College Football

The life and career in football, both playing and coaching of Frank Wickhorst. He was a Navy two-way tackle from the mid-1920s, that went on to coach the Cal Golden Bears.

The Navy two-way tackle from the mid 1920’s, Frank Wickhorst was one heck of a an athlete.

Frank Wickhorst, born March 18, 1906, in Aurora, Illinois, established a notable legacy in the realm of college football, marked by his leadership and athletic prowess.  

-College Career:

Wickhorst's college football career centered at the United States Naval Academy, where he played tackle from 1924 to 1926. He was a dominant force on the line and served as the captain of the Navy team in his senior year. A testament to his leadership, a notable anecdote recounts Wickhorst's inspirational words in a crucial game against Army, rallying his team to a tie and preserving their undefeated season. He was a workhorse lineman who earned All-American honors in 1926, showcasing his exceptional talent and impact on the Navy squad. Interestingly, Wickhorst initially played as a freshman teammate of the legendary "Red" Grange at the University of Illinois before receiving his appointment to the Naval Academy.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

While Wickhorst's college career concluded in 1926, the era of professional football was still in its nascent stages, and it appears Wickhorst did not pursue a professional playing career.

Instead, he embarked on a distinguished career in the military and later transitioned into coaching.  

-Football Legacy:

Wickhorst's football legacy extends beyond his playing days. Following his military service, he served as the head football coach at the University of California. His coaching tenure further demonstrates his continued dedication to the sport. However, his most enduring legacy within football is his recognition as an outstanding player and leader during his time at Navy, earning him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame. His inspirational leadership, as highlighted by the anecdote against Army, and his All-American status underscore his significant impact on collegiate football. Furthermore, his later involvement in coaching cemented his continued contribution to the sport.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-All-American selection in 1926.  

-Captain of the United States Naval Academy football team.

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1970.  

-Served as Head Football Coach at the University of California post-military career.  

While specific game-by-game statistics from his era are not readily available, Frank Wickhorst's leadership, All-American recognition, and Hall of Fame induction firmly establish his significant and lasting contribution to the history of college football.

Harry "Cy" Young, born March 8, 1893 in Charleston, West Virginia, distinguished himself as a multi-sport athlete, primarily within college football.

I know what you are thinking, but this is not the famous baseball pitcher Cy Young you may be thinking of, even though he was a good player on the diamond and the gridiron. That more famous Cy Young's real name was Denton True Young. Harry Young was welcomed into the College Football Hall of Fame rooms of legends in 1958. Though Young played varsity football at two schools, he attended three colleges!

-College Career

Young's collegiate athletic journey spanned three institutions. He began at Marshall College (now Marshall University) in 1910, where he played varsity football, baseball, and participated in track and field. Notably, in 1910, he kicked three field goals in a 9-0 victory over Glenville. After spending a year on the freshman football team at the University of Michigan, he transferred to Washington and Lee University. He achieved remarkable success there, earning 16 letters across football, baseball, basketball, and track. He led the Washington and Lee football team in scoring for four consecutive years, captaining the team in his senior year. During his time at Washington and Lee, the team played against significant programs such as Army, Navy, Georgia Tech, and Cornell.  

-Football Legacy

Cy Young's exceptional versatility and leadership define his football legacy. He was a dominant force on the field, contributing significantly to Washington and Lee's success. The 1913 and 1914 seasons were particularly notable, with the team achieving impressive records and outscoring opponents by significant margins. His consistent scoring and leadership solidified his place as a college football legend.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Led Washington and Lee in scoring for four years.  

-Served as captain of four sports at Washington and Lee.  

-Played on Marshall's football team with a 9-2-2 record.  

-Scored 54 points in 1913.

-Scored 57 points in 1914.

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1958.

Dana Howard, born on February 27, 1972, in East St. Louis, Illinois, established himself as a dominant force in college football and then proceeded to a professional football career. His dedication and skill left a lasting mark on the sport.

The Image of WIllinois football legend Dana Howard courtesy of WCIA.com

-College Career

-Howard's collegiate career flourished at the University of Illinois, where he played linebacker for the Fighting Illini from 1991 to 1994.

-He became a tackling machine, setting records and earning numerous accolades.

