Football History

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.  

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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.

Born in 1901, Frank Sundstrom wasn't just a football player; he was a pillar of Cornell's gridiron glory, a stalwart tackle who carved his name in the annals of college football history. His story isn't just about tackles and touchdowns; it's a testament to the relentless pursuit, unwavering loyalty, and the power of teamwork that defined a golden age for the Cornell Big Red.
Sundstrom's journey began on the gridiron of Middletown, New York, where his raw talent and imposing presence caught the eye of Cornell University. In 1921, he stepped onto the hallowed turf of Ithaca, New York, ready to etch his mark on Cornell football history.

His impact was immediate. Standing tall and strong at 6'1" and 190 pounds, Sundstrom anchored the Big Red defense, a formidable wall against opposing offenses. His intelligence and quickness off the line made him a disruptive force, paving the way for teammates and earning him the nickname "Sunny." The Big Red teams that Sundstrom was a part of went undefeated throughout three seasons, 24-0.

But Sundstrom's legacy isn't just about individual brilliance. It's linked to the legendary 1923 Cornell team, considered one of the greatest college football teams ever. Alongside teammates like George Pfann and Ed Kaw, Sundstrom formed an impenetrable defensive line, shutting down opponents with suffocating efficiency.

That year, Cornell went undefeated and untied, a feat only achieved by a handful of teams in college football history. Sundstrom's ferocious tackles and intelligent play were instrumental in this historic run, earning him All-American honors and solidifying his place as a Cornell legend.

His impact extended beyond the 1923 season. He continued to anchor the Big Red defense until 1924, leaving a legacy of excellence and leadership. Even after graduation, Sundstrom's passion for the game remained, leading him to serve as an assistant coach for the Indiana Hoosiers in 1924.

In 1978, Sundstrom was honored to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring legacy. His story isn't just about statistics and accolades; it's about the embodiment of Cornell's spirit, the relentless pursuit of victory, and the unwavering belief in the power of teamwork.

Frank Sundstrom was more than a football player; he was a titan of Cornell's golden age, a legend whose name forever echoes in the halls of Ithaca, a reminder that true greatness lies not just in individual talent but in the collective spirit of a team united in pursuit of victory.

Frank would go on to become a New Jersey Congressman.

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Native American players have played a pivotal role in shaping the game of American football. Their athleticism, skill, and unique cultural perspective have enriched the sport in countless ways. From the early days of the game to the modern era, Native American athletes have consistently excelled on the gridiron.

In this episode, we talk with an expert studying and preserving the legacies of legendary Native American athletes.

Bill Black, a Native American himself, has started a movement to recognize these incredible athletes, and we have the opportunity to learn more about some of his football players to whom the homage is paid in this episode. Visit this amazing site: NDN All-Stars, where football legends such as Jim Thorpe, Joe Guyon, Jim Plunkett, and Sonny Sixkiller are remembered next to Native American athletes of other sports genres like Johnny Bench, Louis Sockalexis, Shoni Schimmel, Jack Dempsey, Notah Begay, Rickie Fowler, and so many more!

One of the most significant contributions of Native American players has been their physical prowess. Their natural athleticism, often honed through traditional hunting and gathering practices, has made them formidable opponents. Many Native American players have possessed exceptional speed, agility, and strength, qualities that have been essential to success in football.

Beyond their physical abilities, Native American players have also brought a distinct cultural perspective to the game. Their deep connection to the land and their strong sense of community have influenced their approach to the sport. Native American players often exhibit a unique blend of toughness, resilience, and a team-first mentality. These qualities have helped them to overcome adversity and achieve success on the football field.

In conclusion, Native American players have made invaluable contributions to the game of American football. Their athleticism, skill, and cultural perspective have enriched the sport in countless ways. From the early days of the game to the modern era, Native American athletes have consistently excelled on the gridiron, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations of players to come.

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June 24, 1922 - Milwaukee Badgers franchise forms and plays from 1922 through 1926.

According to the SqueakyCurd.com the Badgers ended their 5 seasons, with a total record of 16-27-6, including only one season above .500 and one season at 0-6. The Borchert Field at Athletic Park in fact became the stop for the Green Bay Packers when they played their home games in Milwaukee after the Badgers demise. The most famous story according to the article of the Badgers may be the infamous 1925 Chicago Cardinals scandal.

