Football History

Rooted in tradition and fueled by passionate fans, South Carolina football boasts a history as vibrant as the garnet and black that bleeds through its veins. From humble beginnings to national championship aspirations, the Gamecocks have woven a tapestry of triumph, heartbreak, and enduring spirit. Let's take a stroll down memory lane, savoring the highlights that define this storied program.

Early Days and Birth of a Rivalry: In 1896, the "College Boys" took the field for the first time, etching their name in Carolina lore. The inaugural clash with arch-rival Clemson, a 12-6 victory, ignited a fire that burns fiercely to this day. The early years saw flashes of brilliance, with Bob Williams leading the team to a 14-3 record in 1902-03 and dismantling Tennessee in 1903 with a record-setting score.

The Spurrier Era and National Recognition: Enter Steve Spurrier in 2008, infusing the program with his "Fun-N-Gun" offensive philosophy. Marcus Lattimore burst onto the scene, captivating the nation with his electrifying talent, before a devastating injury silenced his symphony. Still, Spurrier guided the Gamecocks to their first SEC East title and consecutive top-10 finishes, silencing doubters and cementing his legacy.

Spencer Rattler and Record-Breaking Exploits: Fast forward to 2022, and Spencer Rattler, a quarterback brimming with swagger, arrived at Columbia. In a game against Tennessee, Rattler unleashed a historic performance, throwing six touchdown passes and shattering the school record for most in a single game. This offensive explosion was a glimpse of the potential simmering within the program, a reminder of the Gamecocks' offensive prowess.

Beyond the Headlines: Beyond Victories: The Gamecocks' story is not merely about wins and losses. It's about the "Sandstorm," the deafening roar of the Williams-Brice faithful, creating a cauldron of energy that rivals any stadium in the nation. It's about the legacy of players like Brad Culpepper and Jadeveon Clowney, etching their names in NFL history. It's about the "Black Magic" uniforms, a symbol of power and pride worn with fierce determination.

Standing on the Threshold of Greatness: Today, South Carolina football stands on the precipice of greatness. Young talent like Antwane "Juice" Wells Jr. and Marshawn Lloyd inject hope into the future. Head coach Shane Beamer, building upon Spurrier's foundation, seeks to lead the Gamecocks back to the top of the SEC mountain.

The path ahead may be challenging, but the spirit of the Gamecocks remains vibrant.

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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Football in the South is important to a vast majority. In Georgia besides the Bulldogs and Yellow Jackets there is a different kind of Trojan warrior that stands proud. In Troy, Alabama, amidst rolling fields and Southern charm, resides a football program with a history as gritty and determined as the Trojans themselves. From humble beginnings on a dusty campus field to their recent ascension as Sun Belt champions, the Troy Trojans have defied expectations, weathered storms, and carved their own path through the gridiron landscape. This is their story, a saga of underdog victories, larger-than-life characters, and a never-say-die spirit that embodies the heart of a Troy Trojan. So, pull up a rocking chair on the porch, sip sweet tea, and prepare to hear the echoes of cheers and rattle of pads as we delve into the captivating tale of the Trojans, a team that proves size isn't everything when heart and grit pave the way to glory.

Early Years (1909-1945):

-Intermittent play due to various factors like low participation and the World War.

-Coach George Penton led an undefeated season in 1911-12.

-Coach Albert Elmore changed the team name to "Red Wave" and enjoyed moderate success.

-Coach Fred McCollum achieved back-to-back winning seasons.

-Coach William Clipson's tenure included a single strong season.

Modern Era (1946-Present):

-Continuous play since 1946.

-Transitioned to Division I-A in 2001 and joined the Sun Belt Conference in 2004.

-Played in their first bowl game in 2004 but lost.

Explore the historic 1943 NFL Draft! Held amidst World War II, this April 8th event showcased how the league adapted to wartime. Discover the player selections and the unique circumstances shaping professional football during this pivotal era. A fascinating look at NFL history!

The 1943 NFL Draft, which took place on April 8th, occurred during the height of World War II, significantly impacting the league's operations and player pool. Many draftees were either already serving or would soon join the armed forces, leading to unique team-building strategies and roster uncertainties. This draft highlights the NFL's resilience during a challenging period in global history.

