Football History

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-Gridiron Glory in the Shadow of War: Reliving the Unforgettable 1942 College Football Season

Fast forward to a time overshadowed by World War II, a time when the very soul of America was tested. Yet, amidst the chaos, an unlikely story unfolded on the gridiron – the 1942 college football season. This wasn't your typical year. Join us on this podcast adventure as we delve into a season unlike any other.

Imagine a time when military training camps fielded powerhouse teams, stepping onto the field alongside established college programs. A time when a nation at war clung to the normalcy and competitive spirit offered by Saturday afternoons. We'll explore the unique circumstances that shaped this unforgettable season, from the rise of military teams to the legendary players who suited up under the shadow of war.

But this isn't just about nostalgia. We'll dissect the lasting impact of 1942 on college football. How did wartime restrictions and the influx of military talent change the game? Did it pave the way for future innovations? We'll separate fact from folklore, uncovering the true stories behind this extraordinary season.

So, buckle up, football fans and history buffs alike! Get ready for a thrilling exploration of the 1942 college football season – a season of pigskin heroes, wartime grit, and a fight for a national championship unlike any other.

-Introduction to War Time Football

The 1942 college football season was one of the most memorable and impactful seasons in history due to some unique circumstances of a country at war, military teams elevated to powerhouses, and several teams vying for the national championship title. We will dive into football in Georgia, Oklahoma, Ohio, and Wisconsin as we uncover the people and games made famous in this unique season on the gridiron.

-Presentation of 1942 Football Challenges

We noted that at the end of the 1941 season, Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese, which triggered war declarations by the United States on Japan, Germany, and Italy. Many College-aged young men were enlisted, drafted, and recruited to serve in the military, leaving most college football programs depleted of the participants.

Rations on common supplies such as gasoline and preventative nighttime blackouts for fear of bombings restricted travel and when games could be played. Opponents were more localized than normal; however, some areas saw new teams to face in the light of military training schools and bases that were flooded with recruits.

-1942 Gridiron Story Development

The collegiate brain trusts of the NCAA, along with coaches and administrators, had their hands full. No one, including the Federal government and military, wanted football suspended as it was a pleasant distraction from the horrors that the world was facing.

It would take patience, careful planning, change, and innovation to roll out a collegiate gridiron campaign that would enthrall the masses; indeed, it was a tall task to ask.

-Key Games to the 1942 Season

The challenges that faced the game were minor in comparison to what was occurring on the global stage. The consequences were that the 1942 season seemed to be in trouble.

Innovation and rules revisions were deployed by rules makers to help soften the sting of manpower issues due to the Selective Service draft. The freshman eligibility rule was waived.

Free substitution was being allowed as of the end of the '41 season, with players permitted to substitute at any time but not be withdrawn or the outgoing Player returned until at least one play has commenced.

Some colleges, like Texas A&M, saw an influx of available players due to military training programs established on their campuses.

-Programs that arose from the chaos

On October 31, the Wisconsin Badgers hosted the Buckeyes of Ohio State.

Former Notre Dame Four Horseman back, Harry Stuhldreher was in his seventh year as Wisconsin's head coach. Wisconsin was 5-0-1 going in the big game against OSU. The Badgers only set back was a week two tie with Notre Dame.

Coach Paul Brown was in his second year at the helm of OSU, and the system that he used in a successful High School coaching career at Massillon was being practiced well by his players after the previous year's adjustment period. The Buckeyes were undefeated thus far in the season, knocking off the likes of Fort Knox, Indiana, USC, Purdue, and Northwestern. Trouble set in, though, as during the train ride to Madison, a good portion of the Ohio State players contracted an intestinal disorder after drinking from an unsanitary drinking fountain.

Depleted in their ranks, the Buckeyes could not fend off the strong play of the Badgers, falling 7-17 to their hosts. This was the only loss for Paul Brown's team as they went the rest of the season without a blemish, taking on worthy opposition in Pitt, Illinois, Michigan, and Iowa Pre-Flight.

Perhaps still on a euphoric high after the win over their rival, the Badgers traveled to Iowa, and the Hawkeyes dashed the happiness of the Wisconsin faithful with a 7-0 victory.

In the crucible of World War II, an unlikely gridiron force emerged. The 1942 Iowa Pre-Flight Seahawks, representing the Navy's aviation training school at the University of Iowa. The Seahawks football team was coached by former Mississippi State, Tulane, and Minnesota coach Bernie Bierman soared to a 7-3 record, outscoring opponents by a commanding 211 to 121. Their losses to Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Missouri dampened the big wins over Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Northwestern, and Nebraska.

