Football History

---

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.

The Detroit Lions, a storied franchise with a rich history, have a relatively small but distinguished list of retired jersey numbers. These numbers represent the pinnacle of achievement for players who have made indelible marks on the team.

Among the most iconic is the number 20, a unique distinction in NFL history, as it was retired to honor three legendary players: Lem Barney, Billy Sims, and Barry Sanders.

Each of these running backs epitomized excellence and redefined the position during their respective eras.  

Other retired numbers include 7 for Dutch Clark, a pioneering figure in the early days of the Lions, and 56 for Joe Schmidt, a Hall of Fame linebacker known for his fierce competitiveness. These numbers serve as a permanent tribute to these football greats, inspiring future generations of Lions players and fans alike. While the list of retired jerseys may be shorter compared to some other franchises, the significance of each number is undeniable.
 

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Detroit anymore:

-Jersey Number 7
Dutch Clark

-Jersey Number 20
Lem Barney
Barry Sanders
Billy Simms

-Jersey Number 22
Bobby Layne

-Jersey Number 37
Doak Walker

-Jersey Number 56
Joe Schmidt

-Jersey Number 85
Chris Hughes

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

---

A shocking football news bulletin filled the airways in 2000 when recently acquired Indianapolis Colts Running Back Fred Lane was found dead in a pool of blood at his home. What happened? Who did it? Here is the story of Fred that came from the newspapers.

Fred Lane Sr. was a gridiron star at Natchez High School in Franklin, Tennessee. Fred Sr. passed down some of his remarkable football ability and knowledge to his son Fred Jr., who became a rare talent at the same school, now renamed Franklin High. Lane Jr possessed uncommon speed and agility for such a young player. At Franklin High, Jr. amassed over 1,000 yards his senior season, averaging 7.5 yards per carry. His impact was so impressive that the school retired his number 28 jersey in honor of his athletic brilliance.

This skill set was not unnoticed by college recruiters at the oddly enough but appropriately named Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee. The institution is a private, historically black college associated with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. The school was established in 1878 to provide education for newly freed enslaved and named for one of its co-founders, Methodist Bishop Isaac Lane. Besides Fred, former NFL player Jacoby Jones played football for the Lane College Dragons.

Fred rushed for 3612 yards in his career at the school. He set multiple school rushing records, including running for 305 yards versus Miles College in a 1995 game. The athlete's success peaked in his junior year when Fred was placed on the Harlon Hill Trophy watchlist as one of DII's top players. In the same year, Lane was named to the Heritage Radio HBCU All-American team and several other media services' All-American teams. Fred Lane Jr's #6 jersey was also retired by Lane College.

Lane was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Panthers before the 1997 NFL season. The Panthers brass recognized the untapped talent of the youngster and wanted to explore its effectiveness in the NFL. Fred had a very interestingly successful debut as, during his rookie season, Lane set several franchise records.

After three years with the Panthers, Lane was traded to the Indianapolis Colts on April 21, 2000. For the Panthers, he had accumulated 2,001 rushing yards (the most in franchise history) and 13 touchdowns.

Unfortunately, Fred would never play a meaningful down for the Colts. On July 6, 2000, the promising life of the 24-year-old Fred Lane Jr was cut short in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

Upon returning home from out of town, Lane went to his front door, placed the keys to the home, and unlocked it. When he opened the door, he faced one of the most frightful sites imaginable—the business end of a shotgun with a willing shooter poised with a finger on the trigger. Mecklenburg County Assistant District Attorney Marcia Goodenow described the scene as one where the athlete had no time to react.

The sound of the gun rang through the formerly quiet neighborhood. The discharge of the weapon found its mark in Lane's chest from a reported 5-8 feet away. Fred survived this initial mele. Wounded, he scrambled for an escape, crawling through his blood on the front stoop of his home. Seconds later, his life ended with a second deadly blast to the head from the same firearm and shooter.

