Football History

Born May 5, 1919, Hamtramck, Michigan, was Michigan’s great tackle from 1939 to 1941 Bob Westfall. According to the Footballfoundation.org Bob was the starting fullback in every Michigan game from 1939 through 1941.

In his first two seasons he was part of a famous Michigan backfield, Tom Harmon, Forest Evashevski, Paul Kromer and Westfall. Westfall’s career yards in 3 seasons was 1,864 yards, a record for a Michigan fullback that lasted 30 years. Bob Westfall was honored to be selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1987.

Being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame is a mark of unparalleled prestige and accomplishment. It signifies that a player has not only excelled on the field but has also left a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This honor is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and impact in collegiate football, shaping the sport’s history and inspiring future players. Remembering these inductees is not just a tribute to their remarkable careers but also a celebration of their enduring influence on the game. Their stories and achievements serve as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the profound role they’ve played in elevating college football to new heights.

While Notre Dame's gridiron history is adorned with the names of flashy running backs and prolific passers, the foundation of any successful team is built on a strong offensive line. Edgar Miller, a stalwart tackle for the Fighting Irish in the early 1920s, exemplifies this principle. This essay explores Miller's impactful career, examining his role in Knute Rockne's revolutionary offense, his contributions to national championship runs, and his lasting legacy within the Notre Dame football program.

-A Pillar of Stability: Anchoring the "Seven Mules" (Early 1900s-1924)

Born in 1901, Edgar Miller arrived at Notre Dame possessing a powerful physique and a natural aptitude for football. Under the tutelage of the visionary coach Knute Rockne, Miller blossomed into a dominant tackle. He became a key member of the famed "Seven Mules" offensive line, a unit renowned for its strength, cohesion, and ability to pave the way for the explosive "Four Horsemen" backfield. Miller's unwavering presence on the left side of the line created running lanes and provided crucial protection for the likes of Don Hutson and Jim Crowley. His relentless blocking and tactical intelligence were instrumental in the "Seven Mules'" success.

-A Champion on and Off the Field (1922-1924)

Miller's impact extended beyond individual accolades. He was a leader within the offensive line, setting the tone with his work ethic and dedication. His quiet confidence and unwavering focus were admired by teammates and coaches alike. During his tenure at Notre Dame, the Fighting Irish established a national powerhouse under Rockne. Miller played a vital role in their undefeated season in 1924, a campaign culminating in a thrilling Rose Bowl victory. His contributions were a cornerstone of this historic achievement.

-From Player to Coach: A Legacy Beyond Notre Dame (1925-1974)

Following his playing career, Miller transitioned into coaching. He served as the head coach for the United States Naval Academy from 1931 to 1933, compiling a respectable record. Miller then spent over four decades at Navy as the line coach, leaving a lasting impact on countless players.

Miller's coaching philosophy emphasized the fundamentals – a reflection of his own playing style and the values instilled in him by Knute Rockne.

---

Born May 22, 1907, in Chicago, Illinois, was Washington tackle of 1929 to 1931, Paul Schwegler. The FootballFoundation.org reflects on how the Washinton Huskies football program was not very good during Schwegler’s time there. In fact they won only 12 of the 27 games played. But the play of tackle "Schweg" Schwegler, a native of Raymond, Washington, helped ease the pain and reverse the trend.

Despite Washington's lack of success, selectors were unable to overlook Schwegler, naming him to no less than 43 collegiate all-star teams.  In 1931 Paul was a first team All-America choice that year as well, and went on to be named the defensive standout of the West squad in the 1932 East-West Shrine game. Paul Schwegler received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1967.

Being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame is a mark of unparalleled prestige and accomplishment. It signifies that a player has not only excelled on the field but has also left a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This honor is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and impact in collegiate football, shaping the sport’s history and inspiring future players. Remembering these inductees is not just a tribute to their remarkable careers but also a celebration of their enduring influence on the game. Their stories and achievements serve as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the profound role they’ve played in elevating college football to new heights.

