Football History

Born June 20, 1989, in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, Terrelle Pryor's football career was a captivating blend of electrifying talent, controversy, and a remarkable transition. His journey, marked by brilliance and adversity, left a unique imprint on the sport.

-College Career

Pryor's college career at Ohio State University was nothing short of sensational. A highly touted recruit, he immediately made his presence felt as a dual-threat quarterback. His size, speed, and arm strength made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He led the Buckeyes to two Big Ten championships and a Rose Bowl victory. However, his college career was also marred by controversy surrounding NCAA violations, ultimately leading to his suspension and early departure from Ohio State. Despite the off-field issues, his on-field performance was undeniable, showcasing his exceptional athleticism.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Pryor's path to the NFL was unconventional. Due to the NCAA sanctions, he entered the NFL Supplemental Draft in 2011, where the Oakland Raiders selected him in the third round. He initially served as a backup quarterback, but his athleticism was too compelling to ignore. The Raiders experimented with him in various roles, including wide receiver, recognizing his potential as a versatile playmaker.  

-Football Legacy

Pryor's NFL career was a testament to his adaptability and resilience. He transitioned from quarterback to wide receiver, a rare feat in professional football. He displayed flashes of brilliance, particularly during his 2016 season with the Cleveland Browns, where he recorded over 1,000 receiving yards. His ability to make contested catches and his explosive speed made him a dangerous threat. While injuries hampered his career, his determination to reinvent himself was remarkable. His legacy is one of a player who possessed immense potential and who dared to challenge conventional expectations.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year (2010)

-Rose Bowl MVP (2010)  

-NFL Career Stats:

-Passing: 2,332 yards, 9 touchdowns

-Receiving: 115 receptions, 1,563 yards, seven touchdowns

Terrelle Pryor's career is a study in contrasts. His college dominance was followed by controversy, and his NFL journey was marked by a remarkable position change. While his career may not have reached its full potential, his impact as a dual-threat phenomenon and his willingness to adapt solidified his place in football history.

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.

Johnny Lujack's football career was a brilliance symphony played out on the college and professional stages. He was a quarterback who mastered the T-formation, led teams to championships and left an indelible mark on the game. Here's a closer look at his impressive achievements:

College Stardom:

-Notre Dame Glory: Lujack took over as Notre Dame's quarterback in 1943, guiding them to three national championships during his tenure. He threw for over 777 yards and rushed for 139 in his senior season, earning the Heisman Trophy and Associated Press Athlete of the Year honors.

-T-Formation Master: Lujack's exceptional understanding of the T-formation offense made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His precise passing and deceptive running combined to be an unstoppable force, rewriting the playbook for future quarterbacks.
NFL Journey:

-Drafted High: The Chicago Bears recognized Lujack's talent and drafted him fourth overall in the 1946 NFL Draft. He lived up to expectations, leading the team in scoring each year of his four-season career.

-Passing Prowess: Despite playing in a run-heavy era, Lujack set an NFL record with 468 passing yards in a single game in 1949. He also finished his career with 11 rushing touchdowns, another noteworthy feat for a quarterback of his time.

-Early Retirement: Lujack's NFL career was cut short due to injuries and military service. He retired in 1951 at age 26, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented quarterbacks of his generation.

Beyond the Numbers:

-Lujack's impact extended beyond statistics. He was a charismatic leader, respected by teammates and coaches alike. His influence on the development of the quarterback position, particularly within the T-formation, is undeniable.

-His legacy lives on in various Halls of Fame, including the College Football and National Polish-American Sports Halls of Fame. He remains a revered figure in Notre Dame and Bears history, a constant reminder of the heights an exceptional quarterback can reach.

In conclusion, Johnny Lujack's football career was a leadership, talent, and adaptation masterclass. He left his mark on college and professional football, etching his name in the annals of gridiron history.

Born April 14, 1999, Chase Young's football journey has been defined by his exceptional pass-rushing abilities, transitioning from a college superstar to a promising NFL talent.

