Football History

Born February 3, 1945, in Evansville, Indiana was Purdue University’s famed Quarterback, Bob Griese.

Bob Griese's football journey, from his collegiate dominance to his professional triumphs, cemented his place as one of the game's most respected quarterbacks. His blend of intelligence, poise, and skill defined an era of Miami Dolphins football and left an enduring legacy on the sport.  

College Career

Bob Griese's college career at Purdue University was nothing short of spectacular.

According to the footballfoundation.org Bob started as a Sophomore for the Boilermakers and in the second game of that 1965 season he led Purdue in an upset of top ranked Notre Dame by the score of 25-21. In the win over the Irish Griese completed 19 of 22 passes, including 13 straight completions at one point. He was a consensus All-America selection in both 1965 and 1966. The National Football Foundation selected Bob Griese for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1984.

He quarterbacked the Boilermakers to a Rose Bowl victory in 1967, defeating USC and solidifying his status as a national star. Griese's performance in that game, throwing for over 300 yards and two touchdowns, showcased his exceptional talent and leadership. He earned All-American honors twice and was a Heisman Trophy runner-up in his senior year. Beyond the accolades, Griese demonstrated a remarkable understanding of the game, displaying a preternatural ability to read defenses and make smart decisions under pressure. His time at Purdue established him as one of the most coveted prospects in the country, setting the stage for his professional success.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Griese was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the first round of the 1967 AFL-NFL Common Draft. He quickly became the face of the franchise, leading the Dolphins to their first playoff appearance in 1970. Griese's arrival in Miami marked a turning point for the team, transforming them from a fledgling franchise into a perennial contender. He possessed a rare combination of physical tools and mental acuity, allowing him to excel in the professional ranks. His accuracy, arm strength, and ability to make quick reads made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Griese's leadership qualities were also evident, as he commanded respect in the huddle and inspired his teammates to perform at their best. The Dolphins' rise to prominence in the early 1970s was directly linked to Griese's exceptional play and his ability to elevate the entire team.

-Football Legacy

Bob Griese's legacy extends far beyond his individual achievements. He quarterbacked the Miami Dolphins to consecutive Super Bowl victories in 1972 and 1973, including the legendary undefeated season of 1972, a feat that remains unmatched in NFL history. Griese's role in that historic season solidified his place among the game's immortals. His calm demeanor and unflappable presence under pressure were instrumental to the Dolphins' success. While his individual statistics were impressive, it was his ability to lead and inspire that truly defined his career. Griese was a master of the mental aspects of the game, possessing an uncanny ability to anticipate plays and exploit defensive weaknesses. He retired in 1980, leaving a legacy of excellence and sportsmanship. Bob Griese was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, a testament to his extraordinary career and lasting impact on the game.

His name remains synonymous with Miami Dolphins football, and his achievements continue to inspire quarterbacks and fans alike.  

-Career history[/]b

Miami Dolphins (1967–1980)

[b]Career highlights and awards

-2× Super Bowl champion (VII, VIII)

-2× First-team All-Pro (1971, 1977)

-6× Pro Bowl (1970, 1971, 1973, 1974, 1977, 1978)

-NFL passing touchdowns leader (1977)

-NFL completion percentage leader (1978)

-2× AFL All-Star (1967, 1968)

-Jim Thorpe Trophy (1971)

-Bert Bell Award (1977)

-Miami Dolphins Honor Roll

-Miami Dolphins No. 12 retired

-Dolphins Walk of Fame (2011)

-Sammy Baugh Trophy (1966)

-Consensus All-American (1965)

-First-team All-American (1966)

-Chicago Tribune Silver Football (1966)

-2× First-team All-Big Ten (1965, 1966)

-Career NFL statistics

-Pass attempts: 3,429

-Pass completions: 1,926

-Completion percentage: 56.2

-Passing yards: 25,092

-TD–INT: 192–172

-Passer rating: 77.1

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Bob Griese. (2025, January 25). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Griese

February 9, 1952 - Mesa, Arizona - The legendary quarterback from Arizona State University, Danny White, celebrated the day of his birth. Danny's football journey is a testament to perseverance and versatility. From his college days as a record-setting kicker to his NFL stardom as a quarterback, White carved a unique path to success, leaving a lasting impact on the game.

