Football History

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Today, we're unleashing a blitzkrieg on the evolution of the American Football uniform, a tale of sweat, leather, and, surprisingly... fashion. Don't hang up your cleats just yet, folks, because this will be a wild ride through the sartorial savagery of the gridiron.

Let's rewind to the late 19th century when football resembled rugby more than the high-octane spectacle we know today. Players rocked woolen pants, canvas shirts, and leather strappings adorned the heads that looked more like torture devices than protective gear. Think of it in the vain of a tweed golf getup meets executioner garb and industrial work clothes for some heavy doses of chaffed skin.

These guys were pioneers! They established the basic silhouette – long sleeves, pants tucked into socks, and a healthy dose of mud. They also gave us some rudimentary pads. Shoulder pads were first seen in the 1890s, initially worn outside players' sweaters for protection.

Versions of tied shoulder pads were in the Spaldings 1906 catalog, and other teams had them sewn onto the player's sweaters.

These early stocking cap era players were more concerned with protecting their noses than their brains. The nose guard was invented one year before any head protection was formerly marketed.

Multiple types of leather headgear, often referred to as the head harness, were the predecessor of the helmet.

The Leather Revolution and the Birth of the Numbers Game:
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Fast forward to the roaring twenties, and the game gets a severe wardrobe upgrade. Leather pants and jackets have become all the rage, offering protection and a surprisingly sleek air.

Decorative friction strips were so popular in the 1920s, and how teams placed them in patterns on the jerseys, not only for an aesthetic purpose but to help runners hang on to the ball.

(Optional: Interview with a historian to discuss the cultural and technological factors behind the leather revolution)
Breaking Through the Color Barrier and the Rise of the Superstars:
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The late 1920s and 1930s are what my friend Timothy Brown refers to as the "Ugly uniform era" of football, as friction strips and stripes and a variety of fabrics were used to try to gain a competitive and aesthetic advantage.

Football teams from 1915 through 1936 had almost complete control over what was on their uniforms. According to NCAA rules, the numbers only went in front of them officially in 1937. The letter designations of the school were expected since the early days of stocking cap era football, but the school logo was an innovation in the World War I era and after the game's brand. Eventually, the random stripes were relegated to the sleeves and a possible military pinstripe down the sides of the football pants.

Before World War II, their helmets were made of more modern materials. In 1939, plastic helmets strutted onto the field, promising lightweight protection. But these early examples crumbled under pressure, shattering and causing more injuries than cheers. They were quickly benched, only to return beefed up with sturdier plastic and a healthy dose of padding a year later. By 1943, even the NFL realized the value of cranium protection, making helmets mandatory four years after college football did the same.

In the late 1940s, mouthguards appeared as the urge to protect the teeth was emphasized.

After WWII, the rules and the look of football morphed considerably once again. The helmets were soon adorned with more protective equipment in a mandatory hard shell variety.

The first face mask was worn by Otto Graham of the Cleveland Browns, who got elbowed in the mouth during the first half of a 1953 game and then played the second half wearing a piece of plastic that coach Paul Brown taped to his helmet.

Let's jump to 1947, which witnessed a gridiron fashion revolution. A Los Angeles Rams running back with a vision. Rams' Fred Gehrke grabbed a paintbrush and transformed his helmet into a canvas, etching iconic ram horns that sent shockwaves through the league. And guess what? Fans adored it! Suddenly, helmets weren't just protective gear; they were billboards of team identity, especially on the nascent black-and-white televisions of the time.

It is the age of high-tech fabrics, lightweight pads, and helmets that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie. Performance meets style, with teams pushing the boundaries of design and material innovation.

The 1960s: Color TV explodes, and so do uniform palettes! Teams embrace dazzling hues, bidding farewell to drab jerseys. The NFL even introduced a position-based numbering system, making it easier to tell who's throwing bombs and who's catching them.
Big Pads, Big Hits: The running game reigns supreme, and shoulder pads morphed into plastic fortresses in the '60s. Think broad, heavy, and "moving a human brick pile." But as the game shifts to aerial acrobatics, pads slim down, prioritizing mobility over medieval armor vibes.
Neck Roll Rhapsody (and Demise): From the '70s to '90s, linemen sport inflatable neck pillows on their backs, hoping to shield vulnerable nerves. But like most fashion fads, evidence mounts against their effectiveness, and eventually, the neck rolls deflate and disappear.

