Football Daily

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Born September 2, 1948 - Terry Bradshaw was a former quarterback from Louisiana Tech that is enshrined in both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame according to the National Football Foundation. Bradshaw was the number one pick in the 1970 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Bradshaw started his NFL career slowly, but he eventually became one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history. He led the Steelers to four Super Bowl championships in a six-year period (1974, 1975, 1978, and 1979), becoming the first quarterback to win three and four Super Bowls. He was also named the NFL's Most Valuable Player in 1978.

In his 14-season NFL career, Bradshaw completed 2,025 of 3,901 passes for 27,989 yards and 212 touchdowns. He also rushed 444 times for 2,257 yards and 32 touchdowns. He was selected to the Pro Bowl three times and was named to the NFL's All-Pro team once.

Bradshaw retired from football in 1984. He has since worked as a television sports analyst, most notably as a co-host of Fox NFL Sunday. He is also a successful businessman and has appeared in several television commercials.

Born on June 11, 1913, in Brooklyn, New York, was Vince Lombardi, the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinee, NFL coach of the Green Bay Packers, and former NFL executive.

Yes, even the trophy awarded to the Super Bowl Champion each season bears his name due to his importance to the NFL. Before becoming the Packers' head man, he had only five years of NFL experience as an assistant coach with the New York Giants. At his first team meeting, Lombardi challenged his new team by saying, "I have never been on a losing team, gentlemen, and I do not intend to start now!" The Packers responded as they improved from 1-10-1 in 1958 to 7-5 in 1959 in Lombardi's first season on the job. In 1960, Lombardi's Packers won the NFL championship five times in seven years and the first two Super Bowls in just ten seasons! Coach Vince had an overall career record of 105-35-6 as a head coach. The Pro Football Hall of Fame website claims that not only did he turn the Green Bay Packers around and take the league crown in 7 of nine seasons, but he also, in his final year as a coach, took the dismal Washington team and gave them their first winning season in 14! Vince Lombardi was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971, a year after he died of cancer at age 57.

It is fitting that at the end of every Super Bowl, we remember the man that helped define the game.

Born April 10, 1936, was Pro Football Hall of Fame Head Coach John Madden. Madden was 103-32-7 in 10 seasons  from 1969 through the 1978 season as the Oakland Raiders head coach. Madden led the Black and Silver to become Super Bowl XI champions. He later worked as a TV commentator from 1979 to 2008 and is a 16-time Emmy Award winner. Madden worked for all four major networks in his career (CBS, FOX, ABC and NBC) and was an analyst for 11 Super Bowls. Madden retired from broadcasting in April 2009, and his final game as a broadcaster was Super Bowl XLIII, when the Steelers defeated the Cardinals 27-23. John Madden was chosen to be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his contributions of being a coach and I am sure the things he brought to televeision braodcasts are not overlooked.

Born April 20, 1925, in Prinzing-By-Cham, Bavaria, was the stout defensive tackle from Boston College, Ernie Stautner was born. The Pittsburgh Steelers chose Ernie with the second overall selection in the 1950 NFL Draft per the Pro Football HOF website. Stautner anchored a formidable D-line in the steel city for 14 seasons. He was chosen as an All-NFL player four times in the back half of the 1950’s, winning the honor of best NFL lineman in 1957 and played in nine Pro Bowl games. Stautner recovered 23 opponents' fumbles and took part in creating 3 safeties during his dominant career. Ernie Stautner was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1969.

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Who was the first person to wear or invent the football helmet?

Fun facts about how the size of the football field has changed in size, shape, and dimensions.

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The 1972 Miami Dolphins weren't just another football team but a phenomenon. This season wasn't just about winning; it was about flawless execution, dominant defense, and an unwavering commitment to perfection. It's a journey worth revisiting, a story in NFL history as the league's only undefeated and untied season.

