Football History

Princeton University, a cornerstone of American higher education, has also been a dominant force in the history of college football. While the concept of a formal national championship in college football didn't emerge until the early 20th century, Princeton's dominance in the late 19th and early 20th centuries is undeniable.

The late 19th century marked the golden age of Princeton football. The team, often referred to as the Orange and Black, amassed a record of success that is unparalleled in the sport's history. Coaches like William Reid and Pop Warner led teams that were virtually unbeatable. Although there was no official national championship at the time, Princeton's consistent dominance and the caliber of opponents they defeated have led many historians to consider this era as their unofficial championship years.

The early 20th century saw a continuation of Princeton's football prowess. The team consistently ranked among the nation's elite, competing against the likes of Harvard, Yale, and Penn in what was known as the Ivy League rivalry. While the competition intensified, Princeton continued to produce exceptional talent and achieve remarkable victories.

It's important to note that determining an exact number of national championships for Princeton, or any team from that era, is challenging due to the lack of a formal selection process. However, based on the team's performance, strength of schedule, and overall dominance, it's widely accepted that Princeton laid claim to multiple national championships, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

While the landscape of college football has changed dramatically since Princeton's heyday, the program's rich history continues to inspire and influence the sport. The tradition of excellence established by these early teams has left an enduring legacy and serves as a reminder of Princeton's unparalleled contributions to the game.

While there is no definitive list of national championships awarded to Princeton during this era, the team's consistent dominance and the respect they commanded among their peers solidify their place as one of college football's all-time great programs.

The Tigers themselves claim 28 National titles: (1869, 1870, 1872, 1873, 1874, 1875, 1877, 1878, 1879, 1880, 1881, 1884, 1885, 1886, 1889, 1893, 1894, 1896, 1898, 1899, 1903, 1906, 1911, 1920, 1922, 1933, 1935, 1950)

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The Louisville Cardinals football program boasts a history of thrilling victories and unexpected upsets. Here are a few of their most memorable games:

-1950 Heisman Tie: In a game forever etched in college football history, Louisville battled the heavily favored and undefeated Miami (FL) Hurricanes to a 13-13 draw. Notably, a fumble recovery by Lee Corso, Louisville's future head coach and ESPN personality, led to the tying touchdown.

-2006 Shutout of West Virginia: This resounding 41-0 victory over West Virginia, then ranked number 6 in the nation, marked a significant upset and solidified Louisville's presence as a rising power in the Big East Conference.

-2012 Sugar Bowl Victory: The Cardinals reached a pinnacle moment with a thrilling 33-24 win over the Florida Gators in the 2012 Sugar Bowl. This victory capped off a perfect 12-0 season and cemented head coach Charlie Strong's legacy.

-The Lamar Jackson Show: 2016 & 2017 (multiple games): Quarterback Lamar Jackson's electrifying playmaking ability led to a string of unforgettable games. Victories over Clemson in 2016 and Florida State in 2017 stand out, showcasing Jackson's Heisman-caliber talent and Louisville's offensive dominance.

-In a thrilling upset for the 2023 college football season, the #25 ranked Louisville Cardinals stunned the #10 Notre Dame Fighting Irish in a high-scoring affair at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Led by running back Jeremy Brown's 143 yards and 2 touchdowns, the Cardinals' offense put on a dominant display. Despite an early Notre Dame lead, Louisville's defense tightened up, shutting down the Irish offense in the second half. The 33-20 victory secured Louisville's biggest win over a ranked opponent in a decade and extended their overall winning streak to seven games.

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Born August 16, 1862, in West Orange, New Jersey, was College Football Hall of Fame Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg. Stagg was a great innovator of many items we know in football such as the huddle, man in motion, and more. Most of his career was as the head man for the University of Chicago Maroons. Biographer Jennifer Taylor Hall discusses the great Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg and his many contributions to football and sports in general.

