Football History

The Duke University gridiron program has had some ups and downs over the years including hosting a Rose Bowl Game!

Duke University's football program boasts a history as long and winding as the road that leads to its iconic Wallace Wade Stadium. Here's a glimpse into its highs and lows:

Early Years and Golden Era (1888-1939):

Founded in 1888, the program initially played as the "Trinity Blue and White."
The early years saw modest success, including a 9-1 season in 1903 and a New England Championship in 1955.

However, the "Golden Era" arrived in the 1930s and 40s under legendary coach Wallace Wade.
The "Iron Dukes" captured four Southern Conference championships and played in the 1942 Rose Bowl (the only Rose Bowl ever played outside of Pasadena, California except for the COVID year).

Struggles and Coaching Changes (1940s-1980s):

Following Wade's departure in 1950, the program faced a period of inconsistency and struggles.
Despite sporadic bowl appearances, the elusive conference championship remained out of reach.
Coaching changes and periods of losing seasons characterized this era.

Resurgence and Bowl Appearances (1990s-2000s):

-The arrival of head coach Fred Goldsmith in 1993 marked a turning point.

-Goldsmith instilled a winning culture, leading the Blue Devils to five bowl appearances in six years.

-The 1994 team won the ACC Championship, ending a 40-year drought.

-Duke's offense, led by quarterback David Green, became known for its exciting, pass-oriented style.

Modern Era and Rebuilding (2010s-Present):

-Following Goldsmith's retirement, the program has experienced further coaching changes and inconsistent results.

-While flashes of potential have emerged, the
Blue Devils have struggled to sustain success in the ACC.

Jim Thorpe. The name evokes images of unparalleled athletic prowess, a man who transcended sports and symbolized Native American resilience. His football career, though relatively brief, stands as a testament to his raw talent, strategic brilliance, and unwavering determination, forever etched in the annals of gridiron history.

Born James Francis Thorpe in 1887, his life began amidst the cultural clashes of the American frontier. Thorpe, a Sac and Fox Nation member, displayed an exceptional athletic ability from a young age. This talent blossomed at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, a controversial institution that aimed to assimilate Native American youth. There, Thorpe's football genius truly flourished under the tutelage of legendary coach Pop Warner.

Jim Thorpe's career was a unique spectacle. His physical attributes, a rare combination of size, speed, and power, set him apart. His game was a blend of agility, precision, and bone-crushing tackles, making him a force to be reckoned with. He was a one-man wrecking crew, a phenomenon in the world of sports.
1912 Thorpe led the Carlisle Indians to an undefeated season, culminating in a stunning victory over Harvard, a perennial powerhouse. Thorpe dominated the game, scoring a touchdown on a fumble recovery, a drop kick for a field goal, and even kicking off for a touchback. His performance solidified his reputation as a national sensation, with headlines proclaiming him "the greatest athlete in the world."
Despite his triumphs, Jim Thorpe faced a significant setback. His amateur status was questioned due to payments he had received for playing minor-league baseball. In a decision tainted by racial prejudice, he was stripped of his Olympic medals, leading to a period of public humiliation. This chapter in his life underscores the challenges he had to overcome.

Despite this setback, Thorpe's passion for football remained undimmed. He began a professional career, playing for several teams in the fledgling American Professional Football Association (later known as the NFL). Though professional football was far less structured in those days, Thorpe continued to dominate. He helped popularize the sport and is credited as the league's first president.

His professional career was marked by both brilliance and instability. He bounced between teams, often facing financial hardship due to unpaid contracts and the league's nascent financial structure. Yet, his on-field dominance remained undeniable. Stories abound of his game-winning plays and his ability to single-handedly shift the momentum of a contest.
Jim Thorpe's legacy transcends the gridiron. He challenged racial stereotypes at a time of rampant prejudice. He fought for fair treatment of Native Americans and became a symbol of their enduring spirit. Although his Olympic medals were eventually reinstated in 1983, the injustice he faced remains a blemish on sporting history.

However, Thorpe's impact on football is undeniable. His influence on offensive and defensive strategies and his ability to inspire teammates and captivate audiences secured his place as a true pioneer. He left a legacy that transcends statistics and championships. He embodies the spirit of athletic excellence, a testament to what can be achieved with raw talent and unwavering determination.