The assailant was his wife, Deidra Lane. A $5 million insurance policy drove her motive. The couple's financial advisor had recently joked in inferior taste that it would be a good windfall for the financially cash-strapped couple. Fred, who had recently been paid almost $600,000 for playing for the Carolina Panthers in 1999, was said to be "cash poor" along with his wis spouse. That same Financial advisor, Rodney Harris, sold the couple the mutual aiding policy that in the event of either of their deaths, the other could enjoy a good lifestyle. Lane was said to be a typical immature early twenty-something who had been previously charged with drug possession. According to surviving family members, Fred was putting that former lifestyle of partying and ill spending behind him, possibly some indication of seeking financial advice from a professional.

Harris testified later in court that in June, just a few weeks before the murder, Deidra asked the insurance provider if she would be paid as a result of Fred dying in a drunk driving accident. Harris responded by saying, "Yes," but he also told the star player's spouse, "If you kill Fred, it will not pay you."

The murder trial of Deidra was in November of 2003, and testimonies from witnesses on both sides portrayed both parties as aggressors in an abusive relationship. NFL wide receiver Mushin Muhammed testified for the prosecution, stating that he had witnessed deep scratches on his former Panthers teammate done by Deidra's hand. The Lanes recently greeted the arrival of a baby girl just weeks before the shooting. Fred's family claimed that when Fred held his newborn daughter a week before his death, he said the baby didn't look like him. The couple was reported estranged, possibly over the alleged abuse and suspected infidelity. Fred was even said to be in the process of filing for divorce and executing the cut-off of financial ties with Deidra. Fred was returning home to gather and sell a motorcycle, not reconciling with his wife per the deceased's family.

In retort, Deidra's mother claimed that Deidra's face was swollen from an alleged beating, but these were not mentioned by police reports or documented by photos publicly. Mrs. Lane stayed at the scene to give the cops a full report of the incident and was even the one to call 911.

The trial ended with the guilty conviction of Deidra Lane, after he pleaded to Voluntary Manslaughter, as she was to serve the complete sentence of eight years of incarceration, minus time previously served.

The Cleveland Browns boast a rich history filled with legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. As a testament to their extraordinary contributions, a select few have earned the ultimate honor of having their jersey numbers retired. These numbers, once worn by gridiron greats, are now permanently enshrined in the annals of Browns history.

From the glory days of the Cleveland Browns to the franchise's resurgence, these retired jerseys represent the pinnacle of achievement. Each number tells a unique story of talent, dedication, and perseverance. As we explore the Browns' retired jerseys, we'll delve into the lives and careers of these iconic players, paying homage to their impact on the team and the game of football.

Here are the retired Browns jersey numbers:

-Jersey Number 14
Otto Graham

-Jersey Number 32
Jim Brown

-Jersey Number 45
Ernie Davis

-JerseybNumber 46
Don Fleming

-Jersey Number 76
Lou Groza

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What are some of the most unique football jerseys in history? Gridiron jerseys with logos on the front were once a fad. Check out this story titled Football Jerseys with Emblems.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

When it comes to discussing the top quarterbacks in NFL history, the debate can get as heated as a last-minute playoff drive. With a blend of old-school legends and modern-day maestros, narrowing down the best of the best is no easy task. But who makes the cut among the greatest quarterbacks to ever grace the gridiron? Here’s a look at the top ten quarterbacks in NFL history, blending statistical milestones, impact on the game, and championship pedigree.

A football laying on top of a lush green field, Courtesy Melissa McGovern via UnSplash| AD.

-1. Tom Brady
 
Starting off with Tom Brady is a no-brainer. With seven Super Bowl wins and three NFL MVP awards, Brady's career from his days with the New England Patriots to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers showcases unmatched longevity and peak performance. Brady ranks No. 1 all-time among quarterbacks in wins (251), Pro Bowls (15), Super Bowl MVPs (5), completions (7,753), passing yards (89,214), and passing touchdowns (649).