Here is the transcript of Ms. Hall's conversation with us:

Florida Gators football wasn't born amidst orange groves and palm trees, but emerged alongside the young University of Florida itself. Here's a glimpse into the program's early days:

Rooted in the University (1906-1911):

-1906: The university fielded its first official team, marking the birth of Florida Gators football.
Early games against local clubs and small colleges tested the fledgling program.

-The nickname "Gators" wasn't immediately embraced, taking root in 1911 due to the abundance of the reptiles in the area.

Navigating Challenges and Building Identity (1912-1920s):

-The program bounced between conferences, searching for its place in the collegiate landscape.

-Internal issues and World War I led to several interruptions in play, hindering consistent development.

-Despite the ups and downs, early coaching figures like
-George Penton and Albert Elmore laid the foundation for future success.

Finding Footing and First Flourishes (1930s-1940s):

-Joining the Southeastern Conference in 1932 brought Florida into a competitive arena, pushing the program forward.

-Construction of Florida Field in 1930 provided a dedicated home for the Gators, fostering team identity and fan support.

-Coaches like Doug Allison and Tom McEwen laid the groundwork for offensive play and built a winning culture.

As we continue our exploration of the traditions and storied history of Florida Gators football, it's clear that this program is woven into the fabric of college football's rich tapestry. From the iconic "Swamp" of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium to the fervent "Gator Chomp" heard across stadiums nationwide, the Gators' legacy is one of passion, resilience, and unparalleled achievements. Through eras marked by legendary coaches and standout players, each season has added new chapters to a narrative cherished by fans and alumni alike.

Looking forward, let us continue to honor the traditions that define Gators football—a commitment to excellence on and off the field, a dedication to sportsmanship, and a unity that transcends wins and losses. As the sun sets on one season and rises on the next, the Gator Nation stands strong, united by a love for a team that embodies the spirit of Florida pride. Here's to celebrating the past, embracing the present, and eagerly anticipating the future of Florida Gators football—a program that will forever remain at the heart of college football lore.

There is so much more to explore, so check out our other stories of Florida Gators football history.

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With a rich history dating back to 1890, Ohio State football boasts a pantheon of legendary players who left their mark on the gridiron. Choosing a definitive "top" is subjective, but considering Heisman wins, individual accolades, and impact on the program, some names consistently rise to the top.

The Heisman Heroes:

-Archie Griffin (1972-75): The only two-time Heisman winner in college football history, Griffin shattered rushing records and led the Buckeyes to a national championship. His legacy of leadership and resilience remains unmatched.

-Les Horvath (1944): A versatile threat, Horvath won the Heisman in 1944, playing running back, quarterback, and defensive back. His leadership during World War II adds another layer to his legend.

-Howard "Hopalong" Cassady (1953): Cassady's Heisman win in 1953 marked Ohio State's first national championship after decades. His electrifying running style and punting prowess made him a triple threat.

Defensive Dominators:

-Orlando Pace (1999-2002): A unanimous All-American and 1st overall NFL draft pick, Pace revolutionized the offensive tackle position with his size, athleticism, and dominance.

-Jack Tatum (1967-69): A ferocious safety and leader on the famed "Super Sophs" defense, Tatum's intimidating presence and game-changing interceptions cemented his place in history.

-Chris Spielman (1984-87): An emotional leader and tackling machine, Spielman's intensity and defensive acumen led the Buckeyes to a Big Ten title and earned him NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Offensive Masters:

-Troy Smith (2004-2006): Smith's dual-threat ability revolutionized the Buckeye offense, leading them to an undefeated season and national championship game appearance in 2006.

-Joey Bosa (2013-2016): A terror on the defensive line, Bosa's speed and relentless pass rush helped lead the Buckeyes to a CFP appearance and earned him the Nagurski Award.

-Curtis Samuel (2014-2016): A versatile threat as a receiver, runner, and returner, Samuel's explosiveness and playmaking ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

This is just a glimpse into the vast talent pool of Ohio State legends. From iconic coaches like Woody Hayes and Urban Meyer to countless other All-Americans and NFL stars, the Buckeye legacy is woven with the stories of these outstanding players.

