Football History

Sonny Jurgensen wasn't your typical gunslinger quarterback. He wasn't known for scrambling or extending plays; his magic resided in his pinpoint accuracy and a throwing arm that earned him the nickname "The Cannon from Carolina." Jurgensen's 18-year career, spent with the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins, solidified his place among the finest pure passers in NFL history, culminating in his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983.

Born August 23, 1934 - Jurgensen's journey began in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he excelled at multiple sports before heading to Duke University. Drafted by the Eagles in 1957, he spent his first few seasons as a backup, honing his craft. However, upon becoming the full-time starter in 1960, Jurgensen exploded. He led the league in passing yards twice with the Eagles, showcasing his exceptional ability to dissect defenses. His throws, a mix of bullets and lasers, found receivers in tight windows with remarkable consistency.

In 1964, Jurgensen was traded to the Washington Redskins, a move that would define his legacy. Here, he flourished under head coach George Allen, who built an offense around his strengths. Jurgensen thrived, leading the league in passing yards three times for the Redskins and even tying Johnny Unitas' single-season touchdown record in 1961 with 32. His five Pro Bowl selections and career passer rating of 82.6, the highest for any player in the pre-1978 "Dead Ball Era," stand as testaments to his dominance.

Jurgensen wasn't just about statistics. He was a leader, a steadying presence on the field. He demanded the best from himself and his teammates, but he also had a playful side. His famous "hot dog" celebration, where he mimicked throwing a hot dog to the stands after a touchdown, became a fan favorite.

While Jurgensen never won a Super Bowl, he left an undeniable mark on the game. He was a pioneer in the world of the modern quarterback, a player who relied on his arm and tactical brilliance rather than mobility. His influence on the game is undeniable, inspiring generations of quarterbacks to prioritize precision passing.

Even after his retirement, Jurgensen remained a fixture in the NFL world as a broadcaster. His insightful commentary and infectious enthusiasm for the game solidified his status as a legend, not just for the Washington Redskins or Philadelphia Eagles, but for the entire NFL. Sonny Jurgensen was, and remains, a true gunslinger, a master of the aerial assault, and a deserving member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Marcus Allen's NFL career was a captivating blend of power, agility, and clutch performances. Drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders in 1982, he quickly established himself as a dynamic weapon out of the backfield. This essay explores the highlights of Allen's career, showcasing his dominance as a runner, his Super Bowl triumphs, and the legacy he leaves behind.

-Early Brilliance and Sharing the Spotlight

-Born March 26, 1960 in San Diego California

-Allen attended USC and In 1980 he rushed for 1,563 yards, second in the nation. In 1981 he rushed for 2,342. He led the nation in scoring, 12.5 points per game; rushing, 219.9 yards per game; and all-purpose running, 232.6 yards per game.

-In 1981 Marcus won the Heisman, the Walter Camp Foundation Award, Maxwell Trophy, as well as the Pop Warner League Player of the Year honor.

-Marcus Allen received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

-The Los Angeles Raiders used their first round pick to take Marcus in the first round of the 1982 NFL Draft.

Allen burst onto the scene as a rookie, he showcased his explosiveness, leading the league in rushing touchdowns (12) and earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. The following season, the Raiders unleashed a potent one-two punch with Allen and quarterback Jim Plunkett, culminating in a Super Bowl XVIII victory over the Washington Redskins. Allen's dominant performance, including a game-clinching 74-yard touchdown run, cemented his place as a rising star.

-Taking the Lead and Championship Glory

By 1985, Allen emerged as the focal point of the Raiders' offense. Number 32 became the very first player in the League’s history to rush for more than 10,000 yards while also having receiving yards exceeding 5000 yards. This dominance propelled the Raiders back to the Super Bowl stage, facing the Washington Redskins once again. In Super Bowl XXV, Allen solidified his legacy, rushing for a then-Super Bowl record 209 yards and earning the game's Most Valuable Player award.

-Career Longevity and Adaptability

While Allen's peak years were undeniably impressive, his career extended beyond the late 1980s. He displayed remarkable adaptability, adjusting his playing style as his speed diminished.

He spent the last five with the Kansas City Chiefs. For his pro career Marcus compiled 12243 yards rushing with 123 touchdowns and another 21 scores from catching passes with 5411 yards receiving. Allen was a 2 time All-Pro and played in 6 Pro Bowls.

