Football History

The successful football program of Old Dominion University has made the students, faculty, alums, and fans proud to support them at home and away games. 'Bama has an excellent tradition of quality pigskin play and is a perennial contender for their respective conference title.

On the following pages, we will cover aspects of the team, which may include the Program's Origin, the Biggest Games in School History, the Program's Top Players, the Most Significant Coaches, the Program's Logo and Mascot History, the team's Helmet Designs Over Time, and so much more.

Move forward into the school's Gridiron history on this page!

The State of Ohio is the successful football program of the Ohio University. The team has made the students, faculty, alums, and fans proud to support them at home and away games. The Bobcats have had an excellent tradition of quality pigskin play and is a perennial contender for their respective conference title.

On the following pages, we will cover aspects of the team, which may include the Program's Origin, the Biggest Games in School History, the Program's Top Players, the Most Significant Coaches, the Program's Logo and Mascot History, the team's Helmet Designs Over Time, and so much more.

Move forward into the school's Gridiron history on this page!

For a city known for its vibrant music and joie de vivre, the New Orleans Saints haven't always enjoyed a smooth jazz soundtrack. Their story, spanning over five decades, is one of struggle, resilience, and, ultimately, triumph intertwined with the unique spirit of the Big Easy.

Early Years and the "Aints" Era (1967-1982):

Born in 1967 amidst financial woes and limited success, the Saints earned the nickname "Aints" due to their early struggles. Despite boasting talented players like Archie Manning and Billy Kilmer, playoff appearances were scarce, often overshadowed by injuries and heartbreak.

The Ditka Era and a Glimmer of Hope (1983-1992):

The arrival of fiery coach Mike Ditka in 1983 ignited a spark. With the iconic "Who Dat Say Dey Say Saints?" chant echoing through the Superdome, the team tasted its first playoff success in 1987. However, Ditka's departure marked a return to inconsistency.

Hurricane Katrina and the Rebirth (2005-2010):

The devastating Hurricane Katrina in 2005 threatened to extinguish the Saints' flame. Displaced, they played their 2005 season on the road, becoming symbols of hope and resilience for the city. With Drew Brees at the helm and Sean Payton coaching brilliance, they returned to New Orleans in 2006, igniting a wave of enthusiasm dubbed "Who Dat Nation."

Super Bowl Glory and Continued Success (2010-Present):

2010 etched the Saints' name in history books. Led by Brees and a dominant defense, they defeated the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl XLIV, bringing the Lombardi Trophy to the long-suffering city. The Brees era brought continued playoff appearances and another Super Bowl appearance in 2012, solidifying their place as a force in the NFL.

The Post-Brees Era and New Beginnings (2020-Present):

Drew Brees' retirement in 2020 ushered in a new chapter. With young guns like Jameis Winston and Taysom Hill competing for the starting quarterback role, the Saints are navigating a transition period. Yet, the spirit of resilience and the unwavering support of Who Dat Nation remains constant.

The Los Angeles Rams, draped in their iconic blue and gold, boast a history as vibrant and dynamic as the city they call home. From their early days in Cleveland to their current reign as Super Bowl champions in Los Angeles, their journey has been filled with thrilling highs and crushing lows, solidifying their place as one of the NFL's most storied franchises.

Early Beginnings and Westward Migration (1946-1979): Founded in 1946 as the Cleveland Rams, the team experienced early success, capturing the NFL Championship in 1951 under the leadership of the legendary "Fearsome Foursome" defensive line. After years of financial struggles, the franchise relocated to Los Angeles in 1946, finding a new home in the glamorous Hollywood spotlight.

The Greatest Show on Turf and Super Bowl Glory (1997-2004): The late 90s and early 2000s saw the Rams ascend to legendary status under the tutelage of iconic coach Dick Vermeil and the electric offense dubbed "The Greatest Show on Turf." Quarterback Kurt Warner, running back Marshall Faulk, and wide receivers Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt formed an unstoppable force, culminating in Super Bowl XXXIV victory in 2000. Despite another Super Bowl appearance in 2002, the team eventually succumbed to salary cap issues and relocated to St. Louis.