-Notably, he finished his career as the Big Ten's all-time leading tackler, with 595 stops.

-His consistent performance, with over 100 tackles in each of his four seasons, solidified his reputation as a top-tier linebacker.

-Road to the Pro Game

-Howard was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 1995 NFL Draft.

-He then went on to play in the NFL for the St. Louis Rams and the Chicago Bears.

-He also played for the Amsterdam Admirals in NFL Europe.

-Football Legacy

-Dana Howard's legacy is defined by his exceptional college career and his recognition as one of the best linebackers of his time.

-His record-breaking tackling numbers and prestigious awards have cemented his place in college football history.

-He is also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

- Butkus Award (1994)

-Jack Lambert Award (1994)

-Unanimous First-Team All-American (1994)

-First-Team All-American (1993)

-Two-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (1993, 1994)

-Multiple First-Team All-Big Ten honors.

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee.

-Finished his college career as the Big Ten's all-time leading tackler.

-NFL experience with the St. Louis Rams and Chicago Bears.

Ed Marinaro was born on March 31, 1950, in New York City, New York.  

Marinaro found his way to fame on the gridiron fields of Cornell which took him to the College Football Hall of Fame and Haollywood Stardom.

College Career

Marinaro established himself as a legendary running back at Cornell University from 1969 to 1971. His collegiate career was nothing short of phenomenal, marked by record-breaking performances and consistent dominance. In just 27 games, Marinaro averaged an astounding 174.6 rushing yards per game, a figure surpassing many celebrated collegiate rushers like Tony Dorsett, O.J. Simpson, and Herschel Walker. He showcased his explosive talent with ten 200+ yard games, including remarkable outings such as 245 yards against Rutgers and 281 against Harvard in 1969, 260 against Lehigh in 1970, and a pair of 260+ yard performances against Columbia (272) and Colgate (260) in his senior year. In 1971, Marinaro set an NCAA single-season rushing average record of 209 yards per game, a mark that stood for a decade. His exceptional play earned him All-America honors twice and recognition as the Ivy League's premier player.  

Road to the Pro Game

Marinaro's outstanding college career led to his selection in the second round of the 1972 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He transitioned to the professional level, bringing his dynamic running style to the NFL.

Football Legacy

Ed Marinaro enjoyed a six-year professional football career, playing for the Minnesota Vikings, the Seattle Seahawks, and the New York Jets. While he didn't replicate his record-shattering collegiate statistics in the NFL, he proved to be a valuable player and contributed to his teams. However, his most enduring football legacy remains his remarkable achievements at Cornell. His incredible rushing prowess and consistent ability to dominate games at the Ivy League level cemented his place as one of the greatest college running backs of all time. His statistics and accolades speak volumes about his impact on the collegiate game. Marinaro's later success as a television actor on popular shows like "Laverne and Shirley" and "Hill Street Blues" further broadened his public recognition, but his legendary status in college football remains a defining aspect of his legacy.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-2× All-America Selection (College)

-Maxwell Trophy Winner (1971)  

-Player of the Year by Columbus Touchdown Club (1971)

-Player of the Year by Cleveland Touchdown Club (1971)  

-Player of the Year by Washington Touchdown Club (1971)  

-Ivy League Silver Anniversary Team Selection

-NCAA Single-Season Rushing Average Record (209 yards per game, 1971)

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1991)  

-NFL Teams: Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, New York Jets  

-NFL Career Stats: While a contributor, his NFL statistics did not reach the level of his collegiate dominance. Specific detailed NFL career stats can be readily found through professional football databases.

Dan "Tiger" Hill, born on March 8, 1917, in Asheville, North Carolina, left an enduring legacy as a dominant force in college football.

Dan played for the famed Iron Dukes of the 1938 season. He was the starting center in the one platoon era when centers played as linebackers on defense. He was an All-America selection and the co-captain of the undefeated, untied and unscored upon 1938 Duke University team.

