Football History

Claude Henry K. "Buddy" Young wasn't just a football player; he was a living, breathing, touchdown-scoring metaphor for defying expectations. Standing at just 5'4" and 163 pounds, he was the NFL's shortest running back ever, an underdog who rewrote the rulebook with every electrifying run.

Born in Chicago in 1926, Young was a natural athlete, excelling in both baseball and track. His size, however, made football seem like a distant dream. But that dream shimmered closer when Young's speed on the track, where he even tied the world record for the 60-yard dash, caught the eye of the University of Illinois.

In Champaign, Young transformed from track star to gridiron marvel. Nicknamed the "Bronze Bullet" for his explosive bursts of speed, he averaged nearly 9 yards per carry as a freshman, a record that stood for decades. He led the Illini to a Big Ten championship and a Rose Bowl victory in 1946, proving that size didn't define greatness.

After a stint in the Navy, Young embarked on a professional career that defied all odds. Despite being drafted in the Special Draft to avoid competition with taller players, he carved out a nine-year NFL career with the New York Yankees, Dallas Texans, and Baltimore Colts.

Young wasn't just a novelty; he was a weapon. He averaged over 4.5 yards per carry, rushed for over 40 touchdowns, and even returned a kickoff for 104 yards, an NFL record at the time. He could dance through tackles, leave defenders grasping at air, and disappear into the end zone in a blink.

Beyond his on-field exploits, Young was a trailblazer. He was the first African-American athlete on the Baltimore Colts roster, paving the way for future generations of players. His talent and grace challenged stereotypes and shattered prejudices, proving that greatness comes in all packages.

After his playing days ended, Young continued to serve the NFL as a player relations executive, sharing his wisdom and experience with a new generation of athletes. He passed away tragically in a car accident in 1983, leaving behind a legacy of courage, determination, and an undying love for the game.

Alexander Arrasi Agase was born in Chicago, Illinois, on March 27, 1922. His distinguished career encompassed collegiate stardom, professional championships, and leadership as a college head coach, leaving an indelible mark on American football.  

College Career

Agase's collegiate career began at the University of Illinois, where he quickly established himself as a dominant right guard starting in 1941. His exceptional play earned him his first All-American selection in 1942. Notably, in a game against Minnesota that year, Agase became only the second guard in college football history to score two touchdowns in a single game. With the onset of World War II, Agase enlisted in the U.S. Marines in 1943. During his military training, he played football alongside other military personnel at Purdue University. His outstanding performance there resulted in his second All-American honor in 1943, contributing to Purdue's undefeated season and Big Ten co-championship. After serving in the Pacific theater, including the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa where he was wounded and received a Purple Heart, Agase returned to Illinois for his senior season in 1946. He capped off his remarkable college career by earning his third All-American selection and the Chicago Tribune Silver Football as the Big Ten's most valuable player, leading the Fighting Illini to a Rose Bowl victory. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1963.  

Road to the Pro Game

Although drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1944, Agase's professional debut was delayed by his military service. Upon graduating, he signed with the Los Angeles Dons of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1947. After a brief stint with the Dons and the Chicago Rockets, he joined the Cleveland Browns in 1948. This move proved pivotal, as he became an integral part of a dominant Browns team that won two AAFC championships (1948, 1949) and the NFL Championship in 1950, following the AAFC's merger with the NFL. Agase's contributions as a key member of the offensive line were crucial to the Browns' success during this golden era.  

Football Legacy

Alex Agase's legacy extends far beyond his playing days. His three All-American selections in college underscore his exceptional talent and impact at that level. As a professional, he was a cornerstone of a championship-winning dynasty with the Cleveland Browns, demonstrating his toughness and skill in the trenches. Following his playing career, Agase transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant before taking on head coaching roles at Northwestern University and Purdue University. While his head coaching records were mixed, he notably led Northwestern to a Coach of the Year honor for the Football Writers Association of America in 1970. His career path, from a decorated player to a college coach, highlights his deep commitment to the sport. Agase's induction into the College Football Hall of Fame solidifies his place among the legends of the game.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

College:

-3x All-American (1942, 1943, 1946)

-Big Ten MVP (Chicago Tribune Silver Football, 1946)  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1963)  

Professional:

-2x AAFC Champion (1948, 1949)

-NFL Champion (1950)  

Coaching:

-Football Writers Association of America Coach of the Year (1970)

Born May 17, 1934, in Muskegon, Michigan, was NFL Championship and three-time Super Bowl winner Quarterback Earl Morrall.

The Michigan State Spartans product played in the NFL for 21 seasons, both a starter and reserve. In the latter capacity, he became known as one of the greatest backup quarterbacks in NFL history, having served in the capacity for two Hall of Fame quarterbacks in Johnny Unitas and Bob Griese.

He is most known for helping the Baltimore Colts win Super Bowl V and the Miami Dolphins complete their perfect season.

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The Original Baltimore Colts and their AAFC Team Story