Football History

Tucked away in Boone, North Carolina, is the successful football program of Appalachian State University. The team has made the students, faculty, alums, and fans proud to support them at home and away games. App State has an excellent tradition of quality pigskin play and is a perennial contender for their respective conference title and sometimes even a post-season bowl game.

On the following pages, we will cover:

-The Program's Origin

-The Biggest Games in School History

-The Program's Top Players

-The Program's Most Significant Coaches

-The Program's Logo and Mascot History

-The Teamm's Helmet Designs Over Time

-and so much more

Learn more Gridiron history of the team on this page!

Football fans, huddle up! June may not be the heart of the season, but it's a month brimming with hidden gems in the annals of America's favorite sport. From the birth of professional football legends to rule changes that shaped the game, each day in June holds a unique piece of gridiron history.

Are you curious about the day Vince Lombardi, the legendary coach, walked the earth? Or maybe you want to know when a groundbreaking rule, like the forward pass, was introduced? This series will take you on a captivating journey through 30 days of football firsts, fascinating facts, and iconic birthdays – both in college and the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame. So, lace up your cleats, grab your favorite jersey, and get ready to delve into a month-long exploration of American football history!

The number 14 has adorned the jerseys of some of the most iconic figures in NFL history. From legendary quarterbacks to electrifying wide receivers, players who have worn this number have consistently left an indelible mark on the game.

In this series, we'll delve into the careers of these standout athletes, exploring their on-field accomplishments, personal stories, and the impact they’ve had on the sport. Join us as we celebrate the rich history of the number 14 in the NFL.

Who do you think is the greatest number 14 of all time? Let us know in the comments or email us at pigskindispatch@gmail.com.

The State of Ohio houses the exciting football program of the University of Akron. The team has made the students, faculty, alums, and fans proud to support them at home and away games.

Akron has an excellent tradition of quality pigskin play and is a perennial contender for their respective conference title and sometimes even a Bowl game during the holidays. Zip into Akron's Gridiron history on this page!

The University of Pittsburgh Panthers football program boasts a rich and storied history, deeply woven into the fabric of Western Pennsylvania and the national landscape of college football. From humble beginnings to national championships and legendary figures, the Panthers have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with.

The program's roots trace back to 1889, making it one of the oldest in the nation. Early success came under the legendary coach Pop Warner, who led the Panthers to their first national championship in 1916. This golden era continued in 1918 with another national title, solidifying Pitt's reputation as a powerhouse.

Following Warner's departure, Pitt faced a period of transition but continued to produce talented players and coaches. Johnny Majors, a future Hall of Famer, led the Panthers to an undefeated season in 1976 and solidified himself as a fan favorite.

The 1980s and 1990s saw the emergence of another legendary figure, head coach Jackie Sherrill. Under his leadership, Pitt established itself as a consistent contender in the highly competitive Big East Conference. Sherrill's tenure culminated in a thrilling victory in the 1997 Fiesta Bowl, a game etched in the minds of many Pitt fans.

The turn of the millennium brought further chapters to the Panthers' story. Walt Harris, a defensive mastermind, led Pitt to an appearance in the 2004 BCS Championship game, showcasing the program's continued ability to compete at the highest level.

In recent years, Pitt has navigated the changing landscape of college football, joining the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in 2013. The program has continued to attract talented players and coaches, with Pat Narduzzi leading the team to consistent bowl appearances and victories over ranked opponents.

Beyond wins and losses, the Pitt Panthers program has produced numerous NFL players, including Hall of Famers Mike Ditka and Joe Greene. Additionally, the program has fostered a passionate and dedicated fanbase known for their unwavering support and unique traditions, like the iconic "turnover chain."

The history of Pitt Panthers football is a testament to the program's resilience, dedication to excellence, and unwavering commitment to its community. As the Panthers continue their journey, the legacy they have built inspires future generations of players, coaches, and fans to carry the torch forward and add their own chapters to the program's storied history.

The University of Michigan Wolverines football program is a titan of college football, boasting a rich history steeped in tradition, gridiron dominance, and legendary players. This essay delves into the program's remarkable journey, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a national powerhouse.

The Wolverines' story starts in 1879, with the formation of the university's first official football team. Early years were marked by regional competition and the development of a fierce rivalry with the University of Notre Dame, a tradition that continues to this day. The program truly began its ascent under the legendary coach Fielding Yost, who led the team from 1901 to 1926. Yost implemented innovative offensive strategies, like the "Hurry-Up" offense, and cultivated a winning culture that resulted in six national championships and numerous conference titles. This golden era solidified Michigan as a national power and produced iconic players like "Hurryin'" Ernie Steenhan and the formidable "Point a Minute" teams.

The Yost era ended in the late 1920s, but the Wolverines continued to find success under coaches like Fritz Crisler and Bump Elliott. The 1940s saw the rise of the legendary Tom Harmon, a Heisman Trophy winner who led the team to national titles in 1947 and 1948. The latter half of the 20th century witnessed periods of both dominance and rebuilding, with coaches like Bo Schembechler and Gary Moeller leading the team to national titles in 1997 and 2000, respectively.

Recent years have seen the Wolverines under the leadership of Jim Harbaugh, a former Michigan quarterback himself. Harbaugh has revitalized the program, emphasizing a strong running game and a physical defense. While a national championship still eludes them in the modern era, the Wolverines remain a consistent contender on the national stage.