St. Louis Struggles and the Return to LA (2004-2016): In St. Louis, the Rams struggled to recapture their past glory, despite flashes of brilliance from players like Steven Jackson and Chris Long. After years of failed attempts to build a new stadium, the franchise announced its return to Los Angeles in 2016, sparking excitement and nostalgia amongst fans.

The Return to Inglewood and a New Era (2017-Present): Back in LA, the Rams embraced a bold new era under owner Stan Kroenke and general manager Les Snead. Drafted quarterback Jared Goff and acquiring defensive stars like Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey transformed the team into contenders. In 2022, under coach Sean McVay, the Rams finally brought the Lombardi Trophy back to Los Angeles after defeating the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI.

The Indianapolis Colts boast a rich and complex history rooted in triumph and turbulence. Their story begins in 1953, not in Indianapolis, but in Baltimore, Maryland. As the Baltimore Colts, the team experienced early success, winning three NFL Championships (1958, 1959, 1968) and reaching Super Bowl III. Led by legends like Johnny Unitas and Raymond Berry, the Colts were an offensive powerhouse, captivating fans with their exciting brand of football.

However, financial struggles and stadium issues plagued the Baltimore years. In 1984, a controversial move saw the Colts relocate to Indianapolis, leaving behind a devastated fanbase and igniting a fierce rivalry with the newly created Baltimore Ravens.

Fresh beginnings in Indianapolis brought challenges. Early seasons were lean, and the Colts needed help to find their footing. But the arrival of Peyton Manning in 1998 marked a turning point. The "Manning Era" brought unprecedented success. With Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, Edgerrin James, and the steady hand of coach Tony Dungy, the Colts became a force to be reckoned with. They reached the playoffs nine times in Manning's 14 seasons, winning Super Bowl XLI in 2007 with a thrilling victory over the Chicago Bears.

Manning's retirement in 2011 ushered in a period of instability. The Colts cycled through quarterbacks and coaches, searching for the next franchise player. Andrew Luck showed promise, twice leading the team to the playoffs, but injuries forced his early retirement in 2019.

The Colts entered a new chapter with the arrival of quarterback Carson Wentz in 2021. Under the leadership of coach Frank Reich, they reached the playoffs in 2022, showcasing a young and exciting roster.

Through triumph and turmoil, the Indianapolis Colts have remained a resilient force in the NFL. They've captured the hearts of fans with their exciting play and fierce determination.

Tucked in the rolling hills and cotton fields of Mississippi lies a football program synonymous with grit, determination, and a passionate fan base that bleeds maroon and white. This is the story of the Mississippi State Bulldogs, a team whose rich history and unique identity have endeared them to generations of fans across the country.

Early Dawgs and the Birth of Tradition (1895-1966):

The Bulldogs' journey began in 1895, when they took to the gridiron for the first time as the "Mississippi A&M Aggies." Though their early years were marked by inconsistency, the seeds of tradition were sown with legendary coaches like Dan Mullen and W.A. Alexander, who laid the foundation for future success.

The Golden Age and Rise of a Dynasty (1967-Present):

The arrival of Coach Johnny Vaught in 1962 ushered in a golden age for Bulldog football. Under his leadership, the team captured their first SEC Championship in 1967, defeating rival Alabama in a thrilling 10-2 season. This victory, known as the "Mud Bowl" due to the rain-soaked field, cemented Vaught's legacy and ignited a passion for maroon and white that continues to burn bright today.

Modern Era: From Mullen to Leach and Beyond

The post-Vaught era saw continued success under coaches like Joe Lee Dunn and Jackie Sherrill. More recently, Dan Mullen led the Bulldogs to a new level of national prominence, culminating in a No. 1 ranking in 2014. Following Mullen's departure in 2020, the legendary offensive mind Mike Leach injected the program with his air raid philosophy, bringing an exciting brand of football to Starkville.

[Hail State!: A Dive into the Mississippi State Bulldogs Football Program

The leadership of the National Football League has evolved significantly since its inception, transitioning from a president to a commissioner. This series of posts will delve into the history of these influential figures, tracing the evolution of their roles and responsibilities.

