Football History

Carl Hinkle's name might not resonate as readily as other football giants, but within the realm of college football, particularly at Vanderbilt University, he is revered as a legend. His career, spanning a mere three seasons (1935-1937), was marked by exceptional skill, leadership, and a lasting impact that transcended the game itself.

Hinkle was a standout center, a position demanding both physical prowess and mental acuity. He was known for his toughness, leadership, and an uncanny ability to make game-changing plays. He was a true ironman, playing every minute of seven games in his senior year, leading the Commodores in tackles, and finishing among the team leaders in interceptions. His athleticism wasn't confined to the football field; he also excelled in basketball and baseball, showcasing his well-rounded talent.

Hinkle's leadership extended beyond the playing field. He served as team captain in his senior year, exhibiting the qualities that cemented his legacy: dedication, work ethic, and an unwavering commitment to his teammates and the Vanderbilt program. He was instrumental in perpetuating the winning culture established by legendary coach Dan McGugin after his departure.

Hinkle's achievements were recognized not only by Vanderbilt, but also nationally. He earned First-Team All-America honors in 1937 and was named the SEC's Most Valuable Player. These accolades culminated in his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1959, solidifying his place among the sport's elite.

However, Hinkle's story goes beyond the accolades and statistics. He chose to prioritize his education and military service over a professional football career, a testament to his character and diverse aspirations. He graduated from Vanderbilt and went on to serve with distinction in the US Army, ultimately being awarded the Silver Star for his heroism during World War II.

Bill Romanowski's football career was a paradox – a story of undeniable talent and championship pedigree intertwined with controversy and a reputation for dirty play. This summary delves into his achievements and the shadows that followed him throughout his 16-year NFL journey.

A Dominant Linebacker

Romanowski wasn't just a linebacker but a force to be reckoned with. He possessed exceptional speed and strength, making him a tackling machine. His dedication to training and work ethic were undeniable. He was a two-time Pro Bowler, showcasing his on-field dominance.

Championship Legacy

Beyond individual accolades, Romanowski was a winner. He played in five Super Bowls with three different teams—the San Francisco 49ers, the Denver Broncos and the Oakland Raiders—and won four championships. His presence on the field instilled a sense of determination and toughness in his teammates.

A Legacy of Mixed Emotions

Bill Romanowski's impact on football is complex. He was a champion, a dominant player, and a controversial figure. While his achievements cannot be denied, his legacy is forever tied to his aggressive tactics, which left a mark on the sport.

James Lofton's career was a masterclass in longevity and excellence. Born July 5, 1956 James is a towering figure both literally and figuratively, Lofton carved his name into the annals of NFL history as one of the most prolific wide receivers of his era. His journey, spanning 16 seasons and five different teams, is a testament to his unwavering dedication and remarkable athletic ability.

Lofton's brilliance started at Stanford University, where he not only excelled on the gridiron but also captured the NCAA long jump title in 1978. His athleticism caught the eye of the Green Bay Packers, who drafted him sixth overall that same year.

Lofton's impact on the Packers was immediate. He formed a potent receiving duo with Don Hutson, stretching defenses with his impressive size (6'4") and blazing speed. He quickly earned the nickname "The Gentle Giant" for his quiet demeanor off the field, contrasting with his dominance on it. Lofton racked up Pro Bowl appearances and All-Pro selections, becoming a reliable target for quarterbacks like Lynn Dickey and Bart Starr.

In 1983, Lofton achieved a remarkable feat, leading the league in receiving yards with a staggering 1,749. This record-breaking season cemented his status as an elite wide receiver. Despite his individual success, the Packers struggled to find consistent postseason success during Lofton's tenure.

In 1987, after a well-publicized off-field incident, Lofton was traded to the Los Angeles Raiders. While his time with the Raiders and subsequent stops with the Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Rams, and Philadelphia Eagles wasn't as statistically dominant, he continued to be a valuable contributor. He defied age expectations, becoming the oldest player in NFL history to record a 1,000-yard receiving season in 1991 at the age of 35.

Lofton retired in 1993, holding the NFL record for career receiving yards (14,004) at the time. His 764 career receptions placed him third all-time. More importantly, he left a legacy of a player who could dominate games with his size, speed, and precise route running.

Lofton's impact transcended statistics. He was a pioneer for tall wide receivers, demonstrating the potential for players with his build to excel at the position. His quiet leadership and dedication to the game earned him respect throughout the league. In 2003, his enduring legacy was recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

James Lofton's career wasn't defined by flashy headlines or a Super Bowl ring. It was a story of steady excellence, defying expectations, and leaving a lasting mark on the game of football. He exemplified the phrase "gentle giant," showcasing a lethal combination of size, athleticism, and dedication that continues to inspire wide receivers to this day.