-College Career

Danny White's college career at Arizona State University began with him primarily as a kicker. However, his athletic abilities were undeniable, and he eventually transitioned to quarterback, showcasing his strong arm and leadership qualities. While he continued to handle kicking duties, White's prowess as a quarterback became increasingly evident. He set numerous school records and led the Sun Devils to a Fiesta Bowl victory. His dual role as kicker and quarterback highlighted his exceptional athleticism and dedication, setting the stage for his versatile professional career. His time at Arizona State instilled in him a strong work ethic and a competitive spirit that would drive him to succeed at the highest level.  

White guided the Sun Devils to an outstanding record of 32-4 during his time at the helm of the ASU offense and helped his team with three straight Fiesta Bowls in the early 1970s. The NFF tells of how White led the nation in pass efficiency and was named All-America in 1973. Danny held Arizona State records for the most yards gained by passing in a career, 6717, and most touchdown passes, 64. He threw six touchdown passes at his pinnacle collegiate game against New Mexico in 1971! The National Football Foundation selected Danny White to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

-Road to the Pro Game

White's professional football journey began in the World Football League (WFL) with the Memphis Southmen. This experience allowed him to hone his quarterback skills and gain valuable playing time. When the WFL folded, White joined the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL, initially as a punter and backup quarterback. He learned from the legendary Tom Landry and worked tirelessly to develop his quarterbacking abilities. Eventually, White took over as the starting quarterback for the Cowboys, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and three consecutive NFC Championship games. While he never reached the Super Bowl, White's leadership and clutch performances solidified his place as one of the top quarterbacks of his era. His time with the Cowboys showcased his resilience and his ability to perform under pressure.  

-Football Legacy

Danny White's football legacy is one of perseverance, versatility, and leadership. He excelled in multiple roles throughout his career, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to the game. While his NFL career was marked by both successes and near misses, White established himself as a highly respected quarterback who consistently led his team to victory. He was known for his toughness, his intelligence, and his ability to make plays under pressure. Beyond his playing career, White transitioned to coaching, further contributing to the sport.

His legacy extends beyond wins and losses; it's a story of dedication, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Danny White's unique path from kicker to starting quarterback serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, demonstrating that perseverance and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.  

-Career highlights and awards

As a player

-Super Bowl champion (XII)

-Second-team All-Pro (1982)

-Pro Bowl (1982)

-All-WFL (1975)

-WFL All-Time Team

-First-team All-American (1973)

-WAC Offensive Player of the Year (1973)

-Arizona State Sun Devils No. 11 retired

As a coach

-2× ArenaBowl champion (VIII, XI)

-AFL Coach of the Year Award (1993)

-Career NFL statistics

-Passing attempts: 2,950

-Passing completions: 1,761

-Completion percentage: 59.7%

-TD–INT: 155–132

-Passing yards: 21,959

-Passer rating: 81.7

-Punting yards: 24,509

-Punting average: 40.2

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Danny White. (2024, December 27). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danny_White

Peggy Parratt was born George Watson Parratt on March 21, 1883, in Ontario, Canada. As a youth, his family moved across the border, so he grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. Parratt is not in the Hall of Fame but has a distinctively fascinating pigskin past of firsts in American football history.

-College Career

Peggy was a standout athlete at Case School of Applied Science (now Case Western Reserve University). He earned the prestigious title of a three-time All-Ohio college star while playing quarterback. However, his college career took an unexpected turn in 1905 when he was caught playing professional football on Sundays for the Shelby Blues under the alias "Jimmy Murphy." This revelation led to Parratt becoming the first college football star to be disciplined for playing professionally, marking a pivotal moment in the sport's early days.  

When questioned, Parratt did not deny the charge. Thus, he became the first college football star to be disciplined by his school for moonlighting as a professional football player.

-Road to the Pro Game

Parratt's foray into professional football began while he was still in college. Despite the risks, he played for the Shelby Blues, showcasing his talent and passion for the game. After being barred from further intercollegiate play, Parratt fully embraced his professional career, joining the Lorain Pros for the remainder of the 1905 season. In 1906, he signed with the Massillon Tigers, where he made history by throwing the first legal forward pass in professional football on October 25, 1906. This groundbreaking moment solidified Parratt's place in football history, although initial recognition was delayed due to a later, erroneously credited pass. He stood as the first professional thrower of a legal pass until 2018.

