Football History

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Leonard Guy Ford Jr., better known as the "Two-Handed Terror," wasn't your typical NFL star. A hulking 6'4" and 245 pounds, his dominance transcended mere size. He was a defensive whirlwind, a two-way terror who redefined the ends position in the 1940s and 50s.

Ford's career unfolded like a football epic. He began with the Los Angeles Dons in the All-America Football Conference, excelling not just as a fearsome defender but also as a pass-catching weapon. His leaping one-handed grabs became legendary, showcasing a rare blend of power and finesse.

When the AAFC folded, Ford landed with the Cleveland Browns, joining the legendary Cleveland teams of the 1950s. Here, his defensive prowess truly blossomed. He terrorized quarterbacks with unstoppable pass rushes, recovering fumbles and earning All-NFL honors four times.

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The New York Giants were on shaky ground financially as was most of the rest of the National Football League in 1925. A bright star would arise to help save the League from going under.

As part of our celebration of the 100th season of the New York Football Giants, we present Part 3 of the NYG-100 series.

When Football Was Football host Joe Ziemba is our guest from an appearance he made back in 2021 on the Pigskin Dispatch Podcast NFL Jersey #77 episode.

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A look back at some of the early coaching clinics and educational venues for football coaches

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A football Archaeology salute to the team of the Butte Football Club Miners.

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The Buzz is real Electric FOotball stall stands as a fun way to enjoy the game

Football History Rewind: A glance at how football developed in stages especially in post Civil War America

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The 1920s were a period of innovation and upheaval in professional football. While the established National Football League (NFL) was still in its formative stages, a unique challenger emerged—C.C. Pyle's New York Yankees. This essay explores Pyle's audacious attempt to establish a rival football team in New York City, a story marked by ambition, controversy, and a lasting impact on the sport.

The Birth of a Renegade Franchise

A flamboyant entrepreneur, C.C. Pyle wasn't new to shaking things up. He had already revolutionized professional basketball with the American Basketball League. In 1926, he set his sights on professional football, capitalizing on the immense popularity of college star Red Grange. Recognizing Grange's potential to elevate the sport, Pyle convinced him to join a new league – the American Football League (AFL) – with a single franchise: the New York Yankees.

Grangemania in the Big Apple

The arrival of Red Grange in New York ignited a media frenzy. Nicknamed the "Galloping Ghost," his electrifying talent and iconic status as a college legend attracted massive crowds. The Yankees, despite playing in a fledgling league with a questionable schedule, filled stadiums across the country, showcasing Grange's immense drawing power.

A Clash of Titans

However, the Yankees' existence was a thorn in the side of the established NFL. The league saw Pyle and Grange as interlopers, and a fierce rivalry ensued. Legal battles and scheduling conflicts plagued the AFL's short lifespan. While the Yankees enjoyed some success, including a victory over the NFL's Chicago Bears, the lack of a cohesive league structure and the financial strain of competing with the well-established NFL ultimately proved impossible.

A Legacy of Change

Though the New York Yankees only lasted three seasons, their impact is undeniable. The AFL's competition forced the NFL to adapt, improve its organization, and expand its reach to compete with the excitement surrounding Grange and the Renegade League. The Yankees paved the way for future rival leagues like the American Football Conference (AFC), which eventually merged with the NFL, creating the powerhouse league we know today.

The National Football Foundation or better known as NFF, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and developing amateur American football on all levels throughout the United States. They aim to:
Support amateur football: This includes providing resources and funding to local youth leagues, high school programs, and college teams.
Develop leadership: They emphasize the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and competitive spirit in young athletes, fostering valuable skills beyond the field.
Recognize excellence: The NFF honors outstanding players, coaches, and contributors to the sport through awards and recognition programs.
Preserve history: They maintain the College Football Hall of Fame, celebrating the legends and traditions that have shaped the sport.
Promote academic achievement: The NFF emphasizes the importance of education for athletes, encouraging them to excel in academics alongside their athletic pursuits.
Overall, the National Football Foundation plays a crucial role in fostering the growth and appreciation of amateur football while also promoting essential values among young athletes.

Claude Humphrey's football career stands as a testament to perseverance, excellence, and sheer dominance on the gridiron. Born on June 29, 1944, in Memphis, Tennessee, Humphrey emerged as one of the most feared defensive ends of his era, leaving an indelible mark on the National Football League (NFL).

Humphrey's journey to football greatness began at Tennessee State University, where his athletic prowess quickly caught the attention of scouts and coaches. Excelling as a defensive end, he demonstrated a rare blend of speed, agility, and power that set him apart from his peers. His stellar performances earned him All-American honors and laid the foundation for a promising professional career.

In the 1968 NFL Draft, Humphrey was selected by the Atlanta Falcons as the third overall pick, marking the beginning of his impactful tenure in the league. From the outset, he made an immediate impact, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his relentless pass rush and formidable run-stopping capabilities. His technique and athleticism made him a nightmare for offensive linemen, earning him respect across the league.

Throughout his NFL career, Humphrey played a pivotal role in the Falcons' defense, anchoring the line and setting a high standard for defensive excellence. His consistency and durability were remarkable, as he continued to perform at a high level year after year. His leadership qualities also shone through, inspiring teammates and earning the admiration of fans and coaches alike.

Humphrey's standout performances did not go unnoticed, as he received numerous accolades and honors during his career. He was selected to the Pro Bowl six times (1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1977) and earned first-team All-Pro honors five times (1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1977). His impact on the Falcons' defense was instrumental in establishing them as a competitive force in the league.

In 1979, Humphrey briefly retired from the NFL but returned to the gridiron a year later, joining the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite nearing the end of his career, he continued to demonstrate his effectiveness as a pass rusher and leader on the field. His veteran presence and experience proved invaluable to the Eagles' defense, contributing to their success during his tenure with the team.

Claude Humphrey's football career culminated in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport. In 2014, he was rightfully enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest defensive ends in NFL history. His induction was a fitting tribute to his remarkable career and served as a testament to his enduring impact on the game.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Humphrey's dedication and passion for football continue to inspire generations of players and fans. His journey from a standout college athlete to a Hall of Fame professional exemplifies the rewards of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Claude Humphrey remains a revered figure in football history, forever etched in the annals of the sport as a true gridiron legend.

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Dateline December 28, 1958, The New York Giants sideline was stunned as the Baltimore Colts scored in Overtime to defeat the G-men 23-17 in the Greatest Game Ever Played. On that Giants sideline was a rookie wide receiver from Texas Western named Don Maynard.

Little did anyone know that this speedy wideout would avenge this early championship loss to bask in the limelight of a brilliant 15-year pro football career. We often think of Don Maynard as the guy on the other end of so many of Joe Namath's spirals, but there are some hidden knowledge nuggets about the legend that goes beyond his 633 receptions with 11,834 receiving yards and 88 Touchdowns.

It got rocky before it got good, though, as NY released Maynard and went North the following year to play for the Hamilton Ti-Cats of the CFL. After a one-year stint there, the new American Football League came calling and gave the speedster an opportunity with the New York Titans. Don stayed with that club throughout the AFL, witnessed the rebranding as the Jets won a title, and helped the franchise merge into the NFL for a spectacular 13-year career in NY Green. He went on to play for the St. Louis Cardinls, LA Rams, and later with with the Houston Texans / Shreveport Steamer of the WFL.

Maynard played in four different Pro Football Leagues, NFL, AFL, CFL and WFL.