Football History

Lee McClung wasn't your typical football player. In an era known for its brutality, McClung stood out for his remarkable athleticism and innovative spirit. This essay explores McClung's groundbreaking career at Yale University, highlighting his dominance on the field, his influence on the evolution of the game, and the legacy he leaves behind.

From Baseball Star to Football Pioneer: Born in 1867, McClung excelled at various sports in his youth. He was a standout baseball player, but it was at Yale University that he made his most significant impact. Joining the Yale Bulldogs football team in 1888, McClung quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Despite his relatively small stature for the time (5'10", 165-180 lbs.), he possessed exceptional speed, agility, and elusiveness.

Dominating the Field and Inventing the Cutback: McClung's impact on the game transcended mere statistics. He is credited with inventing, or at least popularizing, the cutback play. This innovative maneuver involved the ball carrier faking a run in one direction before cutting back against the grain for unexpected yardage. This revolutionary tactic challenged the rigid, straight-ahead running style prevalent in the late 19th century and opened doors for more dynamic offensive strategies.

An Unbroken Spirit and Unsung Hero: Football in the late 1800s was a brutal sport. Injuries were common, and protective equipment was minimal. Despite the physical toll, McClung never left a game due to injury, showcasing his remarkable toughness and dedication to his team. He captained the undefeated 1891 Yale squad, famously nicknamed the "unscored upon team," leading them to a dominant 13-0 record.

The bio of the life and career of Lee McClung, Yale Bulldogs College Football Hall of Fame star, and Secretary of the US Treasury.

Born May 30, 1915, in Conneaut, Ohio, was Yale’s great end from 1934 through the 1936 season, Larry Kelley. Kelley has been described by more than one reference as a very crafty and innovative player.

The FootballFoundation.org even gives an example from journalist Allison Danzig of the New York Times who called Larry a "genius who gets the touchdown regardless of the odds." One of the examples Danzig could be referring to is in a 1934 contest against Princeton, where Kelley caught a pass, ran 30 yards and was trapped by two defenders at the goal line.

He rammed between them and scored for a 7-0 Yale victory. Lightning struck twice as in the 1936 Yale versus Princeton matchup the Elis were down by a score of 16-0 but they rallied to win 26-23. Kelley gave a straight-arm to a defender and subsequently bull rushed his way to a critical touchdown. In total he played against Yale rivals Harvard and Princeton 6 times, scored a TD in each of the contests and Yale lost only once. Kelley indeed made a difference, he was that good. Good enough that in 1936 he won the Heisman Trophy, the second year of the award and the first time it was called the Heisman. The National Football Foundation selected Larry Kelley for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1969.

LaDainian Tomlinson was a scoring machine who carved his name into the history books of American football. Drafted fifth overall by the San Diego Chargers in 2001, Tomlinson quickly became a fan favorite, earning the nickname "LT." His electrifying running style, powerful cuts, and knack for finding the end zone made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

During his nine seasons with the Chargers, Tomlinson amassed a collection of accolades. He was a five-time Pro Bowler, a three-time first-team All-Pro, and won two consecutive rushing titles in 2006 and 2007. However, it was in 2006 that he truly shone. Tomlinson not only shattered the NFL record for most touchdowns in a single season, reaching a staggering 31, but also won the coveted NFL Most Valuable Player award, cementing his status among the league's elite.

Tomlinson was not just a rushing powerhouse, but a versatile weapon on the field. He could catch passes out of the backfield, adding another layer to his offensive threat. This well-rounded skillset allowed him to amass over 18,000 yards from scrimmage, placing him among the all-time greats.

While his later years saw him move on to the New York Jets, his impact on the San Diego Chargers remained undeniable. He holds numerous franchise records, including most rushing yards and touchdowns. In 2017, his contributions were rightfully recognized with an induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

LaDainian Tomlinson's legacy goes beyond statistics. He was a dominant force on the field, an electrifying player to watch, and a key figure in the San Diego Chargers' history. His name will forever be synonymous with excellence in the running back position.

Tim Brown wasn't just a wide receiver; he was a force of nature on the gridiron. His 17-year career, primarily spent with the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders, solidified him as one of the most electrifying and versatile players in NFL history. Brown's journey, from Heisman Trophy winner to Hall of Famer, is a testament to his relentless work ethic, blazing speed, and exceptional hands.

Brown's brilliance manifested early. At Notre Dame, he shattered receiving records and became the first wide receiver to win the coveted Heisman Trophy in 1987. Drafted by the Raiders in 1988, he immediately made a splash, leading the league in kickoff return yards – a glimpse into his multifaceted skillset.

While Brown established himself as a dominant return specialist, his true magic unfolded as a receiver. Teaming up with legends like Jay Schroeder and Jeff Hostetler, Brown stretched defenses thin with his unparalleled speed. His route-running was precise, his hands sure, and his ability to create separation from defenders was unmatched. In 1997, he reached the pinnacle, leading the NFL in receptions and earning All-Pro recognition. Brown's consistency was remarkable. He strung together nine consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons, a feat highlighting his longevity and dominance.

Beyond his individual accolades, Brown was a key component of the Raiders' success. He played a vital role in their Super Bowl XXXVII appearance in 2003. Brown's impact extended beyond the Raiders; his one-year stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2004 showcased his enduring talent.

Brown's retirement in 2004 left a void in the NFL. At the time, he ranked second in career receiving yards and third in receptions, a testament to his offensive prowess. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015, a well-deserved recognition of his all-around excellence.

Tim Brown's legacy extends beyond statistics. He revolutionized the wide receiver position, showcasing the immense value of speed and agility. His electrifying presence on the field captivated fans and his dedication to the game continues to inspire aspiring athletes. Brown's story is one of relentless pursuit of excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the NFL and securing his place among the sport's all-time greats.