Jim Thorpe's impact extends far beyond his playing days. His story continues to inspire athletes, serving as a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of excellence. His career offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of professional football, a time when individual brilliance could reshape a sport. James Francis Thorpe, the 'Sac and Fox wonder,' is not just a football legend; he is an enduring symbol of athletic prowess, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

-Basic Bio of Jim Thorpe

Born May 28, 1887, near Prague, Indian Territory
(what is now Oklahoma), was College and Pro Football Hall of Fame player Jim Thorpe. Thorpe was an early NFL player and a Gold Medalist Olympian. What made all of these accomplishments even more impressive was that Thorpe was also breaking race barriers to do so as he was a Native American. Born on a reservation, he ended up playing football for the Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, under legendary Coach Pop Warner. Thorpe not only won the pentathlon and the decathlon in the 1912 Olympic games for the US and played football, but he was also successful at playing baseball and basketball. As a pro football player, Jim played for the Canton Bulldogs, Cleveland Indians, Oorang Indians, Rock Island Independents, and the New York Giants. One season with the Rock Island Independents wore Number 1. He started playing in the NFL at 33 till he was 41. NFL Jersey 2. NFL Jersey 21. NFL Jersey 3. NFL Jersey 1.

July 9, 1932 - Boston Braves/Redskins/ Washington Redskins franchise is granted by the NFL. A group headed by George Preston Marshall that included Vincent Bendix, Jay O'Brien and Dorland Doyle were given the remnants of the defunct Newark Tornadoes that folded at the end of the 1930 season according to the SportsTeamHistory.com website.

The professional rights of the franchise go further back than that even. According to Wikipedia, in 1929 Ole Haugsrud, the owner of Duluth Eskimos, sold his NFL franchise rights for the Eskimos to Piggy Simandl, a wholesale meat salesman and sports promoter from Orange, who named his franchise the Orange Tornadoes. The team struggled to a 3-5-4 record and then decided to move to Newark for a fresh start. The next season the team received more bad breaks as head coach Jack Depler left the team to buy the Dayton Triangles and promptly moved them to become the Brooklyn Dodgers, raiding many of his former players of the Tornadoes to fill his roster.

The Newark squad went through three different head coaches in 1930. Now back to the Boston group receiving the old Newark team remnants, well none of the Tornadoes team members ever joined the Braves that didn't start playing until a couple of seasons removed from the Jersey based twisters team. The team lost $46,000 in revenue of that first season hence all of his partners bailed on the team leaving Marshall as the sole owner.

George was a larger than life showman, who thrived on attention. The group  originally named the team after the Boston Braves baseball team that played there but after very little support Marshall knew he had to change things up a bit. Prior to the 1933 season the nickname was changed to the Redskins to give his team their own identity. The team had limited success in Boston, and didn’t get much support from the community. The lack of support by both the fans and the media really came to a head when Marshall noticed that a local field hockey team was getting more press coverage than his beloved Redskins. This infuriated Marshall so a change of surroundings seemed to be in order, and the move to the Nation’s Capital changed the course of the franchise as they were crowned the NFL Champions in their inaugural year in DC. 

It is for good reasons that the NFL does not consider the Redskins to be a continuation of the Tornadoes, just as it does not consider the Tornadoes to be a continuation of the Duluth Eskimoes. Recently the Washington Football Team was rebranded as the Washington Commanders.

The University of Michigan Wolverines football program is a titan of college football, boasting a rich history steeped in tradition, gridiron dominance, and legendary players. This essay delves into the program's remarkable journey, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a national powerhouse.

The Wolverines' story starts in 1879, with the formation of the university's first official football team. Early years were marked by regional competition and the development of a fierce rivalry with the University of Notre Dame, a tradition that continues to this day. The program truly began its ascent under the legendary coach Fielding Yost, who led the team from 1901 to 1926. Yost implemented innovative offensive strategies, like the "Hurry-Up" offense, and cultivated a winning culture that resulted in six national championships and numerous conference titles. This golden era solidified Michigan as a national power and produced iconic players like "Hurryin'" Ernie Steenhan and the formidable "Point a Minute" teams.

The Yost era ended in the late 1920s, but the Wolverines continued to find success under coaches like Fritz Crisler and Bump Elliott. The 1940s saw the rise of the legendary Tom Harmon, a Heisman Trophy winner who led the team to national titles in 1947 and 1948. The latter half of the 20th century witnessed periods of both dominance and rebuilding, with coaches like Bo Schembechler and Gary Moeller leading the team to national titles in 1997 and 2000, respectively.

