Football History

February 16, 1972 - Detroit, Michigan - The powerful running back from the University of Notre Dame, Jerome Bettis, celebrates his birthday.

-College Career

Bettis's time at Notre Dame showcased the emergence of a powerful and talented running back. From 1990 to 1992, "The Bus" rumbled through opposing defenses, displaying a rare combination of size, speed, and agility. He quickly became a fan favorite, known for his punishing running style and ability to break tackles. Bettis contributed significantly to the Fighting Irish's success, helping them maintain their reputation as a national powerhouse. His impressive performances earned him national attention and set the stage for a highly anticipated professional career. While his college career was shorter than some, Bettis left a lasting impression on Notre Dame football.

-Road to the NFL

The St Louis Rams selected Jerome as their first-round pick and 10th overall in the 1993 NFL Draft. In just his first season as a Pro, Bettis received Rookie of the Year honors as he was second in yardage in the League that year and third in total yards from scrimmage per ProFootballHOF.com.

-Career Reboot

A few years later, he was famously traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he remained for the balance of his 13-year career. He led the Rams in rushing in three seasons and the Steelers in 8. When he retired, he had amassed 13662 yards rushing, which at the time listed him as the fifth-highest total in NFL history.

He was an All-Pro in several seasons and played in 6 Pro Bowl games. Jerome Bettis was selected for enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015’s class of inductees.

-Career Information

-High school: Mackenzie
(Detroit, Michigan)

-College: Notre Dame (1990–1992)

-NFL draft: 1993 / round: 1 / pick: 10

-Career History

-Los Angeles / St. Louis Rams (1993–1995)

-Pittsburgh Steelers (1996–2005)

-Career Highlights and Awards

-Super Bowl champion (XL)

-NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1993)

-NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1996)

-Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2001)

-2× First-team All-Pro (1993, 1996)

-Second-team All-Pro (1997)

-6× Pro Bowl (1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2004)

-PFWA All-Rookie Team (1993)

-Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team

-Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor

-Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame

-Career NFL statistics

-Rushing yards: 13,662

-Rushing average: 3.9

-Rushing touchdowns: 91

-Receptions: 200

-Receiving yards: 1,449

-Receiving touchdowns: 3

-Pro Football Hall of Fame

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Jerome Bettis. (2025, February 9). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerome_Bettis

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.

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Born August 13, 1913, in Portsmouth, Virginia, was NFL Films "Voice of God," John Facenda. The son of Italian immigrants got into broadcasting and sports event announcing, becoming a fixture in the Philadelphia area. His famous voice was marketed Nationally when he became the narrator of NFL Films and the Football Follies videos.

Facenda, with his resonant baritone and poetic delivery, is synonymous with the NFL Films sound. While his narration often evoked a sense of grandeur and drama, the man behind the voice was also known for his wit and humor.

One story tells of Facenda recording a particularly intense narration for a highlight reel. After a long session, the director asked him to try a different tone, perhaps something more light-hearted. Facenda, without missing a beat, launched into a comedic impression of a sports announcer, complete with exaggerated enthusiasm and over-the-top commentary. The entire crew burst into laughter, and the session took a lighter turn.

Another anecdote highlights Facenda's dedication to his craft. While recording a script, he stumbled over a particularly complex sentence. Frustrated, he exclaimed, "I can't say this!" The director, amused, suggested they cut the line altogether. Facenda, however, insisted on finding a way to make it work. After several takes, he finally delivered the line flawlessly, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to perfection.

These glimpses into Facenda's personality reveal a man who was not only a master of his craft but also possessed a quick wit and a tireless work ethic. His ability to seamlessly transition from the epic to the everyday is what made him such a beloved and iconic figure in the world of sports broadcasting.

The story goes that while sitting in a bar discussing how interesting the slow-motion game sequences of NFL films were to another bar patron; he was overheard talking by another customer in the establishment, Ed Sabol, the founder of NFL Films. That was in 1965, and after reading script after script, Facenda continued on as the voice of NFL Films until he died in 1984.

Born February 14, 1960 - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - The outstanding quarterback from the Miami Hurciane’s program Jim Kelly was born. The Buffalo Bills selected Kelly in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft but the signal caller decided to sign with the USFL’s Houston Gamblers franchise instead.

The 6’-4” 225 quarterback spent two seasons with the Gamblers and threw for 9,842 yards and a whopping 83 touchdowns per the ProFootballHOF.com website. When the USFL folded Jim signed on with the NFL team that originally drafted him, the Bills in 1986. It was a perfect fit for both parties as Kelly ran the famed “no Huddle” fast paced offense of Coach Marv Levy to a tee. Having offensive weapons like running back Thurmon Thomas and receivers Andre Reid and James Lofton didn’t hurt either.