-College Career

Young's college career at Ohio State University was nothing short of spectacular. He established himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in college football history. His combination of size, speed, and power made him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines. In his junior season, he recorded a staggering 16.5 sacks, earning him unanimous All-American honors and the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Trophy. He was a key component of the Buckeyes' defense, contributing significantly to their success.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Young's dominant college performance made him a highly coveted prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. The Washington Redskins (now Commanders) selected him with the second overall pick, recognizing his potential to be a game-changing edge rusher.  

-Football Legacy

Flashes of brilliance and challenges with injuries have marked Young's NFL career. He won the Defensive Rookie of the Year award, demonstrating his immediate impact. However, a significant knee injury hampered his progress. When healthy, his pass-rushing prowess is undeniable, and he possesses the potential to be a dominant force in the league. Traded to the 49ers during the 2023 season, he looks to restart his career. His legacy is still being written, and his potential to be a Hall of Fame caliber player is still in reach.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Bronko Nagurski Trophy (2019)  

-Chuck Bednarik Award (2019)  

-Unanimous All-American (2019)  

-Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (2019)

-NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2020)  

-NFL Career Stats (through the 2023 Season):

-Sacks: 16.5
 
-Tackles: 93

-Forced Fumbles: 6

Chase Young's career is a story of immense talent and the challenges of professional football. His college dominance and early NFL success showcase his potential, and he continues to strive to make a significant impact in the league.

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Born November 18, 1948, in Cherryville, North Carolina the great Ohio State DB, Jack Tatum was often called the “Assassin” for his hard hitting style of play but he also could blanket a receiver in coverage too. The National Football Foundation writes that Jack was a unanimous First Team All-America selection in 1970 and consensus pick in 1969, Tatum earned First Team All-Conference honors three times and was named National Defensive Player of the Year in 1970. A three-year starter, Tatum led the Buckeyes to a 27-2 record, two National Championships and at least a share of three Big Ten Conference titles.

The College Football Hall of Fame placed a plaque in honor of Jack Tatum’s fine play in their gridiron greats museum in 2004. After he completed college, Tatum was a first round by the Oakland Raiders in the 1971 NFL Draft. Tatum played in the NFL for 10 seasons, nine with Oakland and one with Houston, and was a three-time Pro Bowl selection.

-Career Highlights and Awards

-Super Bowl champion (XI)

-Second-team All-Pro (1974)

-3× Pro Bowl (1973–1975)

-2× National champion (1968, 1970)

-2× Unanimous All-American (1969, 1970)

-3× First-team All-Big Ten (1968–1970)

-Career NFL statistics

-Interceptions: 37

-Interception yards: 736

-Fumble recoveries: 10

-Defensive touchdowns: 1

Stats at Pro Football Reference

Jack Tatum. (2025, January 10). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Tatum

Born January 5, 1926, was one of the most impactful football players you might have ever heard of, Buddy Young.

The "Bronze Bullet" had exceptional quickness and acceleration. However, many pro teams overlooked him as he is one of the shortest men ever to play in the NFL. The collegeiate track star was drafted by an NFL rival in the 1947 AAFC Draft in the Special Draft by the New York Yankees.

At Illinois, Young won the National Collegiate 100- and 220-yard dash races and became the champion of those events. In the AAFC and NFL, he thrived, becoming a Pro Bowl player and Kick-off return leader.

Claude "Buddy" Young wasn't a giant in stature, but on the gridiron of the University of Illinois, he stood tall as a legend. His college football career, spanning 1942-1946, was a masterclass in speed, athleticism, and an indomitable spirit, etching his name forever in Illini history.

-Recruited from Chicago, Young's diminutive size (5'5", 163 lbs) raised eyebrows, but his talent silenced doubts.

-In his debut, he ripped off a 64-yard touchdown on the first play and another from 30 yards, showcasing his explosive speed.

-Young's talent exploded in 1944, earning him All-America honors. He tied the school record with 13 touchdowns and averaged nearly 9 yards per carry, leaving defenders in his dust.

-Young wasn't just a highlight machine; he was a natural leader, taking the helm as quarterback in 1945.

-He guided the Illini to a Big Ten Championship in 1946, cementing his legacy as one of the program's greatest leaders.

-Young's impact transcended wins and losses. His electrifying playing style drew record crowds and rekindled Illinois' passion for football.

