Football History

---

The November 5, 2011 edition of the LSU versus Alabama football game stands as one of the most anticipated and dramatic matchups in college football history. With both teams entering the contest undefeated and ranked #1 (LSU) and #2 (Alabama), respectively, the game was billed as another “Game of the Century,” a title often reserved for epic clashes between college football’s elite programs. Held at Bryant–Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, the atmosphere was electric, with both fanbases expecting a heavyweight battle between two powerhouses of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

LSU, under head coach Les Miles, boasted a dynamic defense and a ground game that had dominated all season. Alabama, led by head coach Nick Saban, countered with its own stout defense and an offense anchored by quarterback AJ McCarron and running back Trent Richardson.

The game, however, turned out to be a defensive struggle, with both teams stifling each other’s offenses throughout the contest. Ultimately, Alabama came out on top, winning 9–6 in a tightly contested, low-scoring game that reflected the physicality and intensity of SEC football. This victory not only solidified Alabama’s claim to the top spot but also set the stage for a rematch in the 2012 BCS National Championship Game, where they would ultimately secure the title.

---

We may have all wondered in the past how players like Deacon Jones, Joe Greene, and countless others compared in the realm of tackles for loss and QB sacks with modern players. Our Guest Nick Webster did not only wonder, but did something about it along with cohort John Turney, as they brought to us the sacks and tackles prior to 1982.

Nick Webster, John Turney, and others over at the Pro Football Journal have painstakingly helped us know how players prior to the NFL officially adopting some statistics fared in comparison to today's athletes on the gridiron. Nick joins us in this episode to tell us how they did it and bring some good old-time football memories back to our modern times.

In the interview, Webster discusses the challenges of finding data on sacks from before 1982, when the NFL began tracking them officially. He explains that he and Turney used a variety of sources, including play-by-play accounts, newspaper articles, and coaches' accounts.

Webster also discusses the reasons why sacks were not an official statistic before 1982. He says that the nature of football makes it more difficult to track sacks than other statistics, such as interceptions or fumbles. Additionally, he says there was no focus on defense in the early days of football, so there was no incentive to track sacks.

The interview concludes with Webster discussing his ongoing work to collect data on sacks from before 1982. He says that he is still looking for play-by-play accounts and film footage from the 1950s and 1960s.

---

The storied rivalry between Notre Dame and USC reached a thrilling climax on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 1964. The top-ranked, undefeated Fighting Irish, led by first-year head coach Ara Parseghian, were heavy favorites against the unranked Trojans.

Fueled by the electrifying play of Heisman Trophy hopeful John Huarte, Notre Dame stormed to a 17-0 halftime lead. However, the second half saw a dramatic turn of events. USC, aided by some controversial officiating calls, mounted a furious comeback. With just 1:35 remaining, the Trojans completed a fourth-down touchdown pass to take a 20-17 lead.

One of the most disputed plays of the game occurred on USC's final touchdown drive. The Trojans' quarterback, Craig Fertig, appeared to fumble the ball, which should have been recovered by the Irish defense. However, the officials ruled the play as an incomplete pass, allowing USC to continue their drive and ultimately score the winning touchdown.

This stunning upset, coupled with the questionable officiating, cemented the game's place in college football history. The 1964 USC-Notre Dame game is widely regarded as one of the most exciting and controversial contests ever played.

On November 6, 1869, a historic event unfolded that would mark the beginning of college football in America, though it looked quite different from the game we recognize today. The College of New Jersey, which would later become Princeton, faced off against Rutgers in what is often considered the first American football game. However, the term "match" and the use of a round ball serve as clues that this contest wasn't quite the American football we know now.

The game was played according to the Football Association’s rules (similar to soccer), but the style of play closely resembled rugby. The teams were not using a pigskin ball, and the structure of the game was vastly different from modern football. Despite these differences, this contest between Princeton and Rutgers is credited as the beginning of intercollegiate football.

The game ended with Rutgers emerging victorious, scoring six "runs" to Princeton’s four. However, just two weeks later, Princeton avenged their loss with an 8-0 shutout against Rutgers. Both teams were retroactively awarded the 1869 National Championship, acknowledging their pivotal roles in launching the sport of college football. While the game may have been far from today's version of football, it remains a significant milestone in the history of American sports.

August 6th is a day that holds a special place in the hearts of football fans. It's a day to celebrate the rich history of the sport, as well as the birthdays of some of its most iconic players.