On April 8, 1943, the National Football League held its annual player draft at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago, Illinois. The Detroit Lions, holding the first overall selection, chose halfback Frank Sinkwich from the University of Georgia. Notably, the 1943 draft stands out in NFL history as the only one that did not produce a future member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

In this draft, each of the league's ten teams made a total of 30 selections. To promote competitive balance, the five teams with the poorest records from the 1942 season were granted exclusive picks in the second and fourth rounds. Conversely, the five top-finishing teams were relegated to sole participation in the 31st and 32nd rounds.

The first round of the 1943 NFL Draft unfolded as follows: the Detroit Lions picked Frank Sinkwich (Halfback, Georgia); the Philadelphia Eagles selected Joe Muha (Fullback, VMI); the Chicago Cardinals chose Glenn Dobbs (Tailback, Tulsa); the Brooklyn Dodgers drafted Paul Governali (Quarterback, Columbia); and the Cleveland Rams picked Mike Holovak (Fullback, Boston College). Continuing the first round, the New York Giants selected Steve Filipowicz (Fullback, Fordham); the Pittsburgh Steelers chose Bill Daley (Fullback, Minnesota); the Green Bay Packers drafted Dick Wildung (Tackle, Minnesota); the Chicago Bears picked Bob Steuber (Halfback, Missouri); and finally, the Washington Redskins selected Jack Jenkins (Fullback, Vanderbilt).

So far, none of the selections from this draft have been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

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The University of Pittsburgh boasts a rich tradition of running backs, leaving their mark on not just the Panthers' record books, but also etching their names into college football lore. These powerful runners have contributed significantly to Pitt's success, powering offenses and capturing the hearts of fans.

At the forefront stands Tony Dorsett, a name synonymous with Pitt football. He holds the program's all-time rushing record with 6,526 yards, leaving a legacy that includes a Heisman Trophy in 1976 and becoming the first player ever to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season as a freshman.

James Conner follows closely in rushing yards with an impressive 3,733. He battled through adversity to become a fan favorite, using his powerful running style and determination to inspire teammates and fans alike.

Ray Graham also deserves recognition. His 3,271 rushing yards solidified his position as one of Pitt's most consistent and reliable runners. He played a vital role in the team's success, consistently exceeding expectations and leaving his mark on the program.

Curvin Richards rounds out this group with 3,192 rushing yards. His versatility and explosiveness made him a threat in both the run and pass game, contributing significantly to the offense during his time with the Panthers.

These exceptional runners represent just a glimpse into the rich history of Pitt's backfield. Their dedication, talent, and contributions to the program have established a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of Panthers to carry the torch and break records.

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Despite lacking the national dominance of some, the Arizona Wildcats football program boasts a storied history brimming with thrilling victories that resonate with fans and define team eras. Here are a few of their biggest wins, each echoing across the desert sands:

Fiesta Bowl Upset & Desert Swarm Domination (1994):

-Facing Miami, a college football powerhouse, the Wildcats unleashed their defensive juggernaut, the "Desert Swarm," holding the Hurricanes scoreless in a 29-0 rout.

-This dominant performance secured their first Pac-10 championship and propelled them to a No. 4 national ranking, etching a golden moment in program history.


Territorial Cup Triumph & Rebooting the Rivalry (2014):

-Down by 13 points against arch-rivals Arizona State, the Wildcats staged a dramatic comeback to win 42-35, clinching the Pac-12 South division title.

-This victory wasn't just about the win; it symbolized the program's resurgence under coach Rich Rodriguez and reignited the enthusiasm of the Territorial Cup rivalry.

Upsetting the Ducks: Defying Expectations & National Spotlight (2013):

-Underdog Arizona stunned No. 3 Oregon, a national championship contender, in a 31-24 overtime thriller.

-This upset catapulted the Wildcats into the national spotlight, showcasing their potential and shattering Oregon's hopes for an undefeated season.

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In the heart of the American South, where rolling hills meet razor-sharp wit, lies a tale of pigskin glory and unwavering passion. Buckle up, because we're taking a deep dive into the history of the Arkansas Razorbacks, a football program as fiery as their namesake and as storied as the Ozark Mountains themselves.

From their humble beginnings as the "Arkansas Cardinals" in 1894, the Razorbacks have clawed their way to gridiron greatness. Witness the birth of the legendary "Wooo, Pig!" cheer, echoing through packed stadiums like a thunderous chorus. Feel the electric sting of defeats that fueled future triumphs, like the epic "Game of the Century" against Texas in 1969.

Step into the shoes of coaching giants like Frank Broyles, who led the Hogs to their only undisputed national championship in 1964, and Darren McFadden, the Heisman Trophy runner-up who left defenses gasping for air with his electrifying runs.