Recent years have seen the Wolverines under the leadership of Jim Harbaugh, a former Michigan quarterback himself. Harbaugh has revitalized the program, emphasizing a strong running game and a physical defense. While a national championship still eludes them in the modern era, the Wolverines remain a consistent contender on the national stage.

The legacy of Michigan Wolverines football extends beyond wins and championships. The program boasts a dedicated fanbase known as "Maize and Blue" for their iconic team colors. Michigan Stadium, nicknamed "The Big House," is the largest college football stadium in the United States and a testament to the program's enduring popularity.

Hold onto your helmets, football fans! Today, we're diving into the legendary career of Peyton Manning, the quarterback who redefined the position and earned himself a place in the NFL's Hall of Fame. Nicknamed "The Sheriff" for his calm demeanor and leadership, Manning's story is one of unmatched intelligence, pinpoint accuracy, and a relentless pursuit of winning.

But was it the rocket arm, the clutch throws, or the record-breaking stats that cemented his legacy? We'll explore it all!

Join us as we dissect Manning's championship runs, iconic rivalries, and the moments that left fans and analysts alike in awe. We'll uncover the secrets behind his success, from his early days with the Indianapolis Colts to his Super Bowl victory with the Denver Broncos.

So, whether you're a die-hard Manning fan, a casual observer, or simply curious about one of football's greatest quarterbacks, this article is your one-stop shop! Get ready to reminisce about unforgettable plays, debate his impact on the game, and unveil the true legend behind the number 18 jersey. Let's huddle up and celebrate Peyton Manning's remarkable journey!

From Early Life College Prodigy to Prolific Passer

Peyton Manning, a Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback, was Born March 24, 1976, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Manning's dominance started early. As the son of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning, football was in his blood. He excelled at the University of Tennessee, shattering collegiate records and leading the Volunteers to victories.

The University of Tennessee product became Tennessee's all-time leading passer with 11,201 yards and 89 touchdowns. Manning won 39 of 45 games as a starter, breaking the Southeastern Conference record for career wins.

Peyton won the Maxwell, Davey O'Brien, and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Awards as a senior en route to winning the 1997 SEC Championship.

Destined for NFL Glory

The Colts selected him first overall in the 1998 NFL Draft, and he served as their starting quarterback from 1998 to 2010. Colts, Manning's impact was immediate. In his debut season, he defied rookie jitters, becoming the first NFL QB to throw for 3,000 yards.

Manning's intelligence and meticulous preparation made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His pinpoint accuracy and mastery of the playbook earned him a record-tying five NFL MVP awards. He orchestrated clutch drives and game-winning throws, becoming a fan favorite in Indianapolis. The culmination of his tireless work ethic arrived in Super Bowl XLI, where Manning led the Colts to a thrilling victory, silencing doubters and solidifying his legacy as a champion.

He helped transform the struggling Colts franchise into consistent playoff contenders, leading them to 11 playoff appearances, eight division titles, three AFC Championship Games, two Super Bowl appearances, and one championship title in Super Bowl XLI.

Alas, a neck injury and subsequent surgery put Peyton's playing career in doubt. His absence from the Colts led to one of the worst records in franchise history, resulting in Indy garnering the Number-One Selection in the NFL Draft and choosing Andrew Luck as their quarterback of the future.

Overcoming Adversity and Reigniting in Denver

That career-threatening neck injury in 2011 forced many to believe his time was done. But the "Sheriff" wasn't ready to hang up his spurs. He defied expectations, signing with the Denver Broncos and showcasing his resilience. Manning revitalized his career in Denver, leading the franchise to two Super Bowl appearances.

Manning's career ended with a victory in Super Bowl 50, making him the first starting quarterback to win the Super Bowl for more than one franchise. Many NFL records, including MVP awards, quarterback first-team All-Pro selections, 4,000-yard passing seasons, single-season passing yards, and single-season passing touchdowns.

Career Accolades and Awards

Manning is also third in career passing yards and passing touchdowns. He helped lead the Colts and Broncos to two Super Bowls each, making him the only quarterback to have multiple Super Bowl starts with more than one franchise. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021.

Knute Rockne, born in 1888, transcended the boundaries of football, leaving an indelible mark not only on the sport but also on the hearts and minds of fans and players. His 13 seasons as head coach of the University of Notre Dame solidified his reputation as one of the greatest coaches in college football history.