December 20, 1867 - Minneapolis, Minnesota - William W. "Pudge" Heffelfinger, the legendary Yale Bulldogs guard, was born. The footballfoundation.org website bio describes Hefflefinger as being 6’-3" tall and weighing in at 195 pounds. Let's put that size into perspective because Cam Newton at quarterback is 6’-5" and weighed 240 pounds. Still, in 1890 when Pudge played, he was extremely athletic and a giant among his peers.

His size allowed him to destroy the blocks and defenses of opposing lines where it was said he would typically take out two to three players at a time. With his outstanding athleticism and the genius of Walter Camp, he also is credited with introducing the "pulling guard" play. The All- America selections originated in 1889 by Walter Camp, and Pudge was on this initial team. He repeated in 1890-91, his last two seasons at Yale. Yale was a significant football power during that era, and Pudge helped lead the Bulldog team to undefeated seasons in 1888 and 1891 and one-loss seasons during the 1889 and 1890 campaigns.

The 1888 team amazingly outscored their opponents 698-0 that season! The National Football Foundation welcomed the collegiate career of Pudge Heffelfinger into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951. As great of a collegiate player as Pudge was, that's not exactly what Pudge is best known for, though. After college Heffelfinger continued playing for independent teams, and on November 12, 1892, the Allegheny Athletic Association near Pittsburgh paid Pudge Heffelfinger the tidy sum of $500 to play just one game with them against their heated rivals, the Pittsburgh Athletic Club. The AAA with Pudge did win the game that day by the score of 4-0, according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

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Witness the wartime resilience of the 1943 NFL season! Despite player shortages, the indomitable Chicago Bears, led by their legendary coach, powered through adversity to claim the championship title. Relive the grit and glory of this unforgettable year in pro football history!

The 1943 NFL season unfolded against the backdrop of World War II, significantly impacting team rosters as many players served in the armed forces. Despite these challenges, the Chicago Bears showcased exceptional talent and coaching, forging a dominant path through the league. Their unwavering determination and strategic brilliance culminated in a decisive championship victory, solidifying their place as the kings of professional football in a nation united by war.

The Chicago Bears' championship run in the 1943 NFL season was a testament to their enduring legacy. Their potent offense and stifling defense proved too much for their opponents, culminating in a memorable title game triumph. This victory not only marked another championship for the storied franchise but also provided a welcome source of entertainment and pride for a nation grappling with the realities of wartime, forever etching their 1943 season into NFL annals.

-Podcast Coverage

We have the history of this milestone year on pro football history documented in a Pigskin Dispatch Podcast and Video powered by guest Jack Silverstein, "Chicago's Sports Historian."

The podcast offers a meticulous examination of the 1943 Chicago Bears, a team that not only epitomized the spirit of resilience during a challenging wartime season but also redefined the dynamics of American football.

Today's guest expert is "Chicago's Sports Historian" Jack Silverstein of readjack.wordpress.com and author of "Why We Root: Mad Obsessions of a Chicago Sports Fan."

Through engaging discussions and expert insights, the episode captures the essence of a transformative period in the NFL, highlighting the strategic innovations introduced by the Bears, particularly the T formation that revolutionized offensive play. The episode is replete with anecdotes and historical context, painting a vivid picture of the challenges faced by the league, including the significant absence of players who had enlisted in the armed forces. Listeners are treated to a narrative that intertwines personal stories of sacrifice and glory, culminating in the Bears' championship victory that served as a beacon of hope and unity for a nation in turmoil. This exploration not only honors the legacy of the players and coaches involved but also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of sports to inspire and uplift even in the darkest of times.

-Takeaways

-The 1943 NFL season was marked by significant player shortages due to World War II, influencing the dynamics of the league.

-The Chicago Bears' championship victory in 1943 is a testament to resilience amidst global conflict and adversity.

-Sid Luckman's remarkable performance during the 1943 season redefined quarterback excellence in professional football history.

-The innovative T formation utilized by the Bears revolutionized offensive strategies in the NFL, leading to unprecedented success in the league.

Do you want to know more about the football legacy of the Ohio Bobcats?

Here is a summary of the video about Ohio Bobcats' football history in bowl games:
The video reviews the Bobcats' bowl games throughout history,.
The Bobcats have played in eight bowl games.
Their most recent bowl game was in 2012, which they won.
They have a 4-4 record in bowl games.

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The Arizona State University Sun Devils football program boasts a rich history, spanning over a century of competition. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a Pac-12 contender, the program has seen periods of both triumph and adversity, carving its own unique path in college football lore.