The 1942 and 1943 Great Lakes Navy Bluejackets football teams were coached by former Butler University coach Tony Hinkle.

The 1942 Second Air Force Bombers football team won the 1943 Sun Bowl.

-Ohio State Buckeyes: Big Ten champions (9-1 record), ranked #1 in the final AP Poll.

-Georgia Bulldogs: SEC champions (11-1 record), ranked #2 in the final AP Poll (later voted national champions by some selectors). A late season November 21 loss to rival Auburn took Georgia from the unbeaten ranks and caused uncertainty of them being the top team in the nation.

-Wisconsin Badgers: Big Ten runners-up (8-1-1 record), ranked #3 in the final AP Poll (selected as national champions by the Helms Athletic Foundation).

-Tulsa Golden Hurricane: Missouri Valley Conference champions (10-1 record), ranked #4 in the final AP Poll. The Golden Hurricane had an undefeated regular season but fell 7-14 on a New Year's Day Sugar Bowl Game against Tennessee.

-Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: SEC runners-up (9-2 record), ranked #5 in the final AP Poll. Their only two setbacks of the season were in their final two games. A November 28 34-0 blanking by Georgia, followed by a New Year's Day 7-14 loss to the Texas Longhorns in the Cotton Bowl.

The Georgia Bulldogs and the UCLA Bruins tangled in the 29th Rose Bowl game on January 1, 1943, in Pasadena, California. Scoreless through the first three quarters, Georgia put up nine unanswered points in the final period: Willard "Red" Boyd blocked a Bob Waterfield punt out of bounds for an automatic safety for the first two, and then Georgia's Frank Sinkwich dove in from one-yard out for a TD and Leo Costa converted the PAT. The Bulldogs won it 9-nil. Georgia's Charley Trippi was retroactively named the Player of the Game when the award was created in 1953.

-1942 statistical leaders included:

The 1942 college football season is significant in history as the resilience shown by players and teams during a challenging time still provided for a very competitive and entertaining product on the field.

-Frank Sinkwich of Georgia won the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first Player to surpass 2,000 yards of total offense in a season.

-Paul Governali of Columbia won the Maxwell Award.

-Rudy Mobley of Hardin-Simmons with 1,281 rushing yards

-Ray Evans of Kansas, with 1,117 passing yards,

-Harding Miller of SMU with 531 receiving yards

-Bob Steuber of Missouri with 121 points scored.

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When most hear the name of Edgar Allen Poe, the author of great literary works, poetry and 19th-century macabre probably come to mind. In football, a famous poet related to a family member by the same name was one heck of a QB for Princeton.

Historian and collector Jeff Payne joins us once again to share some pieces he has collected connected with College Football's first All-American Quarterback.

This is a podcast about Edgar Allan Poe, who was a quarterback for Princeton and the first All-American quarterback in college football history. The host of Pigskin Dispatch, Darin Hayes, is interviewing Jeff Payne, a collector and historian of football memorabilia.

Edgar Allan Poe was related to the famous poet Edgar Allan Poe, but they were not the same person. The football player Edgar Allan Poe's great-uncle was the poet Edgar Allan Poe.

Edgar Allan Poe played for Princeton in the late 1800s and was a very successful player. He led his team to an undefeated season and a national championship in 1889. He was also the first quarterback to be named an All-American.

After his football career, Edgar Allan Poe went on to become a lawyer, like his father. He also served as the Attorney General of Maryland.

Jeff Payne owns a cabinet card of Edgar Allan Poe from the late 1800s, among other items related to the early athlete. He also showed a trade card of Edgar Allan Poe that called him "the hero of the hour and the darling of the ladies."

Marcus Allen's NFL career was a captivating blend of power, agility, and clutch performances. Drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders in 1982, he quickly established himself as a dynamic weapon out of the backfield. This essay explores the highlights of Allen's career, showcasing his dominance as a runner, his Super Bowl triumphs, and the legacy he leaves behind.

-Early Brilliance and Sharing the Spotlight

-Born March 26, 1960 in San Diego California

-Allen attended USC and In 1980 he rushed for 1,563 yards, second in the nation. In 1981 he rushed for 2,342. He led the nation in scoring, 12.5 points per game; rushing, 219.9 yards per game; and all-purpose running, 232.6 yards per game.

-In 1981 Marcus won the Heisman, the Walter Camp Foundation Award, Maxwell Trophy, as well as the Pop Warner League Player of the Year honor.

-Marcus Allen received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

-The Los Angeles Raiders used their first round pick to take Marcus in the first round of the 1982 NFL Draft.