-College Career

Hill's collegiate career flourished at Duke University, where he played center and linebacker from 1936 to 1938. He was a cornerstone of the legendary "Iron Dukes" of 1938, a team renowned for its defensive prowess. Playing in the one-platoon era, Hill excelled on both sides of the ball. He earned All-Southern Conference honors in 1936 and 1938, and achieved All-American status in 1938. Notably, he served as co-captain of the 1938 team, which achieved an undefeated and unscored-upon regular season. His leadership and exceptional play were pivotal to the team's success.  

The Iron Dukes won five games with the score 6-0 or 7-0. Yes, they were perfect in the regular season until they ran into a powerful Southern Cal team who took the lead with just 41 seconds remaining in the Rose Bowl!

-Road to the Pro Game:

Hill's outstanding college performance led to his selection in the NFL Draft by the Brooklyn Dodgers. However, his most significant contributions remained within the collegiate realm.

-Football Legacy

Dan Hill's legacy is deeply rooted in his contributions to the 1938 Duke "Iron Dukes." He was a key figure in their historic season, which included multiple shutout victories. The team's defensive dominance, culminating in a Rose Bowl appearance, solidified Hill's place in college football history. His impact extended beyond the field, as he later served as assistant athletic director at Duke. The university further honors his legacy with the "Dan 'Tiger' Hill Award," presented to the school's top offensive lineman. ESPN recognized his 1938 season as the best individual season by a Duke football player.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-All-American (1938)  

-All-Southern Conference (1936, 1938)  

-Co-captain of the 1938 "Iron Dukes"  

-Finished tenth in the 1938 Heisman Trophy voting  

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame (1962)  

-Inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame (1972)  

Dan Hill's career exemplifies exceptional athleticism, leadership, and a profound impact on Duke University football.

Jackie Jensen, born March 9, 1927, in Oakland, California, left his mark on college and professional sports, though his most recognized legacy lies in baseball. His football career, while shorter, showcased his exceptional athleticism.  

The stud Cal fullback from 1946 to 1948 had many big plays on the gridiron for the Golden Bears.

-College Career

Jensen's collegiate athletic prowess shone brightly at the University of California, Berkeley. He was a two-sport star, excelling in both football and baseball. He played running back on the gridiron, demonstrating a blend of speed and power that made him a formidable offensive weapon. His performance helped propel the Golden Bears to prominence in the late 1940s.  

In 1946, against Wisconsin, when the speedster returned a punt 56 yards. He later sped for 56- a 56-yard run against Washington State and chucked a 47-yard touchdown pass against an Oregon defense. Equally impressive were his receptions of touchdown passes of 56 yards against Washington and a big 29-yard TD grab versus UCLA. The play in the Navy game in 1947, where he took off for a 64-yard run, was a highlight, as well as his pass against Stanford that turned into an 80-yard gain. Oh, his production was achieved on the ground, too, as displayed during the 1948 campaign with bursting runs of 62 and 61 yards against Santa Clara in one game while rampaging on a 67-yarder against Northwestern. He thrived in a return game, spinning off a 67-yard punt return against Stanford. The two-way player even produced on the defensive side as he intercepted seven passes in 1947.

-Road to the Pro Game

Jensen's path to professional sports was unique. While his baseball talent was undeniable, he also briefly entered the professional football arena. After his time at Cal, he was drafted by the NFL's San Francisco 49ers in 1949. However, his football career was truncated as he focused primarily on baseball.  

Unbelievably, football may not have been this athlete's best sport! In 1947, Cal won the first NCAA baseball tournament as Jensen out-pitched Bobby Layne of Texas in the regional final. Then, he and his Golden Bears teammates won the championship game over future President George Bush and Yale. Baseball got Jackie to sign a contract after his junior year at Cal Pro. Jensen played 11 years in the majors and was the Most Valuable Player in the American League with the Boston Red Sox in 1958.

-Football Legacy

Jensen's football legacy, though brief, highlights his exceptional athleticism. He demonstrated a high level of ability at the collegiate level, enough to be drafted into the NFL. His decision to pursue baseball primarily meant his football career was short lived. His legacy in football is more of a footnote in a more considerable athletic career, showcasing his broad range of talents.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

The National Football Foundation voters chose to place Jackie Jensen into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1984.

Due to his brief professional football tenure, Jensen's formal awards and statistics are limited in that sport. His primary accolades came in baseball where he won the 1958 American League MVP award.