Kenny Washington was Born on August 31, 1918, in Los Angeles, California. He was a tailback from UCLA. Washington has the distinction of being the first African American player to sign a contract in the NFL in the common era (after World War II) with the L.A. Rams after playing in the Pacific Coast League with the Hollywood Bears.

As a running back, Washington displayed remarkable speed, agility, and a knack for finding the end zone. In 1939, he led the nation in total offense, earning All-American honors and setting a school rushing record that stood for decades.  As a collegian, Kenny Washington rushed for 9,975 yards, which was a Bruin record for over 56 years! He was also UCLA's very first-ever consensus All-American in 1939.

Despite his extraordinary achievements, Washington faced formidable racial barriers in his pursuit of a professional football career. The NFL was segregated at the time, and it was not until 1946 that he, along with Marion Motley, became the first African American player to sign with NFL teams since the 1930s. Washington's signing with the Los Angeles Rams marked a significant milestone in the fight against racial discrimination in sports, a testament to his resilience and determination.  

Though his playing career was relatively short due to injuries, Washington's impact on the NFL was profound. He paved the way for countless African American athletes who followed in his footsteps. His courage and determination helped break down racial barriers and made the NFL a more inclusive sport. Washington's legacy as a pioneer in football continues to inspire and will undoubtedly shape the future of the sport for generations to come.  Mr. Washington was enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1956.

Albert Charles Blozis, known better as "Al," wasn't your average football player. He was a titan of a man, a gentle giant who dominated the gridiron and embodied the spirit of collegiate and professional athletics. His story is one of phenomenal strength, unwavering character, and a tragic twist of fate that left an indelible mark on the world of sports.

Born in Garfield, New Jersey, in 1919, Blozis's athletic prowess blossomed early. He excelled in football and track and field, standing at a towering 6-6 and weighing 245 pounds. At Georgetown University, he became a legend, earning the nickname "Hoya Hercules" for his dominance on the offensive line. He won three consecutive AAU and NCAA shot put titles, setting a world indoor record, and anchored the football team to two undefeated seasons.

In 1942, the NFL beckoned. The New York Giants drafted Blozis, and he quickly made his mark, earning All-Pro honors as a rookie. He was a force to be reckoned with, known for his devastating tackles and ability to clear paths for the Giants' running backs. His athleticism even earned him the nickname "the Human Bulldozer."

But World War II interrupted his burgeoning career. Blozis enlisted in the Army and served with distinction, setting the Army's hand-grenade throwing record with a toss of 94 yards. In 1945, tragedy struck. Just two weeks after arriving in France, Blozis was killed in action, leading a patrol to rescue wounded soldiers.

His death at the age of 26 sent shockwaves through the sports world. The New York Giants named their athletic center in Frankfurt, Germany, after him, and in 1986, he was inducted into the National Football Foundation's College Football Hall of Fame.

Born June 2, 1895, in Piffard, New York, was Homer “Pop” Hazel, an end and fullback out of Rutgers University in 1916 and in 1923 and 1924 was born. The FootballFoundation.org website explains that Hazel won his first letter in football at Rutgers in 1916. He left school because of a lack of funds therefore he worked at various jobs saved for his future then at age 28, played football again at Rutgers. It was worth the wait for gridiron fans at Rutgers as he was without doubt, the most versatile player the Scarlet ever produced.

Homer led Rutgers to identical 7-1-1 records in his final two seasons, earning All- America selections in each. He played end in 1923, when the only Scarlet loss was from West Virginia by the tune of 27-7. Pop had Rutgers on the way to an unbeaten finish in 1924 - this time as a hard-hitting fullback - when this time Bucknell untracked The Scarlet in the final game of the season, 12-7.

Hazel was also well known for his excellent passing, punting and kicking skills on the gridiron. In 1923 he was a Walter Camp hand picked All-American at end and then the following year he received the same honor as a fullback and was first player to have the distinction of doing that at two different positions. Homer secured a place in the College Football Hall of Fame when he was inducted into the gridiron museum in 1951. Homer later served as Athletic Director as well as the football and basketball coach at the University of Mississippi for five years. Then even was a golf pro for four years.

Brad Budde wasn't the flashiest player, but his impact on the gridiron was undeniable. This post explores the career of this under-the-radar linebacker, uncovering his impressive stats, clutch plays, and the reasons why he deserves recognition as a true football legend. Get ready to learn about a hidden gem who quietly dominated the game!

Born May 9, 1958, in Detroit, Michigan, was Brad Budde the dominant guard from the USC Trojans.

Budde was a starter at offensive guard for Southern California for four seasons, 1976-1979. He stood 6-5, weighed 253, and was a lead blocker in the famous formation called "Student Body Right" which was so successful that in his senior year this play averaged 8 yards each time it was run. The ball carrier was the prolific Charles White, who led the nation in rushing yardage.

In Budde's four years, Southern Cal lost only six games while winning 42 and tying 1. The Trojans won three conference championships and won four bowl games-- three Rose Bowl, one Bluebonnet Bowl. Brad won the Lombardi Trophy as the nation's top lineman in 1979 as Budde was also a unanimous All-America selection. The National Football Foundation selected Brad Budde for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998.   

Budde played pro with the Kansas City Chiefs 1980-87.  And he was familiar with the organization because he grew up there in KC when his Dad, Ed Budde played for the Chiefs from 1963-76. Just to tell you the caliber of person this man is Budde sent a donation to Southern Cal, repaying the school for the athletic scholarship it had given him. Brad Budde and his wife made speeches to Christian groups. NCAAF Jersey 71.

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The almost-forgotten game of 1912 between Army and Carlisle may have truly shaped the game and the world!

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The conclusion to the legendary meeting of powerhouses Army and Carlisle in 1912