-2. Joe Montana

Known for his calm demeanor and the ability to perform under pressure, Joe Montana, a four-time Super Bowl champion with the San Francisco 49ers, is often considered the epitome of a clutch quarterback. 

-3. Peyton Manning

Peyton Manning redefined NFL offenses with his intelligent play-calling and execution. Manning’s five MVP awards and two Super Bowl titles speak volumes about his impact on the game. In 2013, Manning set the all-time record for most passing yards in a single season with 5,477. That year, he also broke the single-season record by throwing 55 touchdowns.

-4. Johnny Unitas

Johnny Unitas's blend of toughness and leadership in the Baltimore Colts’ golden era set the standards for what it meant to be an NFL quarterback in the pre-Super Bowl era and beyond. 


-5. Brett Favre

With a career that spanned the Green Bay Packers, New York Jets, and Minnesota Vikings, Brett Favre was known for his iron-man streak and gunslinger mentality, which led him to one Super Bowl victory and three MVP titles.

-6. Dan Marino
 
Despite never winning a Super Bowl, Dan Marino’s pure passing ability and quick release set numerous passing records during his time with the Miami Dolphins, making him one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game.

-7. John Elway

John Elway’s career, marked by two Super Bowl victories and five appearances with the Denver Broncos, was defined by remarkable comebacks and his dual-threat capabilities. 

-8. Aaron Rodgers

As one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history, Aaron Rodgers boasts incredible accuracy and mobility, along with a Super Bowl win and three MVP awards in Green Bay. He is hoping to add at least one more Super Bowl in the twilight of his career with the New York Jets.

-9. Steve Young

Taking over for Joe Montana, Steve Young continued the San Francisco 49ers' legacy with his exceptional passing efficiency and mobility, winning three Super Bowl titles, one as a starter.
-(tie) 10. Drew Brees

Drew Brees combined accuracy and productivity to a level rarely seen in the NFL, breaking multiple passing records during his time with the New Orleans Saints and earning one Super Bowl MVP award.

-(tie) 10. Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes seems dead set on breaking some, if not all, of Tom Brady’s records. At just 28 years old, Mahomes already has three Super Bowl wins, three Super Bowl MVPs, and two regular season MVPs. Additionally, he has thrown 45 postseason touchdowns, ranking him No. 3 all-time. By the time 2024 ends, he could rank second on the list with only Brady above him.

-The Future of the Field: Jordan Love and the Next Generation of NFL Quarterbacks

As we honor the legends of the past, the NFL's future also looks bright with emerging talents like Jordan Love. Drafted by the Green Bay Packers, Love is seen as a quarterback with significant potential to shape the next decade of football. His strong arm, mobility, and poise under pressure suggest he could one day join the ranks of the quarterbacks discussed above. 

As Love develops, football fans and analysts on podcasts and in sports columns are keen to see how he will leave his mark in a league that constantly evolves. His journey is a reminder that the story of great NFL quarterbacks is ongoing, and the next great chapter could be just around the corner.

-Conclusion

This list of quarterbacks represents the pinnacle of NFL success. Their impact extends beyond the numbers, influencing generations and changing the way football is played. While the order may be debatable, their legendary status is undeniable.

Unlike many NFL franchises, the Jacksonville Jaguars have yet to officially retire a large number of jersey numbers. They do have one digit put on mothballs though.

While this might seem unusual for a team with a history as rich as theirs, it's a decision that reflects the team's philosophy. Instead of formally retiring numbers, the Jaguars have opted to honor their legends in other ways, such as the Ring of Honor and various team awards. This approach allows for flexibility in player number assignments while still recognizing the contributions of franchise icons.

-Jersey Number 71
Tony Boselli

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions


-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Who are some of the most famous NFL players at each jersey number? From Red Grange's jersey number 77 to Tom Brady's iconic number 12, several NFL players made their digits proud. Want to know more? You are in the right place, as we covered all 100 jersey numbers, and the best way to wear each is About Football By Numbers.