The Arizona State Sun Devils football program boasts a rich history dating back to 1891. While national championships may have eluded them, the Sun Devils have carved their own unique path in college football, marked by resilience, consistent improvement, and a commitment to developing NFL talent.

-Early Years (1891-1950s):

The Sun Devils' early years saw them compete in various conferences, including the Pacific Coast Conference and the Western Athletic Conference.

Their early history was marked by inconsistency and struggle, with limited success and sporadic winning seasons.

However, the program laid the foundation for future success, developing a strong identity and fostering a dedicated fan base.

-Golden Age (1950s-1970s):

The 1950s and 60s saw the rise of ASU football under legendary coaches Frank Kush and Darryl Rogers.
This era witnessed the program's most sustained success, including Seven conference championships (six Western Athletic Conference, one Pacific Coast Conference)

Three bowl appearances (1959 Sun Bowl, 1961 Sun Bowl, 1970 Astro-Bluebonnet Bowl)

Development of NFL stars, including Merlin Olsen, John Hadl, and Pat Tillman

-Turbulent Times (1980s-2000s):

The program faced challenges in the latter half of the 20th century, experiencing periods of coaching changes, NCAA sanctions, and inconsistent results.
Despite these obstacles, the Sun Devils continued to field talented players like Jake Plummer and Terrell Suggs, showcasing their commitment to player development.

-Resurgence and Modern Era (2010s-Present):

ASU football entered a new era of success under head coaches Dennis Erickson and Todd Graham.

The program achieved significant milestones, including Two Pac-12 South Division titles (2013, 2020)

Eight bowl appearances (2011 LVH Bowl, 2012 Mopar Bowl, 2013 Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, 2014 Cactus Bowl, 2015 Alamo Bowl, 2017 Sun Bowl, 2018 Las Vegas Bowl, 2020 Sun Bowl)

Continued development of NFL talent, including Brandon Aiyuk and Eno Benjamin

-The Future of ASU Football:

The Sun Devils are currently under the leadership of head coach Kenny Dillingham, looking to build upon the recent successes and establish themselves among the Pac-12 elite.

Their innovative approach to NIL opportunities and commitment to developing young talent position them for an exciting future.

Florida State Football boasts a rich history punctuated by moments of brilliance and enduring legacy. This post explores some of the program's most iconic triumphs, the plays, and the victories that cemented the Seminoles' reputation as a national powerhouse.

Like most programs, the success has come in waves. Coaching has much to do with the culture and how the team performs. The 'Noles history is an excellent example of this.

-The Bobby Bowden Era (1976-2009):

-This era is synonymous with Florida State's rise to prominence. Coach Bowden fostered a culture of excellence, producing two national championships (1993, 1999) and propelling the Seminoles to 14 consecutive seasons ranked in the Top 4.

-The Block in the Bayou (1993): This play, etched in Seminole lore, secured FSU's first national championship. With seconds remaining against LSU in the Sugar Bowl, Darren Dix's last-ditch block on a potential game-winning field goal preserved a 13-7 victory.

-The "Wide Right" Triumph (1994): This controversial finish against rival Florida cemented FSU's dominance. A missed field goal by the Gators, seemingly wide right, sent Doak Campbell Stadium into a frenzy and marked the Seminoles' 12th consecutive win over their in-state foe.

-The National Title Defense (1999): Following the tragic death of starting quarterback Danny Wuerffel, FSU rallied behind freshman sensation Chris Weinke. Victories over Tennessee in the Fiesta Bowl and Virginia Tech in the national championship game solidified the Seminoles' dynasty.

-Beyond the Championships:

-The Deion Sanders Era (1989-1992): "Prime Time" Deion Sanders brought electrifying play and swagger to the Florida State defense. His interception to seal the 1989 Sugar Bowl victory over Auburn remains a program highlight.

