Football History

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Happy Valley, Pennsylvania, Penn State University boasts a football program steeped in tradition and gridiron glory. The roar of the Nittany Lions resonates far beyond Beaver Stadium, echoing through a rich history that has captivated fans for over a century. This essay explores the journey of Penn State football, from its humble beginnings to its rise as a national powerhouse, examining the iconic figures, defining moments, and enduring legacy that have cemented the Nittany Lions' place in college football lore.

The program's roots trace back to 1887 when Penn State fielded its first team. Early years were marked by inconsistency, with the team playing on the Old Main Lawn before the construction of Beaver Stadium in 1921. However, the seeds of future success were sown in the 1930s with the arrival of legendary coach Bob Woodruff. Under Woodruff's leadership, Penn State established a winning culture, capturing its first national championship in 1947 with a dominant defense led by the iconic linebacker John McNally.

The 1950s and 60s ushered in an era of unprecedented dominance under the legendary Rip Engle. Engle's innovative offensive schemes, featuring the "Bulldozer" backfield, propelled Penn State to national prominence. Quarterback Lenny KIffner and running back Franco Harris became household names, leading the Nittany Lions to two national championships in 1966 and 1967. Harris, in particular, cemented his place in Penn State lore with his game-winning touchdown run in the iconic "Ice Bowl" against the University of Nebraska.

The arrival of Joe Paterno in 1966 marked the beginning of a coaching dynasty that spanned over four decades. Paterno's meticulous coaching style and commitment to academics fostered a culture of excellence. Quarterbacks like Todd Blackledge and Kerry Collins led Penn State to two more national titles (1982, 1986) and numerous bowl appearances. Paterno's legacy, though tarnished by the Jerry Sandusky child sexual abuse scandal in 2011, remains a significant part of Penn State football history.

Despite the heartbreak of the Sandusky scandal, Penn State football has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Under coaches like James Franklin, the Nittany Lions are steadfastly striving to reclaim their place among the national elite. The program continues to produce NFL talent, with recent standouts like Saquon Barkley and Micah Parsons carrying on the tradition of excellence.

Beyond the wins and losses, Penn State football is deeply embedded in the university's culture. The 'We Are!' chant, a powerful symbol of unity and shared passion, reverberates through Beaver Stadium, uniting generations of fans. The passionate student section, known as the 'Szone,' is consistently ranked among the best in college football. The iconic white helmet emblazoned with a single blue stripe embodies the program's dedication to tradition and simplicity.

The Penn State Nittany Lions football program is more than just a collection of victories and championships. It's a symbol of resilience, a testament to the power of tradition, and a source of unwavering pride for generations of fans. The roar of the Nittany Lions will continue to echo through Happy Valley, reminding everyone that Penn State football remains a force to be reckoned with on the national stage.

The story of Tennessee Volunteers football is not just about gridiron glories and national championships. It's a saga woven with threads of orange and white, echoing with the roars of Neyland Stadium and the spirit of a state as fierce as its mascot, the Smoky Mountain Volunteer.

From humble beginnings in 1891, the Vols carved their identity as a team of resilience and unwavering heart. Early victories like the 1915 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association title and the 1920 Rose Bowl appearance laid the foundation for a program destined for greatness. The golden age arrived under General Robert Neyland, whose "Run Baby Run" philosophy and emphasis on defense propelled Tennessee to four national championships (1938, 1940, 1951, 1998). Players like Johnny Majors, Doug Dickey, and Reggie White became legends, etching their names in Vol lore forever.

But amidst the triumphs, there were moments of heartbreak. The "Goal Post Game" of 1969 still stings, a missed field goal snatching away a potential national title. Years of inconsistency followed, the orange flame flickering despite flashes of brilliance like Peyton Manning's Heisman Trophy win in 1997.

Yet, the Vol spirit proved resilient. Under Phillip Fulmer, Tennessee roared back. From 1998 to 2001, the Vols reached the SEC Championship four times and clinched the national title in 1998. Peyton Manning led the charge, joined by icons like Jamal Lewis and Tee Martin. Neyland Stadium pulsated with orange, becoming a fortress of passion and power.

The past two decades have brought fresh challenges. Coaching changes, rivalries redefined, and the ever-evolving landscape of college football tested the Vols' mettle. Still, there were glimpses of glory: the thrilling "Miracle in the Mud" win over Arkansas in 2009, Josh Dobbs's Heisman campaign in 2016, and the emergence of young stars like Hendon Hooker and Cedric Tillman.

