Football History

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March 29, 1996, marked the official naming ceremony for Baltimore's new NFL team, directly resulting from Art Modell's controversial decision to relocate his Cleveland Browns. Amidst a flurry of legal battles and heartbroken fans in Cleveland, Modell stood with Baltimore officials, unveiling the team's moniker: the Ravens.

This move announced months earlier, had sent shockwaves through the football world. Citing financial difficulties and Cleveland Stadium's inadequacy, Modell secured a lucrative deal to bring NFL football back to Baltimore, a city still smarting from the Colts' departure years earlier.

The naming ceremony was a symbolic step in this contentious transition. While Cleveland fought to retain the Browns' legacy – their name, colors, and history – Modell's organization was forging a new identity in Baltimore. The "Ravens," a nod to Edgar Allan Poe's famous poem and the city's literary history, represented a fresh start, albeit one steeped in the bitter circumstances of a beloved team's relocation. The day underscored the complex intersection of sports, business, and civic identity, leaving a lasting scar on Cleveland's passionate fanbase while ushering in a new era for Baltimore football.

The 1999 version of the NFL Draft took place. University of Kentucky quarterback Tim Couch was the first pick by the expansion Cleveland Browns franchise. There were some pretty fantastic picks made too as Couch was followed by Syracuse’s Donovan McNabb to the Eagles, Cincy taking Akili Smith of Oregon, Hall of Fame back Edgerrin James went 4th to the Colts followed by Ricky Williams to New Orleans in the big trade by then coach Mike Ditka giving all of his 1999 picks for the opportunity to draft Williams. NC State Wideout Tory Holt went next to the St Louis Rams, Hall of Fame Defensive Back Champ Bailey was picked up by Washington, according to the Pro-Football-Reference.com.

The 1999 NFL Draft, held on April 17–18, 1999, at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, was a significant event in professional football history. This draft is particularly notable for the many quarterbacks selected in the first round and a landmark trade involving the New Orleans Saints. Returning to the NFL as an expansion team, the Cleveland Browns held the first overall pick.

One of the most talked-about aspects of this draft was the New Orleans Saints' aggressive move to acquire the fifth overall pick. In a historic trade, the Saints sent all six of their draft picks to the Washington Redskins to select running back Ricky Williams from the University of Texas. This was the first and only time an NFL team has had just one pick in an entire draft. While Williams had a productive career, the sheer cost in draft capital is still debated.

The first round saw a flurry of quarterback selections, with five signal-callers taken in the top 12 picks. The Browns selected Tim Couch first overall, followed by Donovan McNabb to the Philadelphia Eagles (2nd), Akili Smith to the Cincinnati Bengals (3rd), Daunte Culpepper to the Minnesota Vikings (11th), and Cade McNown to the Chicago Bears (12th). While McNabb and Culpepper went on to have successful careers, reaching a Super Bowl and earning multiple Pro Bowl selections respectively, Couch, Smith, and McNown are often labeled as draft busts who did not live up to their high draft positions.

Beyond the quarterbacks, the first round also featured several other notable players, including running backs Edgerrin James (4th to the Indianapolis Colts) and Ricky Williams, wide receivers Torry Holt (6th to the St. Louis Rams) and David Boston (8th to the Arizona Cardinals), and defensive backs Champ Bailey (7th to the Washington Redskins) and Chris McAlister (10th to the Baltimore Ravens). These players formed the foundation of successful teams, and many achieved individual accolades throughout their careers.

The 1999 NFL Draft produced several players who would later be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the sport. It also saw the selection of players honored in the College Football Hall of Fame for their outstanding collegiate careers.