Experience the heartbreak of near misses and the ecstasy of unexpected victories. Celebrate the underdog spirit that defines Razorback fans, their loyalty as thick as Arkansas molasses and their cheers as potent as moonshine.

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On April 18, 1995, the football world paused as Joe Montana, widely considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, announced his retirement. In a poignant, nationally televised event surrounded by his iconic teammates like Bill Walsh, Ronnie Lott, Dwight Clark, and Roger Craig, alongside executives from both the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs, "Joe Cool" officially hung up his cleats. While his name is synonymous with the 49ers' dynasty, capturing four Super Bowl titles and etching his name in San Francisco lore, Montana's final two seasons were spent leading the Kansas City Chiefs after a significant 1993 trade that saw the Chiefs acquire him for a first-round pick.

The retirement ceremony was a testament to Montana's profound impact. Even his successor in San Francisco, Steve Young, lauded him as "the greatest I've ever seen," echoing the sentiments of countless fans and fellow players. Montana's remarkable career statistics – 40,551 passing yards and 273 touchdowns – only partially tell the story of his legendary status. It was his uncanny ability to perform under pressure, his clutch performances in Super Bowls, and his leadership that solidified his place as a true icon. For those wanting to revisit the news coverage of this momentous occasion and other pivotal moments in sports history, resources like Newspapers.com offer an extensive archive of newspapers, including the Arizona Daily Sun and the Kansas City Star, providing a rich historical perspective. Montana's retirement marked the end of an era, but his legacy as a quarterbacking standard-bearer continues to resonate throughout the NFL.

1944 NFL Draft unearthed gridiron legends like Otto Graham and Steve Van Buren, who shaped pro football's future.

Ten teams were selected in the 1944 NFL Draft in Philadelphia, with the Boston Yanks picking first. This pivotal event unearthed talents like Otto Graham and Steve Van Buren, who would go on to redefine the sport.

The 1944 season occurred during a transformative time, yet the allure of American pro football remained strong. That year's draft laid the groundwork for future gridiron greatness, shaping destinies and leaving an indelible mark on the sport's history.

The 1944 NFL Draft was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on April 19, 1944. In this draft, each of the ten NFL teams made 32 selections. The Boston Yanks, a new expansion team, held the first overall pick.

The top ten selections of the 1944 NFL Draft were:

-1. Angelo Bertelli, QB, Boston Yanks

-2. Pat Harder, FB, Chicago Cardinals

-3. Creighton Miller, HB, Brooklyn Tigers

-4. Otto Graham, Back, Detroit Lions

-5. Steve Van Buren, HB, Philadelphia Eagles

-6. Billy Hillenbrand, HB, New York Giants

-7. Merv Pregulman, G, Green Bay Packers

-8. Mike Micka, Back, Washington Redskins

-9. Ray Evans, HB, Chicago Bears

-10. Johnny Podesto, B, Pittsburgh Steelers

This draft featured notable talent, Otto Graham and Steve Van Buren, who were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Otto Graham (drafted 4th overall by the Detroit Lions) is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. He led the Cleveland Browns to multiple championships in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) and the NFL. Graham is also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

Steve Van Buren (drafted 5th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles) was a dominant halfback known for his powerful running style. He led the NFL in rushing several times and helped the Eagles win back-to-back NFL championships in 1948 and 1949.

While the 1944 draft may not be as widely recognized as later drafts, it produced Hall of Fame-caliber players who significantly impacted the game.

-Pro Football Hall of Famers Taken in the 1944 NFL Draft

-Otto Graham, quarterback from Northwestern taken 1st round 4th overall by the Detroit Lions.

-Steve Van Buren, halfback from LSU taken 1st round 5th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles.

-Bob Waterfield, quarterback from UCLA taken 5th round 42nd overall by the Cleveland Rams.

-Ed Sprinkle, guard/defensive end from Navy taken undrafted by the Chicago Bears.

The Forth-Worth Star telegram reported on April 3, 1983, that North Texas State was considering dropping its football program after a 2-9 season in which the team sold only 4200 tickets for the four home games out of an expected 20,000. The draw deficit created a budget problem for the team, as the football program lost $400,000 in 1982.

Fortunately, the program did not fold, and the 1983 North Texas State Mean Green football team represented North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas) during the 1983 NCAA Division I-AA football season as part of the Southland Conference. Under the leadership of head coach Corky Nelson, in his second year, the team achieved an 8–4 overall record.