The World War II merger of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Philadelphia Eagles was out of personnel shortage necessity. it made for an interesting year with two head coaches and duel host cities, A sample of the early Pittsburgh Steelers history.

1943 wasn't your typical year for American football. World War II raged on, depleting rosters across the league and forcing some teams to make unthinkable decisions. Enter the "Steagles," the unlikely merger of the Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers, a temporary union born out of necessity that would become one of the most unique chapters in NFL history.

The concept was simple: combine the remaining players from both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh into a single team, allowing both franchises to survive the wartime talent drain. While the official name remained "Phil-Pitt Combine," the moniker "Steagles" quickly took hold, capturing the imagination of fans and media alike.

Head coach Greasy Neale and Walt Kiesling from the Eagles and Steelers, respectively, faced the daunting task of blending two distinct playing styles and rivalries. But the "Steagles" defied expectations. Led by quarterback Tommy Thompson, halfback Steve Van Buren, and a gritty defense, they played with the swagger of seasoned veterans, despite many players lacing up their cleats for the first time.

Despite a bumpy start, the Steagles found their rhythm. They upset established teams like the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears, proving their mettle against the league's best. Their hard-nosed, run-heavy offense and stingy defense became their trademarks, earning them the respect of their opponents and the admiration of fans across the country.

The 1943 season culminated in a 5-4-1 record, a respectable feat considering the circumstances. Though they missed the playoffs, the Steagles achieved something far greater: they kept professional football alive in two cities, providing a much-needed escape and fostering a sense of resilience during a tumultuous time.

The merger had its challenges. Rivalries simmered beneath the surface, and disagreements arose between coaching staffs. But ultimately, the camaraderie and shared purpose of playing for their respective cities and for the sport itself cemented the bond between the players and coaches.

The Steagles disbanded at the end of the 1943 season, returning to their separate identities as the Eagles and Steelers. However, their legacy endures. They serve as a reminder of the power of collaboration, resourcefulness, and the unwavering spirit of the game itself. The "Steagles" may have been a one-season wonder, but their story continues to inspire, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, the spirit of football can find a way to triumph.

Lawrence Timothy "Buck" Shaw was born on March 28, 1899, in Mitchellville, Iowa. A figure of significant influence in American football, Shaw excelled as a player and achieved considerable success as a coach at both the college and professional levels.  

Shaw started his football journey as one the best players in Notre Dame history and later became the San Francisco 49ers first head coach.

College Career

Shaw's collegiate athletic pursuits began at Creighton University in 1918, where he played one football game before a flu epidemic canceled the remainder of the season. In 1919, he transferred to the University of Notre Dame, initially drawn by their track and field program. However, under the guidance of the legendary Knute Rockne, Shaw became a standout two-way player for the Fighting Irish from 1919 to 1921.

Starting at tackle and also handling placekicking duties, he opened running lanes for the iconic George Gipp. Shaw earned All-American honors as a tackle and was recognized as part of Notre Dame's all-time "Fighting Irish" football team. He also achieved All-American status in track and field for his performance in the shot put at the 1921 NCAA Championships. His kicking accuracy was remarkable, setting a record by converting 38 of 39 extra points, a mark that stood for over five decades.  

Road to the Pro Game

After graduating from Notre Dame, Shaw embarked on a coaching career. He held his first head coaching position at North Carolina State in 1924, followed by four years as a line coach at the University of Nevada. He then joined Santa Clara University as a line coach before taking over as head coach in 1936.

His tenure at Santa Clara was highly successful, marked by an impressive .803 winning record, including consecutive Sugar Bowl victories in 1937 and 1938. During the 1937 season, Buck Shaw's Santa Clara team showcased a formidable defense, conceding a mere nine points across their nine games. Shaw's successful leadership of the Broncos was further emphasized by two significant wins against highly-regarded Louisiana State teams: a 21-14 victory in 1937 and a 6-0 shutout in 1938. Before his impactful time at Santa Clara, Shaw gained head coaching experience at North Carolina State in 1924 and at Nevada from 1925 to 1928.

After a year coaching at the University of California, Berkeley, in 1945, Shaw transitioned to the professional ranks. In 1946, he became the first head coach of the San Francisco 49ers in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC). He continued to coach the 49ers through their entry into the NFL in 1950 until 1954. Following a brief return to college coaching at the Air Force Academy (1956-1957), Shaw returned to the NFL in 1958 as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles.  