Option Dreams under Hoosier Skies: A Tale of Hoosier Football Beneath the majestic elms of Indiana University's Bloomington campus lies a gridiron tapestry woven with tales of triumph, heartbreak, and a relentless pursuit of gridiron glory. This is the chronicle of the Indiana Hoosiers football program, a journey that spans over a century, echoing with the cheers of Hoosier Nation and the thud of footballs against the autumn sky.

From the early days of muddied fields and leather helmets to the sleek modernity of Memorial Stadium, the Hoosiers have etched their name in college football history. They've weathered storms of controversy, witnessed moments of legendary brilliance, and embraced a unique offensive identity that defined them on the national stage.

This is a story of the Hoosier spirit, a testament to the unwavering passion that burns bright in the hearts of players, coaches, and fans alike. So, grab your crimson and cream, tune in to the "Hoosier Fight Song," and prepare to relive the Hoosier saga – a captivating chapter in the storied annals of American football

Born October 23, 1869 in Cleveland, Ohio - John Heisman, American football coach who was one of the top innovators for the game of football in history. Heisman is credited per the NFF’s website with helping to legalize the forward pass, originated the center snap, innovated the “hike” cadence to initiate a snap and for which the Heisman Trophy is named. John coached at various schools including Oberlin, Akron, Clemson, Georgia Tech, Penn, Washington and Jefferson, Auburn and Rice. He played every line position while he was a student athlete at Brown University. The National Football Foundation selected John Heisman to enter into their College Football Hall of Fame in 1954. Of course the award given to the most recognozed top player in College Football each year is given at trophy that bears his name, the Heisman Trophy. That is how significant he was to the game.

Born June 11, 1902, in Willow River, Minnesota, was Ernie "Big Dog" Nevers the Stanford University fullback from 1923 to 1925. He was an All-American according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and excelled at basketball and baseball as well as football. Nevers gained national attention on New Year's Day 1925 at the Rose Bowl.

Ernie and his Cardinal teammates were matched against the powerful Notre Dame Fighting Irish squad that featured the 7 Mules, the Four Horsemen backfield and a legendary coach in Knute Rockne. Ernie’s performance was memorable and courageous as he was only five days removed from having a cast removed on a broken ankle, and with his foot bound tightly in a brace, Nevers dominated the game. Nevers established a Rose Bowl record with 34 carries as he gained 114 yards, only 13 less than the combined total for Notre Dame's legendary backfield. His brilliance in the contest did not stop there as Nevers averaged 42 yards punting as a bonus.

Unfortunately for the Cardinal faithful, the Irish were just a bit too much as Stanford fell 27-10. The FootballFoundation.org bio of Nevers goes on to say that Hall of Fame coach Glenn "Pop" Warner, who coached Nevers and the legendary Jim Thorpe picked Nevers over Thorpe as his personal choice as the "greatest football player of all time." In 1969, Nevers was named to Football's All-Time Team, which was part of college football's Centennial celebration. Big Dog was Stanford's captain in 1925 when he led a 24-17 upset of arch rival California. He handled the ball on all but three offensive plays as Stanford posted its first win over Cal in eight seasons.

Ernie Nevers received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1971. His bio on the ProFootballHOF.com explains that after college Nevers signed pro basketball and baseball contracts and, in fact, was destined to throw two homerun pitches to Babe Ruth in his historic 60-home run season in 1927. But pro football also beckoned. In 1926, the Duluth Eskimos convinced Nevers to join their ranks over lucrative offers of the other sports. The Eskimos had a unique existence as they played all but one of their games on the road during Never’s time there. Ernie reportedly played all but 29 of a possible 1,740 minutes in 29 games as a running back, kicker & quarterback. He got hurt and that fact forced him to miss the 1928 season but he came back with a vengeance in 1929 with a new team the Chicago Cardinals. He stayed with the Cards for a few seasons and was even coaching the squad during the 1930 and 1931 seasons. His biggest pro game was with Chicago in 1929 against their cross town rivals the Bears on Thanksgiving Day when Nevers scored all 40 of the Cardinals points in a Red Bird romp 40-7. Check out more on Ernie Nevers with our friend Joe Ziemba on the Sports History Network and in his great book, When Football Was Football. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined the Big Dog Ernie Nevers in 1963.

