Football History

The Indiana University Athletics web page is the place for all the latest news on Hoosier football. The events, player bios, news, and scores are where you thought they would be.

Tune into the intricate tapestry of Hoosier football history. From record-breaking stars to championship teams, these players and moments capture the essence of Hoosier spirit: dedication, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the crimson and cream. So, whether you're a lifelong Hoosier fan or a curious newcomer, remember, the gridiron heroes of Indiana are more than just names on a stat sheet; they are champions of the Hoosier spirit, forever inspiring future generations to embrace the "Indiana Fight!"

The Air Force Academy Falcons and the Army Black Knights have been battling it out on the gridiron since 1959, creating a storied rivalry that transcends the mere outcome of the game. This clash of service academies represents not just athletic competition but also a display of discipline, honor, and respect.

The official link to get connected with David Neil Drew's book on the Sewanee Tigers football team of 1899 and their amazing road trip.

One of the Greatest Games ever played occurred on September 1, 2007 Appalachian State vs. Michigan. It was a regular-season college football game between the Appalachian State Mountaineers and Michigan Wolverines held at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, and was the first game of the season for both teams.

Appalachian State, a team from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), was a 31-point underdog against Michigan, a team from the Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and a perennial power. However, Appalachian State pulled off a stunning upset, winning the game 34-32.

The Mountaineers jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter, and they never looked back. They led 28-17 at halftime and 31-26 after three quarters. Michigan tied the game at 32-32 in the fourth quarter, but Appalachian State kicked a field goal with 26 seconds left to win the game.

The upset was one of the biggest in college football history. It was the first time that an FCS team had beaten a top-five FBS team, and it sent shockwaves through the college football world.

The win helped to put Appalachian State on the map, and it inspired other FCS teams to believe that they could compete with FBS teams. It is still considered one of the greatest upsets in college football history.

Here are some of the key moments from the game:

Appalachian State quarterback Armanti Edwards threw for 286 yards and two touchdowns.
Wide receiver Dexter Jackson caught 10 passes for 140 yards and a touchdown.
Defensive end Jeremy Jarmon had two sacks and a forced fumble.
Michigan quarterback Chad Henne threw for 257 yards and two touchdowns.
Running back Mike Hart rushed for 105 yards.

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College football history boasts many a stunning comeback, etched in lore with names like Flutie and Holtz. But one day, November 10, 1984, stands apart, its legend shimmering on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay with the indelible mark of the Maryland Terrapins. This wasn't just a comeback; it was a resurrection, a 42-40 miracle woven from grit, luck, and the indomitable spirit of a team refusing to be buried.

Facing the defending national champion Miami Hurricanes under the Florida sun, the Terrapins looked headed for another defeat. A 31-0 halftime deficit loomed like a hurricane itself, threatening to drown their hopes. Yet, something shifted in the Miami locker room. Coach Bobby Ross made a fateful decision, swapping out struggling starter Stan Gelbaugh for the untested sophomore Frank Reich.

What followed was a masterclass in resilience. Reich, with ice in his veins and fire in his heart, led the Terrapins on a scoring march after another. Each drive felt like a punch to the Hurricanes' gut, chipping away at their seemingly insurmountable lead. Three touchdowns in the third quarter, another at the start of the fourth, the deficit shrank, hope bloomed on Terrapin faces.

Then came the climax, a moment etched in gridiron legend. Trailing 34-28, Reich unleashed a 68-yard touchdown pass to Greg Hill, the ball somehow navigating through Miami defenders like a guided missile. The Orange Bowl erupted, a sea of Maryland yellow and red surging with disbelief and newfound belief.

But the Hurricanes weren't finished. Miami scored again, leaving the Terrapins needing a two-point conversion to tie with a minute left. The tension crackled, the air thick with anticipation. The Terrapin defense held firm, thwarting the conversion and allowing Maryland to steal a victory from the jaws of defeat.

The 42-40 scoreline only hinted at the magnitude of the achievement. This wasn't just a comeback; it was a statement. It was a team, once staring into the abyss, rising against all odds, fueled by the spirit of a state and the grit of a quarterback named Reich.