In football, his significant accomplishments were centered on his college career, where he was recognized as a standout player for the California Golden Bears. He was a key player for the 1948 team that went to the Rose Bowl. While detailed statistics for his college football career are not as readily available as his baseball stats, his impact was clear. He was known for his powerful running style, and a key contributor to the Golden Bears' success. His NFL career was very short with the San Francisco 49ers, and no significant statistics were recorded. His overall legacy is that of a multi-talented athlete who chose to excel at baseball.  

Rex Mirich, born on March 11, 1941, in Florence, Arizona, forged a distinguished career as a defensive lineman, leaving a lasting impact on both college and professional football. His journey, from a two-way player in college to a seasoned NFL veteran, reflects his exceptional skill and unwavering commitment to the sport.  

-College Career

Mirich's collegiate career at Northern Arizona University (NAU) from 1960 to 1963 was marked by remarkable versatility and dominance. During an era of one-platoon systems, he excelled as both a defensive and offensive tackle. His contributions to the Lumberjacks were pivotal, particularly on the defensive side. His exceptional performance earned him All-American honors in both 1962 and 1963, a testament to his prowess as a defender. As a senior, he was voted team captain by his teammates, highlighting his leadership and respect within the team. Mirich played a major role in the Lumberjack defense, which limited opponents to a mere 109.1 yards per game over six contests.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Mirich's talent attracted attention from both the NFL and the AFL. He was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 16th round of the 1963 NFL Draft and by the Oakland Raiders in the 20th round of the 1963 AFL Draft. He chose to play in the AFL with the Oakland Raiders, beginning his professional career. He would go on to play for the Oakland Raiders, the Denver Broncos, and the Boston Patriots, playing a total of seven seasons in professional football.  

-Football Legacy

Rex Mirich's football legacy is defined by his consistent excellence and dedication to the game. His ability to excel on both sides of the ball in college and his solid career in the pros demonstrate his versatility and talent. His impact on the Lumberjack defense and his contributions to the Raiders, Broncos, and Patriots solidified his reputation as a formidable defensive lineman. In 2012, his contributions to college football were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.  

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-All-American honors in 1962 and 1963 (College).

-Team captain for Northern Arizona University (Senior year).

-Selected by the Minnesota Vikings (NFL) and Oakland Raiders (AFL) in the 1963 drafts.  

-Played for the Oakland Raiders, Denver Broncos, and Boston Patriots.  

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2012).  

Rex Mirich's career stands as a testament to his hard work, talent, and dedication to the sport. His contributions to both college and professional football have earned him a place among the game's most respected figures.

John Huard, born March 9, 1944, in Waterville, Maine, crafted a notable football career, marked by his tenacity and leadership.

Huard was a standout linebacker for the Black Bears of the University of Maine from 1964 to 1966. John made his fellow Maine citizens proud when he helped the Black Bears earn their first-ever trip to the postseason.

-College Career

Huard's collegiate football journey began at the University of Maine, where he became a standout linebacker. His aggressive style and exceptional tackling ability made him a dominant force on the Black Bears' defense. He earned recognition for his performance and became a key player in the team's success during his time there. He was known for his toughness and leadership on the field.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Huard's impressive college performance garnered the attention of professional scouts. The Denver Broncos selected him in the fifth round of the 1967 NFL/AFL Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional career, during which he would demonstrate his skills at the highest level of the sport.  

-Football Legacy

His hard-nosed approach to the game defines Huard's legacy. He was known as a very tough and dependable player. While not exceptionally long, his professional career contained a solid level of consistent play. His impact on the Denver Broncos' defense was noticeable. His place in the University of Maine football history and later in his professional career left marks of a very solid linebacker.

Huard won the prestigious acclaim of becoming the first member of Alfond Stadium’s Ring of Honor, and Sports Illustrated named him one of the top twenty athletes out of the State of Maine. John Huard was honored further for his brilliant career when he earned a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Alfond Stadium’s Ring of Honor

-Selected by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round of the 1967 NFL/AFL Draft.  

-Played for the Denver Broncos and the New Orleans Saints.  

-He played 41 out of 42 games in the first 3 years of his NFL career while playing for the Denver Broncos.  

-He has been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.  