The Bills played in four straight Super Bowls in the 1990’s led by Kelly’s arm. In Jim’s 11 seasons with the Bills, he led the Bills to the AFC playoffs eight times. In those 17 playoff appearances, including four the Super Bowls, Kelly tossed the ball for 3,863 yards and 21 touchdowns! Jim Kelly was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

-Career History

-Houston Gamblers (1984–1985)

-Buffalo Bills (1986–1996)

-Career Highlights and Awards

-USFL Most Valuable Player (1984)

-USFL Rookie of the Year (1984)

-2× First-team All-USFL (1984, 1985)

-First-team All-Pro (1991)

-Second-team All-Pro (1992)

-5× Pro Bowl (1987, 1988, 1990–1992)

-NFL passing touchdowns leader (1991)

-NFL passer rating leader (1990)

-NFL completion percentage leader (1990)

-Second-team All-South Independent (1981)

-Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame

-Buffalo Bills 50th Anniversary Team

-Buffalo Bills No. 12 retired

-USFL All-Time Team

-University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame

-NCAA Inspiration Award (2018)

-Career NFL Statistics

-Passing attempts: 4,779

-Passing completions: 2,874

-Completion percentage: 60.1%

-TD–INT: 237–175

-Passing yards: 35,467

-Passer rating: 84.4

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Jim Kelly. (2025, February 1). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Kelly

Johnny Lujack's football career was a brilliance symphony played out on the college and professional stages. He was a quarterback who mastered the T-formation, led teams to championships and left an indelible mark on the game. Here's a closer look at his impressive achievements:

College Stardom:

-Notre Dame Glory: Lujack took over as Notre Dame's quarterback in 1943, guiding them to three national championships during his tenure. He threw for over 777 yards and rushed for 139 in his senior season, earning the Heisman Trophy and Associated Press Athlete of the Year honors.

-T-Formation Master: Lujack's exceptional understanding of the T-formation offense made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His precise passing and deceptive running combined to be an unstoppable force, rewriting the playbook for future quarterbacks.
NFL Journey:

-Drafted High: The Chicago Bears recognized Lujack's talent and drafted him fourth overall in the 1946 NFL Draft. He lived up to expectations, leading the team in scoring each year of his four-season career.

-Passing Prowess: Despite playing in a run-heavy era, Lujack set an NFL record with 468 passing yards in a single game in 1949. He also finished his career with 11 rushing touchdowns, another noteworthy feat for a quarterback of his time.

-Early Retirement: Lujack's NFL career was cut short due to injuries and military service. He retired in 1951 at age 26, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented quarterbacks of his generation.

Beyond the Numbers:

-Lujack's impact extended beyond statistics. He was a charismatic leader, respected by teammates and coaches alike. His influence on the development of the quarterback position, particularly within the T-formation, is undeniable.

-His legacy lives on in various Halls of Fame, including the College Football and National Polish-American Sports Halls of Fame. He remains a revered figure in Notre Dame and Bears history, a constant reminder of the heights an exceptional quarterback can reach.

In conclusion, Johnny Lujack's football career was a leadership, talent, and adaptation masterclass. He left his mark on college and professional football, etching his name in the annals of gridiron history.

Born August 6, 1947, in Bartow, Florida, was Pro Football Hall of Fame Corner Back, Ken Riley. Riley was a First-Team All-Pro 1983 for the Cincinnati Bengals and later was the coach of Florida A&M 1994-2003. Riley recorded 65 interceptions in his career, which was the fourth most in NFL history at the time of his retirement behind three members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Before his Hall of Fame career as a cornerback in the NFL, Ken Riley Sr. carved his name in college football history as a standout quarterback at Florida A&M University (FAMU).

Leading Man of the Rattlers:

From 1965 to 1968, Riley was the starting quarterback for the FAMU Rattlers, then part of the NCAA Division II Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). Under legendary coach Jake Gaither, Riley led the Rattlers to a dominant 23-7 record, capturing three consecutive SIAC championships (1966-1968).

Riley's offensive prowess shined. He accumulated impressive stats, including:

-3,860 rushing yards: This set a new FAMU record at the time and remains the fifth-highest total in school history.

-1,702 passing yards and 14 touchdowns: His dual-threat ability kept defenses guessing.

Known as "Rattler" during his playing days, wasn't just a big NFL football player; he was a lockdown cornerback who left a lasting impression on the Cincinnati Bengals franchise and the sport itself. Here are some key points about his career:

Career Highlights:

-15 seasons: Played his entire career (1969-1983) with the Cincinnati Bengals, a testament to his loyalty and impact on the team.

-Interception Machine: Holds the Bengals record for most career interceptions (65), tied for 5th most in NFL history at the time of his retirement.

-5 Touchdown Returns: Demonstrated his offensive explosiveness, turning interceptions into scoring plays.