-The Dalvin Cook Show (2014-2016): Dalvin Cook's electrifying rushing performances re-energized the program. His 242-yard, 4-touchdown performance against Clemson in 2016 is a testament to his explosiveness.

Florida State's top moments extend beyond national championships. They represent resilience, talent, and the unyielding spirit that defines Seminole football. From the Bowden dynasty to iconic individual performances, these moments inspire future generations and solidify the program's place among college football's elite.

Seldom do defensive players impact the game of football as much as standout defensive Lineman Reggie White did. His legacy in college, the USFL, and NFL in two cities still is remembered

-College Career

Reggie White’s collegiate career at the University of Tennessee was nothing short of dominant.

A raw but immensely talented defensive lineman, he quickly developed into a force to be reckoned with. With his imposing physical stature and relentless motor, White wreaked havoc on opposing offenses. His junior and senior seasons were particularly outstanding, as he earned consensus All-American honors and solidified his status as one of the nation’s top defensive prospects.  

-Road to the Pro Game

White’s professional football journey began in the United States Football League (USFL) with the Memphis Showboats, where he continued to showcase his exceptional talent. His impact was so significant that he was selected in the first round of the 1984 NFL Supplemental Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.  

In Philadelphia, White emerged as one of the most feared defensive players in the league. His combination of size, speed, and power was virtually unstoppable. He earned the nickname “The Minister of Defense” for his dominant performances and his strong Christian faith. White’s sack totals were staggering, and he consistently disrupted opposing offenses.  

After a highly successful stint in Philadelphia, White signed with the Green Bay Packers, where he continued to excel. His presence was instrumental in the Packers’ resurgence, culminating in a Super Bowl victory. White’s career concluded with a brief stint with the Carolina Panthers.  

-Football Legacy

Reggie White’s legacy is cemented as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history. His impact on the game was profound, as he redefined the position of defensive end. White’s combination of power, speed, and intelligence made him virtually unstoppable.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, White was also revered for his character and leadership. His strong Christian faith was evident in his life and actions, and he was a role model for players and fans alike. White’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006 was a fitting tribute to a career marked by excellence and integrity.  

His impact extends beyond statistics and accolades. White's influence on the game is still felt today, as young defensive linemen strive to emulate his dominance and character.

Born May 30, 1949 - Salem, New Jersey -  Lydell Mitchell 3 time Pro- Bowl NFL Running back played for the Colts, Chargers & Rams.  The Baltimore Colts drafted Mitchell with the 48th pick of the 1972 NFL Draft. Mitchell played his college career at Penn State under Joe Paterno along with his fellow backfield mate Franco Harris. Quite a one two punch for the Nittany Lions in the season of '71. Lydell Mitchell entered the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004. Lydell's was a threat to run and recieve passes as a pro and when he teamed up with Colts QB Bert Jones the pair helped the team win 3 consecutive AFC East Titles (1975, 76 & 77), stealing the crown from their division rival the Miami Dolphins, yes those Dolphins that only a year or two earlier had an undefeated season.

Born May 3, 1941, in Mount Holly, New Jersey, was Penn State’s brilliant end from 1960 to 1962, Dave Robinson. The NFF shares that Robinson was an All-America in 1962.

Dave had also been elected to the Gator Bowl Hall of Fame. In 1962 the Newark Athletic Club named Robinson the College Player of the Year. The Philadelphia Sports Writers Association named him the College Lineman of the Year as the Nittany Lions had a 24-8 record in his three years there and won two Lambert Trophies as best team in the East.

Dave Robinson received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997. In 1963 the big end was picked by both the Chargers in the AFL and the Packers in the 1963 Drafts. He of course chose Green Bay and played outside linebacker for Vince Lombardi’s team playing on three straight NFL Championship squads from 1965 to 1967. He was also on the Super Bowl I and II teams that took the title for Green Bay.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame says he intercepted 27 passes for 449 yards and scored one pick six. Dave Robinson was selected for enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. NFL Jersey 89