The legacy of Michigan Wolverines football extends beyond wins and championships. The program boasts a dedicated fanbase known as "Maize and Blue" for their iconic team colors. Michigan Stadium, nicknamed "The Big House," is the largest college football stadium in the United States and a testament to the program's enduring popularity.

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With a rich history dating back to 1890, Ohio State football boasts a pantheon of legendary players who left their mark on the gridiron. Choosing a definitive "top" is subjective, but considering Heisman wins, individual accolades, and impact on the program, some names consistently rise to the top.

The Heisman Heroes:

-Archie Griffin (1972-75): The only two-time Heisman winner in college football history, Griffin shattered rushing records and led the Buckeyes to a national championship. His legacy of leadership and resilience remains unmatched.

-Les Horvath (1944): A versatile threat, Horvath won the Heisman in 1944, playing running back, quarterback, and defensive back. His leadership during World War II adds another layer to his legend.

-Howard "Hopalong" Cassady (1953): Cassady's Heisman win in 1953 marked Ohio State's first national championship after decades. His electrifying running style and punting prowess made him a triple threat.

Defensive Dominators:

-Orlando Pace (1999-2002): A unanimous All-American and 1st overall NFL draft pick, Pace revolutionized the offensive tackle position with his size, athleticism, and dominance.

-Jack Tatum (1967-69): A ferocious safety and leader on the famed "Super Sophs" defense, Tatum's intimidating presence and game-changing interceptions cemented his place in history.

-Chris Spielman (1984-87): An emotional leader and tackling machine, Spielman's intensity and defensive acumen led the Buckeyes to a Big Ten title and earned him NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Offensive Masters:

-Troy Smith (2004-2006): Smith's dual-threat ability revolutionized the Buckeye offense, leading them to an undefeated season and national championship game appearance in 2006.

-Joey Bosa (2013-2016): A terror on the defensive line, Bosa's speed and relentless pass rush helped lead the Buckeyes to a CFP appearance and earned him the Nagurski Award.

-Curtis Samuel (2014-2016): A versatile threat as a receiver, runner, and returner, Samuel's explosiveness and playmaking ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

This is just a glimpse into the vast talent pool of Ohio State legends. From iconic coaches like Woody Hayes and Urban Meyer to countless other All-Americans and NFL stars, the Buckeye legacy is woven with the stories of these outstanding players.

Calvin Johnson, also known by his nickname "Megatron," is widely regarded as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history. Born in Flint, Michigan, Johnson's football journey began at Flint Northwestern High School, where he quickly established himself as a dominant force on the gridiron. His exceptional athleticism, combined with his impressive size and speed, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Johnson's high school exploits earned him a scholarship to Georgia Tech, where he continued to excel.

His name is found in bold lettering in the records of college football history during his time at Georgia Tech. A towering wide receiver with exceptional speed and strength, Johnson dominated the ACC. His ability to make acrobatic catches and outmuscle defenders was unmatched. His college career culminated in a standout performance in the 2007 ACC Championship Game, where he showcased his immense talent and helped lead Georgia Tech to victory. Johnson's dominance on the field laid the foundation for a successful NFL career, where he continued to excel and solidify his legacy as one of the greatest wide receivers of all time.

In 2007, the Detroit Lions selected Johnson with the second overall pick in the NFL Draft. From the moment he stepped onto the field in Detroit, Johnson's impact was undeniable. His rookie season saw him amass 1,220 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, earning him Pro Bowl honors. However, it was in the following years that Johnson truly showcased his extraordinary talent. He broke the NFL single-season receiving yards record in 2011 with an astonishing 1,964 yards, and followed that up with another impressive season in 2012.

Throughout his career, Johnson was renowned for his ability to make acrobatic catches and dominate opposing defenses with his physicality. His combination of size, speed, and leaping ability made him a virtually unstoppable force. Johnson's dominance on the field earned him numerous accolades, including seven Pro Bowl appearances and three All-Pro selections. Despite his individual success, Johnson's career was marred by the Lions' lack of consistent success as a team. The franchise struggled to find consistent winning seasons during his tenure, leading to frustration and disappointment for both Johnson and the team's loyal fans.

After nine seasons with the Lions, Johnson announced his retirement from the NFL in 2016. His decision to retire at the relatively young age of 31 shocked many, but he cited the toll that the physical demands of the game had taken on his body. Johnson's retirement left a void in the NFL, and his impact on the game will continue to be felt for years to come. He is widely considered one of the greatest wide receivers of all time, and his legacy will undoubtedly endure.

Mark your calendars, football fanatics! June 14th isn't just another day on the calendar; it's a date etched in the annals of gridiron history. From legendary players who rewrote the game to future Hall of Famers taking their first breaths, June 14th boasts a unique blend of past and future glory.

Curious about which iconic coach might share a birthday with a cornerback drafted first overall? Wondering if a groundbreaking rule change took place on this very day? Dive into our exploration of June 14th in football history. We'll uncover fascinating facts, celebrate the birthdays of gridiron greats, and unveil the moments that shaped the sport we love today. So, gear up for a captivating journey through a single day in football history – you might just be surprised by what you discover!

Mark your calendars, football fanatics! June 15th isn't just another summer day. It's a date etched in the annals of American football history, brimming with legendary birthdays, rule-changing innovations, and even a touch of architectural marvel.

Intrigued? Dive deeper with us as we explore the fascinating football stories woven into the fabric of June 15th. Did you know a future Hall of Famer was born on this day, or that a groundbreaking rule change forever altered the landscape of the game? We'll also unveil the surprising connection between June 15th and the iconic Astrodome, a stadium that revolutionized the fan experience.