Early Years and Establishing a Foundation (1897-1957):

The program's origins can be traced back to 1897, when the Tempe Normal School (predecessor to ASU) fielded its first team.
These early years were characterized by limited resources and competition against regional opponents.
Despite the challenges, notable figures like coach Frank Kush laid the groundwork for future success.
The Frank Kush Era and National Recognition (1958-1979):

This era marks the golden age of ASU football. Under the leadership of legendary coach Frank Kush, the Sun Devils transformed into a national powerhouse.
Kush's innovative coaching style and emphasis on discipline led to 14 conference titles and three Top-10 finishes in the AP Poll.
The Sun Devils defeated ranked opponents like Ohio State and Nebraska, achieving national recognition and establishing their place among college football's elite.
Darryl Rogers Era and Transition (1980-1984):

The departure of Frank Kush ushered in a period of transition. While the program continued to win conference titles under coach Darryl Rogers, it struggled to maintain its national standing.
This era saw the introduction of Sparky the Sun Devil as the official mascot, further solidifying the program's identity.
The John Cooper Era and Renewed Success (1985-1987):

Coach John Cooper's arrival in 1985 marked another period of success. The Sun Devils won two conference titles and earned national recognition with victories over ranked opponents like Oklahoma.
This era also saw the emergence of iconic players like Jake Plummer and Pat Tillman, further cementing the program's legacy.
Joining the Pac-10 and Facing New Challenges (1988-Present):

The Sun Devils' move to the Pac-10 Conference in 1978 presented new challenges and opportunities.
While competing against established programs like USC and UCLA, the Sun Devils continued to achieve success, winning conference titles and making bowl appearances.
The program faced periods of inconsistency and coaching changes but remained competitive within the Pac-10, later renamed the Pac-12.
Recent Developments and the Future (2019-Present):

The Sun Devils' recent history has been marked by leadership transitions and an ongoing pursuit of consistency.
The program has shown promising signs under coach Kenny Dillingham, including an exciting victory over Oklahoma State in 2023.
As the Sun Devils continue to navigate the competitive Pac-12 landscape and move to the Big 12 in 2024, they remain committed to achieving sustained success and building upon their legacy.

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The Kentucky Wildcats football program, like the bluegrass itself, is deeply rooted in tradition and resilience. While national championships may be limited, its story is one of passionate fans, historic moments, and a unique identity carved through decades of gridiron battles.

The seeds were sown in 1881, with a fledgling team fueled by student enthusiasm. Early years were a rollercoaster of wins and losses, marked by coaching changes and rivalries that still simmer today. Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant in the 1940s and early 1950s brought the first glimmers of national prominence, with bowl victories and top-10 rankings. Then came the iconic 1950 season, where Kentucky upset top-ranked Oklahoma in the Sugar Bowl and claimed the elusive national championship (though not officially recognized by all selectors).

However, the following decades proved challenging. Consistency eluded the Wildcats, though flashes of brilliance, like Tim Couch's Heisman Trophy bid in 1998, kept hope alive. Enter Mark Stoops in 2013, a coach who understood the team's DNA and the passionate fan base. He instilled discipline and toughness, building a program known for its relentless defense and "Big Blue Nation" support.

Stoops' arrival marked a new era. 2014 saw Kentucky's first bowl win in a decade, and the victories kept piling up. The Wildcats won the SEC East in 2018, a feat not accomplished since 1976, and followed it up with appearances in the Citrus Bowl and Gator Bowl. The "Air Raid" offense added explosiveness, with Lynn Bowden and Wan'Dale Robinson lighting up scoreboards.

2022 was a season for the ages. Led by quarterback Will Levis and a fierce defense, Kentucky challenged for the SEC East title, defeating powerhouses like Florida and LSU. Though they fell short in the final stretch, the season served as a testament to the program's progress and instilled a belief that national contention is within reach.

The 1945 NFL season holds a unique place in the history of professional American football. Played in the shadow of World War II, the league continued to operate, albeit with rosters depleted by the ongoing conflict. This unusual context shaped the season and its culmination in a dramatic championship game.

The backdrop of the war significantly impacted the composition of NFL teams. Many star players were serving in the armed forces, leading to a reliance on older veterans, younger, less experienced players, and even some who were classified as 4-F (unfit for service). Some teams were more affected than others, leading to imbalances in competition. For example, the Brooklyn Tigers and the Boston Yanks merged for the season to form "The Yanks" due to player shortages. This amalgamation was a stark reminder of the challenges the league faced in maintaining its operations. Despite these challenges, the NFL pressed on, providing a form of entertainment and normalcy for a nation grappling with the uncertainties and sacrifices of wartime.