-Top Ten Selections of the 1999 NFL Draft:

-1. Tim Couch (QB) - Kentucky (Cleveland Browns)

-2. Donovan McNabb (QB) - Syracuse (Philadelphia Eagles)

-3. Akili Smith (QB) - Oregon (Cincinnati Bengals)

-4. Edgerrin James (RB) - Miami (FL) (Indianapolis Colts)  

-5. Ricky Williams (RB) - Texas (New Orleans Saints)

-6. Torry Holt (WR) - North Carolina State (St. Louis Rams)

-7. Champ Bailey (DB) - Georgia (Washington Redskins)

-8. David Boston (WR) - Ohio State (Arizona Cardinals)

-9. Chris Claiborne (LB) - USC (Detroit Lions)

-10. Chris McAlister (DB) - Arizona (Baltimore Ravens)


-Pro Football Hall of Fame Players Drafted in 1999:

-Champ Bailey (Round 1, Pick 7 - Washington Redskins)

-Edgerrin James (Round 1, Pick 4 - Indianapolis Colts)

-Torry Holt (Round 1, Pick 6 - St. Louis Rams)


-College Football Hall of Fame Players Drafted in 1999:

-Tim Couch (Round 1, Pick 1 - Cleveland Browns)

-Donovan McNabb (Round 1, Pick 2 - Philadelphia Eagles)

-Champ Bailey (Round 1, Pick 7 - Washington Redskins)

-Torry Holt (Round 1, Pick 6 - St. Louis Rams)


-Other Notable Impact Players taken in 1999

-Al Wilson (Round 2, Pick 31 - Denver Broncos)

-Kevin Faulk (Round 2, Pick 46 - New England Patriots)

-Cade McNown (Round 1, Pick 12 - Chicago Bears)

-Matt Stinchcomb (Round 1, Pick 18 - Oakland Raiders)

-Jim Kleinsasser (Round 2, Pick 44 - Minnesota Vikings)

The 1998 NFL Draft, held on April 18-19, 1998, at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, was a draft class rich with talent that significantly shaped the league for years to come. The Indianapolis Colts held the first overall pick, a selection that would define their franchise for over a decade. The draft was particularly notable for the highly anticipated decision between quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Ryan Leaf, a debate that dominated pre-draft discussions. Ultimately, the Colts chose Manning, a decision widely regarded as one of the best in NFL history, while Leaf, selected second by the San Diego Chargers, became one of the draft's biggest disappointments.

Beyond the quarterback debate, the 1998 draft yielded several other impactful players across various positions. The Oakland Raiders, at pick number four, selected cornerback Charles Woodson, a Heisman Trophy winner who would go on to have a Hall of Fame career. The Minnesota Vikings, later in the first round, picked wide receiver Randy Moss, a player with extraordinary talent who revolutionized the wide receiver position and is also enshrined in Canton. The draft also saw the selection of durable and high-performing players like running back Fred Taylor by the Jacksonville Jaguars and guard Alan Faneca by the Pittsburgh Steelers, both of whom enjoyed long and successful careers.

The depth of the 1998 draft extended beyond the first round, with several players selected in later rounds also achieving significant success and Pro Bowl recognition. This draft class is remembered not only for its top-tier talent but also for the stark contrast in the careers of its top two picks, a storyline that continues to be discussed in NFL circles. The impact of the players chosen in 1998 was felt for many years, with several leading their teams to Super Bowl contention and earning numerous individual accolades.

Top Ten Selections of the 1998 NFL Draft:

-1. Peyton Manning (QB) - Tennessee (Indianapolis Colts)

-2. Ryan Leaf (QB) - Washington State (San Diego Chargers)

-3. Andre Wadsworth (DE) - Florida State (Arizona Cardinals)

-4. Charles Woodson (CB) - Michigan (Oakland Raiders)

-5. Curtis Enis (RB) - Penn State (Chicago Bears)

-6. Grant Wistrom (DE) - Nebraska (St. Louis Rams)

-7. Kyle Turley (OT) - San Diego State (New Orleans Saints)

-8. Greg Ellis (DE) - North Carolina (Dallas Cowboys)

-9. Fred Taylor (RB) - Florida (Jacksonville Jaguars)

-10. Duane Starks (CB) - Miami (FL) (Baltimore Ravens)


-Pro Football Hall of Fame Players Drafted in 1998:

-Peyton Manning (Round 1, Pick 1 - Indianapolis Colts)

