Football History

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Football Archaeology examines the rules and basics for understanding Canadian Football and the CFL.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame tells of the 1984 NFL Draft and the Number 1 pick by the New England Patriots, Irving Fryar.

May 1, 1984 - Nebraska wide receiver Irving Fryar was the first pick by the New England Patriots in the 1984 NFL Draft. In my research I cannot find where one member of this draft class has been enshrined as of yet in Canton, Ohio. It is interesting that another Cornhusker offensive player was selected at the number 2 spot in Dean Steinkuhler to the Houston Oilers. The Pro Football Reference gives us a glimpse of the first ten selections:

Pick Tm Player Pos College/Univ

1 NWE Irving Fryar WR Nebraska College Stats
2 HOU Dean Steinkuhler T Nebraska College Stats
3 NYG Carl Banks LB Michigan St.
4 PHI Kenny Jackson WR Penn St. College Stats
5 KAN Bill Maas NT Pittsburgh
6 SDG Mossy Cade DB Texas
7 CIN Ricky Hunley LB Arizona College Stats
8 IND Leonard Coleman DB Vanderbilt
9 ATL Rick Bryan DE Oklahoma College Stats
10 NYJ Russell Carter DB SMU
NFL May 1

Henry Jordan wasn't a prototypical defensive tackle. At 6-1 and 230 pounds, he seemed undersized in a world of giants. Yet, for ten seasons in the NFL, Jordan defied expectations, carving his name in football history as one of the most dominant interior linemen ever.

His journey began in rural Virginia, where his athleticism shone through in both football and wrestling. He later excelled at the University of Virginia, becoming a captain and All-American on the gridiron and an NCAA runner-up wrestler. This blend of power and technique would lay the foundation for his professional success.

Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1957, Jordan found himself under the legendary tutelage of Vince Lombardi. Lombardi recognized Jordan's exceptional talent and encouraged him to develop his mental agility as much as his physical strength. Thus, the "bag of tricks" was born – a repertoire of deceptive moves and relentless hustle that allowed Jordan to outsmart and overpower much larger offensive linemen.

His on-field impact was immediate. Jordan anchored the Packers' defensive line, his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks earning him the nickname "The Country Parson" for his fierce determination. He racked up an impressive resume: five Pro Bowl selections, two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, and a key role in Green Bay's five NFL championships in the 1960s.

But Big Number 74's legacy extends beyond statistics. He was a leader, a motivator, and a source of comic relief for his teammates. His quotable personality and jovial spirit earned him the reputation as the "life of the party" on and off the field. He was revered by Lombardi, who famously proclaimed, "We treat everyone the same. Like dogs."

Sadly, Jordan's career was cut short due to knee injuries in 1967. However, his influence on the game continued. He remained an advisor to Lombardi and later became a successful businessman. In 1979, he was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his remarkable career.

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One of the Nebraska Cornhuskers greatest collegiate gridiron stars.

Learn the essence and history of Texas Longhorns football through the visual images of helmets showing the variations and changes to Burnt Orange football over the years. HelmetHistory.com does an amazing job as always to share these.

Author Rich Shmelter reveals how the history of the City of Angels and the gridiron grew up and matured together.

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Timothy Brown takes his Football Archaeology focus towards some player protective gear evolution our way, was he studies early face guards.

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Timothy P Brown of Football Archaeology examines the history of the memorial Stadiums of College Football

The 1999 Texas vs. Texas A&M football game was more than just a rivalry game. Played just 12 days after the tragic collapse of the Aggie Bonfire, it became a symbol of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.


Pre-Game Tragedy:


On November 18, 1999, the Texas A&M student bonfire tradition collapsed, taking the lives of 12 students and injuring 27 others. The tragedy cast a dark shadow over the Aggie community and the upcoming game against Texas.


A Decision to Play:


Despite the tragedy, the decision was made to play the game. The Aggies, with the support of the Texas Longhorns and fans from both sides, decided to take the field as a way to honor the victims and show strength in the face of adversity.


An Emotional Game:


The atmosphere at Kyle Field was electric. The Aggie faithful, clad in maroon and white, sang the school's fight song with renewed fervor. The Texas Longhorns, dressed in black jerseys with a bonfire memorial patch, showed respect and solidarity.


A Thrilling Victory:


The game itself was a nail-biter. The Aggies, fueled by emotion and the spirit of their fallen comrades, played with remarkable courage and determination. Quarterback Randy McCown led the team to a 20-16 victory, sending the home crowd into a joyous frenzy.


A Symbol of Unity:


The 1999 Texas vs. Texas A&M game transcended the sport. It became a testament to the power of community and the ability to overcome tragedy. The image of the Aggies celebrating their victory while still grieving their loss, became a lasting symbol of hope and resilience.
Legacy and Impact:


The 1999 game continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Aggies and Longhorns alike. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the strength that can be found in the face of adversity. The game also cemented the Aggie Bonfire as a symbol of unity and sacrifice, ensuring that the memory of the victims will never be forgotten.

July 12, 1931 - Cleveland Indians franchise forms after the Cleveland Tigers franchise changed their name and then subsequently folded after the 1921 season per the ProFootballHOF.com website. According to the American Football Fandom site this was the first of three different instances of an “Indians” pro football franchise in Cleveland. A second "Indians" NFL team arose in 1923. That team played as the "Indians" for the 1923 season before changing their name to the Cleveland Bulldogs in 1924. The third rendition of the Cleveland Indians came in 1931 when the League sponsored the club that only played games on the road. The NFL intended to locate this team permanently in Cleveland. However when no suitable owner was found,  the franchise folded after just one season as visiting gate revenues. These three Cleveland teams are viewed as three totally different franchises by the NFL.