The left tackle position in football is crucial for protecting the quarterback's blind side. These players are the unsung heroes, ensuring their team’s success by giving quarterbacks the time to make plays. Some left tackles have stood out throughout NFL history for their exceptional skills and contributions. This article celebrates the top left tackles who have left an indelible mark on the game.

PixaBay Courtesy of Quince Media (cropped)| AD

-The Role of a Left Tackle

A left tackle's primary responsibility is to protect the quarterback from the opposing defense’s pass rush. This requires a unique combination of size, strength, agility, and intelligence. Left tackles must read defenses, anticipate blitzes, and maintain balance and technique. Every player in this position across all NFL teams faces immense pressure to perform consistently. Their role is critical, and the best left tackles can dominate their position for years.

-Anthony Muñoz: The Gold Standard

Anthony Muñoz is widely regarded as the best left tackle in NFL history. Playing for the Cincinnati Bengals from 1980 to 1992, Muñoz was a dominant force. He earned 11 Pro Bowl selections and was named to the First-team All-Pro nine times. Muñoz's blend of size, agility, and technique set the benchmark for future generations.

-Jonathan Ogden: A Modern Legend

Jonathan Ogden played for the Baltimore Ravens from 1996 to 2007. His imposing size and athleticism made him a formidable opponent. Ogden was an 11-time Pro Bowl selection and a nine-time All-Pro. His consistency and ability to neutralize top pass rushers solidified his legacy as one of the greatest left tackles.

-Walter Jones: The Silent Guardian

Walter Jones spent his entire career with the Seattle Seahawks from 1997 to 2009. Known for his quiet demeanor, Jones let his performance on the field speak for itself. He was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection and a four-time All-Pro. Jones's ability to dominate without drawing attention made him a respected figure in the league.

-Orlando Pace: The Pancake Maker

Orlando Pace, a key player for the St. Louis Rams from 1997 to 2008, was known for his "pancake" blocks, which easily flattened defenders. Pace was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro. He played a pivotal role in the Rams' "Greatest Show on Turf" offense, protecting quarterback Kurt Warner and opening lanes for running back Marshall Faulk.

-Joe Thomas: The Iron Man

Joe Thomas, who played for the Cleveland Browns from 2007 to 2017, is known for his remarkable durability. Thomas never missed a snap until a triceps injury ended his streak at 10,363 consecutive snaps. Despite playing for a struggling team, Thomas's performance never wavered. He was a ten-time Pro Bowl selection and a six-time All-Pro, earning respect for his commitment and excellence.

-Tony Boselli: The Trailblazer

Tony Boselli, the first-ever draft pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in 1995, quickly established himself as a dominant left tackle. Boselli was a five-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro. Although injuries shortened his career, Boselli's impact on the game and his role in the Jaguars' early success are undeniable.

-Willie Roaf: The Dominant Force

Willie Roaf played for the New Orleans Saints and the Kansas City Chiefs from 1993 to 2005. Known for his exceptional blocking skills, Roaf was an 11-time Pro Bowl selection and a nine-time All-Pro. His ability to excel in both pass protection and run blocking made him one of history's most versatile and dominant left tackles.

-Conclusion

The left tackle position is critical in football, requiring a unique blend of skills and attributes. The players highlighted in this article represent the best of the best, each leaving a lasting legacy in the NFL. Their contributions have protected quarterbacks and shaped the game, setting standards for future generations of left tackles. Their stories are a testament to the importance and impact of this vital position.

---

Ed Danowski, a name often overlooked in the annals of football history, was pivotal in shaping the quarterback position. His tenure with the New York Giants during the 1930s was marked by exceptional skill and leadership that continues to inspire football enthusiasts.   He was a New York native born September 30, 1911, on Long Island in Jamesport, New York.

Coming from Fordham University, Danowski brought a unique collegiate pedigree to the professional ranks. His playing style, which was ahead of its time, showcased a solid arm, accuracy, and an innate understanding of the game. In an era when the passing game was still in its infancy, Danowski's proficiency became the blueprint for future quarterbacks. His ability to read defenses and deliver precise passes set a new standard, making him a force to be reckoned with on the field.