Apparently the Cardinals scheduled two extra games at the end of the 1925 season in an effort to have a better win loss record that the Pottsville Maroons so that the NFL title could be claimed. The Badgers who had already disbanded at this time were resurrected by some crafty Chicago football folks that allegedly gathered some highschool, suited them up as the Badgers and then fed them to the Cardinals only to be whallopped 59-0. This win put the Cardinals ahead of the Maroons in the win-column, and with it the championship title. Our friend and Chicago Cardinals historian Joe Ziemba tells us though that the Cardinals , and any other NFL team, could schedule as many games as they wanted up until December 20, 1925 (when the season officially ended).

Of course, there are several other underlying stories in play here, including the Pottsville team playing in a game forbidden by Joe Carr and the Cardinals refusing the 1925 NFL championship at the league meeting in February of 1926. But as historians such as Joe Horrigan and Chris Willis have pointed out, the Cardinals did indeed have the best record in 1925 and should be recognized as the NFL champs. Joe will give us more detail in on this story of the Caridnals versus Badgers saga in his new book that is in the works, that is yet untitled. I can't wait for that one! As far as the Badgers and their lack of success though, it was not for lack for talent, as their roster featured three future hall of famers in Jimmy Conzelman, Johnny “Blood” McNally, and Fritz Pollard. They were open to anyone with skills, and employed one of the largest contingencies of black players in the league. For whatever reason, they simply just didn’t put it all together with "W's."

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Hey football fans, and history buffs alike! Joe Ziemba joined us back in 2021, and dove into the life of a gridiron legend who wasn't afraid of the silver screen. Buckle up, because we're going to tackle the story of a quarterback who traded touchdowns for takes with the one and only John Wayne! That's right, we're talking about the one, the only... Roman Gabriel alongside the Duke. So, put on your favorite Number 18 jersey, grab some popcorn, and get ready to learn about a man who excelled on both the field and in Hollywood!

-Transcript of Joe Ziemba on Roman Gabriel

How about Roman Gabriel. Oh, man. Yes, yes. I just had no idea the numbers he put up. Wow. Yeah, quite impressive. For especially his earring. He played from 1962, all the way to 1977 which that kind of surprised me I didn't realize the longevity of his career, and he as a starting quarterback he was 8664 and seven through for 29 ,444 yards, 201 touchdowns 149 interceptions, and that's exceptional for that era of football.

Amazing. Now, year after year he had big numbers in the league. Absolutely. So I think that's that's a name that definitely I think we should have under consideration we go to make our list at the end of this.

Yeah, you know, he was the MVP of the National Football League to. in 1969. So yeah, I think he might be one we'll have to look at. Plus, there's another reason. Here's my trivia about Roman Gabriel.

Okay. So my research, which doesn't go back too far, maybe to this morning, is the only guy that I've been able to find that was in a movie with John Wayne. After his playing career, he got into some acting.

He was in TV shows such as Wonder Woman, Gilligan's Island, Perry Mason, and he was also in the movie with John Wayne called Undefeated. Well, he is in the college pro football Hall of Fame. So I think, excuse me, college pro football.

What I'm not, we knew what you were saying. Thank you for bearing with me. So who knows, maybe someday he'll get the call for the pro football Hall of Fame as well. But yeah, I think he might be one we should consider for our top players that were the number 18.

Fred Dryer's story is one that transcends the gridiron. While his NFL career was respectable, his impact on the sport pales in comparison to his success in the world of entertainment. However, his time on the field laid the foundation for his future endeavors, showcasing the talent and physicality that would translate well to the silver screen.

Dryer's football journey began at San Diego State University, where he established himself as a dominant defensive end. His impressive size and speed earned him recognition as a "Little All-American" and a coveted first-round draft pick by the New York Giants in 1969.

Although official sack statistics weren't tracked yet, Dryer quickly cemented himself as a force on the Giants' defensive line. He led the team in sacks for his first three seasons, displaying a relentless pursuit of the quarterback. Despite his individual success, the Giants struggled to find consistent team victories during Dryer's tenure.

In 1972, Dryer found himself traded to the Los Angeles Rams. This move proved pivotal, as it allowed him to flourish under the coaching of Chuck Knox. The Rams' aggressive defensive scheme perfectly suited Dryer's skillset. He became a key cog in their "Fearsome Foursome" defensive line, a unit renowned for its ability to harass opposing quarterbacks.

Dryer spent the next decade with the Rams, solidifying his reputation as a tenacious defender. He holds the distinction of being the only player to record two safeties in a single game, a testament to his ability to disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage. However, despite his individual achievements, the Rams consistently fell short of reaching the Super Bowl.

