Football History

Tony Gonzalez, born on February 27, 1976, in Torrance, California, stands as one of the most prolific tight ends in NFL history. His exceptional athleticism and unwavering dedication forged a career that redefined the position.  

-College Career

-Gonzalez's collegiate journey took place at the University of California, Berkeley, where he excelled in both football and basketball.  

-As a member of the California Golden Bears football team, he showcased his remarkable receiving abilities, foreshadowing his future NFL dominance.  

-His combination of size, speed, and hands made him a standout player.

-Road to the Pro Game

-Tony Gonzalez was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the first round (13th overall) of the 1997 NFL Draft.  

-This marked the beginning of a legendary professional career that would span 17 seasons.  

-He would go on to also play for the Atlanta Falcons.  

-Football Legacy

-Tony Gonzalez's legacy is defined by his unparalleled consistency and durability.

-He revolutionized the tight end position, proving that it could be a primary receiving threat.  

-His record-breaking statistics and numerous accolades have solidified his place as one of the greatest tight ends of all time.  

-He is known for his reliable hands, and his ability to make tough catches.  

-He is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee.

-14× Pro Bowl selection.
 
-6× First-team All-Pro selection.  

-NFL 2000s All-Decade Team.

-NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team.

-NFL receptions leader (2004).  

-Career NFL statistics:

-Receptions: 1,325.  

-Receiving yards: 15,127.  

-Receiving touchdowns: 111.  

Tony Gonzalez's impact on the NFL extends beyond his impressive statistics. He set a new standard for tight end play, inspiring future generations of athletes.

Jim Swink was born on March 14, 1936, in Sacul, Texas. His electrifying performances on the football field at Texas Christian University (TCU) cemented his place in college football history.

College Career

Swink's college career at TCU was nothing short of spectacular. As a halfback, he became a legend, renowned for his elusive running style that earned him nicknames like "Ol' Swivel Hips" and "The Rusk Rambler." Under coach Abe Martin, Swink played a crucial role in TCU's success, leading the Horned Frogs to a Southwest Conference (SWC) championship in 1955 and consecutive Cotton Bowl appearances in 1956 and 1957. His performance against the University of Texas in 1955, where he rushed for 235 yards and scored 26 points, is particularly memorable, and it's where the famous "Hook 'em, Horns" slogan originated.

-Road to the Pro Game

While Swink's college achievements were extraordinary, his professional football career was limited. He did not play in the NFL. Swink's legacy is firmly rooted in his collegiate achievements.

-Football Legacy

Jim Swink's legacy is deeply intertwined with TCU football and the lore of the SWC. He is remembered as one of the most dynamic halfbacks in the conference's history. His impact extends beyond statistics, as he inspired the iconic "Hook 'em, Horns" slogan, a testament to the fear and respect he commanded on the field.

Swink also is remembered for being the subject of the famous University of Texas expression, “Hook ’em, Horns.” Before a November 12, 1955 game where TCU, ranked 8th in the nation were set to battle with the Longhorns, Texas students fearing Jim Swink’s elusive running style came up with the inspirational slogan to motivate and illustrate their desire for their defense.

“They had a guy in their student body that knew our team and spread the word that they needed to stop me from running,” Swink told the TCU magazine in a 2006 interview. “The Texas players obviously had heard about how strong a team we had, too. So they came up with ‘hook him’ because they wanted to catch me, trip me up, slow me down. And that game was the first time they used that.”

Other than the legacy that the team slogan still carries, it was all for not in the case of the 1955 game against the Horned Frogs though. Jim Swink had one of his best games of his collegiate career, as he pounded the turf for 235 yards on 15 carries for a 15.7-yard average and scored a school-record 26 points. TCU dominated Texas on that Saturday by a score of 47-20.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-Two-time All-America selection.

-1955 Heisman Trophy runner-up.

-Led the nation in scoring and was second in rushing yards in 1955.

-Set a TCU record with 1,283 rushing yards in 1955.

-Scored a school-record 26 points in a single game against Texas.

-125 points scored during his 1955 junior season.

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1980.

-Led TCU to a SWC crown in 1955.

-Helped TCU reach back-to-back Cotton Bowl appearances.

Jim was a two-time All-America selection and ended up second to Howard Cassady of Ohio State in the Heisman Trophy voting in '55. Jim Swink received the great honor of being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1980.

On a crisp November night in 1998, the gridiron at Kansas State University was the stage for a historic showdown. The No. 2-ranked Wildcats, led by the dynamic Michael Bishop, were set to face off against the No. 11 Nebraska Cornhuskers. A rivalry steeped in tradition, this matchup promised fireworks, and it delivered.

