Football History

Born in 1901, Frank Sundstrom wasn't just a football player; he was a pillar of Cornell's gridiron glory, a stalwart tackle who carved his name in the annals of college football history. His story isn't just about tackles and touchdowns; it's a testament to the relentless pursuit, unwavering loyalty, and the power of teamwork that defined a golden age for the Cornell Big Red.
Sundstrom's journey began on the gridiron of Middletown, New York, where his raw talent and imposing presence caught the eye of Cornell University. In 1921, he stepped onto the hallowed turf of Ithaca, New York, ready to etch his mark on Cornell football history.

His impact was immediate. Standing tall and strong at 6'1" and 190 pounds, Sundstrom anchored the Big Red defense, a formidable wall against opposing offenses. His intelligence and quickness off the line made him a disruptive force, paving the way for teammates and earning him the nickname "Sunny." The Big Red teams that Sundstrom was a part of went undefeated throughout three seasons, 24-0.

But Sundstrom's legacy isn't just about individual brilliance. It's linked to the legendary 1923 Cornell team, considered one of the greatest college football teams ever. Alongside teammates like George Pfann and Ed Kaw, Sundstrom formed an impenetrable defensive line, shutting down opponents with suffocating efficiency.

That year, Cornell went undefeated and untied, a feat only achieved by a handful of teams in college football history. Sundstrom's ferocious tackles and intelligent play were instrumental in this historic run, earning him All-American honors and solidifying his place as a Cornell legend.

His impact extended beyond the 1923 season. He continued to anchor the Big Red defense until 1924, leaving a legacy of excellence and leadership. Even after graduation, Sundstrom's passion for the game remained, leading him to serve as an assistant coach for the Indiana Hoosiers in 1924.

In 1978, Sundstrom was honored to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring legacy. His story isn't just about statistics and accolades; it's about the embodiment of Cornell's spirit, the relentless pursuit of victory, and the unwavering belief in the power of teamwork.

Frank Sundstrom was more than a football player; he was a titan of Cornell's golden age, a legend whose name forever echoes in the halls of Ithaca, a reminder that true greatness lies not just in individual talent but in the collective spirit of a team united in pursuit of victory.

Frank would go on to become a New Jersey Congressman.

Joe Kapp, born March 19, 1938, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, forged a distinctive football career marked by his toughness, leadership, and unwavering determination. His journey from college standout to professional quarterback was characterized by a unique blend of grit and resilience.

Joe Kapp was the starting Cal Golden Bears quarterback of the 1956 to 1959 era.

-College Career:

Kapp's collegiate career at the University of California, Berkeley, from 1956 to 1959, was defined by his leadership and offensive prowess. As the Golden Bears' quarterback, he led the team in total offense for all three years of his playing career, demonstrating his versatility and impact on the offense. He was a first-team All-America selection, a testament to his exceptional talent and performance. In 1958, he finished fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting, further solidifying his status as one of the nation's top players. He also led California to a coveted Rose Bowl appearance, a highlight of his collegiate career.

-Road to the Pro Game:
Kapp's path to professional football was unconventional. He began his professional career in the Canadian Football League (CFL), playing for the Calgary Stampeders and the BC Lions. He achieved significant success in the CFL, leading the BC Lions to a Grey Cup victory in 1964. His success in Canada paved the way for his return to the NFL. In 1967, he joined the Minnesota Vikings, becoming the team's starting quarterback.

-Football Legacy:

Kapp's football legacy is defined by his toughness, leadership, and his ability to inspire his teammates. He was known for his physical style of play and his unwavering determination. He led the Minnesota Vikings to Super Bowl IV in 1970, a testament to his leadership and the team's talent. His time in the CFL also cemented him as a legend there. He was known for his "take no prisoners" attitude on the field. His impact on the game extends beyond his playing career. He was seen as a players player, and fought for better conditions.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-First-Team All-America Selection (College).

-Fifth in Heisman Trophy Voting (1958).

-Led California to a Rose Bowl appearance.

-Grey Cup Champion (CFL).

-Led Minnesota Vikings to Super Bowl IV.

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004.

Joe Kapp's career was marked by his unique journey, his remarkable toughness, and his unwavering leadership, leaving a lasting impact on both college and professional football.

Reggie Williams, born in 1954 in Flint, Michigan, crafted a remarkable football journey defined by resilience and excellence, from his standout collegiate career to his impactful NFL tenure. His story is one of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness.