Football Legacy

Buck Shaw's football legacy is defined by his accomplishments as both a player and a coach. As a player, he was a key contributor to Notre Dame's early success under Rockne, earning All-American honors. However, his coaching career was even more impactful. He built a powerhouse program at Santa Clara, achieving national prominence with Sugar Bowl wins. In the professional ranks, Shaw holds the distinction of being the first head coach of the San Francisco 49ers and, more significantly, led the Philadelphia Eagles to the 1960 NFL Championship, defeating the legendary Vince Lombardi's Green Bay Packers in what remains the only playoff loss of Lombardi's NFL dynasty. Known as "the Silver Fox," Shaw demonstrated a consistent ability to build winning teams, earning a reputation as a respected and effective leader. His career spanned multiple levels of football, leaving a lasting influence on the sport.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

College (Player):

-All-American Tackle (Notre Dame)

-All-American Shot Put (Notre Dame, 1921)

-Part of Notre Dame's All-Time "Fighting Irish" Football Team

College (Coach):

-2x Sugar Bowl Champion (Santa Clara, 1937, 1938)  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1972)  

-Santa Clara University Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee (1962)  

Professional (Coach):

-NFL Champion (Philadelphia Eagles, 1960)  

-AP & UPI NFL Coach of the Year (1960)

-San Francisco Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame Inductee (1985)  

-San Jose Sports Hall of Fame Inductee

-Iowa Sports Hall of Fame Inductee

Coaching Record:

-College: 72-49-12

Professional (AAFC/NFL): 91-55-5

-Overall: 163-104-17

Buck Shaw won games coaching at many different programs including the Santa Clara Broncos.

Randall Wade Cunningham Sr. was born on March 27, 1963, in Santa Barbara, California. A dynamic and electrifying quarterback, Cunningham left an indelible mark on the NFL with his exceptional athleticism and playmaking ability, primarily during his tenures with the Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings.  

College Career

Cunningham attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he showcased his versatility. While primarily known for his quarterbacking prowess later in his career, Cunningham earned national recognition as a punter for the UNLV Rebels. He was a first-team College Football All-America selection as a punter in both 1983 and 1984. His strong leg and overall athletic talent were evident early in his collegiate career, setting the stage for his transition to quarterback at the professional level. In 2016, his achievements at UNLV were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.  

Road to the Pro Game

Cunningham's exceptional athleticism and potential as a quarterback led the Philadelphia Eagles to select him in the second round (37th overall) of the 1985 NFL Draft. Notably, he was the first quarterback chosen in that draft. Initially serving as a backup to veteran Ron Jaworski, Cunningham provided glimpses of his unique scrambling ability. In 1986, under new head coach Buddy Ryan, Cunningham gradually took over the starting role, despite playing behind a struggling offensive line that subjected him to a then-NFL record 72 sacks. By the 1987 season, Cunningham had firmly established himself as the Eagles' starting quarterback, captivating fans with his exciting dual-threat style of play.  

After 11 seasons in Philadelphia, marked by Pro Bowl selections and highlight-reel plays, Cunningham retired after the 1995 season. However, his passion for the game drew him back, and he joined the Minnesota Vikings in 1997. There, he reunited with former Eagles receiver Cris Carter. In 1998, Cunningham enjoyed a career resurgence, leading the Vikings to a remarkable 15-1 regular-season record. His stellar performance included 34 touchdown passes and a league-leading 106.0 passer rating, making him the first black quarterback to lead the league in that category. The Vikings set an NFL record for most points scored in a season that year, but ultimately fell short in the NFC Championship Game. After a decline in performance and losing his starting job in 1999, he was released. Cunningham spent his final two seasons in backup roles with the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens before retiring for good.  

Football Legacy

Randall Cunningham revolutionized the quarterback position with his exceptional athleticism and improvisational skills. His ability to extend plays with his legs and deliver accurate passes made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and consistently ranked among the league's most exciting players. At the time of his final retirement, Cunningham held the NFL record for quarterback rushing yards. His electrifying playing style inspired a generation of quarterbacks who embraced mobility as a key component of their game. Beyond his on-field achievements, Cunningham became an ordained minister, demonstrating a significant personal transformation. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame and his place in Eagles' franchise history solidify his lasting legacy as a true NFL icon.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

College:

-2x First-team All-American (Punter, 1983, 1984)

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2016)

Professional:

-4x Pro Bowl Selection (1988, 1990, 1992, 1998)  

-NFL Passer Rating Leader (1998)

-Minnesota Vikings Single-Season Record for Passing Touchdowns (34 in 1998)

Career Stats:

2,429 Completions
4,289 Attempts
29,979 Passing Yards
207 Passing Touchdowns
134 Interceptions
4,928 Rushing Yards
775 Rushing Attempts
35 Rushing Touchdowns

Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com
Other info from NFL.com, Pro Football Researchers Association, and Wikipedia

The life and career of Coach Buck Shaw which covers him as a player and a coach. He was the head coach at NC State Wolfpack, Nevada, Santa Clara, California Golden Bears, Air Force Academy in the college ranks. Then he jumped to the NFL with San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles.

Dutch Treat , Pro Football Hall of Fame Official Site provides a look at one of Norm Van Brocklin's top games.