A Stellar Player and Early Coaching Stint:

Rockne's football journey began as a player at Notre Dame, where he showcased both his athletic prowess and leadership qualities on the field. In 1915, Knute followed Irish teammate Gus Dorias to the professional level as both played for the famous Massillon Tigers football team. He seamlessly transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant after graduation before taking the helm in 1918.

Building a Dynasty: Wins, Strategies, and Leadership:

Under Rockne's leadership, Notre Dame experienced a golden age. He led the team to a staggering 105 victories, 12 losses, and five ties, achieving an impressive .881 winning percentage, the highest for a prominent college football coach at the time. He masterminded iconic victories, including four undefeated seasons and three national championships (1924, 1929, and 1930).

Beyond his exceptional win-loss record, Rockne's legacy is intertwined with the strategies and innovations he brought to the game. He is credited with popularizing the forward pass, a play that revolutionized the sport by introducing a new element of offensive creativity. Additionally, he championed the importance of mental preparation and instilled a sense of discipline and teamwork in his players.

The "Win One for the Gipper" Legacy:

One of Rockne's most enduring legacies is his association with the inspirational phrase "Win one for the Gipper," uttered before a crucial game against Army in 1928. The word referred to George Gipp, a star Notre Dame player and close friend of Rockne who tragically died before the start of the season. The slogan became a rallying cry for Notre Dame and athletes and underdogs across the nation.

Tragic End and Enduring Legacy:

Rockne's life and career were tragically cut short in a plane crash in 1931, leaving a void in the college football world. However, his impact transcended his short tenure. He is remembered for his coaching prowess and strategic brilliance and his ability to inspire and motivate players and fans alike. His legacy inspires generations of athletes, coaches, and leaders, forever solidifying his place as a true icon of American football history.

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October 1, 1922 - The former team known as the Chicago Staleys (Decatur Staleys) suits up under the banner of the Chicago Bears and faces a new NFL franchise, the Racine Legion. This battle ended up in a Bears 6-0 victory.

The Bears, who had started as the Decatur Staleys, home of their sponsor, the A.E. Staley Manufacturing Co., moved to the Windy City in 1921 and played as the Chicago Staleys until this day, which set the standard for a new Moniker.

The Bears story begins in 1920, when, fresh out of college, he organized a football team for his then employer, A.E> Staley, in Decatur, Illinois, the Decatur Staleys. He served as both player and coach, showcasing his early leadership and passion for the game. However, the Staleys faced financial difficulties, prompting Halas to seek greener pastures.

In 1921, Halas saw an opportunity in Chicago. Partnering with Dutch Sternaman, he secured the rights to move the Staleys to Chicago and rename them the Chicago Staleys. This move was a gamble, but Halas's entrepreneurial spirit shone through. He saw the potential for a strong fan base in the Windy City. A year later, they rebranded as the Bears.

The early years in Chicago were a constant battle for financial stability. Halas wore many hats, managing the team's finances, scouting players, and selling tickets. However, his dedication and tireless work ethic started to pay off. The Bears achieved early success, winning the NFL championship in 1921.

Halas was pivotal in establishing the National Football League (NFL) in 1920, serving as an owner advisor and shaping its rules and structure. He was a shrewd businessman, securing television deals and driving the league's financial growth.

Brett Favre's NFL career wasn't a neatly scripted narrative. It was a rollercoaster ride of audacious throws, improbable victories, and a sprinkle of controversy – all fueled by an undeniable passion for the game. Drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 1991, Favre's legend truly began with the Green Bay Packers in 1992.

Initially viewed as a raw talent, Favre blossomed under coach Mike Holmgren. His gunslinger mentality, characterized by deep throws and improvisational brilliance, captivated fans. He wasn't afraid to take risks, often extending plays with his scrambling ability and delivering pinpoint passes on the run. This gunslinger style led to both highlight-reel moments and interceptions, but it undeniably kept defenses honest.

Favre's tenure with the Packers was nothing short of remarkable. He led them to two Super Bowl appearances, winning Super Bowl XXXI against the New England Patriots. He shattered numerous NFL records, including most career passing yards and touchdowns, both of which have since been surpassed by quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning.

However, Favre's story doesn't end in Green Bay. A messy public divorce from the Packers organization in 2008 led him to the New York Jets and ultimately the Minnesota Vikings. While his peak years were behind him, Favre's competitive fire remained. He revitalized the Vikings offense and nearly led them to a Super Bowl appearance in 2009.