The stellar linebacker from Dartmouth, an interesting thing about Reggie was his ability to overcome obstacles such as limited hearing and his determination took him to NFL stardom with he Cincinnati Bengals.

College Career

Williams's path to Dartmouth College was paved with academic brilliance despite his high school counselor telling him that an Ivy League institution was beyond his reach. His academic prowess drew Dartmouth's attention, and he proved his doubters wrong. Initially recruited as a fullback, Williams found his true calling at linebacker. His high motor and relentless pursuit of the ball made him a defensive force. He led the team with 117 tackles during his senior year, earning him All-Ivy League honors and a first-team All-American selection. His tenacity and leadership were instrumental in Dartmouth's defensive success. His outstanding college career was solidified by his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2007.  

Road to the Pro Game

Williams's exceptional collegiate performance made him a highly sought-after prospect in the NFL. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 1976 NFL Draft. He then went on to a very productive career in the NFL with the cincinnati bengals.

Football Legacy

Reggie Williams's football legacy transcends the gridiron. He was a formidable linebacker, but his impact extended beyond his on-field performance. His ability to overcome challenges, including hearing limitations and early doubts about his size, made him a role model. Furthermore he had a very successful career after football. His legacy also includes his post football work, and life. His dedication to public service and community involvement solidified his status as a leader and an inspiration.

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-All-Ivy League selection.

-First-team All-American.

-Drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 1976 NFL Draft.

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2007).  
played for the Cincinnati Bengals.  

Reggie Williams's career embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence. His journey from Flint, Michigan, to the College Football Hall of Fame is a testament to his character and talent.

Jimbo Covert, born on March 22, 1960, in Conway, Pennsylvania, forged a legendary career as an offensive tackle, leaving an indelible mark on both college and professional football.  

The University of Pittsburgh's big offensive tackle, Jimbo Covert, later with the Chicago Bears, solidified his status as one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles.

College Career

Covert's journey at the University of Pittsburgh began with aspirations of playing defensive line. However, the Panthers' depth at that position, coupled with an injury, prompted a pivotal decision. He switched to offensive tackle, a move that proved transformative. He became a cornerstone of a formidable offensive line alongside Mark May and Bill Fralic, contributing to Pitt's offensive dominance. During his three seasons at tackle, he allowed a mere three sacks, with none surrendered during his senior year, a feat made even more remarkable by Pitt's pass-heavy offense. His exceptional performance earned him unanimous All-America honors in 1982, following a first-team All-America selection in 1981. His collegiate achievements culminated in his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003.  

Road to the Pro Game

Covert's stellar college career made him a highly coveted prospect in the 1983 NFL Draft. The Chicago Bears selected him sixth overall, a testament to his exceptional talent and potential.  

Football Legacy

Covert's nine-season tenure with the Chicago Bears solidified his status as one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles. He was a crucial component of the Bears' dominant 1985 team, which triumphed in Super Bowl XX. His exceptional blocking skills and unwavering consistency earned him widespread recognition. He was a linchpin of the bears offense, protecting the quarterback, and opening up running lanes. He was known as a smart, and tough player.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Covert's career is punctuated by numerous accolades:

-Unanimous All-America (1982).

-First-team All-America (1981).  

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2003).  

-Two-time Pro Bowl selection.

-Two-time All-Pro selection.

-Offensive Lineman of the Year (1986).  

-Super Bowl XX champion.

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2020).

Jimbo Covert's career stands as a testament to his exceptional talent, dedication, and impact on the game of football.

Frederick Rudolph Dean was born on February 24, 1952, in Arcadia, Louisiana. His football journey, marked by relentless pass-rushing and a profound impact on the game, cemented his place in NFL history.  

-College Career

Dean's collegiate career unfolded at Louisiana Tech University from 1971 to 1974. He distinguished himself as a dominant defensive force, earning four consecutive All-Southland Conference selections. His contributions were instrumental in Louisiana Tech's 1973 Division II National Championship and their four consecutive Southland Conference titles. His time at Louisiana Tech laid the foundation for his professional success.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Dean's exceptional college performance garnered the attention of NFL scouts. He was selected by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 1975 NFL Draft, the 33rd overall pick. His professional career would see him play for the San Diego Chargers (1975–1981) and the San Francisco 49ers (1981–1985). A key moment in his career was when he was traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 1981. This trade proved to be a pivotal move, significantly impacting the 49ers' defensive prowess.  