---

Ray Flaherty wasn't just a football player – he was a pioneer. His career spanned a crucial period in the sport's evolution, with his impact felt on both the playing field and the sidelines. While his achievements as a player were impressive, his coaching brilliance truly cemented his place in football history.

-Flaherty the Player

Flaherty's playing career started in the early days of professional football, a time of barnstorming teams and fledgling leagues. As a two-way end for Gonzaga University, under legendary coach Gus Dorias, he displayed a unique blend of power and agility, earning All-West Coast honors. Ray's tenure at the school included the legendary undefeated 1924 season for the Zags. A teammate of Flaherty's at Gonzaga was Houston Stockton, the grandfather of NBA legend John Stockton.

Ray then took his talents to the professional ranks, playing for the Los Angeles Wildcats and Red Grange's New York Yankees and finally finding his way onto the New York Football Giants roster. He was known for his toughness, intelligence, and versatility, often contributing on both sides of the ball.

The Wildcats were an LA team by name only but had a roster of many former Pacific Coast gridiron stalwarts, including Ray. They were an original American Football League team that never played a home game and tried to capitalize on the name recognition and draw of George Wildcat Wilson. As a member of these road warriors in the team's only season of 1926, Flaherty ended with a post-season barnstorming tour through the South against their AFL rival, the New York Yankees. The Yankees and their owner, C.C. Pyle, recognized the talent of young Flaherty and signed him on to the squad for the 1927 season, where the NFL awarded them a franchise as the first AFL folded. Ray played a couple of seasons in the Big Apple with the Yankees. Just after the 1928 season, this Yankees franchise shuttered its doors, and the now displaced Flaherty inked a contract with the crosstown rival Giants.

As a Giant in 1929, Flaherty immediately impacted the team. The two-way end caught eight touchdown passes and was second in points scored for Giants players that season behind only Fullback Tony Plansky and just ahead of offensive juggernauts Benny Friedman and Hap Moran. To say Ray Flaherty was significant to the '29 Giants, who secured a second-place record at 13-1-1, maybe an understatement. Ray finished his NFL career with 20 TD receptions, three All-Pro seasons, and one NFL Championship with the Giants in 1934. Ray played an instrumental part in this famous '34 Title game when he suggested that Giants players might better navigate footing on the icy Polo Grounds surface if they wore sneakers. This prompted head Steve Coach Steve Owen to borrow some tennis shoes from nearby Manhattan College to gain an advantage for New York in the contest. The suggestion of Flaherty was an overwhelming success as the Giants maintained better traction than the undefeated and heavily favored Chicago Bears, resulting in a 30-13 upset by the Giants.

Interestingly, Owen's friend, Abe Cohen, returned the sneakers to Manhattan College after the NFL game so the basketball team could practice the next day. One can only imagine the condition of the sneakers when the Manhattan players went to put them on for practice. Ray Flaherty's adept talent for finding an advantage led to the famous Sneaker game and foreshadowed the future coaches' talent as leading men.

However, Flaherty's true calling was coaching. In 1930, he returned to his alma mater, Gonzaga, to be head coach for a season. This early foray into coaching foreshadowed the success that awaited him in the professional ranks.

A tremendous athlete, Flaherty even experimented with his baseball talents in 1930, playing a season of minor league ball as a second baseman with the Providence Grays of the Eastern League.

After skipping the 1930 season with these ventures, Ray returned to the NFL and the Giants in 1931 to extend his playing career. Flaherty was a player-coach for the Giants beginning in 1933—he was the first assistant coach on Steve Owen's staff and served as the Giants captain those seasons.  

Historian Larry Schmitt tells us that Ray wore three different numbers with New York: #44 in 1929, #6 in 1931, and #1 from 1932-1935.