Albert Exendine, born in Indian Territory in 1884, wasn't just a football player; he was a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the unifying power of the game. His career spanned generations, weaving a narrative of athletic prowess and cultural significance against the backdrop of American history.

Exendine's story begins at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, where Pop Warner molded him from raw talent into an All-American end. Albert had never played on the gridiron prior to arriving at the school, but was a mainstay star from 1902-1907. Playing against the prejudice of the era, Exendine's speed and skill silenced critics, earning him respect and paving the way for future generations of Native American athletes.

Leaving Carlisle, Exendine embarked on a coaching journey that spanned over four decades. He transformed small colleges into regional powerhouses, and nurturing talent at institutions such as Georgetown, Washington State, and Oklahoma A&M. His innovative "warhorse" offense and emphasis on discipline set him apart, attracting players and establishing himself as a coaching pioneer.

But Exendine's impact transcended wins and losses. He became a bridge between different worlds, coaching both white and Native American players with fairness and respect. He challenged racial stereotypes and advocated for equality in athletics, paving the way for a more inclusive sports landscape.

Beyond the gridiron, Exendine was a respected figure in the Native American community. He served as a tribal council member and advocated for their rights and cultural preservation. His multifaceted life underscored the interconnectedness of his athletic and cultural identities.

Born May 25, 2002 was the outstanding Miami Hurricane quarterback, Cameron Ward.

Cameron Ward's college career began at Incarnate Word, where he quickly established himself as a prolific passer. In two seasons (2020-2021), he threw for over 6,900 yards and 71 touchdowns, earning him national attention. He transferred to Washington State for his final two collegiate years (2022-2023). While facing tougher competition, Ward continued to shine, throwing for over 6,500 yards and 48 touchdowns. His strong performances led to him being named a semifinalist for the Davey O'Brien Award in 2023, an award given to the nation's best quarterback.  

Ward declared for the NFL draft after his final season. His legacy is that of a dynamic and productive quarterback who excelled at both the FCS and FBS levels. He showcased a strong arm, accuracy, and the ability to make plays both inside and outside the pocket. While he may not have won a national championship, his individual accomplishments and consistent performance solidified his place as one of the top quarterbacks in college football during his time.

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

Incarnate Word (2020-2021): Over 6,900 passing yards, 71 touchdowns.
Washington State (2022-2023): Over 6,500 passing yards, 48 touchdowns.
2023: Davey O'Brien Award Semifinalist.

 

Sources and related content
Cam Ward - University of Miami Athletics

miamihurricanes.com

Cameron Ward Named to National Award Final Watch Lists

Born August 9, 1955 - Zachary, Louisiana - Doug Williams was a quarterback from Grambling State who is enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame. Mr. Williams went on to play in the NFL for the Tampa Bay Bucaneers and the Washington Redskins.

He helped guide his Washington team to victory in Super Bowl XXII with 340 yards passing and 4 TD's against the Denver Broncos. The performance earned him the MVP award for the game. This SB win made Williams the very first African-American quarterback to win the big game. Williams was selected as the 17th overall pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1978 NFL Draft. He played with the Buccaneers 1978 from to 1982, the USFL Oklahoma/Arizona Outlaws 1984 and 1985 and then most famously returned to the NFL with the Washington Redskins from 1986 to 1989 per Yahoo.com.

During his NFL career, Doug threw 1,240 completions for 16,998 yards and 100 touchdowns.

Born September 29, 1923, in Orange, Texas, was legendary Pro Football Head Coach Oail Andrew "Bum" Phillips. Bum served as head coach in the National Football League (NFL) for the Houston Oilers from 1975 to 1980 and the New Orleans Saints from 1981 to 1985.

Phillips served as the defensive assistant coach for the San Diego Chargers under Sid Gillman. Gillman later became head coach of the Houston Oilers, and he brought Phillips with him as his defensive coordinator.

Phillips took over as the head coach of the Oilers on January 25, 1975. Under Phillips, the Oilers reached the AFC Championship Game in two consecutive seasons, losing to the Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers 34–5 in 1978 and 27–13 in 1979.