-Football Legacy

Fred Dean's football legacy is defined by his explosive pass-rushing ability and his impact on the San Francisco 49ers' championship runs. He was a key component of the 49ers' Super Bowl XVI and XIX victories. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and his relentless pursuit of the quarterback set a standard for defensive linemen. His impact on the game is still felt today.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-2× Super Bowl champion (XVI, XIX)  

-2× First-team All-Pro (1980, 1981)  

-4× Pro Bowl (1979–1981, 1983)  

-NFC Defensive Player of the Year (1981)  

-San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame

-Los Angeles Chargers Hall of Fame

-San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Team

-San Diego Chargers 40th Anniversary Team

-Second-team All-American (1974)  

-Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2008)  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2009)  

-Career NFL statistics:

-Sacks: 92  

-Fumble recoveries: 13  

-Interceptions: 1

Fred Dean's career stands as a testament to his skill and dedication. He passed away on October 14, 2020, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of football.

Courtesy Pro-Football-Reference.com

Knute Rockne, born March 4, 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.

Allen Ralph "Buck" Flowers Jr., born on March 26, 1899, in Sumter, South Carolina, was a legendary figure in early American college football. Though his career predates the establishment of professional leagues as we know them today, his impact and skill place him firmly within the sport's rich history.

-College Career

Flowers' collegiate journey began at Davidson College in 1917, where, despite his small stature, he quickly established himself as a dynamic halfback. A highlight of his single season at Davidson was a stunning upset victory over Auburn, where Flowers scored two touchdowns, set up another, and kicked all extra points, showcasing his versatility as a triple-threat player. His exceptional play against the formidable 1917 Georgia Tech team further cemented his reputation, earning him All-Southern honors.  

In 1918, Flowers transferred to Georgia Tech, playing under coaches John Heisman and William Alexander. It was here that he truly flourished. Alexander considered him the best punter and the greatest back he ever coached, praising his open-field running and defensive prowess as a safety. Flowers captained the 1920 team, leading them to an 8-1 record and a share of the SIAA title. He was a dominant force, excelling as a rusher, passer, punter (leading the nation in 1920 with a 49.4-yard average), and drop-kicker. His performances were often described in awe-struck terms, highlighting his elusive running style and game-changing plays.  

-Football Legacy

Buck Flowers' legacy rests firmly on his remarkable achievements in the college game. He was a dominant force in the South during his playing years, earning widespread recognition for his exceptional all-around abilities. His versatility as a triple-threat player was uncommon for the era, and his coach's high praise underscores the impact he had on the Georgia Tech program. Flowers is remembered as a pioneer of Southern football, whose electrifying play captivated audiences and earned him a place among the sport's all-time greats.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-All-Southern Team (1917)  

-Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAA) Champion (1918)

-Captain, Georgia Tech (1920)

-Led Nation in Punting Average (49.4 yards per punt, 1920)  

-Third-Team All-American (United Press, International News Service, 1920)  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1955)  

-Associated Press Southeast Area All-Time Team (1869-1919)

Born February 15, 1903, in Midland, Ontario, Canada, as the great Southern Cal Quarterback of yesteryear, Morley Drury arrived into this life. While not as widely celebrated as some of his contemporaries, Drury's football career represents a significant chapter in the sport's early days, particularly on the West Coast. Drury became a multi-sport athlete at the University of Southern California (USC) in the mid-1920s.  

Drury's prowess on the gridiron earned him national recognition. As a standout halfback, he was known for his speed, agility, and powerful running style. He played a crucial role in USC's rise to national prominence, contributing to their undefeated season in 1927, his senior year and captaincy. He led USC to an 8-1-1 record, sharing the Pacific Coast Conference title with Stanford. Despite a narrow loss to Notre Dame, Drury's exceptional performance, including 180 yards and three touchdowns against Washington (earning him a 10-minute standing ovation), propelled the Trojans forward. He topped the team in scoring (76 points) and rushing (1163 yards), earning All-America honors. His rushing yardage was a USC first, exceeding 1,000 yards, and remained a record until Mike Garrett surpassed it in 1965. His exceptional performance that year garnered All-American honors, solidifying his place among the elite players of his time.  

Beyond his athletic abilities, Drury was recognized for his leadership and sportsmanship. He was respected on and off the field, admired by teammates and opponents. His character and dedication to the game exemplified the values college football sought to instill in its players.  