At Fordham, he was a sensation. Ed Danowski's Fordham Rams football career was nothing short of exceptional. Ed played for the Rams from 1930-33. The Fordham teams he played on had an 18-5-2 record during his three seasons. A Second Team All-American in 1933, he led the Rams to considerable success during his collegiate years. His standout performances earned him a spot in the Fordham Athletic Hall of Fame. The former QB also served as the head football coach at Fordham University from 1946 to 1954 after serving in the US Navy during WWII, resurrecting the team as the school had dropped the gridiron program during the War.

Danowski's Giants legacy began when he took over for Harry Newman after the former suffered a back injury against the Bears in November. The former Fordham star piloted the Giants to an upset win in the 1934 NFL Championship, also known as the Sneakers Game. This is eerily similar to the Giants' Championship QB foreshadowing of Jeff Hostetler's experience in 1990 after Phil Simms was injured. Danowski retained the starting position in 1935 when Newman held out for a more significant contract and eventually jumped ship to join the Brooklyn franchise in the AFL in 1936. 

Danowski's impact on the Giants was undeniable. He led the team to multiple NFL Championship appearances, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and significantly contributing to the team's success. Although statistics from that era are limited, his contemporaries and coaches raved about his talent and leadership. His influence extended beyond his playing days, as he served as a mentor to younger quarterbacks, helping to elevate the position to new heights.  

The accolades for this player are significant. Ed led the Giants to NFL Titles in 1934 and 1938, and he made the All-Pro selections list multiple times: First Team in 1935 and 1938 and Second Team in 1937. Danowski was placed on the Pro Bowl team in 1938, as he was the NFL's passing rating leader in 1937 and '38, where Ed's 54.3% was a record. He also led the League in passing yardage and touchdown tosses in 1935. Number 22 threw 37 passes that went for scores during his career, which is a respectable number for the length of his career in that era.

While Danowski's career was cut short by World War II, his legacy endures. He is often cited as one of the pioneers of the passing game, a player who paved the way for future generations of quarterbacks. His contributions to the evolution of the position are immeasurable, and his name deserves a more prominent place in the pantheon of football greats. Historian Larry Schmitt points out that Danowski is one of only two Giants to be under center in a championship game win (1934 & 1938), the other being Eli Manning. It's an excellent company to be in.

Despite being overshadowed by some of his contemporaries, Ed Danowski's impact on the game remains significant. He was a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on the quarterback position, and his legacy continues to inspire football fans and players, proving that his contributions to the game cannot be understated.

---

Born August 12, 1913, in Redwood Falls, Minn, Ward Cuff was not just a typical athlete. His versatility was his strength. He excelled in various sports, from being a heavyweight boxer at Marquette University to holding the school record for javelin throw in track and field and shining on the football field as a star fullback for the Golden Eagles.

Playing the position of fullback for the Golden Eagles, Cuff was part of a team that played in the first Cotton Bowl in 1937 against TCU. Ward was far from being the feature back in college, but he was an effective blocker for their All-American halfback Ray Buivid, who was in the top three for the Heisman voting, and the talented brother rushing tandem of Al and Art Guepe. Giants Head Coach Steve Owen was able to navigate through the talent in the Golden Eagle backfield and chose Cuff with the Giant's fourth-round pick in the 1937 NFL Draft, which was the 34th overall selection that year. The 6'-1" 192 youngster was known for his blocking and stocking his shoulder to tackle the opposition when on defense.

Owen loved smart players who were very athletic in his single-platoon coaching era. Owen contrived the concept of having two squads of players that do a mass substitution at the change of quarters to give his team fresh legs and wear down an opponent. The Cuff was the focus of the rushing attack and a pivotal player of defense and countered the other Giants squad that had Tuffy Leemans as its premier athlete. Though the strategy was very effective in winning ball games, it could have been more conducive to providing standout statistics for players like Leemans and Cuff.