The "Miami Miracle" might have its Hail Mary hero, but the 1984 Maryland Terrapins etched their miracle with sweat, defiance, and an unwavering belief in themselves. It became a turning point, a testament to the power of never giving up, a story that still resonates, reminding us that the tide can turn on a single throw, and sometimes, the greatest comebacks are forged not in desperation but in the quiet resolve of a team refusing to be defined by the scoreboard.

Born August 2, 1937, was LSU former star halfback and 1959 Heisman winner, Billy Cannon was also born on this day. He attended Louisiana State University, where he played college football as a halfback, return specialist, and defensive back for the LSU Tigers. Mr. Cannon was enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008.

A Heisman Trophy winner at LSU, Cannon's college career was highlighted by his electrifying 89-yard punt return touchdown against Ole Miss, a play that has become one of the most iconic moments in college football history.

His professional career was equally impressive. Drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Rams, Cannon spent most of his time in the AFL, where he was a dynamic playmaker for the Houston Oilers and Oakland Raiders. With his speed, power, and versatility, he was a nightmare for defenses. Though injuries curtailed his career, Cannon's impact on the game remains undeniable, securing his place as one of the greatest all-around athletes of his era.

His punt return on October 31, 1959 haunted the number 3 ranked Ole Miss Rebels and is considered by many to be one of the greatest play in LSU football history. At LSU, Cannon was twice named a unanimous All-American, helped the 1958 LSU team win a national championship, and received the Heisman Trophy as the nation's most outstanding college player in 1959.

Billy Cannon also had a nice AFL and NFL career the Houston Oilers, Oakland Raiders and KC Chiefs. He was also drafted by the LA Rams but the AFL Oiler's owner Bud Adams won a court ruling and outbid the NFL's Rams for his rights.

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American football uniforms in the 1930s were a far cry from the sleek, high-tech gear of today. Here's a breakdown of their characteristics:

Materials:

-Dominated by wool: Helmets, jerseys, pants, and even socks were primarily made of wool. This material was readily available, durable, and offered some warmth in colder weather. However, it could be heavy, uncomfortable when wet, and restrict movement.

-Limited use of leather: Leather was used for some elements like helmet padding and occasionally for reinforcement on key areas of jerseys and pants.

-However, full leather uniforms were expensive and not as common. But other materials such as silk were being experimented with.

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-Loose-fitting: Jerseys and pants were baggy and offered a wide range of motion. This wasn't just for comfort; the padding used in the early days was minimal, and looser clothing allowed players to add layers underneath for protection.

-Limited padding: Compared to modern uniforms with extensive padding, 1930s uniforms offered minimal protection. Helmets had basic leather padding for the head, but jerseys and pants offered little to no impact absorption.

-Simple designs: Jerseys typically featured a single team color with contrasting numbers or lettering on the front, back, and sometimes the sleeves. Logos were rare, and any designs were basic and often embroidered.

-Leather helmets: Helmets in the 1930s were primarily made of leather with minimal padding. They offered some protection from scrapes and minor impacts but were far less effective than the hard-shelled helmets with advanced padding used today. Leather straps secured the helmets to the players' heads, and facemasks were not yet a standard feature.

Key Points:

-Focus on functionality: Unlike today's uniforms with an emphasis on aesthetics and branding, 1930s uniforms prioritized practicality and durability.

-Evolving towards safety: The 1930s saw some early attempts at improving player safety, with the introduction of rudimentary padding in helmets and the gradual shift away from heavy metal cleats that could cause serious injuries.

-Distinct from modern uniforms: The overall look of 1930s uniforms feels almost quaint compared to the modern versions. The lack of sophisticated materials, simple designs, and focus on functionality offer a glimpse into a bygone era of football.

Love the football jersey designs and evolution wait till you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are a mix of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such asspandex, for more check out our in-depth study ofThe Make up and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What are some of the unique football jerseys in history? Gridiron jerseys with logos on the front were some what of fad once upon a time. Check 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 to be shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time and we chatted with a college football expert historian help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players did not all wear digits in a game until the 1905 Iowa State at Drake game, check this out more on this storyThe Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

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Billy Vessels occupies a special place. A diminutive running back with a larger-than-life spirit, Vessels defied expectations and captured the 1952 Heisman Trophy, etching his name in college football history. This essay explores his remarkable journey from overcoming adversity to becoming a national icon.

