Football History

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New York businessman Tim Mara in 1925 made what many would consider a gamble when he invested $500 in a fledgling franchise in the NFL. Mara needed to gain more knowledge of the game of professional football, but the New York Giants were born with the council of the newly hired Dr. Harry March and others.

We continue with the story of the New York Football Giants and go back to an interview we did with Alan March, the great-grandson of Dr. Harry March. We find that the Giant crosses paths with legends like Jim Thorpe and Red Grange during this franchise's inaugural season.

This is Part 2 of our year-long celebration of the 100th New York Football Giants season in 2024.

Bringing in Star Power

By 1925, Jim Thorpe was already a household name. An Olympic Champion and many seasons of football and professional baseball had all but assured this great athlete's legacy. 1925 saw him take on a new challenge – professional football with the New York Giants.

Thorpe's arrival with the Giants wasn't met with universal fanfare. His professional baseball career began in 1913 but hadn't entirely met expectations. While showcasing his athleticism, his batting average remained relatively low. Some questioned whether his skills would translate to the gridiron.

Thorpe's athleticism was in decline, and rumors swirled of his dependencies on alcohol. Despite his contributions, Thorpe's time with the Giants was short-lived. Professional football in the 1920s was a far cry from the modern game. Injuries were common, and the rules were less protective of players. Thorpe battled nagging injuries throughout the season, limiting his impact. Additionally, the grueling travel schedule and financial constraints took a toll.

Red Puts Them in the Black

The highly anticipated matchup between the Chicago Bears, featuring the legendary Red Grange, and the New York Giants on December 6, 1925, was pivotal in NFL history. However, the impact on the Giants' bottom line wasn't as positive as the packed stadium might suggest.

Grange Steals the Show:

He lived up to the billing despite early concerns about Grange's hype. While he didn't score any touchdowns on the ground, he did make a crucial 35-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. The Bears emerged victorious, 19-7.

Financial Boon or Bust?:

While the game drew a record-breaking crowd of over 70,000 fans, it's essential to consider the financial realities of the era. Professional football was still in its early stages, and revenue streams were limited compared to today's sports landscape. Every indication, though, says that this game turned the financial situation of the Giants franchise to the point where Mara invested in the program for seasons beyond 1925.