Football History

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The New York Giants boast a rich history filled with legendary players. Yet few stories are as captivating or as untold as that of Joseph "Doc" Alexander. This legend was successful at almost anything he put his mind to.

This wasn't your typical football hero. Doc Alexander was a brilliant scholar, a dedicated medical professional, and, against all odds, a dominant force on the gridiron.

Dive into the remarkable journey of Doc Alexander:

-Star football and lacrosse player at Syracuse University.

-Two-time captain of the 'Cuse gridiron squad 1919 & 1920

-In 1918, against Rutgers, he picked up a loose ball and ran 75 yards for a touchdown. Doc starred in a 1919 defeat of Pittsburgh, the Panthers' first loss in four years.

-Played in the early NFL for the Rochester Jeffersons (1921, 22,24) part-time while practicing medicine

-First player signed to the roster of the New York Giants franchise in 1925

-The Giant's first coach was successful college coach Bob Folwell. In 1926, Folwell left to coach the Philadelphia Quakers of the first AFL, and Doc Alexander assumed the player/head coach role, taking the team to an 8-4-1 record.

-Due to an increased demand for his medical services, he relinquished his head coach role and became an assistant player/coach at Earl Potteiger. The Giants won the NFL Title that year.

-Now having a successful lung practice in NYC, Alexander retired from football after the title win.

-Honored in both the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame

College football, a sport steeped in tradition and brimming with talent, has witnessed countless remarkable athletes don the jerseys of their respective universities. From electrifying running backs to tenacious defenders, these players have etched their names into the annals of gridiron history, leaving an enduring legacy that resonates with fans across generations. Their jersey numbers, often simple digits, become symbols of their achievements, instantly recognizable and forever associated with their legendary performances.

The image is titled Original Caption: Four of Navy's mudstained stars pose after the Army and Navy football game on the Fourth of July, 1945 at Rizal Stadium, Manila, P.I. Left to Right: Geyer, Bloomfield, New Jersey; Hall, Chicago, Illinois; Horjes, Tacoma, Washington; Youngberg, Woodstock, Illinois. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (cropped).

This series of posts embarks on a journey through the storied landscape of college football, celebrating the very best players to have worn each jersey number. It's a tribute to the skill, dedication, and sheer brilliance of these athletes, a recognition of their impact on the game, and a chance to revisit the moments that made them icons. From the single-digit heroes to the double-digit dynamos, we'll explore the stories behind the numbers, uncovering the tales of triumph, perseverance, and unforgettable plays.

Each post will delve into the careers of the most exceptional players to have sported a particular number, highlighting their accomplishments, awards, and the indelible mark they left on their programs. We'll examine their contributions to their teams' successes, their individual accolades, and the lasting impression they made on the college football landscape. This is more than just a list of names; it's a celebration of the spirit of college football, the passion of the fans, and the enduring legacy of the players who wore the numbers that became synonymous with greatness.

Join us as we embark on this exciting exploration, honoring the legends and the unforgettable moments that have defined college football. From the smallest schools to the most prominent programs, we'll uncover the stories behind the numbers, recognizing the athletes who transformed their jerseys into symbols of excellence. This is a journey through college football history, one number at a time.

Here is a Pigskin Dispatch video on the namesake of the Outland Trophy, John Outland.