Initially, the league was led by a president, a position primarily focused on administrative duties and maintaining order among the member teams. As the NFL grew in popularity and complexity, the need for a more powerful and decisive leader became apparent. This led to the creation of the commissioner role, a position that would wield greater authority and shape the league's direction.

The NFL Commissioner is the chief executive officer of the league, responsible for overseeing all aspects of its operations. Unlike the earlier presidents, the commissioner has broad powers to enforce league rules, negotiate television contracts, and represent the NFL's interests. This position answers to the 32 NFL team owners, who collectively form the league's governing body. The commissioner's role is to act in the best interests of the league as a whole, balancing the competing interests of the individual teams. We will explore the tenures of these leaders, highlighting their key decisions, challenges, and legacies, and how their actions shaped the landscape of professional football.

The Tar Heels of Chapel Hill, a program steeped in tradition and resilience, present a captivating narrative within the landscape of college football. From the echoes of leather helmets to the roar of modern stadiums, their story is one of evolution, punctuated by moments of brilliance and periods of rebuilding. This series delves into the rich tapestry of North Carolina football, exploring the foundations laid by pioneering coaches and the indelible marks left by generations of athletes.

The journey of the Tar Heels is not merely a chronicle of wins and losses; it's a reflection of the changing tides of the sport itself. From early regional rivalries to national aspirations, the program has navigated the complexities of collegiate athletics, adapting and evolving while maintaining its unique identity. This exploration will uncover the defining moments, the strategic innovations, and the cultural shifts that have shaped the Tar Heel legacy.

We will examine the eras that defined the program, from the early struggles to periods of sustained success, and the challenges faced in between. We will explore the impact of coaching philosophies, the evolution of offensive and defensive schemes, and the enduring passion of the Tar Heel faithful. Through this series, we aim to provide a comprehensive and insightful look into the heart of North Carolina football, celebrating its history and its enduring spirit.

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April 6 honors college football's rich past, commemorating foundational figures and iconic players. Reflect on the legacies of early Alabama quarterbacks, Notre Dame's Heisman heroes, Green Bay's receiving royalty, and Ohio State's dominant linemen. A day to celebrate collegiate greatness.

Mark April 6 on the football calendar! This date serves as a time to remember the impactful contributions of early college quarterbacks, Heisman-winning signal-callers, legendary NFL wide receivers who honed their skills in college, and dominant two-way players who defined their universities' legacies.

Way up North, where the cold winds blow through the Twin Cities, is the National Football League franchise of the Minnesota Vikings. These purple-clad warriors represent and embrace the state's people as they battle opponents on Sundays in the fall.

Vikings fans and curious football enthusiasts! Are you ready to delve into the rich history, passionate fanbase, and exciting future of the Minnesota Vikings? Prepare to embark on a journey into the heart of the "Skol Nation," where purple pride runs deep, and the quest for the elusive Lombardi Trophy continues.

This series will be your one-stop shop for everything Vikings, from their glorious beginnings to their present-day challenges and aspirations. We'll dissect iconic moments like the "Minneapolis Miracle" and the heartbreaking "Fail Mary," explore legendary players like Randy Moss and Adrian Peterson, and analyze the strategies of coaches past and present.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the purple reign, we'll offer insights, spark discussions, and ignite your passion for the team.

So, grab your favorite jersey, dust off your face paint, and get ready to join the "Skol chant" as we delve into the fascinating world of the Minnesota Vikings. Remember, this isn't just a team; it's a community, a tradition, and a shared dream of bringing the Super Bowl title to the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

tay tuned for upcoming posts covering:

-Epic Battles and Defining Moments: Reliving the most thrilling and heartbreaking games in Vikings history.

-Legendary Vikings: Unveiling the stories and impact of the team's iconic players and coaches.

-The Quest for the Lombardi: Analyzing the current team's strengths, weaknesses, and chances of Super Bowl glory.

-The Skol Nation: Exploring the passionate fanbase and its unique traditions.

-And much more!

So, buckle up, Skoldiers, and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Minnesota Vikings!