Later findings by the researcher Gregg Ficery found an earlier forward pass on the same Massillon team, but it was a passer named Charlie Moran who threw a couple of forward tosses to our man, Peggy Parratt. Parratt is connected with Pro Football's first legal forward pass in either story.

Parratt's professional career spanned several teams, including the Massillon Tigers, Massillon All-Stars, Franklin Athletic Club, Shelby Blues, Akron Indians, and Cleveland Tigers. He was a talented player, coach, and owner, demonstrating his commitment to the sport.  

-Football Legacy

Peggy Parratt's legacy extends beyond his historic forward pass. He was a pioneer of professional football, playing a crucial role in the sport's evolution in the early 20th century.

His decision to play professionally while in college, despite the consequences, highlighted the growing allure of the sport and the challenges faced by athletes in balancing amateur and professional opportunities. Parratt's versatility as a player, coach, and owner showcased his dedication to the game and his desire to contribute to its growth. His impact on the sport was recognized posthumously when he was inducted into the Hall of Honor by the Football Learning Academy. Peggy Parratt's contributions to football, both on and off the field, cemented his status as a true pioneer and legend of the game.  

-Career information

-Position(s) Quarterback

-College Case School of Applied Science

Career history

As administrator

-1925 Cleveland Tigers

As coach

-1908–1911 Shelby Blues

-1912–1914 Parratt's Indians

-1916 Cleveland Tigers

As player

-1905 Shelby Blues

-1905 Lorain Pros

-1906 Massillon Tigers

-1907 All-Massillons

-1907 Franklin (Ohio) A.C.

-1908–1911 Shelby Blues

-1912–1915 Parratt's Indians

-1916 Cleveland Tigers

-Career highlights and awards

-4× Ohio League champion (1906, 1911, 1913, 1914)

-Threw first-ever legal forward pass in a professional game or more probably caught the 1st one

-Appointed to NFL Rules committee

-NFL representative the Intercollegiate Committee of Athletics

Peggy Parratt. (2024, October 10). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peggy_Parratt

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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.

Jerry Rhome, born on March 6, 1942, in Dallas, Texas, carved a notable path through football, showcasing his skills as a quarterback at both the collegiate and professional levels.

-College Career

Rhome's college football journey started with the SMU Mustangs but his greatness unfolded later at the University of Tulsa, where he became a standout quarterback after a transfer. He excelled in the Golden Hurricane's passing attack, setting numerous records and earning widespread recognition for his arm strength and accuracy. His performance made him one of the most prolific passers in college football during his time. He was known for his ability to throw the deep ball.

-Road to the Pro Game

Rhome's impressive college career led to his selection in the 13th round of the 1964 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He also played for the Houston Oilers, Cleveland Browns, and Los Angeles Rams. His role marked his professional career as a backup quarterback, though he displayed his talent when given the opportunity.

-Football Legacy

While Rhome's professional playing career didn't reach the heights of his college success, he remained a respected figure in football. His legacy is primarily tied to his record-setting performances at the University of Tulsa. He was known as a very talented passer, and his college records were very impressive for that era of football. After his playing career, Rhome transitioned into coaching, further contributing to the sport. He served as an assistant coach for several NFL teams, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring quarterbacks.

*-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

* He held numerous passing records at the University of Tulsa.
* His college performance earned him recognition as one of the top passers of his era.
* He was inducted into the University of Tulsa Athletic Hall of Fame.
* While professional stats were not as prolific, his college stats were very impressive for the time period.

Jerry Rhome's football story is one of a gifted passer whose college achievements left a lasting mark, followed by a career that extended into coaching, where he continued to contribute to the sport.

