Football History

The number eleven has graced the backs of some of the most iconic figures in NFL history. From gridiron legends of the past to modern-day superstars, this single digit has become synonymous with talent, skill, and athleticism.

In the following series, we will delve into the careers of the most famous players to don the number eleven jersey. We'll explore their impact on the game, their most memorable moments, and the legacy they've left behind.

We aim to cover every substantial player at every number, because that is what we do. Do you see anyone we missed? Let us know pigskindistatch@gmail.com.

Founded on August 1, 1925, the New York Giants stand as one of the NFL's most storied franchises, boasting four Super Bowl victories and a legacy intertwined with the very evolution of professional football. Let's take a sprint through their rich history with this and the following posts:

Early Days and Polo Grounds Glory:

The Giants began their journey in the newly formed NFL, playing their first game at the iconic Polo Grounds. Struggles marked their early years, but in 1927, in a game with the Bears, things changed. A few seasons later they emerged as a powerhouse under coach Steve Owen. Led by the legendary T-Formation offense featuring running back Tuffy Leemans and quarterback Charlie Conerly, they captured their first NFL championship in 1934 and repeated the feat in 1938.
Y.A. Tittle and the Lombardi Era:

The 1950s saw the arrival of quarterback Y.A. Tittle, who led the Giants to three NFL championship appearances but fell short each time. However, the arrival of legendary coach Vince Lombardi in 1960 marked a turning point. Lombardi's demanding work ethic and emphasis on discipline transformed the team. With stars like linebacker Sam Huff and defensive end Andy Robison, the Giants were contenders.

After Lombardi's departure, the Giants endured a lean period until the arrival of linebacker Lawrence Taylor, arguably the greatest defensive player ever. "LT" revolutionized the game with his ferocious pass rush, leading the Giants to greatness. Though they fell short of the ultimate goal, Taylor's presence propelled the team to prominence. In 1986, fueled by Phil Simms's quarterbacking and a dominant defense, the Giants upset the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI, solidifying their legacy as a championship contender.
Eli Manning and the Enduring Rivalries:

The turn of the millennium saw the emergence of quarterback Eli Manning, drafted in a controversial move that ultimately paid off. With Plaxico Burress and Victor Cruz. as reliable targets, Manning led the Giants to improbable victories over the undefeated New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII and XLVI, cementing his place as a franchise icon. These victories fueled the intense rivalry with the Patriots, one of the most compelling in NFL history.

The Chicago Bears, one of the NFL's most iconic franchises, boast a rich history with surprising beginnings. Contrary to their fierce mascot, the Bears' origin stemmed not from gridiron dominance, but from an unlikely source: a laundry products company team.

In 1919, a young George Halas and a group of friends, were employed at the A.E. Staley Manufacturing Company. The manufacturer sponsored a baseball and later a football team to not only market the brand but to keep their employees in good shape of body and mind. This led to the venture into the burgeoning sport of professional football. With a mere $5,000 investment, they formed the Decatur Staleys, named after A.E. Staley Manufacturing Company, which sponsored the team.

The Staleys played their first game on September 19, 1920, against the Rock Island Independents. Despite losing 6-10, the game marked the launch of an extraordinary journey.

In 1921, the team relocated to Chicago, kept the Staleys name for another year per an agreement with he manufacturer as Halas would assume ownership, and in honor of the nickname "Cubs," the city's beloved baseball team chose a suitable moniker to match. Inspired by the powerful and athletic grizzly bears roaming the Midwest, Halas opted for the iconic "Bears" nickname in 1922, solidifying their identity.

The following years saw the Bears navigate financial struggles and player turnover. Yet, under Halas's steady leadership, the team gradually gained traction. In 1925, they achieved their first winning season and earned their first NFL Championship title in 1940.

From humble beginnings as a wrestling promoter's side project, the Chicago Bears emerged as a powerhouse of professional football. Their journey, fueled by perseverance and a fierce mascot, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the "Monsters of the Midway."

In the sprawling landscape of American football, where giants like the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers had long held sway, there emerged a new predator in the 1990s – the Carolina Panthers. Their birth, however, wasn't a tale of overnight success, but rather a testament to the unwavering passion and determination of a region hungry for NFL glory.