When you talk about the greatest running backs of all time, This guy needs to be discussed! Born September 9, 1878 in Galesburg, Illinois, was Willie Heston, a college football player and coach who is considered one of the greatest players in the history of the University of Michigan. He played halfback from 1901 to 1904, and led the Wolverines to four consecutive undefeated seasons and two national championships.

Willie attended San Jose Normal School (now San Jose State University) before transferring to Michigan. He was a two-way player for the Wolverines, excelling at both running and passing. He was also a superb punter and kicker.

Heston was a consensus All-American in 1903 and 1904. He was also named the captain of the 1904 team. In his four years at Michigan, Heston scored 72 touchdowns, which is still a school record. He also rushed for 2,339 yards and passed for 1,003 yards.

After graduating from Michigan, Heston played professional football for the Canton Bulldogs in 1905. He suffered a broken leg in his first game, and this ended his playing career.

Heston then turned to coaching. He was the head coach for Drake University in 1905 and North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts (now North Carolina State University) in 1906. He then returned to Michigan to practice law. Heston was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954.

May 30, 1943 - Wichita, Kansas - Gale Sayers the top notch Kansas Halfback, also known as the “Kansas Comet” was born. Gale is one of the most talented backs to have ever graced the gridiron.

The FootballFoundation.org lists that Mr. Sayers was a two-time First Team All-America selection for the Jayhawks, and when he concluded his KU career he had 2,675 yards rushing and 3,917 all-purpose yards. The Kansas Comet led KU in rushing, touchdowns and kickoff returns all three years he wore the Jayhawk colors. Gale also led the team in receiving and punt returns in his final two years with the program. Sayers became the first player in NCAA Division IA history to record a 99-yard run when he broke loose against Nebraska in Lincoln during the 1963 season.

One of Sayers top collegiate moments on the gridiron has to be the 96-yard kickoff return that aided a 15-14 upset of Oklahoma in his senior season. The University retired his number 48 jersey soon after he wore it last. Gale Sayers’ collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1977.

The Chicago Bears drafted Sayers in the first round of the 1965 NFL Draft and he had an almost immediate impact on the entire League! The Pro Football Hall of Fame says right out of the chute Gale in a pre-season game raced 77 yards on a punt return, 93 yards on a kickoff return, and then startled everyone with a 25-yard scoring pass against the Los Angeles Rams. During the regular games he kept it going, as this standout player set a rookie record that season of 22 touchdowns and 132 points! The Comet scored four touchdowns, including a 96-yard game breaking kickoff return, against the Minnesota Vikings. But that was not the rookie’s grand finale. No, not even close to it. In the second to the last game of the year, playing on a muddy field that would have stalled most rushing attempts, Gale scored a record-tying six touchdowns against the San Francisco 49ers. Included in his sensational spree were an 80-yard pass-run play, a 50-yard rush and a 65-yard punt return. Sayers went on to have a short but brilliant career with 9435 combined yards in his career, 4956 yards from running.

Gale still is the all-time leader in NFL kick returns as he was also an All-NFL selection in five straight seasons and the player of the game in three different Pro Bowls. The Pro Football Hall of Fame honored Gale Sayers with enshrinement in 1977 to become one of a very few that entered both Football Hall of Fame's in the same year.

Nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, Appalachian State University boasts a football program that has defied expectations and carved its own unique path in college football history. From humble beginnings to national prominence, the Mountaineers have built a legacy of resilience, talent, and unwavering spirit.

-Early Years and Southern Conference Dominance (1928-1981)

Appalachian State's football journey began in 1928, navigating independent play and regional competition. Under legendary coaches like Kidd Brewer, the Mountaineers established themselves as a dominant force in the Southern Conference, capturing six championships and developing a reputation for tough, gritty play.

-FCS Dynasty and "The Greatest Upset in College Football History" (1982-2013)

Appalachian State's transition to the FCS ranks in 1982 marked the start of a golden era. The Mountaineers, led by coaches like Jerry Moore, built a dynasty, capturing five FCS national championships, including the iconic 2007 upset of No. 5 Michigan – a victory forever etched in college football history.


-FBS Arrival and Sun Belt Success (2014-Present)

Appalachian State's bold move to the FBS in 2014 ushered in a new chapter. The Mountaineers quickly adapted, securing Sun Belt Conference championships, bowl victories, and further giant-killing wins, including a thrilling upset of No. 20 Tennessee in 2016.