Allen spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, and finally returned to the Raiders before retiring in 1997. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined the great Marcus Allen in 2003.

Born August 3, 1938, in Forkland, Alabama, was Maxie Baughan former center from Georgia Tech was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988 per his NFF bio. A standout linebacker at Georgia Tech, Baughan's collegiate career was marked by exceptional athleticism and leadership. His ability to diagnose plays, shed blockers, and deliver devastating hits earned him All-American honors and a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame.  

Selected in the second round of the 1960 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles, Baughan quickly established himself as one of the league's premier defenders. Known for his relentless pursuit of the quarterback and his uncanny ability to make plays in the backfield, Baughan was a force to be reckoned with. His dominance on the field helped lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl championship in his rookie season, and he continued to excel throughout his career.  

When he went into the NFL, he switched sides of the ball and played linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles, LA Rams, and Washington Redskins. His pro career combined for 11 seasons, where he made the Pro Bowl 9 times and was voted as an All-Pro 2 times. He was on the Eagles 1960 NFL Championship team.

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The Phil-Pitt Steagles, a unique chapter in NFL history, weren't a permanent team but a temporary wartime merger in 1943. Facing a player shortage due to World War II, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles were forced to combine rosters. The official league record refers to them as the "Phil-Pitt Combine," but the unofficial and more enduring nickname, "Steagles," captured the public's imagination.

Despite the unusual circumstances, the Steagles, co-coached by Steelers' Walt Kiesling and Eagles' Greasy Neale, found success. Led by Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Bruce Smith of Minnesota (drafted by the Eagles), the Steagles finished the season with a winning record (5-4-1) and secured a third-place finish in the NFL's Eastern Division.

While the Steagles disbanded after just one season, their story serves as a reminder of American resilience during wartime. It's a testament to the power of competition and the ability of professional sports to bring communities together, even in the face of adversity. The Steagles' legacy lives on as a symbol of football's adaptability and the enduring spirit of competition.

The Question: What’s better than relaxing on a Sunday evening, watching two NFL teams battle it out under the prime-time lights? The Answer: a do-or-die Sunday Night Football (SNF) finale with everything on the line.

Tyrann Mathieu of the Kansas City Chiefs. Courtesy of All-Pro Reels from District of Columbia, USA (Cropped/Scaled)| AD.

Whether it’s divisional titles, playoff berths, or dramatic endings that keep us shouting at our screens, Sunday night finales have given NFL fans some of the most thrilling moments in football history.

Here’s our list of the 5 Best Sunday Night Football finales in NFL history.

2012: Washington 28, Cowboys 18

Before "Dallas Heartbreak" became a meme, it was just another Sunday in the NFC East. This Week 17 matchup had the division title and a playoff spot at stake. On one side was rookie phenom Robert Griffin III (RG3), electrifying Washington with his incredible dual-threat game. On the other, the Cowboys’ Tony Romo is poised for redemption after a disappointing 2011 season finale.

Here’s the setup: Washington led 21-18 late in the fourth quarter. With the ball back in Cowboys territory, Romo had a chance to show us he was Mr. Clutch. Spoiler alert—he wasn’t. Instead, he threw a soul-crushing interception that gave Washington all the momentum.

Alfred Morris, the unsung hero of the night, then punched in his third touchdown of the game, sealing a 28-18 win. Washington celebrated their first division title in five years, while Cowboys fans braced themselves for another long offseason.

Cowboys fans should’ve seen the writing on the wall—they'd go on to lose Sunday night football finales three straight years (2011–2013). Talk about bad luck.

2013: Eagles 24, Cowboys 22

Ah, déjà vu. Another year, another Week 17 NFC East showdown. This time, it was the Philadelphia Eagles stealing the spotlight. However, Dallas had a new script—and a new quarterback. Tony Romo was sidelined, leaving Kyle Orton to lead the charge.

Surprisingly, Orton kept it close, and the Cowboys found themselves down 24-22 late in the game. After scoring what could’ve been a game-changing touchdown, they went for the two-point conversion—and missed (ouch).

Still, the Cowboys had one last chance. With the ball in Orton’s hands, this was his moment. But his final pass found the wrong receiver—Eagles cornerback Brandon Boykin—ending the game and Dallas’ playoff hopes.