Bishop orchestrated a masterful performance, accounting for 446 total yards of offense and four touchdowns. His pinpoint passing and elusive running kept the Nebraska defense on its heels. However, the game's most iconic moment came in the closing seconds. With Nebraska threatening to tie the game, a crucial fumble by Cornhuskers quarterback Eric Crouch was scooped up by Wildcats linebacker Jeff Kelly, who raced 24 yards to the end zone, sealing a thrilling 40-30 victory for Kansas State. This victory marked the end of a 30-year drought against Nebraska, a drought that had haunted the Wildcats for decades. The win propelled Kansas State to an undefeated 10-0 record under the legendary coach Bill Snyder, solidifying their place in college football history.

Imagine a Heisman Trophy winner who wasn't even the starting quarterback at the season's outset! John Huarte, the Notre Dame signal-caller who wore number 7, defied expectations in 1964. Despite his April 6th birthday coinciding with today's legendary status on the Fighting Irish roster and his eventual College Football Hall of Fame induction solidify his improbable journey to football immortality.

John Huarte's Heisman triumph was a testament to perseverance and seizing opportunity. Wearing the iconic #7 for Notre Dame, the quarterback unexpectedly led the Fighting Irish to a remarkable season. While his professional career saw him don #7 for the Patriots, Eagles, Bears, and Chiefs, his collegiate heroics etched his name in football lore. His story serves as an inspiration, proving that even underdogs can achieve greatness on the gridiron.

-College Career

John Huarte's collegiate career at Notre Dame was a narrative of resilience. After a sophomore season hampered by injuries, his playing time was limited in 1963. However, the arrival of new head coach Ara Parseghian in 1964 marked a turning point. Parseghian's decision to name Huarte the starting quarterback proved to be a stroke of brilliance. Unleashed in Parseghian's offense, Huarte exploded onto the national scene. He shattered Notre Dame's single-season passing records, displaying a potent arm and remarkable leadership. He guided the Fighting Irish to an impressive 9-1 record, a stark contrast to previous seasons, and captured the nation's attention with his stellar performances.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Huarte's remarkable senior campaign propelled him into the professional football landscape. In the 1965 draft, the American Football League's New York Jets selected him in the second round. While his collegiate success suggested a bright future as a starting quarterback, his professional career took a different trajectory. Huarte spent several seasons in the pros as a backup quarterback. He played for several teams in both the AFL and the NFL, including the Boston Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings, Kansas City Chiefs, and Chicago Bears, from 1965 to 1972. Though he didn't replicate his college stardom as a consistent starter, his longevity in the professional ranks speaks to his talent and dedication.  

-Football Legacy

John Huarte's football legacy is firmly rooted in his unforgettable 1964 season at Notre Dame. His dramatic rise from sparingly used player to Heisman Trophy winner embodies the spirit of college football. He represents the potential for breakthrough performances and the impact a coach's belief can have on a player's career. While his professional career saw him in a supporting role, his collegiate achievements were so significant that they earned him the ultimate honor in college football: induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005. His story serves as a reminder that a single, exceptional season can etch a player's name into football lore.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-Heisman Trophy Winner: 1964  

-Notre Dame Single-Season Passing Records (1964): (Specific records would need to be verified through further research, but he broke virtually all of them at the time).

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee: 2005

-AFL Draft: 1965, 2nd Round, New York Jets  

-NFL Teams: New York Jets (AFL), Boston Patriots (AFL), Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Kansas City Chiefs (NFL), Chicago Bears (NFL)  

-Professional Career Span: 1965-1972 (Specific professional career stats regarding games played, passes attempted/completed, yards, and touchdowns would require further research of his time with each of the listed teams).

Relive the glory of "Iron Mike" Garrett, USC's explosive halfback and 1965 Heisman Trophy winner! Born on EventDay: April 12, his electrifying runs and versatility set college records. Discover how this #20 Trojan legend transitioned to the NFL, playing for the Chiefs and Chargers, wearing #20, #21, and #25.

Mike Garrett, a College Football Hall of Famer, dominated NCAAF wearing #20 for the USC Trojans, earning the coveted Heisman in 1965. His remarkable college career paved the way to the NFL, where he showcased his talents with the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Diego Chargers. Explore the legacy of this EventDay: April 12 icon.

Mike Garrett left an indelible mark on football, from his record-breaking performances at Southern Cal to his professional career with the Chiefs and Chargers. A Heisman winner and College Football Hall of Famer, his impact on the game continues to resonate. Celebrate his achievements on EventDay: April 12.

April 12, 1944, in Los Angeles, California, marked the arrival of Michael "Mike" Lynn Garrett, a dynamic halfback who would leave an indelible mark on both the college and professional football landscapes. His explosive speed and versatility made him a standout player throughout his career.