In 1981, Dryer decided to hang up his cleats and embark on a new chapter in his life. His imposing physique and commanding presence naturally drew interest from Hollywood. He transitioned seamlessly into acting, landing his most iconic role as Sgt. Rick Hunter in the television series "Hunter." The success of the show cemented Dryer's status as a pop culture icon.

Fred Dryer's football career, while not marked by championships, was nonetheless impressive. He was a dominant defensive force, leading by example with his intensity and work ethic. His physical prowess and commanding presence were instrumental in successfully transitioning to acting. Dryer's story is a testament to the versatility of talent and the potential for reinvention beyond the confines of the gridiron.

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We welcome author Doug Vilhard to the Pigpen to discuss his captivating new book, "The Golden Age of Red," which shines a light on the legendary football player Red Grange and his impact on the sport. Set in the 1920s, the conversation explores Grange's journey from a humble college athlete to a national sensation, revealing the complexities of fame and the pressures that came with it. The episode delves into the intriguing relationship between Grange and his groundbreaking sports agent, C.C. Pyle, who played a pivotal role in reshaping the business of football.

Takeaways
-Darin Hayes introduces Doug Vilhard and discusses his book about Red Grange, 'The Golden Age of Red'.

-The podcast explores the impact of Red Grange on American football and his legendary status.

-Doug shares insights about CC Pyle, America's first sports agent, and their partnership.

-The narrative highlights the historical context of football during the roaring twenties, focusing on key figures and events.

-Listeners learn about the challenges Red Grange faced, including injuries and the expectations of fame.

-The episode emphasizes the evolution of college football and the relationship between athletics and business.

William Herbert "Pa" Corbin, born July 20, 1864, wasn't just a football player; he was a leader who embodied the spirit of the sport in its nascent years. Playing for Yale University from 1886 to 1888, Corbin captained the legendary 1888 team, etching his name in the annals of college football history.

Standing tall at 6-foot-2, Corbin wasn't just physically imposing; he commanded respect on and off the field. His nickname, "Pa," wasn't simply bestowed upon him – it reflected the leadership qualities he possessed. He believed a captain should be a strategist, a motivator who inspired with a firm but fair approach. "The captain should be the real leader," he said, appraising his position among his peers. "He should be able to say 'come on' instead of 'go on.' He should be a strategist, always checking the signals and often changing them. Quarterbacks may come and go, but the captain should always be largely responsible for the tactics and the success of the plays." This resonated with his teammates, propelling Yale to a dominant run.

Corbin's era was one of unbridled offense. Yale, under his leadership, perfected the flying wedge, a powerful but dangerous formation. Despite the inherent risks, Corbin led his team to an astounding 31-0-1 record during his three-year career. The pinnacle came in 1888, where Yale, under Corbin's captaincy, achieved the unthinkable: an undefeated season, outscoring their opponents by a staggering margin (698 points to 0) while showcasing a dominant defense.

Corbin's legacy extends beyond statistics. He was a pioneer who helped shape the sport. His leadership and strategic mind were instrumental in Yale's dominance, laying the groundwork for the evolution of football into the sport we know today. His dedication continued even after graduation, returning to coach and inspire future generations of Yale players.

Pa Corbin's story isn't just about individual achievements; it's about the birth of a footballing legend. He embodied the grit, determination, and strategic brilliance that defined the early days of the game. His leadership and passion for the sport cemented his place as a true pioneer, forever etched in the history of college football.

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When a conversation about the greatest wide receivers and pass catchers in football history, the name of Raymond Berry is certain to arise. We spoke to an author who co-wrote a biography with the player himself, on number 82 of the Baltimore Colts. Wayne Stewart and Ray Berry's book is titled Raymond Berry: All the Moves I Had: A Football Life at most online bookstores, including Amazon, Check out his other great titles on Sports History as well! Also see SunburyPress.com

Raymond Berry’s football career is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. Drafted in the 20th round of the 1954 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts, Berry defied expectations and carved a Hall of Fame career.

Despite a relatively unassuming college football career, Berry’s precise route running, sure hands, and unwavering dedication quickly made him a valuable asset to the Colts.  

Partnering with legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas, Berry formed one of the most formidable passing duos in NFL history. His ability to consistently make tough catches, even in tight coverage, made him a go-to target for Unitas. Throughout his 13-year career, Berry led the NFL in receptions and receiving yards three times, earning six Pro Bowl appearances and two NFL championships.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Berry’s impact on the game extended to coaching. He served as head coach of the New England Patriots from 1984 to 1989, leading the team to its first Super Bowl appearance in 1985. His legacy as a player and coach solidified his place as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history.