Owen innovatively used Ward's talents and even trained him to place kick. Coach Owen had this to say about his player, "Cuff had tremendous leg drive and an excellent sense of balance. I was not too certain about the third necessary qualification but that was speedily discovered when we scrimmaged. Mr. Cuff has nothing but ice water in his veins. Nothing rattles him. He looked like a perfect prospect."

At other times, Leemans, Ed Danowski, and Ward Cuff would be in the same backfield in what Coach Owens would deem the "A" formation, and Cuff's services as a dependable lead blocker would be employed.

-Ward Cuff: The Underrated Giant

Ward Cuff, a name often overshadowed by his more illustrious contemporaries, was a cornerstone of the New York Giants during their golden era. His impact on the team's success was undeniable, and his versatility as a runner, receiver, kicker, and defender was a testament to his athletic prowess.

Cuff's statistical prowess is impressive. He amassed over 1,800 rushing yards, showcasing his ability to break tackles and find the end zone. He rumbled for over 1,800 yards as a rusher and found the paydirt seven times, demonstrating his sure hands and knack for getting open. But his impact extended beyond offense. Cuff was a reliable kicker, converting 43 field goals, and his defensive contributions were invaluable. He was the NFL's leading kicker for multiple seasons.

While Cuff's accolades might not be as numerous as some of his peers, his consistent performance and versatility were instrumental in the Giants' success. He was an actual football player, excelling in multiple facets of the game. Though his career has often been overshadowed, Ward Cuff's contributions to the New York Giants legacy are undeniable.

---

Benny Friedman, a man deemed 'too small' for the NFL, defied all odds with his exceptional talent and revolutionary style of play. Standing at a mere 5'9", he wasn't supposed to be a good NFL player. Yet, his career, spanning the late 1920s and early 1930s, was a pivotal moment in NFL history, pushing the league toward the pass-heavy game we know today.

New York-based football historian Larry Schmitt shared some great insight with us in the video. Learn more about Giants history by Larry and the rest of the NYG experts at Big Blue Interactive.

Before Friedman, professional football was a run-dominated sport. The forward pass was a risky tactic that was rarely used. However, with his pinpoint accuracy and deceptive throws, Friedman showcased the potential of a solid passing offense. He led the league in passing touchdowns for four consecutive years (1927-1930) and even achieved the remarkable feat of leading the league in rushing and passing touchdowns in 1928.

Guest Larry Schmitt even has research that indicates Friedman may have been the first 300-yard passer in NFL history. According to Schmitt, the NFL records show that the official first 300-yard passing game in the NFL was 12/5/37 by Pat Coffee of the Chicago Cardinals in a game they lost to the Bears.

Also, the "books show" that Paul Governalli's first official 300-yard passing game for the Giants was on 11/9/47 in a loss to the Eagles.

But Larry has found proof that both of these were trumped, with Larry finding evidence that it was Benny Friedman in 1930 that hit the milestone.!

Friedman's impact was not just about his statistics. His success as a passer forced rule changes, opening up the passing game and making it a more viable option for teams. His electrifying play style drew in fans, boosting the popularity of the struggling NFL. This was especially significant as Friedman was Jewish, becoming a hero for Jewish communities across America and challenging stereotypes about Jewish athleticism.

However, Friedman's career was challenging. Injuries hampered his later seasons, and the lack of official passing statistics during his prime makes it difficult to quantify his achievements fully. Nonetheless, his influence on the sport is undeniable. He paved the way for future generations of quarterbacks who thrived on throwing the ball, forever altering the landscape of professional football.

Beyond his on-field dominance, Friedman's story resonates for its social impact. He shattered barriers and symbolized Jewish athletic prowess, inspiring countless young athletes.
Benny Friedman's legacy is multifaceted. He was a game-changing quarterback, a cultural icon, and a pioneer of the modern NFL. His impact on the sport lives on every time a quarterback steps back to unleash a spiral downfield.