The seeds of the Panthers were sown in the early 1980s, when Carolinas residents began clamoring for their own professional football team. A wave of grassroots movements, like "Charlotte Needs Football" and "Carolina Panthers Fan Club," gained momentum, capturing the imagination of fans across North and South Carolina.

Their efforts resonated with NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue, who recognized the untapped potential of the Carolinas market. In 1993, amidst much jubilation, the league awarded the Carolinas an expansion franchise, the 15th team in the NFL.

The name "Panthers" was chosen through a public contest, reflecting the region's fierce spirit and natural beauty. Bank of America Stadium, a state-of-the-art venue, was constructed in Charlotte, becoming the Panthers' home and a symbol of the franchise's ambition.

1995 marked the dawn of a new era. The Panthers took to the field for the first time under the leadership of head coach Dom Capers and franchise quarterback Kerry Collins. Despite initial struggles, the team's infectious energy and commitment to community won over the hearts of Carolinians.

The "Keep Pounding" mantra, born from a pre-season speech by Capers, embodied the Panthers' relentless spirit. This unwavering dedication eventually bore fruit, leading to playoff appearances and Super Bowl contention in the years to come.

The Carolina Panthers' origin story is one of grassroots support, unwavering determination, and a shared dream realized. It's a testament to the power of passionate fans and a region united in its love for the game. And as the roar of the Panther faithful continues to echo through Bank of America Stadium, it serves as a constant reminder that even in the competitive world of the NFL, anything is possible with grit, heart, and a whole lot of "Keep Pounding."

Brace yourselves, Flock faithful, for we're about to embark on a thrilling journey through the electrifying annals of the Baltimore Ravens. This isn't just a tale of touchdowns and tackles; it's a saga of resilience, reinvention, and a city's unwavering passion for pigskin.

Born from the ashes of betrayal, the Ravens took flight in 1996, inheriting the void left by the Colts' controversial departure. Baltimore, a city steeped in football lore, embraced these winged warriors with unflinching devotion. The name, echoing Edgar Allan Poe's haunting masterpiece, was a potent symbol – a dark, intelligent predator ready to soar above the competition.

And soar they did. Under the fiery leadership of coach Ted Marchibroda and the swagger of quarterback Vinny Testaverde, the Ravens quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Ray Lewis, a defensive dynamo, became the heart and soul of the team, his electrifying presence and thunderous tackles earning him the nickname "The Raven."

The year 2000 witnessed the team's defining moment: Super Bowl XXXV. With Lewis's iconic pregame dance fueling the fire, the Ravens decimated the New York Giants, etching their name on the Lombardi Trophy in just their fifth season. This wasn't just a victory; it was a declaration of Baltimore's unwavering spirit, a testament to a city that refused to be counted out.

But the Ravens' story isn't just about Super Bowls. It's about the unwavering dedication of Flacco's arm, the electrifying speed of Rice, and the clutch kicks of Tucker. It's about the roar of the fans at M&T Bank Stadium, a sea of purple united in their love for the team.

This series will be our roadmap through this storied franchise. We'll relive the epic battles, celebrate the iconic players, and delve into the moments that have cemented the Ravens' place in Baltimore's heart. So, put on your purple jersey, grab a Natty Boh, and join us as we take flight with the Baltimore Ravens. The journey promises to be unforgettable, a testament to a team that, like Poe's raven, forever echoes through the city's soul.

a and test your knowledge on everything from legendary players and iconic plays to obscure stats and mind-bending facts.

This page is your one-stop shop for all things football trivia in video format. We've got short, bite-sized quizzes to challenge your memory on the fly, in-depth explorations of historical moments, and breakdowns of mind-boggling statistics that will make you say, "Wow, I never knew that!"

Whether you're a seasoned football buff or just starting to learn the ropes, there's something here for everyone. So, lace up your virtual cleats, grab your favorite jersey (or team socks!), and get ready to embark on a journey through the fascinating world of football trivia!

Here's a taste of what you'll find:

Quick-fire quizzes to test your knowledge on the fly.
Deep dives into historical moments that shaped the game.
Statistically intriguing videos that will make you a walking football encyclopedia.
Fun and engaging formats to keep you entertained while you learn.
So, are you ready to put your football IQ to the test? Explore our collection and see if you can answer the ultimate question: Who's got the ultimate football knowledge?