-Charles Woodson (Round 1, Pick 4 - Oakland Raiders)

-Randy Moss (Round 1, Pick 21 - Minnesota Vikings)

-Alan Faneca (Round 1, Pick 26 - Pittsburgh Steelers)


-College Football Hall of Fame Players Drafted in 1998:

-Peyton Manning (Round 1, Pick 1 - Indianapolis Colts)

-Charles Woodson (Round 1, Pick 4 - Oakland Raiders)

-Randy Moss (Round 1, Pick 21 - Minnesota Vikings)


-Other Notable Players from 1999 NFL Draft

-Kyle Turley (Round 1, Pick 7 - New Orleans Saints)

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They say art imitates life, and this may be true in many cases. But could we also say life is imitated by our sports?

Conditioning football players to play the rugged game is nothing new but there have been multiple approaches and theories to do so and a multitude of drills. Our passion for pigskin history meets better fitness as we are being inspired to better health through studying the history of football conditioning.

So what are some of the roots of conditioning for football? In 2023 I spoke to Dr. Randall Balmer auhtor of the book Passion Plays.

Dr Randall Balmer told me in a 2023 interview, "I focus on the four major team sports in North America, that would be baseball, football, hockey, and basketball. And all four of those sports really develop for the most part, roughly from the middle of the 19th century to the middle of the 20th century. By that time, by the middle of the 20th century, those sports have more or less assumed their current form. But as these sports are developing in the 19th century, they develop against the background of the Industrial Revolution. And what's happening in America, North America, more generally, is that men in particular are beginning to work outside the home and outside the farm. They're no longer engaging in subsistence living. They're beginning to work in factories, textile mills, and so forth. And many of them also in sedentary office jobs. So there's a great deal of concern in the Anglo -American world, that is both in North America as well as back in Britain, that men are becoming too sedentary. That is, they're becoming, they're not getting outside enough. They're not engaging in athletics. They're becoming weak and even sisified. And a number of religious leaders are noticing that. And they, very cleverly, I think, try to combine religion, in this case Protestantism, with athleticism. And they come up with a movement that is known to historians as muscular Christianity. That is to say that we want to appeal to men, to be athletics, to be virile, and also to be in the churches. And one of the complaints is that the women have had charge of the church work long enough. And we need to find a way to lure men back to the faith and back to the churches. And part of the strategy for doing that was to combine religion with sports or with athletic endeavors. And probably the best example of that institutionally would be the YMCA, the Young Men's Christian Association, that provided both religion and YMCA's really were quite religious. They're not less so today, but in the beginning, that was at the core of the YMCA, to combine religion with recreation."

Wow the YMCA insturmental in bringing football along. Let's go back to last year when some thoughts that Timothy Brown of Football Archaeology had on the Y and early football.

Timothy Brown said on our Pigskin Dispatch program once that, "So, different kinds of organizations have influenced football's growth and one that is vastly underestimated, I think, by many is the YMCA. And so it came about in a couple of different ways. One is that, back in, you know, one of the arguments for playing football and justification for football was the Muscular Christianity Movement that came out of England. And so it's just kind of this, this belief in the mind and the body and the spirit and that, you know, football was a way to meld, you know, that all three of them came together in football and provided good training for young men who needed to be hardy"

The YMCA among other organizations are beating the drum towards young guys getting active in sports like football you say?

The Springfield Mass YMCA school mentioned was indeed a catalyst for football innovation. Famous Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg went there right after playing on the gridiron for Walter Camp at Yale. Stagg worked with another famous sports pioneer on a training device for football. Jennifer Taylor Hall in a 2021 interview about her book Amos Alonzo Stagg Football's Man in Motion shared some great information about the game of basketball being developed initially as a training method for football and baseball players during the winter offseason.

Dr. John Behee added that Fielding H. Yost of Michigan would train players in the off season along the shores of Lake Huron. Conditioning and nutrition were important elements to football in the early twentieth century.

-Disclaimer:

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any existing health conditions. They can help you determine if this program is safe and appropriate for you and create a personalized plan to reach your fitness goals.