A Team Forged in Adversity:

The Dolphins were floundering just a few years prior, finishing with a dismal 1-13 record in 1967. However, under the leadership of head coach Don Shula, a culture of discipline, hard work, and unwavering dedication took root. Key acquisitions like Larry Csonka, Jim Kiick, and Bob Griese bolstered the offense, while the "No-Name Defense" became a force to be reckoned with.

Dominating Every Week:

Their 17-0 record speaks volumes, but the details paint an even clearer picture. The Dolphins outscored their opponents by a staggering 385-171, boasting the league's best offense and defense. The rushing attack, featuring Csonka and Kiick, averaged over 200 yards per game, leaving defenses gasping for air. The defense, led by Nick Buoniconti and Bill Stanfill, allowed a mere 12.2 points per game, shutting down even the most potent offenses.

The injury forced Griese to the sidelines for a good portion of the year, but veteran signal-caller Earl Morrall was up to the challenge to cement his legacy.

From Close Calls to Championship Glory:

While the scoreboards screamed dominance, the journey could have been smoother sailing. Close calls against the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Colts tested their mettle, showcasing their composure under pressure. However, a late-season injury to Griese forced Earl Morrall to step in, proving his veteran leadership and securing the team's playoff berth.

The playoffs were a mere formality. The Dolphins dismantled the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and finally, the Washington Redskins in Super Bowl VII, culminating their historic season with a resounding 14-7 victory.

Beyond the Trophy: A Legacy of Excellence:

The 1972 Dolphins achieved the seemingly impossible, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends statistics and trophies. They proved the power of teamwork, discipline, and relentless pursuit of perfection. Their story inspires athletes and teams across all sports, reminding them that anything is possible with unwavering dedication and a shared vision.

The 1972 Miami Dolphins remain the only team to go undefeated and win the Super Bowl in NFL history.

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The Ohio Bobcats, with their fierce mascot and vibrant green and white, have a logo history as dynamic as their on-field play. Let's rewind and explore the evolution of the Bobcat symbol:


Early Days (1894-1907):


1894-1907: The early Ohio football teams, known as the "Green and Whites" or "Wildcats," lacked a formal logo. They often used simple lettering or mascots drawn by students, reflecting the university's nascent athletic program.

Birth of the Bobcat (1907-1940):


1907: The official Bobcat mascot was adopted, inspired by the abundance of bobcats in the Ohio wilderness. The first logo featured a stylized bobcat head with a fierce expression, often accompanied by the letter "O" or the team name.
1920s-30s: The logo evolved, becoming more detailed and dynamic. Variations included a bobcat leaping in mid-action, holding a football, or perched atop a rock, emphasizing the mascot's athleticism and territorial nature.

Mid-Century Modernization (1940-1978):


1940s-50s: The Bobcat underwent a sleek makeover, adopting a more angular and stylized design. The mascot's outline became sharper, with a focus on its piercing eyes and predatory stance.
1960s-70s: Experimentation continued, with different artists interpreting the bobcat in various styles. Some versions featured a more cartoonish design, while others remained fierce and intimidating.

The Iconic "Charging Bobcat" (1978-Present):


1978: The iconic "Charging Bobcat" logo was introduced, capturing the team's spirit of aggression and determination. This powerful design features a muscular bobcat in full stride, claws extended, ready to charge towards victory.
1996-Present: Minor adjustments have been made to the "Charging Bobcat" over the years, refining its details and color scheme. However, the core design remains a beloved symbol of Ohio football, recognized by fans and opponents alike.

More Than Just a Logo:


The Ohio Bobcats logo is more than just an image. It represents the program's history, tradition, and fighting spirit. It embodies the fierce athleticism and territorial pride of the Bobcat mascot, rallying fans and intimidating opponents. As the Bobcats continue to charge through the gridiron landscape, their logo will undoubtedly evolve, but the essence of the Bobcat spirit will always remain a powerful symbol of Ohio football.