-All-Pro Recognition: Earned Pro Bowl selections in 7 consecutive seasons (1974-1980) and received All-Pro honors 3 times.

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Born November 18, 1948, in Cherryville, North Carolina the great Ohio State DB, Jack Tatum was often called the “Assassin” for his hard hitting style of play but he also could blanket a receiver in coverage too. The National Football Foundation writes that Jack was a unanimous First Team All-America selection in 1970 and consensus pick in 1969, Tatum earned First Team All-Conference honors three times and was named National Defensive Player of the Year in 1970. A three-year starter, Tatum led the Buckeyes to a 27-2 record, two National Championships and at least a share of three Big Ten Conference titles.

The College Football Hall of Fame placed a plaque in honor of Jack Tatum’s fine play in their gridiron greats museum in 2004. After he completed college, Tatum was a first round by the Oakland Raiders in the 1971 NFL Draft. Tatum played in the NFL for 10 seasons, nine with Oakland and one with Houston, and was a three-time Pro Bowl selection.

-Career Highlights and Awards

-Super Bowl champion (XI)

-Second-team All-Pro (1974)

-3× Pro Bowl (1973–1975)

-2× National champion (1968, 1970)

-2× Unanimous All-American (1969, 1970)

-3× First-team All-Big Ten (1968–1970)

-Career NFL statistics

-Interceptions: 37

-Interception yards: 736

-Fumble recoveries: 10

-Defensive touchdowns: 1

Stats at Pro Football Reference

Jack Tatum. (2025, January 10). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Tatum

Born on January 16, 1894, in Blue Springs, Nebraska was Guy Chamberlin, the sensational back and end of Nebraska Wesleyan and University of Nebraska. In 1911 and 1912 Chamberlin starred at Wesleyan, he then transferred to play with the Cornhuskers of Nebraska and in 1914 the team was 7-0-1 in 1914 with Chamberlin at halfback scoring on runs of 90, 85, 70 and 58 yards per the NFF.

After a transfer to end in 1915, he became an All-America selection and Nebraska went 8-0 on the season. The Cornhuskers had beaten Notre Dame 20-19. Knute Rockne, then a Notre Dame assistant coach, called Chamberlin "the key to Nebraska's victory." For his final college game, November 20, 1915, he moved back to halfback and scored five touchdowns in a 52-7 romp over Iowa.

Guy Chamberlin’s stats and bio went into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1962. After serving in World War I Guy played pro football for eight years. Bears legend, George Halas called him "the greatest two-way end in the history of the game." He was not only a good player but he was a great early coach in the NFL according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

In his six coaching seasons, five of which were spent as a player-coach, Chamberlin also won four NFL championships for the Canton Bulldogs in 1922 and 1923, the Cleveland Bulldogs in 1924, and the Frankford Yellow Jackets in 1926. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Guy Chamberlin in 1965.

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It is a fantastic book by Original NFL Insider Gary Myers that tells the Story of the 1986 Championship Season of the New York Football Giants and the trials, tribulations, and victories of the team thereafter.

Once a Giant by Gary Myers delves deep into the heart and soul of the legendary 1986 New York Giants. More than just a retelling of their Super Bowl victory, this book offers an intimate portrait of the team's journey, both on and off the field.

Myers provides unprecedented access to the players and coaches, revealing the intense camaraderie, fierce competition, and unwavering dedication that forged this championship squad. But the story doesn't end with the final whistle. Through candid interviews and meticulous research, Myers explores the challenges and triumphs faced by these athletes in the years following their glory days. From the physical and mental toll of the game to the complexities of life after football, Once a Giant offers a raw and honest look at the enduring impact of the NFL on its players.

Marv Levy, a legendary coach from Coe College, was Born August 3, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois. Marv started his professional coaching career in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles as the kicking teams coach, and then in 1970, he joined George Allen's staff with the Los Angeles Rams as the special teams coach.

He then got his break to be the head man of a pro team north of the border with the CFL's Montreal Allouettes from 1973 to 1977.  His Montreal teams won two Grey Cups in five seasons and Levy then returned to the NFL in 1978 as the head coach of the KC Chiefs. His Kansas City teams showed improvement until the strike-shortened season of 1982 when they fell to a dismal 3-6 mark and he left the franchise. During the next two seasons he coached the USFL's Chicago Blitz and then in 1986 he took over the reigns of the Buffalo Bills.

In his second season at the helm the Bills were 12-4 and won their first of six straight AFC East Titles. The Pro Football Hall of Fame says that Levy is the winningest head coach in Buffalo Bills history. During that run, they also played in four straight Super Bowls, and under Levy's watch, they had the highest win percentage in the league, behind the 49ers. Levy was voted as the NFL Coach of the Year in 1988 and the AFC Coach of the Year in 1988, 1993 and 1995. Marv Levy was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001.