-Career history

-As a player:
Dallas Cowboys (1965–1968)
Cleveland Browns (1969)
Houston Oilers (1970)
Los Angeles Rams (1971)
Montreal Alouettes (1972)

-As a coach:
Seattle Seahawks (1976–1977)
Quarterbacks coach
Seattle Seahawks (1978–1982)
Offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach
Washington Redskins (1983–1987)
Quarterbacks coach
San Diego Chargers (1988)
Offensive coordinator
Dallas Cowboys (1989)
Quarterbacks coach
Phoenix Cardinals (1990–1993)
Offensive coordinator
Minnesota Vikings (1994)
Wide receivers coach
Houston Oilers (1995–1996)
Offensive coordinator
St. Louis Rams (1997–1998)
Offensive coordinator
Atlanta Falcons (2000)
Quarterbacks coach
Minnesota Vikings (2005)
Offensive consultant

-Career highlights and awards

Super Bowl champion (XXII)
2× First-team All-MVC (1963, 1964)
First-team All-American (1964)
Sammy Baugh Trophy (1964)
AP Back of the year (1964)
Tulsa Golden Hurricane Jersey No. 17 retired

-Career NFL statistics

Games played: 71
TD–INT: 7–14
Passing yards: 1,628
Passer rating: 55.2

Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com

Born in Osage, Iowa, in 1937, Randy Duncan's journey from a discouraged backup quarterback to a college football legend is a testament to perseverance and talent. His story, marked by remarkable achievements and a brief professional career, earned him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997.  

Duncan's fantastic career took him to national attention when, after sitting behind starter Kenny Ploen in 1956, who led the Hawkeyes to the Big 10 Championship and a Rose Bowl victory, Duncan was Iowa's starting quarterback in 1957 and 1958

-College Career:

Duncan's path at the University of Iowa began with challenges. Initially, he faced frustration under Coach Forest Evashevski and even considered transferring. However, he persevered, securing the backup quarterback position behind Kenny Ploen in 1956. That season, Iowa won the Big Ten Championship and the Rose Bowl, with Duncan contributing in crucial moments, notably leading a comeback win against Oregon State.  

In 1957, Duncan became the starting quarterback, displaying his exceptional skills. He led Iowa to a 7-1-1 record and earned All-Big Ten honors. 1958 marked his pinnacle year. He guided the Hawkeyes to a 15-2-2 record over the 1957 and 1958 seasons, another Big Ten title, and a decisive 38-12 victory over California in the Rose Bowl. That year, he led the nation in passing yardage and completion percentage, shared the lead in touchdown passes, and was a unanimous All-American. He received the Helms Foundation and Walter Camp Foundation Player of the Year awards, and was the Big Ten MVP. His incredible performance earned him runner-up in the Heisman Trophy voting to Pete Dawkins.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Duncan was the first overall pick in the 1959 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. However, he opted to play in the Canadian Football League with the British Columbia Lions, citing a more lucrative contract. After two challenging seasons in Canada, he returned to the United States and joined the Dallas Texans (later the Kansas City Chiefs) of the American Football League. While with the Texans, he also attended law school at Southern Methodist University. His playing time was limited, and he retired from football after the Texans acquired Len Dawson.  

-Football Legacy:

Randy Duncan's college legacy is defined by his exceptional quarterbacking skills and his leadership in Iowa's golden era of football. He transformed Iowa's offense, setting records and earning numerous accolades. His 1958 season stands as one of the most remarkable in Hawkeye history. His ability to overcome early adversity and achieve such remarkable success makes him a true icon of Iowa football.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

-College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1997.  

-Helms Foundation Player of the Year: 1958.  

-Walter Camp Foundation Player of the Year: 1958.  

-Unanimous All-American: 1958.  

-Big Ten MVP: 1958.

-First in the Nation in Passing Yardage: 1958.  

-First in the Nation in Percentage of Passes Completed: 1958.

-Co-leader in the Nation in Touchdown Passes: 1958.  

-Runner-up, Heisman Trophy: 1958.  

-Led Iowa to a 15-2-2 record in 1957 and 1958.

-Led Iowa to a Rose Bowl victory in 1959.  

-First overall pick in the 1959 NFL Draft.
 

Sources and related content via Sports-Reference.com & Wikipedia

Vince Stevenson, born on March 1, 1881, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was a prominent figure in the early years of American football, particularly during its transition from a primarily collegiate sport to a professional one. His career, though marked by an unfortunate injury, reflects the grit and determination of early football pioneers.

-College Career

Stevenson's collegiate football career unfolded at the University of Pittsburgh, where he distinguished himself as a skilled quarterback.

During his time at Pitt, he contributed to developing the university's football program, demonstrating his leadership and player abilities.