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The Syracuse Orange football program boasts a rich history filled with moments of triumph and national relevance. While their legacy may not boast consistent dominance, several exceptional seasons stand out as shining examples of their talent and potential. Here's a glimpse into some of their greatest campaigns:


1959: Undefeated Champions and National Recognition: Arguably their crowning achievement, the 1959 Orange rolled through the season undefeated, claiming the national championship in a dominant 23-14 Cotton Bowl victory over Texas. Quarterback Ernie Davis, the first Black Heisman Trophy winner, spearheaded the charge, making this campaign a landmark moment in both program and college football history.


1966: Climbing the Ranks and Orange Bowl Glory: Under coach Ben Schwartzwalder, the 1966 Orange delivered impressive wins over Penn State and UCLA, ultimately finishing the season ranked 8th nationally. Their dominance culminated in a thrilling 26-24 victory over Florida in the Orange Bowl, cementing their place among the nation's elite.


1987: Unforgettable Comeback and Donovan McNabb's Arrival: Down by 16 points to Miami in the Carrier Dome, the 1987 Orange rallied for a dramatic 27-20 victory, etching an unforgettable comeback into program lore. This season also marked the arrival of freshman quarterback Donovan McNabb, who would later lead Syracuse to even greater heights.


1991: McNabb's Magic and a Return to National Prominence: With McNabb as a Heisman Trophy finalist, the 1991 Orange captured the Big East title and defeated Virginia Tech in the Aloha Bowl, finishing the season ranked 11th nationally. McNabb's electrifying talent rekindled the program's national relevance and ushered in a new era of hope.


2004: Defying Expectations and Bowl Domination: Despite initial doubts, the 2004 Orange, led by quarterback Perry Fewell, upset West Virginia in the Carrier Dome and went on to defeat Kansas State in the Insight Bowl. This unexpected success demonstrated the program's resilience and ability to defy expectations.

Born September 7, 1908, in Norwalk, Ohio was Pro Football Hall of Fame Coach Paul Brown.

Brown's journey began in high school, where he won four national championships at Massillon Washington High School, establishing a dominant running attack and pioneering the playbook. He transitioned to college at Ohio State, leading them to their first national championship in 1942. During World War II, he coached the Great Lakes Navy football team, winning two service championships.

The Birth of a Dynasty: The Cleveland Browns (1946-1962)

Brown's impact truly flourished with the Cleveland Browns. He co-founded the team in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC), creating a professional platform for his philosophy. He innovated by establishing year-round coaching staffs, scouting nationwide, and implementing complex offensive schemes. The results were astonishing: four unbeaten seasons (1947-1950), three AAFC championships, and three NFL championships (1950, 1954, 1955).

Beyond Victories: Innovation and Legacy (1963-1975)

A power struggle with Browns' owner Art Modell led to Brown's controversial departure in 1963. He quickly resurfaced with the Cincinnati Bengals, another expansion team. While immediate success eluded him, Brown continued to innovate, creating the Bengals' draft strategy and shaping their foundation. He stepped down from coaching in 1970, focusing on the general manager role, guiding the Bengals to two Super Bowl appearances in the 1980s.

This legend was one of the most successful and influential football coaches of all time. He coached for 25 seasons in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) and National Football League (NFL), winning seven league championships.

Brown began his coaching career at Massillon Washington High School in 1932, where he led the team to six state championships and four national championships. He then moved on to Ohio State University, where he coached the Buckeyes to their first national championship in 1942.

In 1946, Brown became the head coach of the Cleveland Browns, a team he co-founded. The Browns won all four AAFC championships before joining the NFL in 1950. Brown continued his winning ways in the NFL, leading the Browns to three more championships in 1950, 1954, and 1955.

Brown was fired by the Browns in 1963, but he returned to coaching in 1968 with the Cincinnati Bengals. He led the Bengals to their first playoff appearance in 1970 and their first Super Bowl appearance in 1981.

Brown was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967. He is credited with many innovations in football, including the playbook, the facemask, and the draw play. He is also considered to be one of the first coaches to use modern statistical analysis and film study to improve his team's performance.