Favre's legacy is complex. He is admired for his exceptional talent, leadership, and sheer love for the game. However, his gunslinger mentality sometimes resulted in costly mistakes, and his later-career decisions raised questions about his commitment.

Despite the complexities, Brett Favre's impact on the NFL is undeniable. He redefined the quarterback position with his aggressive style, leaving an indelible mark on the game and inspiring a generation of gunslingers.

Born July 16, 1968 - Wichita, Kansas - Barry Sanders the running back from Oklahoma State during the 1986 through 1988 seasons.

The FootballFoundation.org states that Sanders learned how to work hard as a youngster helping his father put on roofs in the hot Wichita summers. This work ethic stuck with his through his gridiron career at both the college and the professional levels and paid dividends on Saturdays and Sundays. The hard work also taught him to be selfless and humble as even after scoring one of his many touchdowns, he would generally just hand the ball to an official and trot off the field without an attention-grabbing celebration to be seen.

While Oklahoma State he played behind All-America Thurman Thomas for two seasons. He used this "grooming" time wisely in the seasons that he spent as a back-up becoming a special teams demon, even leading the nation in kickoff return average in 1987. When Barry became the featured Cowboy back, he put together what the NFF describes as the most remarkable season ever compiled by a college running back. That year he set 34 NCAA records in winning the Heisman Trophy, the Walter Camp, and Maxwell Awards as the nation's top player. Barry led the nation in rushing with his 2,628 yards, 3250 all-purpose yards, and scored 234 points.

Sanders ran for over 300 yards in six games and exceeded 200 yards seven times. Barry was rewarded for these feats in college by being selected as the top pick of the Detroit Lions in the 1989 NFL Draft, spending 10 seasons in the Motor City. In fact he became the first player to ever rush for 1000 or more yards in his first ten seasons according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame website. On the road to professional pigskin immortality Sanders, with 1,304 yards rushing in 1990, topped all runners, and then repeated claiming the top NFL ground gainer title in 1994 with 1,883 yards and in 1996 running for 1,553 yards. His 44 receptions for 283 yards in 1994 gave him a combined 2,166 yards from scrimmage. The most impressive feat of his remarkable career, however, is when he won the NFL MVP award in 1997, as he rushed for a league-best 2,053 yards and gained another 305 yards on 33 catches for an amazing 2,358 combined yards gained. To ice that he gained at least 100 yards in 14 consecutive games!

The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Barry Sanders in 2004 while Mr. Sanders also entered the College Football Hall of Fame for his legendary college career at Oklahoma State in 2003. Many have described Barry Sanders as the best pure running back to ever play the game, as he left the NFL at a fairly young age with a lot of yardage on his stat bio.

John Elway, nicknamed "The Duke" for his stoic demeanor and unwavering leadership, wasn't just a football player; he was an icon. His 16-year career with the Denver Broncos was a testament to his dedication, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. This essay delves into the journey of Elway, a quarterback who redefined the position and brought two Super Bowl victories to Denver.

Elway's path to gridiron glory wasn't straightforward. Drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1983, he staged a now-legendary public dispute, forcing a trade to his dream team – the Denver Broncos. This bold move set the stage for a remarkable career. Elway possessed a rare combination of physical talent and mental toughness. His strong arm allowed him to make pinpoint throws, while his athleticism gave him the ability to escape pressure and extend plays. He wasn't afraid to take risks, scrambling out of the pocket and throwing on the run, a style that revolutionized quarterback play.

However, Elway's journey wasn't without setbacks. Early in his career, the Broncos struggled to win the ultimate prize, falling short in three consecutive Super Bowls (1986, 1987, and 1989) against the dominant New York Giants. These losses earned him the unfortunate nickname "Elway the Loser," a label that fueled his determination.

Finally, in 1997, Elway's perseverance paid off. At the age of 37, he led the Broncos to their first Super Bowl victory, defeating the heavily favored Green Bay Packers. Two years later, he cemented his legacy with another Super Bowl win, this time against the Atlanta Falcons. These victories solidified his place among the NFL's elite quarterbacks, silencing his doubters and proving that his relentless pursuit of championship glory had finally been rewarded.

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Elway's impact extended to the city of Denver. He became a symbol of hope and resilience, inspiring Broncos fans with his unwavering dedication. After his retirement in 1999, he transitioned into a successful front-office role with the team, proving his leadership prowess extended beyond the playing field.