Born in 1931 in Oklahoma, Vessels faced hardship at a young age. Left behind by his family during the Great Depression, he spent his formative years in Cleveland, working odd jobs and displaying a natural athletic talent. This grit and determination would become his defining characteristics. There is so much more to explore, so check out our other stories of Oklahoma Sooners football history.

Vessels's athletic exploits on the high school gridiron caught the attention of Bud Wilkinson, the legendary Oklahoma coach. Despite concerns about Vessels's size (he was listed at 5'9"), Wilkinson saw a player with exceptional speed, agility, and a ferocious competitive spirit. Vessels arrived in Norman in 1950 and quickly earned his starting spot.

The 1951 season became Vessels's breakout year. He formed a dynamic backfield duo with fellow Sooner legend quarterback Glyn Milburn. Nicknamed "The Little Wonder," Vessels electrified audiences with his elusive running style, ability to break tackles, and knack for finding the end zone. In a thrilling game against Notre Dame, often called the "Game of the Century," Vessels's performance solidified his national reputation. Despite trailing late, he scored two touchdowns in the final minutes, securing a dramatic victory for Oklahoma.

The following year, Vessels cemented his legacy. Leading the Sooners to an undefeated season and a national championship, he captured the 1952 Heisman Trophy. At the time, he was the shortest player ever to win the award, a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.

Vessels's career was tragically cut short by a knee injury in his senior year. However, his impact on Oklahoma football and college football remains undeniable. He helped usher in an era of more open and exciting offensive play, inspiring future generations of smaller running backs.

Beyond his on-field heroics, Vessels's story is one of perseverance. He overcame a challenging upbringing and defied physical limitations to become a national champion and Heisman Trophy winner. His legacy continues to inspire athletes and fans, a reminder that grit, determination, and a love for the game can overcome any obstacle.

George "Wildcat" Wilson, a name synonymous with football excellence, left an indelible mark on both the collegiate and professional levels of the game. Born September 6, 1901, George Wilson or Wildcat Wilson, was a halfback from the University of Washington.

Wildcat showed his importance to the the Huskies team in the 1926 Rose Bowl Game. Wilson's dominant performance for much of the first half of the "Grand Daddy of them All" had opponent Alabama on their heels and down by a couple of scores. The Crimson Tide finally got a break late in the second quarter when George Wilson left the game due to injury. The Tide led by Johnny Mack Brown with 20 unanswered points and were driving down the field to score again when the banged up Wildcat Wilson re-entered the contest and was significant in stalling the 'Bama drive at the Husky 12 yard line.

Wilson then guided the Washington offense down the field and capped off the drive with Wilson throwing a 20 yard scoring strike to John Cole. It was not enough as the Tide held ont win the game 20-19. The stat line of the game showed that with Wilson on the field, the Washington Huskies gained 317 yards and put up 19 points, when he was out they mustered a mere 17 yards and were shut out while the Crimson Tide scored all 20 of their points in that 22 minute absence of Wilson from the contest.

It really put Alabama football on the map as a prominant football power in the college football landscape. The 1926 Rose Bowl has gone down in history known as "The game that changed the South." but it could have been a much different game had Wildcat Wilson played the whole game. Needless to say, the College Football Hall of Fame invited George Wilson into their exclusive club of legends in 1951.

His versatile skills and electrifying performances solidified his status as one of the most iconic players of his era.  

Wilson's collegiate career at the University of Washington was nothing short of extraordinary. As a halfback, he displayed a remarkable combination of speed, power, and agility. His ability to evade defenders, break tackles, and score touchdowns consistently made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Wilson's impact on the Huskies was undeniable, as he led them to numerous victories and earned consensus All-American honors.  

After his successful college career, Wilson transitioned to the professional ranks, where he continued to impress. His most notable stint was with the Los Angeles Wildcats. Despite the challenges of the early days of professional football, Wilson's talent and determination shone through. He became a fan favorite and a respected figure among his peers.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Wilson's legacy extends to his impact on the sport as a whole. His dynamic playing style and fearless approach to the game inspired countless athletes and fans alike. His contributions to the development of football, both at the collegiate and professional levels, continue to be celebrated and admired.

George "Wildcat" Wilson's name will forever be etched in the annals of football history. His exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and enduring impact on the sport make him a true legend.

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The almost-forgotten game of 1912 between Army and Carlisle may have truly shaped the game and the world!