Philly secured the division crown and made sure Cowboys fans went 0/3 on Sunday Night finales.

2015: Vikings 20, Packers 13

When Lambeau Field hosts a season finale, you know it’s going to be special. The Green Bay Packers, led by Aaron Rodgers, needed a win to defend their NFC North title. But the Minnesota Vikings came to crash the party - and crush the Packers spirit.

The Vikings stormed to a 20-3 lead by the third quarter, thanks to an absurd play where Aaron Rodgers fumbled away a touchdown (no, really). But if there’s anything Rodgers loves, it’s a fourth-quarter comeback.

He clawed the Packers back to within seven and had not one but two shots to tie the game. Cue Xavier Rhodes, who decided enough was enough by picking off Rodgers in the end zone to deny the Packers a game-tying touchdown.

Final score? Vikings 20, Packers 13. Division champs, baby.

2019: 49ers 26, Seahawks 21

This one wasn’t just a classic—it was a game for the history books. The San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks were already playoff-bound, but the stakes were sky-high. The winner secured the NFC West title, while the losers had to settle for a lower seed.

Seattle launched an epic comeback after being down 19-7, only for the game to come down to one final play from the 1-yard line. Could this be shades of their 2014 Super Bowl heartbreak?
Yes. Yes, it could.

Linebacker Dre Greenlaw delivered the hit of a lifetime on Jacob Hollister, denying the Seahawks by mere inches. Inches! The defensive stand handed San Francisco, the NFC’s No. 1 seed, and Seattle fans a familiar heartbreak.
Why do we still talk about it? One yard. One play. That’s all it took to crown the 49ers as NFC West champions. Brutal.

2021: Raiders 35, Chargers 32 (OT)

This SNF finale was chaos personified. The Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Chargers faced a win-and-in matchup—but there was a twist. If they tied, both teams could make the playoffs (cue conspiracy theories).

Despite this bizarre scenario, the two teams actually played to win. Justin Herbert, in full beast mode, mounted a jaw-dropping comeback to tie the game at 32-32 as time expired.

Once in overtime, both teams kicked field goals, and with just seconds left, it looked like a tie was all but inevitable. But leave it to Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson to spoil the Chargers’ playoff dreams with a game-winning field goal.

Final score? Raiders 35, Chargers 32. The Steelers snuck into the playoffs, and Chargers fans were left wondering, “Why not just play for the tie?”

We’ll probably never see another game quite like this one. The stakes, the drama, the utterly ridiculous chaos—classic SNF.

Game On

Sunday Night finales don’t just end the NFL season; they give us moments we’ll never forget. The clutch plays, the heartbreaking losses, the legends made under the prime-time lights—this is why football fans live for SNF.

And with the NFL expanding the schedule to include more prime-time matchups, who knows what unbelievable Sunday Night moments are yet to come? All we can say is bring it on—we’ve reserved the remote AND hidden the tortilla chips.

Born February 20, 1912, in Chicago, Illinois, was the awesome Michigan Wolverines Tackle Francis Whitey Wistert. According to the National Football Foundation Whitey had absolutely no prior gridiron experience when he arrived on campus at Michigan in the early 1930s. The Wolverines were 7-0-1 in the 1933 season, aided in part by Whitey’s quick diagnosing of the opposition’s plays. Francis Wistert received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1967. Amazingly great football ran in his family’s bloodline as his brothers Albert, who played 1940-1941, and Alvin, who played 1947-1949, are also Hall of Fame enshrinees who played at Michigan.

Whitey Wistert, a name synonymous with Michigan football, carved a legendary path on the gridiron. His prowess as a two-way player for the Wolverines and his subsequent professional career solidified his place in football history.  

-College Career

Wistert's college career at the University of Michigan was spectacular. Playing under the legendary coach Fritz Crisler, he became a standout offensive and defensive end. His versatility was a tremendous asset, contributing significantly to the Wolverines' success. He was a key part of the undefeated 1947 team that was named national champion. Wistert earned All-American honors three times, a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the game.

Famed football journalist Grantland Rice once stated: "Wistert was unanimously selected as the best tackle in the Middle-West this year. He was the key to Michigan's defensive line play. He was a sure tackler and it was next to impossible to fool him on trick maneuvers. He was keen, quick, and accurate in diagnosing plays."