-The History of the Burpee

The burpee, a unique full-body exercise, is often referred to as an 'up-down'. It combines a squat thrust with an additional standing jump between repetitions. What's fascinating is that while it's primarily anaerobic when performed individually, it can transition into an aerobic exercise when strung together in rapid succession over longer durations.

Contrary to the quirky theory many of us might have had, the origin of the name 'burpee 'Is not related to bodily function. It's a fascinating story that's quite different from what we might expect.

The burpee exercise, developed by Royal Huddleston Burpee Sr., a US physiologist, has its roots in 1939. Burpee, who earned his PhD in applied physiology from Teachers College, Columbia University, in 1940, developed it as part of his doctoral thesis. This simple yet challenging exercise was a quick and easy fitness test to assess agility and coordination.

As a side note, it returns to the belch history; Dictionary.com states, "The first records of the word burp come from around 1930. It is an Americanism that is meant to imitate the sound a person makes when they burp." If true, could we connect Mr. Burpee and his exercise to the slang term "burp?"

-Oklahoma Drill History

The Oklahoma drill, a staple of American football training camps, is synonymous with intense competition and the development of elite linemen. Its origins trace back to a single coach and his innovative vision for defensive dominance.

The Visionary: Bud Wilkinson and the 5-2 Defense

In the 1940s, Bud Wilkinson, the head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners, introduced a groundbreaking defensive strategy—the 5-2 defense (a precursor to the modern 3-4). This system relied heavily on three interior linemen who could control multiple gaps and swiftly shed blocks to disrupt plays. However, traditional drills failed to replicate the specific demands of this aggressive style, necessitating the creation of a new training method.

The Drill Emerges: Refining Technique in Confined Chaos

Wilkinson, known for his meticulous approach, needed a way to train his defensive linemen for the unique situations they'd encounter in the 5-2. Thus, the Oklahoma drill was born. It pitted offensive and defensive linemen head-to-head in a confined space, surrounded by tackling dummies. A ball carrier would enter the scene, forcing the defender to shed the block and make a play. This intense, full-contact environment replicated the chaos and quick reactions needed in a real game.

A Legacy of Competition and Grit

The Oklahoma drill became a cornerstone of the Sooners' training regimen, and its effectiveness spread throughout football. It wasn't just about developing defensive technique; it fostered a culture of competition and grit, prized qualities for any successful football team.

-Big Thanks to Our Guest Experts

Big Thanks to our guests Coach David Hashemi of Southern Connecticut University, and

Passion Plays: How Religion Shaped Sports in North America

Timothy Brown of Football Archaeology

Amos Alonzo Stagg: College Football's Man in Motion

Coach Yost:Michigan's Tradition Maker by Dr. John Behee

The first legal forward pass in football was thrown by Bradbury Robinson on September 5, 1906, in a game between Saint Louis University and Carroll College. Robinson was a quarterback for Saint Louis, and he threw the pass to Jack Schneider, who was a wide receiver. The pass was completed for a touchdown, and it helped Saint Louis win the game 22-0.

The forward pass was not originally allowed in football. The rules of the game at the time only allowed players to advance the ball by running or kicking. However, in 1905, there were a number of serious injuries and deaths in college football games. In response, President Theodore Roosevelt called for reforms to the game, and one of the reforms was to allow the forward pass.

Robinson's forward pass was a major turning point in the history of football. It opened up new possibilities for offense, and it made the game more exciting and unpredictable. The forward pass is now an essential part of the game, and it is responsible for many of the most memorable plays in football history.

Robinson was a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and he played college football at Saint Louis University from 1904 to 1907. He was a two-time All-American, and he led the nation in passing in 1906. After college, Robinson played professional football for the Milwaukee Badgers and the Chicago Cardinals. He retired from football in 1915.