The 1945 season saw some notable performances and developments. In the Western Division, the Cleveland Rams emerged as a dominant force, finishing with a 9-1 record. Led by rookie quarterback Bob Waterfield, who won the league's MVP award, the Rams showcased a potent offense. Waterfield's performance was a bright spot in a season marked by the absence of many established stars. The Rams' journey to the championship game demonstrated the resilience of a team that was able to capitalize on its strengths despite the challenges of the era.

In the Eastern Division, the Washington Redskins, coached by Dudley DeGroot, secured the top spot with an 8-2 record. Quarterback Sammy Baugh, a seasoned veteran, continued to be a key player for the team. The Redskins' path to the championship game highlighted their ability to navigate a competitive division and maintain a high level of play throughout the season.

The 1945 NFL Championship Game between the Cleveland Rams and the Washington Redskins, played in Cleveland, was a memorable contest. Played in frigid conditions, with temperatures well below freezing, the game was a low-scoring, hard-fought battle. The Rams ultimately prevailed with a narrow 15-14 victory. The game was decided by a single point and featured a controversial play that had a lasting impact on NFL rules. A safety was awarded to the Rams when Baugh's pass in his own end zone struck the goalpost. Because at that time, the goalposts were on the goal line, the play was ruled a safety. This odd play became a major talking point after the game and directly led to a rule change. Soon after the season, the NFL changed the rule, so a forward pass hitting the goalposts is ruled incomplete.

The 1945 NFL Championship Game, beyond the immediate result, symbolized the league's perseverance during a tumultuous period in American history. The fact that the league was able to complete the season and stage a championship game was a testament to the enduring appeal of football and its role in American culture. Even with diminished rosters and the backdrop of war, the game provided a sense of continuity and excitement.

Nestled amidst the bluegrass meadows of Bowling Green, Kentucky, the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers football program boasts a rich history steeped in resilience, innovation, and gridiron glory. Though their journey didn't begin with the fanfare of elite programs, the Hilltoppers have carved their own path, evolving from regional underdogs to Sun Belt Conference contenders.


Early Days and Division II Dominance (1908-1973):


First fielded in 1908, the Hilltoppers spent decades building their identity in the shadows of larger programs.
Coaches M.A. Smith and E.A. Diddle laid the foundation with early successes, but it was under Coach Jimmy Feix in the 1970s that the program truly flourished.
Feix's innovative triple-option offense, led by stars like Virgil Livers and David Carter, became a trademark, propelling the Hilltoppers to four Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) titles and two NCAA Division II National Championship appearances.

Transition to FBS and New Challenges (1974-2008):


The jump to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) in 1974 brought new challenges. Replacing the triple-option with a conventional pro-style offense, WKU struggled to find consistent success in the Mid-American Conference (MAC).
Standout players like quarterback Willie Taggart and receiver Tyrone Young emerged during this period, but overall wins were hard-fought.
In 2003, Jack Harty took over as head coach, ushering in an era of stability and gradual improvement.

Sun Belt Success and Soaring High (2009-Present):


The move to the Sun Belt Conference in 2009 proved to be a catalyst for sustained success. The Hilltoppers found their footing under Harty and later Bobby Petrino, capturing four Sun Belt titles (2009, 2015, 2016, 2022) and earning three bowl game appearances.
Players like quarterback Brandon Doughty and running back Antonio Andrews became household names, showcasing the program's talent development abilities.
Coach Tyson Helton, who took over in 2023, aims to build upon the momentum, leading the Hilltoppers to even greater heights in the Sun Belt and beyond.

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NFL's Odd Couple! Relive the bizarre 1945 merger of the Boston Yanks and Brooklyn Tigers. Short on players due to WWII, these unlikely allies combined forces for one strange season. A quirky footnote in NFL history you won't believe!

Facing player shortages during World War II, the Boston Yanks and the Brooklyn Tigers, a team with its own tumultuous past as the Dodgers, surprisingly merged for the 1945 NFL season. This temporary union saw them simply called "the Yanks," playing a mixed schedule of home games in both Boston and New York. It was a desperate measure during extraordinary times.

This unusual alliance on April 10th, 1945, was a temporary fix. By 1946, the Brooklyn franchise's owner departed for the new All-America Football Conference, effectively dissolving their part of the merger. The Boston Yanks continued for a few more seasons before also folding, making this brief, wartime collaboration a truly unique and fleeting moment in NFL annals.

The history of the Crimson Tide's football program is summed up very well in this YouTube Video. Learn about the legendary coaches, players, and plays that make Alabama such a storied gridiron program.