-Road to the Pro Game

The Philadelphia Eagles drafted Wistert in the 1944 NFL Draft. However, his professional career was delayed due to his service in the United States Navy during World War II. He eventually joined the Eagles after his military service.

His professional career leaned towards the game of baseball, and he played for the Cincinnati Reds of the MLB. Wistert played five years of professional baseball before entering a career as a New York attorney.

-Football Legacy

While shorter than his collegiate tenure, Wistert's professional career with the Eagles was still notable. He was a part of the Eagles team that won back-to-back NFL championships in 1948 and 1949. His two-way skills, honed at Michigan, continued to be an asset in the pros. After playing, he remained connected to the sport, serving as a color commentator for Michigan football games for many years.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-3x All-American (University of Michigan)  

-2x NFL Champion (Philadelphia Eagles)  

-Member of the College Football Hall of Fame  

Whitey Wistert's legacy is defined by his dominance at the University of Michigan and his contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles' championship teams. He was a true embodiment of the two-way player, excelling on both offense and defense. His accomplishments at both the collegiate and professional levels cemented his place as one of football's most respected figures.

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Norm Van Brocklin's NFL career wasn't a linear path to glory. It was a journey marked by resilience, adaptation, and a pioneering spirit that helped revolutionize the quarterback position. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1949, Van Brocklin's early years were a struggle. The league was dominated by a run-first mentality, and passing was seen as a risky proposition.

Born March 15, 1926, in Parade, South Dakota, was the legendary Oregon Quarterback Norm Van Brocklin. He could quickly read the defenses and do what came automatically to him, find the open receiver for a gain. Norm was gifted with a peripheral vision that allowed him to take into view the entire panorama of play. In 1966 Norm Van Brocklin's collegiate story was placed into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Norm left Oregon while still having a year of eligibility left. The Rams used their number four pick in the 1949 Draft to pick Norm.

However, Van Brocklin possessed a strong arm and a deep understanding of the passing game. He chafed under the conservative offensive schemes of the time, yearning for a system that unleashed his talents. His frustration led to a trade to the Baltimore Colts in 1951. While his time there was short-lived, it marked a turning point. Under coach Weeb Ewbank, Van Brocklin was finally given the green light to throw. He thrived, setting a single-game passing record of 554 yards, a feat that stood for nearly two decades.

In 1954, Van Brocklin landed with the Philadelphia Eagles, reuniting with coach Ewbank. Together, they implemented a revolutionary passing attack dubbed the "Run and Shoot." This innovative scheme emphasized short, quick passes that exploited defensive weaknesses. Van Brocklin, with his accuracy and leadership, became the perfect conductor for this new offense. The Eagles flourished, reaching the NFL Championship game in 1960.

Van Brocklin's impact extended beyond on-field performance. He was a vocal advocate for the passing game, urging coaches and fans to embrace its potential. His success helped pave the way for future generations of quarterbacks who thrived in pass-heavy offenses.

However, injuries hampered Van Brocklin throughout his career. Back problems forced him to retire in 1960, leaving many to wonder what heights he could have reached with better health. Despite a relatively short playing career, his influence is undeniable. He is credited with being one of the first quarterbacks to truly master the art of passing, a skill that would come to define the modern NFL.

Beyond his statistical achievements, Van Brocklin is also remembered for his leadership and competitive spirit. He was a player who demanded excellence from himself and his teammates. Notably, he became the only quarterback in NFL history to lead two different teams (the Eagles and the Rams) to league championship games.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame says that even splitting time with fellow HOF QB Bob Waterfield, Van Brocklin won the NFL passing title in 1950, 52 & 54, playing for both the Los Angeles Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles leading Philly to the NFL’s championship title in 1960. Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined him in 1971.

William Fuller, born March 8, 1962 in Norfolk, Virginia, established himself as a dominant defensive tackle, leaving a lasting impact at both the collegiate and professional levels.  

The brilliant defensive tackle of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels in the years of 1981 to 1983 had a skill set that helped him to earn an awe-inspiring feat of being a two-time First-Team All-American selection. Fuller left the Tarheels holding some stellar school records.