Following his collegiate success, Drury briefly played professional football before transitioning to a career in acting. While his time in the NFL was short-lived, his impact on the college game remained indelible. In 1954, Morley Drury was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the sport and his enduring legacy as one of USC's football legends.

-Height 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)

-Weight 185 lb (84 kg)

-Career History

-College USC (1925–1927)

-High school Long Beach Tech

-Career highlights and awards

-Consensus All-American (1927)

-Third-team All-American (1925)

-2× First-team All-PCC (1925, 1927)

-Midland Sports Hall of Fame

-College Football Hall of Fame (1954)

Morley Drury. (2025, February 12). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morley_Drury

Fred Sington, born October 28, 1910, in Birmingham, Alabama, carved a unique and multi-faceted legacy in American sports. While his professional football career was brief, his impact on collegiate athletics and his enduring contributions to his community cemented his place in sports history.

Fred was one of the men who helped the Tide Roll on the football field and baseball diamond!

-College Career

Sington's collegiate career at the University of Alabama was spectacular. He was a dominant force on the Crimson Tide football team, playing center and earning recognition as one of the best linemen of his era. Under the legendary coach Wallace Wade, Sington was a key component of Alabama's dominant teams of the early 1930s. He was a member of the 1930 national championship team, and his leadership and skill were instrumental in the Crimson Tide's success. He was known for his toughness, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to his team.  

-Road to the Pro Game

After his stellar college career, Sington briefly entered the professional football ranks. However, his athletic talents were not limited to the gridiron. He also excelled in baseball. He played professional baseball with the Atlanta Crackers, then moved on to Major League Baseball, where he played for the Washington Senators and the Brooklyn Dodgers. This multi-sport career limited his pro football time.  

-Football Legacy

Sington's football legacy is primarily tied to his outstanding collegiate career. He embodied the spirit of Alabama football during a period of tremendous success. He represented a time where multi sport athletes where very common. His example of excellence on and off the field left an indelible mark on the University of Alabama's athletic program. Beyond his playing days, he became a respected businessman and community leader in Birmingham, further solidifying his enduring impact.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Member of the 1930 national championship team at the University of Alabama.  
Recognized as one of the top linemen of his era.
Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1955.  
Played Major League Baseball for the Washington Senators and the Brooklyn Dodgers.  
Inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.  
Fred Sington's legacy extends beyond statistics and accolades. He epitomized the ideal of the student-athlete, demonstrating that dedication, leadership, and integrity are the cornerstones of a truly successful life.

Born February 17, 1905, was Andy Oberlander, the fine Dartmouth halfback and tackle. Most of his close friends called the dashing youngster “Swede” because of his blonde hair.

Andy Oberlander's football legacy is rooted in his remarkable college career at Dartmouth College.

-College Career

From 1923 to 1925, he starred as a halfback, leading the team to an undefeated season in 1925 and a share of the national championship. Known for his speed, agility, and powerful running style, Oberlander was a key component of Dartmouth's potent offense. He was a versatile player, excelling as both a runner and a passer, and his leadership on the field was instrumental to the team's success. His performance against Yale in 1925, where he scored three touchdowns, is mainly remembered as a defining moment of his collegiate career.

Dartmouth's 32-9 dismantling of Harvard was their most decisive win against the Crimson to that point. Against Cornell, Oberlander put on a show, amassing 477 yards of total offense, including six touchdown passes – a Dartmouth record that remains unbroken. Accounts from the game credit him with contributing to roughly 500 yards of the team's total offensive output. Despite the lopsided 62-13 score, Cornell coach Gil Dobie famously quipped, "We won the game 13-0, passing is not football," downplaying the significance of Oberlander's aerial dominance.

Oberlander's path to professional football was somewhat unconventional for the era. While he did play professional football, it was a relatively brief stint with the short-lived Brooklyn Lions of the first American Football League in 1926. Professional football in the 1920s was still developing, and many players, even those with Oberlander's talent, did not pursue long professional careers.

Oberlander's lasting impact on football resides primarily in his collegiate achievements. His time at Dartmouth cemented his place as one of the greatest players in the early era of college football. He was a consensus All-American in 1925 and was later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. While his professional career was short, his college exploits were legendary, establishing him as a pivotal figure in Dartmouth's football history and a symbol of the sport's burgeoning popularity in the 1920s.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

-Consensus All-American (1925)

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee

-Led Dartmouth to an undefeated season