The Giants gave him #1 after Benny Friedman left for Brooklyn, and the #1 was retired in his honor in 1935. Flaherty is the first American professional athlete to have his jersey number retired. Ace Baily of the Toronto Maple Leafs was the first pro athlete to have his number retired in 1934. 

-As a Coach Flaherty Finds His True Calling

In 1936, the Boston Redskins ( who a year later became the Washington Redskins) appointed Flaherty as head coach. This was a pivotal moment for both the team and the young coach. Flaherty immediately instilled discipline and a winning mentality, leading the Redskins to a division title in his first season. His coaching philosophy emphasized innovation and a balanced attack. He's credited with inventing the screen pass, a play that revolutionized offensive strategy and continues to be a staple in football today.

Flaherty's tenure with the Redskins was a golden age. He led them to four division titles and two NFL championships (1937 and 1942). His teams were known for their toughness, offensive creativity, and relentless pursuit of victory. He was a master motivator, adept at getting the best out of his players, including future Hall of Famers like Sammy Baugh.

Following his service in World War II, Flaherty continued coaching in the newly formed All-America Conference. Though he didn't achieve the same level of success as with the Redskins, his overall coaching record remains impressive: 80 wins, 37 losses, and five ties. This translates to a .676 winning percentage, a testament to his coaching acumen.

Ray Flaherty's legacy extends beyond wins and championships. He was a bridge between the early days of professional football and the modern era. He was a player who understood the game from every angle and a coach who left an indelible mark on the sport through innovation and leadership. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1976 is a fitting tribute to a man who shaped the game we know and love today.

---

Red Badgro, a name seldom uttered in today's gridiron discussions, was once a dominant force in the early years of the National Football League (NFL). While his professional career was relatively brief, his impact on the New York Giants and the league was undeniable. This essay explores Badgro's impressive football journey, highlighting his versatility, leadership, and contributions to the sport's history.

Red was born Morris Hiram Badgro on December 1, 1902 in Orilla, Washington. He attended the University of Southern California and played football there. Badgro's athletic prowess was wider than the football field. He initially pursued a career in Major League Baseball, playing for the St. Louis Browns. However, in 1930, he signed with the New York Giants, marking the beginning of his legendary football career. Unlike most players today who specialize in offense or defense, Badgro was a two-way end, a role that was a rarity in the era's run-heavy style of play. He was a nightmare for opposing teams, excelling at tackling on defense while simultaneously being a powerful blocker and a skilled receiver on offense. Giants coach Steve Owen lauded Badgro's ability to "block, tackle, and catch passes equally well," a testament to his exceptional versatility.

Badgro's talent quickly translated into accolades. He was a constant presence on All-Pro teams, earning first or second-team honors an impressive four times throughout his six-year tenure with the Giants. This achievement becomes even more remarkable when considering that All-Pro teams back then only consisted of eleven players, making competition for these prestigious spots fierce.

Beyond individual recognition, Badgro played a pivotal role in the Giants' championship aspirations. He holds the distinction of scoring the very first touchdown in the inaugural NFL Championship Game in 1933. Furthermore, his key contributions to the Giants' 1934 championship victory, showcasing his leadership and clutch play throughout the season, were instrumental in the team's success.

Red Badgro's career, though short-lived, left an undeniable mark on the NFL. He was a dominant two-way player, a champion, and a pioneer in the league's early years. While his name may not resonate with contemporary fans, his story serves as a reminder of the incredible athletes who paved the way for the sport's modern era. His legacy lies in his versatility, leadership, and contributions to the historical tapestry of professional football.

Y.A. Tittle, an iconic figure in professional football, left an indelible mark on the game with a career that spanned from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. Tittle, born in 1926 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is best remembered for his remarkable performances as a quarterback in the NFL, particularly with the New York Giants.

Tittle’s football journey began at LSU, where he excelled as a college quarterback, leading the Tigers to prominence. His collegiate success paved the way for a professional career when he was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1948. However, his initial years in the NFL were relatively uneventful, with Tittle struggling to find his footing in a league still in its formative years.