The college football records from that era are not as complete as modern records, but it is clear that he was a highly regarded player. Stevenson may have been slightly smaller than his peers on the gridiron but he made up for it with aggressiveness and quick thinking.

The NFF says that Vince often pulled off the unexpected which enabled Stevenson to lead the Quakers to a perfect 12-game record in 1904. Penn out-scored its competition, 222-4, that season, and Stevenson merited All-America recognition from the revered Walter Camp. The National Football Foundation inducted Vince Stevenson into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1968.

-Road to the Pro Game

In the early 1900s, the line between amateur and professional football was blurred. Stevenson transitioned into the professional ranks, playing for the Canton Bulldogs of the "Ohio League" in 1906.
Unfortunately, his time with the Bulldogs was cut short by a knee injury sustained in the season's third game.

During the 1906 season, Stevenson was the starting quarterback for the Canton Bulldogs in the Ohio League. Unfortunately, a knee injury in the third game sidelined him. Twister Steinberg and Jack Hayden (former players for the Franklin All-Stars covered in our book World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team) filled in for him. Doctors advised Stevenson to rest for the rest of the season to ensure proper healing. This injury kept him out of the crucial and controversial games against the Massillon Tigers, which ended in a major scandal.

This injury significantly impacted his professional career, preventing him from participating in crucial games.

-Football Legacy

Vince Stevenson's legacy is tied to his participation in the formative years of professional football. He experienced the challenges and uncertainties of the early leagues.
His career reflects the game's physical demands during a time when protective equipment was minimal, and injuries were common.

Though his professional career was brief, his presence in the Ohio League contributes to the historical narrative of the sport's development.
His legacy is also tied to the fact that his injury prevented him from being involved in the infamous Canton Bulldogs vs Massillon Tigers scandal.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

Due to the era in which he played, detailed statistics and formal awards are limited.
His primary accomplishment was his participation in the early professional football leagues, contributing to their growth.

His presence as a quarterback in the early Canton Bulldogs team, adds to the history of that very early professional football team.
The fact that his injury kept him from being involved in a major scandal, is also a part of his legacy.

Jeff Bentrim, born June 21, 1965, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, carved a unique football legacy. At North Dakota State University, he quarterbacked the Bison to three consecutive Division II national championships (1988-1990). His dual-threat ability, combining pinpoint passing with elusive running, made him a dominant force.

Bentrim's collegiate career at North Dakota State University redefined Division II quarterback play. He achieved unprecedented dominance, starting in four national championship games and securing three titles. His versatility was unmatched; a master of the veer offense, he excelled at option plays, executing fakes, pitches, and keepers with equal precision.

-College Career

Bentrim's football legacy is firmly rooted in his collegiate achievements. He revolutionized NDSU's offense, proving a small-town talent could achieve national dominance. His record-breaking 64 career rushing touchdowns surpassed Walter Payton's previous NCAA record (all divisions).

-Road to the Pro Game

Undrafted in the NFL, Bentrim's road to the pros was not complete. After his remarkable college career, Jeff Bentrim transitioned to professional football, joining the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL. Initially, he served as the third-string quarterback, learning behind veterans Kent Austin and Tom Burgess. Following the 1989 season, Burgess's trade to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers opened the door for Bentrim's promotion to second-string. Notably, Bentrim's football journey includes both collegiate and professional championships, as he was a member of three Division II national title-winning teams at North Dakota State and the 1989 Grey Cup champion Saskatchewan Roughriders.

-Football Legacy

In his career at NDSU he rushed for 2,945 yards and passed for 3,400 yards, and is second on the career total offense list at NDSU with 6,345 yards. 1 Induction into the Bison Athletic Hall of Fame cements his position as an NDSU legend, a testament to his exceptional college career.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Bentrim's scoring prowess was legendary. He led Division II in scoring for three consecutive years (1984-1986), amassing 386 career points. Notably, his 64 career rushing touchdowns shattered Walter Payton's NCAA record (all divisions) for regular season play. In his four years, NDSU boasted a 47-5-1 record, including an astounding 11-1 playoff run with Bentrim at the helm. He tallied 81 total touchdowns (64 rushing, 17 playoff rushing).