-College Career

Garrett's collegiate career at the University of Southern California (USC) from 1963 to 1965 was spectacular. Serving as the Trojans' primary ball carrier, he consistently ranked among the nation's top ten rushers in each of his three seasons. His remarkable talent culminated in breaking Ollie Matson's 15-year-old national career rushing record, amassing a total of 3,221 yards. Garrett also displayed a nose for the end zone, scoring 30 rushing touchdowns. Beyond his ground prowess, he was a multifaceted threat, catching 36 passes, returning 43 punts (including electrifying 87 and 74-yard touchdowns against Cal in 1965), returning 30 kickoffs with an impressive 23-yard average, and even throwing six passes. His exceptional open-field abilities earned him the moniker "Iron Mike" and made him a constant threat to opposing defenses.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Garrett's stellar college performance naturally paved the way to the professional ranks. He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs and embarked on an eight-year NFL career, playing for both the Chiefs (1966-1970) and the San Diego Chargers (1971-1973). His success at the collegiate level translated to the pros, where he continued to showcase his dynamic running style and earned All-Pro honors as a halfback.

-Football Legacy

Mike Garrett's legacy is firmly etched in football history. His record-breaking rushing career at USC established him as one of the all-time great college running backs. His versatility as a receiver and return specialist further highlighted his exceptional athleticism. He was a key contributor to USC's success during his tenure and his individual accolades stand as a testament to his dominance. His transition to the professional level and subsequent All-Pro recognition underscore his ability to excel against the highest competition. Garrett's impact on the game is celebrated through his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1985.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Heisman Trophy (1965)

-Walter Camp Memorial Trophy (1965)

-Pop Warner Award (1965)

-Unanimous All-American (1965)

-Two-time All-American (1964, 1965)  

-Helms Foundation North American Athlete of the Year

-YMCA Athlete of the Year

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1985)  

-College Career Rushing Record (3,221 yards)

-30 Career Rushing Touchdowns (College)

-36 Career Receptions (College)

-43 Career Punt Returns (College)

-30 Career Kickoff Returns (College), 23-yard average

-All-Pro Halfback (NFL)

Patrick Mahomes, the star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, has quickly become one of the NFL's most outstanding players. With two league MVP awards and leading his team to three Super Bowl victories in 2020, 2023, and 2024, Mahomes has already etched his name in football history as one of the all-time greats.

Photo of Patrick Mahomes by All-Pro Reels from District of Columbia, USA on Wikimedia Commons | AD

On Feb. 11, Patrick Mahomes added another accolade to his impressive career by being named the MVP of Super Bowl LVIII after throwing for 333 yards and delivering a game-winning touchdown in overtime. At just 28 years old, Mahomes is now one of only three players, along with Joe Montana and Tom Brady, to have won the Super Bowl MVP three times.

The Chiefs, under Mahomes' leadership, have matched the Patriots' achievement of winning back-to-back Super Bowls, further solidifying Mahomes' legacy in the sport.

-NFL Career: Kansas City Chiefs

Patrick Mahomes' journey with the Kansas City Chiefs began when he was drafted as the 10th overall pick in the 2017 NFL draft. He made his debut later that year against the Denver Broncos and quickly showcased his potential. By 2018, Mahomes had already made history by throwing for 50 touchdowns and 5,000 passing yards in a single season, joining an exclusive club of quarterbacks to achieve such a feat.

That stellar performance earned him the NFL's MVP award and marked him as the first player in Chiefs' history to win the honor. In February 2020, Mahomes led the Chiefs to a Super Bowl victory over the San Francisco 49ers, earning the MVP title for the game. His success secured him a record-breaking 10-year contract extension, solidifying his place with the team.

Despite a setback in 2021 with a Super Bowl loss to Tom Brady's Buccaneers, Mahomes and the Chiefs bounced back in 2023, defeating the Philadelphia Eagles for another championship. That season, Mahomes threw for over 4,000 yards and 27 touchdowns, leading the team to impressive playoff victories.

In Super Bowl LVIII, he orchestrated a dramatic comeback to defeat the 49ers, further adding to his legacy with another MVP award.

-Star of Quarterback

In July 2023, Netflix released a docuseries titled "Quarterback," featuring Patrick Mahomes, Marcus Mariota, and Kirk Cousins. This series, which had NFL legend Peyton Manning as an executive producer, provided an inside look at Mahomes' 2022 NFL season.

Viewers were given a unique perspective on his rigorous practice routines and glimpses of his life off the field with his wife, Brittany, and their family.
The series offered fans a deeper understanding of what it takes to be an NFL quarterback and highlighted Mahomes' dedication both as an athlete and a family man.

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Test your knowledge of the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers before they meet in Super Bowl LVIII.

These five questions span generations of these teams' each respective history.

Kansas Historical Society