The turning point in Tittle’s career came in 1951 when he was traded to the San Francisco 49ers. It was with the 49ers that Tittle truly began to shine, earning three Pro Bowl selections and establishing himself as one of the league’s top quarterbacks. His tenure with the 49ers was marked by his strong arm and precise passing, attributes that would define his career.

In 1961, Tittle joined the New York Giants, where he would achieve his most significant accomplishments. Under his leadership, the Giants reached the NFL Championship game in 1961, 1962, and 1963. The 1963 season was particularly memorable as Tittle set several records, including the then-NFL record for most touchdown passes in a season (36). His outstanding performance earned him the NFL MVP award and cemented his reputation as one of the greatest quarterbacks of his era.

Y.A. Tittle's career is remembered not only for his statistical achievements but also for his impact on the evolution of the quarterback position. His ability to read defenses, execute precise throws, and lead his teams made him a pioneering figure in professional football. Tittle retired with a legacy that continues to inspire future generations, exemplifying excellence in the game and leaving an enduring legacy in the annals of NFL history.

---

Sam Huff, a legendary linebacker for the New York Giants, etched his name into the annals of NFL history. Known for his ferocious tackling and relentless pursuit of the quarterback, Huff was a cornerstone of the Giants' defensive dominance during the 1950s and 1960s.

Drafted in the first round of the 1951 NFL Draft by the Giants, Huff quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His physicality and instincts were unmatched, and he became a terror to opposing offenses. Huff's ability to read the play and anticipate the quarterback's movements made him a nightmare for opposing signal-callers.

One of Huff's most memorable moments came in the 1956 NFL Championship Game against the Chicago Bears. In a defensive struggle, Huff intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown, helping to secure the Giants' victory. This play cemented Huff's status as a defensive superstar and a fan favorite.

Huff's career was not without its challenges. He battled injuries throughout his playing days, but his toughness and determination allowed him to overcome adversity. He retired from the NFL in 1964 after a stellar 13-year career.

Sam Huff's impact on the NFL extended beyond his playing days. He became a respected broadcaster and commentator, sharing his insights and knowledge of the game with fans. Huff's legacy as a fierce competitor and a true gentleman of the game continues to inspire generations of football players and fans.

---

Our guest, Andrew Stockmann, is trying to preserve sports history. He is wrapping up post-graduate studies with the desire to run a sports museum near you. He is also the host of the Hallowed Ground Podcast, which showcases many museums and sports curators that honor the legends and the legendary.

We chat with Andrew about everything from his beloved KC Chiefs to his internship in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and everything in between.

Visit Andrew on X

This discussion is about the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the guest speaker’s experience working there as an intern. The speaker, Andrew Stockmann, shares his passion for football and museums, and recommends some must-see items at the Hall of Fame.

Andrew grew up in Kansas City and has been a Chiefs fan since childhood. He went to college at Wichita State University and studied sports management. After graduating, he worked for a fraternity and then started his own podcast called “Hallowed Ground: The Sports Museum Podcast.” In 2021, he decided to pursue a career in sports heritage and enrolled in the Museum Studies program at the University of Kansas. As part of his studies, he interned at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, during the summer of 2023.

Andrew recommends several things to see at the Hall of Fame, but he likes a gray metal panel on the second-floor and its interesting story in NFL history.

There is this and chats about the KC Choefs, a bit of baseball history and more. Take a look and listen.

In the annals of NFL history, some names evoke images of dazzling touchdowns and gravity-defying catches. Jim Langer wasn't one of those names. Yet, his impact on the game resides in a different realm – the often-overlooked yet crucial world of the offensive line. Langer's career wasn't defined by flashy stats, but by a relentless dedication to excellence and a dominance that anchored some of the most successful offenses in NFL history.