His accolades include the 1986 Harlon Hill Trophy, All-America honors, and North Central Conference MVP. He was also named to the Division II Quarter-Century Team (1973-97). His career stats reflect his dual-threat capabilities: 2,948 rushing yards and 3,400 passing yards in regular season games. Bentrim's impact on NDSU and Division II football remains unparalleled.

Born February 9, 1895 in Chicago was football legend Edward "Dutch" Sternaman.

Dutch Sternaman was a pivotal figure in the early days of professional football, leaving an indelible mark on the sport as a player, coach, and co-owner of the Chicago Bears.

-College Career

His journey began at the University of Illinois, where he starred as a halfback under the legendary coach Robert Zuppke. Sternaman's college career was interrupted by World War I, but he returned to lead the Illini to a Big Ten championship in 1919.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Sternaman's road to the pro game started with the Decatur Staleys, a team that would eventually become the Chicago Bears. In 1920, he led the Staleys in scoring, showcasing his versatility as a runner, passer, and kicker. The following year, he excelled, helping the Staleys establish themselves as a force in the nascent NFL.  

In 1922, Sternaman joined forces with his former Illinois teammate, George Halas, to form the Chicago Bears. As a player, Sternaman was a key contributor to the team's success, earning All-Pro honors in 1924 and 1925. He was a dynamic offensive weapon, capable of making big plays as both a runner and receiver. Sternaman also served as a coach for the Bears, helping to develop the team's strategies and instill a winning mentality.  

-Football Legacy

Sternaman's football legacy extends beyond his playing and coaching days. He was also a co-owner of the Bears, playing a crucial role in the team's growth and development. His business acumen and passion for the game helped to shape the Bears into one of the NFL's most iconic franchises.  

Throughout his career, Sternaman was known for his toughness, determination, and leadership. He was a respected figure on and off the field, earning the admiration of his teammates, coaches, and opponents. His contributions to the game were recognized in 2004 when he was named to the Chicago Bears' 100th-anniversary team.

Dutch Sternaman's impact on football is undeniable. He was a true pioneer, helping to lay the foundation for the modern NFL. His legacy as a player, coach, and owner will continue to inspire generations of football fans to come.

-Career highlights and Awards

-NFL champion (1921)

-CDN First-team All-Pro (1923)

-George Halas Second-team All-Pro (1922)

-Third-team All-Pro (1920)

-Career NFL Statistics

-Rushing touchdowns: 14

-Receiving touchdowns: 1

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Edward Sternaman. (2025, January 29). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Sternaman

The dual-threat quarterback Kyler Murray was born August 7, 1997, in Bedford, Texas. Kyler Murray's journey to NFL stardom was anything but conventional. His exceptional athletic abilities were evident from a young age, leading him to excel in both football and baseball.

His ultimate decision to pursue football, while initially surprising to some, has proven to be a resounding success.

-College Career

Murray's college career began at Texas A&M University, where he played one season before transferring to the University of Oklahoma. His time with the Sooners was nothing short of spectacular. In his lone season as the starting quarterback (2018), he led Oklahoma to a Big 12 Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff. His dual-threat ability, combining a strong arm with exceptional speed and elusiveness, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Heisman Trophy voters recognized his incredible season, awarding him the coveted trophy, solidifying his place among college football's elite.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Despite his baseball prowess, Murray declared his intention to pursue a career in the NFL. This decision set the stage for a unique draft scenario, as he was also a highly regarded baseball prospect. Ultimately, the Arizona Cardinals selected him with the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, making him the first player ever drafted in the first round of both the NFL and MLB drafts.  

-Football Legacy

Murray's impact on the NFL has been immediate and significant. His dynamic playmaking ability has revitalized the Cardinals' offense, making them one of the most exciting teams to watch. His presence has forced defenses to adapt, showcasing the evolution of the quarterback position in the modern NFL. While still early in his professional career, Murray has already established himself as a star and a cornerstone of the Cardinals franchise.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Heisman Trophy (2018)  

-AP Player of the Year (2018)  

-Davey O'Brien Award (2018)  

-Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2018)  

Kyler Murray's legacy is still being written. His electrifying play and his dedication to the game of football have made him a fan favorite and a player to watch for years to come. His unique path, navigating the worlds of both football and baseball, has added an intriguing chapter to his story. As he continues to grow and develop as a professional quarterback, Murray has the potential to achieve even greater heights and solidify his place among the NFL's best.