On this day, we remember the thrilling moments that have shaped the game of football. From legendary players to unforgettable games, August 6th has witnessed it all.

But it's also a day to celebrate the lives of those who have made an indelible mark on the sport. Several Hall of Fame players were born on August 6th, including:

-Ken Riley Hall of Fame DB of the Bengals.

-Jerry Dalrymple of Tulane.

-Harry Wilson an early Penn State star.

These players, and many others, have left an enduring legacy on the game of football. Their contributions to the sport continue to inspire and captivate fans around the world.

So on this August 6th, let's take a moment to celebrate the rich history of football and the remarkable players who have made it so special.

While the roar of the crowd and the crack of the pads often dominate our football memories, the game's rich history is also filled with quieter moments of significance. On August 14th, we find a fascinating blend of both.

This day marks a pivotal point in the evolution of professional football. It was on August 14, 1959, that the American Football League held its inaugural meeting, laying the groundwork for a league that would eventually challenge the NFL's dominance and ultimately merge to create the football powerhouse we know today. Beyond the formation of a new league, August 14th also celebrates the birthdays of several football legends enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Their on-field brilliance has left an enduring legacy on the sport.

The 1982 NFC Championship Game at Candlestick Park will forever be etched in NFL history. With time running out and the San Francisco 49ers trailing, quarterback Joe Montana, facing immense pressure from the "Doomsday Defense" of the Dallas Cowboys, launched a desperate pass towards the end zone.

Miraculously, 49ers wide receiver Dwight Clark, seemingly out of reach, leaped and extended his fingertips, miraculously hauling in the pass for a touchdown. This iconic play, now known simply as "The Catch," not only gave the 49ers the lead but also ignited a dynasty that would dominate the 1980s.

The drama wasn't over. The Cowboys, led by quarterback Danny White, mounted a late charge, driving deep into 49ers territory. However, on the crucial final drive, White was strip-sacked, sealing the 28-27 victory for the 49ers and sending them to Super Bowl XVI.

Keywords: 1982 NFC Championship Game, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Joe Montana, Dwight Clark, "The Catch," Doomsday Defense, NFL history, iconic moments, Super Bowl XVI.

---

On November 21, 1931, two storied football programs clashed in South Bend, Indiana, in a game that would become a cornerstone of one of college football's greatest rivalries. The USC Trojans and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish met in a dramatic showdown that showcased their mutual pride and talent on the gridiron, cementing their intersectional rivalry for decades to come.

Notre Dame, boasting a 26-game undefeated streak, came out strong, scoring two quick touchdowns to take an early lead. But USC, refusing to back down, fought their way back into the contest. With time running out and the score tied, Trojans kicker Johnny Baker became the hero. His 33-yard field goal sailed through the uprights with just one minute remaining, sealing a dramatic 16-14 victory for USC.

The win not only snapped Notre Dame’s legendary streak but also secured USC’s first national championship, marking a turning point in college football history. After the game, in a remarkable show of respect, USC head coach Howard Jones led his team to visit the grave of Notre Dame’s legendary coach, Knute Rockne, who had passed away earlier that year.

Decades later, ESPN ranked this iconic game as the 55th greatest college football contest of all time.

June 18th isn't just another summer day. It's a date brimming with gridiron history, from the birth of legendary players to groundbreaking firsts that changed the game forever. Buckle up as we unearth the fascinating stories on this football-filled day:

-Hall of Fame Heroes: Did you know that two giants of the game, both enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, share a June 18th birthday? We'll delve into their illustrious careers and the impact they left on the sport.

-Heisman History: June 18th also marks the birthday of a Heisman Trophy winner, a college football superstar whose exceptional talent left fans in awe.

-First on the Field: But wait, there's more! This date also witnessed the first-ever use of a helmet logo in professional football. We'll explore the story behind this iconic innovation and how it paved the way for today's recognizable team branding.

So, grab your favorite jersey and get ready to celebrate June 18th – a day that truly captures the rich tapestry of American football history!

While the dog days of summer typically signal a lull in the football world, the calendar date of August 11 reveals a surprising depth of gridiron history. This seemingly ordinary day marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the NFL, as well as serving as a birthday celebration for several football luminaries.

From the humble beginnings of a small-town team to the grandeur of professional football, the story of August 11 is one of contrasts and connections. It was on this date in 1919 that the Green Bay Packers, one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, were officially organized.

This momentous event laid the foundation for a team that would go on to become a global icon, capturing the hearts of millions and etching its name into the annals of sports history.