Langer's journey began not on a manicured football field, but in the disciplined environment of the United States Marine Corps. This instilled in him the toughness and perseverance that would become hallmarks of his playing style. Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1970, he was quickly released. However, the Miami Dolphins recognized his potential and picked him up on waivers. This decision proved to be a turning point, not just for Langer, but for the entire franchise.

Langer's arrival coincided with the rise of the legendary Miami Dolphins. Teaming up with the "Marks Brothers" – wide receivers Mark Clayton and Mark Duper – and anchored by center Dwight Stephenson, Langer formed the core of an offensive line that paved the way for the explosive passing attack led by quarterback Dan Marino. But Langer was more than just a blocker; he was the field general of the offensive line, calling out assignments and directing his unit with a quiet intensity.

Langer's dominance wasn't limited to brute strength. He possessed exceptional agility and footwork, a necessity for facing the speedy pass rushers of the era. His ability to neutralize them allowed Marino the time and space to orchestrate his magic plays. This resulted in seasons with league-leading offenses, culminating in Langer earning a place on the All-Pro team seven times.

However, Langer's legacy extends beyond individual accolades. He played a pivotal role in the Miami Dolphins' run of dominance in the 1970s and 80s, culminating in their perfect season in 1972 – the only undefeated season in NFL history. His leadership and work ethic became an inspiration for aspiring linemen, demonstrating that success on the field often hinges on the unseen and underappreciated contributions of these "big men."

Jim Langer's career serves as a testament to the vital role offensive linemen play in the game. He was the immovable force behind a dynasty, a silent leader whose dedication and grit propelled his team to unparalleled heights. While the spotlight may often shine on the quarterbacks and receivers, Langer's legacy reminds us that true greatness can be found in the trenches, anchoring the team and laying the foundation for victory.

Born May 16, 1948 - Little Falls, Minnesota - The South Dakota State center Jim Langer arrived to have his birth certificate signed.

Langer, according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s bio on him, walked on to the 1970 Miami Dolphins as a free agent. He soon became a starter and even played every offensive snap of the Miami perfect season of 1972, needing the help of a teammate on only three of 500 snaps of blocking assignments that year!

Jim was a four-time All-Pro, playing in 3 Super Bowls and in 6 Pro Bowls. Jim Langer had his body of NFL work enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.  

Born August 6, 1947, in Bartow, Florida, was Pro Football Hall of Fame Corner Back, Ken Riley. Riley was a First-Team All-Pro 1983 for the Cincinnati Bengals and later was the coach of Florida A&M 1994-2003. Riley recorded 65 interceptions in his career, which was the fourth most in NFL history at the time of his retirement behind three members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Before his Hall of Fame career as a cornerback in the NFL, Ken Riley Sr. carved his name in college football history as a standout quarterback at Florida A&M University (FAMU).

Leading Man of the Rattlers:

From 1965 to 1968, Riley was the starting quarterback for the FAMU Rattlers, then part of the NCAA Division II Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). Under legendary coach Jake Gaither, Riley led the Rattlers to a dominant 23-7 record, capturing three consecutive SIAC championships (1966-1968).

Riley's offensive prowess shined. He accumulated impressive stats, including:

-3,860 rushing yards: This set a new FAMU record at the time and remains the fifth-highest total in school history.

-1,702 passing yards and 14 touchdowns: His dual-threat ability kept defenses guessing.

Known as "Rattler" during his playing days, wasn't just a big NFL football player; he was a lockdown cornerback who left a lasting impression on the Cincinnati Bengals franchise and the sport itself. Here are some key points about his career:

Career Highlights:

-15 seasons: Played his entire career (1969-1983) with the Cincinnati Bengals, a testament to his loyalty and impact on the team.

-Interception Machine: Holds the Bengals record for most career interceptions (65), tied for 5th most in NFL history at the time of his retirement.

-5 Touchdown Returns: Demonstrated his offensive explosiveness, turning interceptions into scoring plays.

-All-Pro Recognition: Earned Pro Bowl selections in 7 consecutive seasons (1974-1980) and received All-Pro honors 3 times.