Huard's career highlights his dedication and perseverance. His transition from a college standout to a professional player exemplifies his commitment to the sport. His contributions to the teams he played for are a testament to his talent and character.

Dave Schreiner, born on March 5, 1921, in Lancaster, Wisconsin, left an indelible mark on college football, though his professional career was tragically cut short.

Schreiner was a perfectionist and pushed himself in the offseason to improve his skill set. He had everyone he knew tossing passes to him in all types of crazy ways so that he had the confidence to catch anything thrown at him. Dave is one of a handful of players that made All-America status on a lousy team as he did this in 1941 when the Badgers were a mere 3-5

-College Career

-Schreiner's football prowess shone brightly at the University of Wisconsin. He played as an end, becoming a cornerstone of the Badgers' team from 1940 to 1942.

-He earned widespread recognition for his exceptional skills, becoming a two-time All-American.

-In 1942, his outstanding performance earned him the Big Ten Most Valuable Player award.

-He was also co-captain of the 1942 team.

-Road to the Pro Game

-Schreiner was drafted in the second round of the 1943 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions.

-However, instead of pursuing a professional football career, he chose to serve in the United States Marine Corps during World War II.

-Football Legacy

-Dave Schreiner's legacy transcends the football field. His dedication and character earned him widespread respect.

-His college achievements solidified his place as one of the greatest ends in Big Ten history.

-His life and death serve as a testament to service and sacrifice.

-His number 80 was retired by the Wisconsin Athletic Department.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Two-time All-American (1941, 1942)

-1942 Big Ten Most Valuable Player

-1943 East-West Shrine Game participant

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1955

-Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame inductee.

-Chicago Tribune Silver Football (1942)

-His number 80 was retired by the Wisconsin Badgers.

Dave Schreiner's story is one of exceptional athletic ability and unwavering patriotism. His contributions to college football, coupled with his ultimate sacrifice, have cemented his place in the sport's history.

Art "Doc" Hillebrand, born Arthur Ralph Thomas Hillebrand on March 9, 1876, in Freeport, Illinois, left an enduring mark on the early landscape of American football, both as a player and a coach.  

Doc Hillebrand was Princeton's standout tackle from 1896 through 1899. The nickname Doc came to Art because of his connection to his father, Dr. Christian Hillebrand, in Freeport. Doc received the physical gift of having 190 pounds of muscle built on a 6'-0" frame, a pretty good-sized man in the 19th century.

-College Career

Hillebrand's collegiate football career unfolded at Princeton University, where he established himself as a dominant force. Playing as a tackle, he showcased exceptional skill and strength. He was a key component of Princeton's formidable teams during the late 1890s. Notably, he earned consensus All-America honors in 1898 and 1899, solidifying his reputation as one of the premier players of his era.  

Hillebrand was All-America the last two seasons, football captain in 1898, and baseball captain in 1900.

-Football Legacy

Hillebrand's impact extended beyond his playing days. He transitioned into coaching, further contributing to the sport's development. He served as the head football coach at the United States Naval Academy from 1901 to 1902, and then returned to his alma mater, Princeton, from 1903 to 1905. His coaching record demonstrates his ability to lead and shape successful teams. The 1903 Tigers team went 11-0, outscored their opponents by 295-6, and were rewarded with the national championship title.

His influence on the early strategies and techniques of football is a significant part of his legacy. Under Coach Hillebrand, Princeton achieved a record of 27-4 in the three seasons he spent there, and the Tigers outscored their opponents 669-85.

His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1970 stands as a testament to his lasting contributions.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Doc was a highly recognized man in football history, here are a few of his high lights:

Player:

-Consensus All-America: 1898, 1899  

-Played for national championship teams at Princeton.

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee 1970.  

Coach:

-Head Football Coach, United States Naval Academy (1901-1902)  

-Head Football Coach, Princeton University (1903-1905)  

-Career coaching record: 35–15–2  

-He also had a coaching record in baseball at Navy.  

Hillebrand's career reflects the dedication and pioneering spirit of early football figures. His achievements as a player and coach have earned him a place among the sport's most respected figures.

Princeton Tigers College Hall of Fame tackle of the late nineteenth-century.