-College Career

Fuller's collegiate career unfolded at the University of North Carolina (UNC), where he played defensive line from 1981 to 1983. He was known for his exceptional quickness and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. He amassed impressive statistics, including 57 tackles for loss and single-season records of 22 tackles for loss in both 1981 and 1983. He recorded 9 sacks as a sophomore, and 81 tackles and 5 sacks as a senior. He was a two-time First-Team All-American and a three-time All-ACC selection. He was also a two-time finalist for the Outland Trophy. He helped lead the Tar Heels to three bowl games, and was named UNC's defensive MVP in his senior year. He graduated in 1986 with a degree in psychology.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Fuller was selected by the Philadelphia Stars in the 1984 USFL Territorial Draft, and by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1984 NFL Supplemental Draft. He chose to play in the USFL, winning two championships with the Stars. After the USFL folded, he joined the Houston Oilers in the NFL. He also played for the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Diego Chargers.  

-Football Legacy

His consistent excellence and longevity define William Fuller's football legacy. He was a dominant force in the NFL, recording 100.5 sacks over his 13-year career. He was a four-time All-Pro and a four-time Pro Bowl selection. His impact extended beyond statistics, as he was known for his leadership and dedication. His college career was equally impressive, and he is remembered as one of the greatest defensive players in UNC history.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Two-time First-Team All-American (1982, 1983)

-Three-time All-ACC selection

-Two-time Outland Trophy finalist

-Two USFL championships

-Four-time NFL Pro Bowl selection

-Four-time NFL All-Pro selection

-100.5 NFL sacks  

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2016)

-UNC Sports Hall of Fame inductee

-ACC 50th Anniversary Football Team selection.

Born December 1, 1986, DeSean Jackson's electrifying playmaking ability made him one of college and professional football's most exciting wide receivers. His impact extended beyond highlight-reel catches, leaving a lasting legacy on the game.  

Jackson's college career at the University of California, Berkeley, showcased his explosive talent. From 2005 to 2007, he dazzled fans with his speed, agility, and knack for finding the end zone. He earned All-American honors and set numerous school records, establishing himself as one of the most prolific receivers in Pac-10 history. His time at Cal solidified his status as a top prospect for the NFL.  

The road to the pros saw Jackson drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft. His impact was immediate. As a rookie, he quickly became a fan favorite with his game-breaking speed and big-play ability. He formed a dynamic duo with quarterback Donovan McNabb, helping the Eagles reach the NFC Championship Game. Jackson's ability to stretch the field and score from anywhere made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.  

Jackson's football legacy is defined by his game-changing speed and his ability to consistently make big plays. He was a threat to score every time he touched the ball, and his presence on the field forced defenses to account for his deep-threat ability. He was a key part of the Eagles' offense for many years, and he also had productive stints with the Washington Redskins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Los Angeles Rams. His career spanned 15 seasons, and he remained a dangerous weapon even as he got older.  

Throughout his career, Jackson accumulated impressive accolades and statistics.

He was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 2010s. He finished his career with over 11,000 receiving yards and 59 touchdowns. His average of 17.7 yards per reception is the highest in NFL history among players with at least 500 receptions, a testament to his explosive playmaking ability.  

DeSean Jackson's impact on football is undeniable. He was a game-changer who redefined the role of the deep-threat receiver. His electrifying play captivated fans and inspired a generation of players. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the most exciting and dynamic players in NFL history.

Bert Bell, born on February 25, 1895, was a pivotal figure in the evolution of the National Football League (NFL), serving as its second commissioner from 1946 until he died in 1959. His tenure was marked by significant advancements that solidified the NFL's position as a major force in American sports.  

Bell's impact stemmed from his deep understanding of football, gained from his experiences as a player, coach, and team owner. He co-founded the Philadelphia Eagles in 1933, navigating the team through the challenging economic climate of the Great Depression. This hands-on experience gave him invaluable insights into professional football's business side.  

As commissioner, Bell championed several key initiatives. He was instrumental in establishing the NFL Draft in 1936, which aimed to create a more equitable distribution of talent among teams, preventing the wealthiest franchises from dominating the league. He also played a crucial role in promoting the growth of televised football, recognizing its potential to expand the league's audience.  

Bell's most significant contributions were his emphasis on parity and competitive balance. He understood that a successful league required all teams to have a fair chance at success. His efforts to level the playing field through the draft and other measures helped to create a more exciting and unpredictable product.  

Bell's legacy extends beyond his administrative achievements.

He passionately advocated for the game and was dedicated to its integrity and growth. His vision and leadership laid the groundwork for the NFL's transformation into the dominant sports league it is today.