel (2014-2016): A versatile threat as a receiver, runner, and returner, Samuel's explosiveness and playmaking ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

This is just a glimpse into the vast talent pool of Ohio State legends. From iconic coaches like Woody Hayes and Urban Meyer to countless other All-Americans and NFL stars, the Buckeye legacy is woven with the stories of these outstanding players.

---

Despite not boasting national championships, the Troy Trojans football program has carved its unique path in college football history. Their journey is punctuated by stunning upsets, dramatic victories, and games that etched themselves into the hearts of loyal Trojans fans. Let's delve into some of the most significant games that shaped the identity of the Troy Trojans:


1. 1999 Division II National Championship Game: After years of dominance in the FCS (formerly I-AA) level, Troy finally reached the pinnacle, defeating Montana 23-16 to claim their first national championship. This historic victory solidified their place as FCS giants and fueled even greater aspirations.


2. 2000 Sun Belt Conference Championship Game: In their inaugural season in the Sun Belt Conference, the Trojans faced off against Arkansas State for the title. A last-minute field goal by Jarret Lee secured a 24-21 victory, marking the program's first conference championship at the FBS level and proving their immediate competitiveness.


3. 2004 Victory over LSU: On the road at Death Valley, the Trojans shocked the college football world by upending the mighty LSU Tigers 27-24. This upset victory, led by a dazzling performance from quarterback Troy Smith, signaled Troy's arrival on the national stage and sent shockwaves through the SEC.


4. 2006 New Orleans Bowl: After another dominant Sun Belt season, Troy earned its first bowl bid, facing Rice in the New Orleans Bowl. A 41-17 thrashing marked their first bowl victory, a significant milestone in their ascent to higher levels of college football.


5. 2017 New Orleans Bowl: A decade after their first bowl win, the Trojans returned to the New Orleans Bowl, this time facing Ohio. In a thrilling back-and-forth battle, Troy emerged victorious 48-41, showcasing their offensive prowess and resilient spirit on a national stage.


6. 2023 Sun Belt Championship Game: After a season of thrilling performances and conference dominance, the Trojans faced Louisiana for the Sun Belt title. A gritty defensive effort propelled them to a 10-7 victory, reaffirming their status as a force to be reckoned with in the conference.

---

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers football might not be a household name nationwide, but their gridiron history boasts some truly epic moments. From stunning upsets to championship clinchers, here are a few of their biggest games ever:

Early Era Thrills (1942-1973):

1942 Rose Bowl Bid Rejection: Though not technically a game, the Hilltoppers' controversial exclusion from the 1942 Rose Bowl, despite an undefeated season, remains a burning memory and a rallying cry for fans.
1960 Ohio Valley Conference Championship: WKU's first-ever conference championship, a dominant 27-0 shutout over Murray State, cemented their dominance in the OVC and ignited a golden era.
1973 NCAA Division II National Championship Game: Although they fell short against Montana, the Hilltoppers' run to the championship game showcased their rising talent and Division II prowess.
Transition and Upsets (1974-2008):

1979 Upset of Kentucky: As an emerging FBS team, WKU stunned in-state rival Kentucky 20-10, proving their competitiveness against larger programs.
2002 NCAA Division II National Championship Game: Revenge was sweet as the Hilltoppers finally captured the National Championship, defeating Hampton 27-14 and sealing their legacy in the Division II ranks.
2003 Upset of Louisville: Another memorable David vs. Goliath moment, WKU's 27-24 victory over then-ranked No. 17 Louisville announced their arrival as a force in FBS.
Sun Belt Soaring (2009-Present):

2009 Sun Belt Conference Championship Game: Clinching their first Sun Belt title with a gritty 38-17 win over Troy marked a defining moment in WKU's transition to FBS success.
2015 Popeyes Bahamas Bowl: The Hilltoppers reached their first FBS bowl game and capped a 12-2 season with a thrilling 48-21 victory over Louisiana Tech.
2022 Famous Toastery Bowl: A dominant 41-13 win over Appalachian State in the 2022 Famous Toastery Bowl secured WKU's fourth Sun Belt Championship and showcased their current dominance in the conference.
This is just a taste of the biggest games in Hilltopper history. Each matchup represents a turning point, an upset, or a championship triumph, etching itself into the hearts of WKU fans and solidifying the program's place in college football lore.

---

The Iowa State Cyclones football program boasts a rich history dating back to 1892. While not always national contenders, they have consistently produced exciting teams and boast several impressive achievements.

The program's early years were marked by a steady rise under the guidance of legendary coach A. W. “Shady” Ristine. Between 1903 and 1907, Ristine led the Cyclones to a remarkable 36-10-1 record, laying the foundation for future success.

In 1907, coach Clyde Williams implemented the forward pass, a revolutionary strategy at the time. This bold move proved successful, propelling the Cyclones to a 7-1 record and their first state championship title.

The Cyclones continued their dominance in the Missouri Valley Conference, capturing conference titles in both 1911 and 1912. These early victories cemented their place as a force to be reckoned with in the region.
While the mid-century years saw ups and downs, the Cyclones continued to produce notable players and coaches. Johnny Behm, the program's first All-American selection, dazzled fans with his talent in the 1920s.
Tragically, Jack Trice, the program's first African-American athlete, passed away in 1923 from injuries sustained during a game. His courage and determination continue to inspire generations of Cyclone players and fans alike.

The 1950s saw the arrival of future coaching legend Johnny Majors. During his five seasons at the helm, Majors led the Cyclones to a Missouri Valley Conference championship in 1959, showcasing his coaching prowess.
The late 1990s and early 2000s marked a golden age for Cyclone football under the leadership of head coach Dan McCarney. Under his guidance, the Cyclones captured three Big 12 North titles and achieved a historic victory over the powerhouse Oklahoma Sooners in 2002.
Building upon McCarney's legacy, coach Bret Bielema continued the Cyclones' winning tradition. During his tenure, Bielema led the Cyclones to a bowl game in each of his first four seasons, showcasing the program's continued success.

The current head coach, Matt Campbell, has ushered in a new era of excitement for Cyclone football. Since his arrival in 2016, Campbell has led the Cyclones to three bowl games and their highest-ever ranking of No. 7 in the AP Poll in 2020.