-Beyond Victories: A Culture of Excellence and Community Spirit

Appalachian State's success goes beyond the scoreboard. The program is known for its commitment to academic excellence, fostering well-rounded student-athletes. The "Black and Gold" fan base creates an electrifying atmosphere at Kidd Brewer Stadium, making every game a memorable experience.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for the Mountaineers
With a rich history, dedicated coaching staff, and passionate fanbase, the future of Appalachian State football is bright. The Mountaineers continue to strive for excellence, inspiring generations of players and fans with their unwavering determination and "never give up" attitude.

For more on the App State football program history and news/events check out the official page of the team appstatesports.com on the button above.

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The orange flame of Tennessee Volunteers football flickers with memories of legendary plays, underdog victories, and electrifying moments that etched themselves onto the hearts of fans. Choosing just a few is like picking stars from a dazzling sky, but some shine particularly bright:

"The Greatest Play in College Football History": 1959, Ole Miss threatens to spoil Tennessee's season. Then, Billy Cannon explodes. His punt return against the Rebels, weaving through defenders and leaving shoes, helmets, and jaws scattered on the field, wasn't just a touchdown; it was a legend born, forever ingrained in college football lore.

Peyton's Perfect Season: 1997. Heisman Trophy winner Peyton Manning leads the Vols to an undefeated season and their first national championship in over 50 years. His pinpoint accuracy, calm command, and infectious swagger painted a picture of Volunteer dominance that still inspires.

Rocky Top on Repeat: 1928, Neyland Stadium echoes with the first rendition of "Rocky Top." This simple folk song, born in the Smoky Mountains, became an anthem, uniting generations of fans in a chorus of orange-clad pride. Its echoes still reverberate, a reminder of the power of shared joy and unwavering spirit.

Hail Mary in Knoxville: 2009, Georgia holds a narrow lead, a win slipping away from Vol Nation. Then, Erik Ainge launches a desperate prayer towards the end zone. Justin Hunter leaps, gravity defied, and the orange ball nestles into his gloves for a victory as dramatic as it was improbable.

Overcoming the Tide: 2001, Alabama boasts a dominant dynasty, but the Vols have other plans. Jamal Lewis' explosive runs pave the way for a 34-32 upset, a moment of pure catharsis for fans starved for victory against their bitter rivals.

These are just five jewels in the crown of Tennessee football history. From Cannon's electrifying run to Rocky Top's unifying melody, each moment captures the essence of what it means to be a Vol: resilience, passion, and an unyielding belief in the magic of orange and white. T

Here are some of the most memorable dates in Georgia Bulldogsfootball history, spanning from the program's very beginnings to a modern-day coaching legend.

-January 30, 1892: UGA plays its first football game, marking the birth of the program and the "Deep South's Oldest Rivalry" with Auburn.

-November 4, 1893:The "Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate" rivalry with Georgia Tech commences, fueled by pre-existing tensions between the universities.

-December 8-9, 1932: UGA joins the newly formed Southeastern Conference, laying the foundation for future conference success.

-November 28, 1942: Frank Sinkwich becomes UGA's first Heisman Trophy winner, leading the team to a Rose Bowl victory and national championship claim.

-January 1, 1943: UGA secures its first Rose Bowl victory and solidifies its 1942 national championship.

-December 4, 1963: Vince Dooley is hired as head coach, beginning a transformative 25-year reign that included six SEC titles and a national championship.

-November 8, 1980: The iconic "Run, Lindsay, Run" play keeps national championship hopes alive in the thrilling "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party" against Florida.

-January 1, 1981: UGA caps off an undefeated season and earns its first undisputed national championship with a Sugar Bowl victory over Notre Dame.

-December 4, 1982: Herschel Walker wins the Heisman Trophy, etching his name as one of UGA's greatest players.

-December 26, 2000: Mark Richt is hired as head coach, ushering in a new era of consistent success with numerous SEC titles and high rankings.

-January 10, 2022: at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The eighth College Football Playoff National Championship, had the Dawgs knocking off Alabama 33-18.

-January 9, 2023: at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The ninth College Football Playoff National Championship as UGA pummelled the TCU Horned Frogs 65-7 for their 2nd consecutive title.