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The Ohio Bobcats, with their fierce mascot and vibrant green and white, have a logo history as dynamic as their on-field play. Let's rewind and explore the evolution of the Bobcat symbol:


Early Days (1894-1907):


1894-1907: The early Ohio football teams, known as the "Green and Whites" or "Wildcats," lacked a formal logo. They often used simple lettering or mascots drawn by students, reflecting the university's nascent athletic program.

Birth of the Bobcat (1907-1940):


1907: The official Bobcat mascot was adopted, inspired by the abundance of bobcats in the Ohio wilderness. The first logo featured a stylized bobcat head with a fierce expression, often accompanied by the letter "O" or the team name.
1920s-30s: The logo evolved, becoming more detailed and dynamic. Variations included a bobcat leaping in mid-action, holding a football, or perched atop a rock, emphasizing the mascot's athleticism and territorial nature.

Mid-Century Modernization (1940-1978):


1940s-50s: The Bobcat underwent a sleek makeover, adopting a more angular and stylized design. The mascot's outline became sharper, with a focus on its piercing eyes and predatory stance.
1960s-70s: Experimentation continued, with different artists interpreting the bobcat in various styles. Some versions featured a more cartoonish design, while others remained fierce and intimidating.

The Iconic "Charging Bobcat" (1978-Present):


1978: The iconic "Charging Bobcat" logo was introduced, capturing the team's spirit of aggression and determination. This powerful design features a muscular bobcat in full stride, claws extended, ready to charge towards victory.
1996-Present: Minor adjustments have been made to the "Charging Bobcat" over the years, refining its details and color scheme. However, the core design remains a beloved symbol of Ohio football, recognized by fans and opponents alike.

More Than Just a Logo:


The Ohio Bobcats logo is more than just an image. It represents the program's history, tradition, and fighting spirit. It embodies the fierce athleticism and territorial pride of the Bobcat mascot, rallying fans and intimidating opponents. As the Bobcats continue to charge through the gridiron landscape, their logo will undoubtedly evolve, but the essence of the Bobcat spirit will always remain a powerful symbol of Ohio football.

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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The 1972 Miami Dolphins weren't just another football team but a phenomenon. This season wasn't just about winning; it was about flawless execution, dominant defense, and an unwavering commitment to perfection. It's a journey worth revisiting, a story in NFL history as the league's only undefeated and untied season.

A Team Forged in Adversity:

The Dolphins were floundering just a few years prior, finishing with a dismal 1-13 record in 1967. However, under the leadership of head coach Don Shula, a culture of discipline, hard work, and unwavering dedication took root. Key acquisitions like Larry Csonka, Jim Kiick, and Bob Griese bolstered the offense, while the "No-Name Defense" became a force to be reckoned with.

Dominating Every Week:

Their 17-0 record speaks volumes, but the details paint an even clearer picture. The Dolphins outscored their opponents by a staggering 385-171, boasting the league's best offense and defense. The rushing attack, featuring Csonka and Kiick, averaged over 200 yards per game, leaving defenses gasping for air. The defense, led by Nick Buoniconti and Bill Stanfill, allowed a mere 12.2 points per game, shutting down even the most potent offenses.

The injury forced Griese to the sidelines for a good portion of the year, but veteran signal-caller Earl Morrall was up to the challenge to cement his legacy.

From Close Calls to Championship Glory:

While the scoreboards screamed dominance, the journey could have been smoother sailing. Close calls against the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Colts tested their mettle, showcasing their composure under pressure. However, a late-season injury to Griese forced Earl Morrall to step in, proving his veteran leadership and securing the team's playoff berth.

The playoffs were a mere formality. The Dolphins dismantled the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and finally, the Washington Redskins in Super Bowl VII, culminating their historic season with a resounding 14-7 victory.

Beyond the Trophy: A Legacy of Excellence:

The 1972 Dolphins achieved the seemingly impossible, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends statistics and trophies. They proved the power of teamwork, discipline, and relentless pursuit of perfection. Their story inspires athletes and teams across all sports, reminding them that anything is possible with unwavering dedication and a shared vision.

The 1972 Miami Dolphins remain the only team to go undefeated and win the Super Bowl in NFL history.

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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.