Rocky Top roars through the mountains, echoes of glory resounding off brick walls and rolling hills. Welcome to Volunteers country, where orange bleeds pride and history spills onto every playing field. We're embarking on a journey through time, tackling the triumphs and trials that forged the legend of Tennessee football.

From Neyland Stadium's thunderous ovations to heartbreaking setbacks, from General Neyland's iron fist to Peyton Manning's laser throws, this is more than a roster of wins and losses. It's a saga of resilience, innovation, and unwavering spirit. It's the story of Smokey the mascot, the "Vol Navy" armada, and the unforgettable chants that shake the very ground.

We'll witness the "Golden Age" where national titles glittered like jewels, relive the magic of Johnny Majors and Reggie White, and feel the sting of near misses that fueled the fire. We'll dive into the coaching carousel, the controversial moments, and the iconic rivalries that still ignite passions like wildfire.

But beyond the stats and headlines, we'll uncover the heart of the Volunteer family. We'll meet the players who bled orange, the legendary voices behind the microphone, and the fans whose unwavering devotion defines what it means to be a Vol for life.
So strap on your helmets, grab your pom-poms, and prepare to witness a story more epic than any touchdown. This is Tennessee football, and we're just getting started. GBO!

For over 60 years, the New York Jets have been a cornerstone of the NFL, delivering electrifying plays, passionate fans, and a legacy etched in victories and heartbreaks. From the "Namath guarantee" to the "NY Sack Exchange," their story is a thrilling ride through the highs and lows of professional football.

But the tale of the Jets extends beyond wins and losses. It's about the iconic figures who donned the green and white, forever leaving their mark on the franchise and the sport. We'll journey through the careers of legends like "Broadway" Joe Namath, the charismatic quarterback whose swagger redefined confidence; Don Maynard, the "Jets Rocket" whose blazing speed left defenders in his dust; and the dynamic duo of Curtis Martin and Wayne Chrebet, who embodied resilience and grit.

We'll explore the rivalries that fuel the fire, the coaches who shaped their identity, and the unforgettable moments cemented their place in football history. We'll delve into the passionate fan base known for their unwavering support and "J-E-T-S! Jets! Jets!" chants that echo through MetLife Stadium.

This series isn't just about celebrating victories; it's about understanding the struggles, the near misses, and the moments that define a team's spirit. We'll uncover the lesser-known heroes, the impactful trades, and the draft-day steals that contributed to the Jets' unique tapestry.

The number 5 on an NFL jersey isn't just a number; it's a badge of honor. Throughout history, it's been donned by some of the most electrifying players the game has ever seen. From elusive running backs weaving through defenses to lockdown cornerbacks shutting down opposing offenses, the number 5 carries a weight of expectation and a legacy of excellence.

In this series, we'll embark on a journey to celebrate the iconic figures who have dominated the gridiron while sporting the number 5. We'll delve into the careers of these legendary players, exploring their unique skill sets, unforgettable moments, and the impact they left on the game.

This series isn't just about the household names. We'll uncover hidden gems, players who may not have reached superstardom but who wore the number 5 with pride and left their mark on the game.

So, whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this series has something for everyone. Join us as we celebrate the grit, talent, and passion of the NFL's "Number 5s." Prepare to be amazed by their athletic feats, relive their iconic moments, and gain a deeper appreciation for the NFL's rich history, one legendary jersey number at a time.

The number 6 on an NFL jersey isn't just a number – it's a symbol of leadership, versatility, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Throughout history, it's been donned by a diverse group of players who have left their mark on the game in unforgettable ways. This series delves into the careers of these legendary figures who wore the number 6 with pride.

But it's not just about the household names. We'll uncover hidden gems, players who may not have reached superstardom but who wore the number 6 with grit and determination. From offensive linemen who paved the way for rushing attacks to special teams aces who changed the tide of games, we'll celebrate their contributions.

Prepare for debates! Was Johnny Unitas truly the greatest number 6 of all time, or did a different legend leave a more profound impact? Was Lawrence Taylor's defensive dominance unmatched, or did another linebacker wearing number 6 strike fear into the hearts of opposing offenses?

This series isn't just about reliving past glories. We'll also explore the legacies of present-day stars who carry the torch of the number 6