Allen burst onto the scene as a rookie, he showcased his explosiveness, leading the league in rushing touchdowns (12) and earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. The following season, the Raiders unleashed a potent one-two punch with Allen and quarterback Jim Plunkett, culminating in a Super Bowl XVIII victory over the Washington Redskins. Allen's dominant performance, including a game-clinching 74-yard touchdown run, cemented his place as a rising star.

-Taking the Lead and Championship Glory

By 1985, Allen emerged as the focal point of the Raiders' offense. Number 32 became the very first player in the League’s history to rush for more than 10,000 yards while also having receiving yards exceeding 5000 yards. This dominance propelled the Raiders back to the Super Bowl stage, facing the Washington Redskins once again. In Super Bowl XXV, Allen solidified his legacy, rushing for a then-Super Bowl record 209 yards and earning the game's Most Valuable Player award.

-Career Longevity and Adaptability

While Allen's peak years were undeniably impressive, his career extended beyond the late 1980s. He displayed remarkable adaptability, adjusting his playing style as his speed diminished.

He spent the last five with the Kansas City Chiefs. For his pro career Marcus compiled 12243 yards rushing with 123 touchdowns and another 21 scores from catching passes with 5411 yards receiving. Allen was a 2 time All-Pro and played in 6 Pro Bowls.

Allen spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, and finally returned to the Raiders before retiring in 1997. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined the great Marcus Allen in 2003.

"Coach of a Lifetime: The Story of Lewis Cook Jr., Legendary High School Football Coach" by Gaylon H. White chronicles the inspiring journey of Lewis Cook Jr., a high school football coach in Crowley, Louisiana. The book goes beyond the realm of wins and losses, focusing on Coach Cook's dedication to developing young men on and off the field.

Here are the key points:

-Focus on Character Development: Coach Cook prioritizes building strong character and work ethic in his players, regardless of their athletic talent.

-More Than Football: The book highlights how Coach Cook acts as a father figure and mentor, offering guidance and support in all aspects of his players' lives.

-Success Beyond the Field: The story emphasizes how Coach Cook prepares his players to become responsible and successful individuals, not just football stars.

-Small Town, Big Impact: Coach Cook's dedication has a profound impact on the small community of Crowley, fostering a sense of pride and unity.

-A Different Kind of Winning: While the book mentions Coach Cook's impressive win-loss record, the true focus is on his ability to transform the lives of his players.

Overall, "Coach of a Lifetime" is an uplifting story about the power of mentorship, dedication, and the transformative impact a coach can have on young people. It's not just a book about football, but a testament to the power of positive coaching and the importance of building strong character.

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The roar of the crowd was a familiar symphony to Pug Lund. But this season, the pounding in his chest wasn't the electric rhythm of the fans – it was a dull ache, a constant reminder of the ailing finger threatening to derail his senior season. Doctors advised surgery, a lengthy recovery that would sideline him for the championship run. But Pug had another option, a radical one whispered in hushed tones by a team doctor pushing the boundaries of ethics and ambition. Would the star halfback choose the knife over his dreams? This is the story of a young athlete who rolled the dice on a desperate gamble, blurring the lines between dedication and devotion on the path to gridiron glory.

-Introduction

1930s University of Minnesota halfback Pug Lund may have been one of the toughest players in college football history. He was an efficient runner and willing to serve out crushing blocks to keep defenders away from offensive teammates, too. Pug once had a body part chopped off to improve his ability to help his team! His story is truly unique.

Francis "Pug" Lund was born on April 13, 1918, in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. The star halfback played for the Minnesota Golden Gophers from 1932 to 1934.

Francis' imposing stature and aggressive playing style contradicted his formal first name. During a post-game interview, a reporter couldn't help but quip, "Francis? That's a heck of a name for a football player! Don't you have a nickname?" A voice boomed from the back of the locker room, "Call him Pug!" The next day, the newspaper headline blazoned "Pug Lund" next to a photo of Francis, forever etching his new moniker in sports history.

Pug was a tough guy, too. In 1933, against Pitt, he hurt his pinky finger, and because he kept playing, the injury didn't heal correctly; just before the beginning of the 1934 season, Lund had the finger amputated to prevent him from slowing down.

-Adjustment After Injury

During an early season game against the Nebraska Corn Huskers, Pug had the lowest moment of his career when he fumbled seven times as he tried to get used to holding a ball with four fingers on his left hand. Losing the finger worked out, though, as he was the hero of the 1934 rematch against Pitt, where he had one of the shining moments of his collegiate career.

- Gophers versus Panthers 1934

The two teams met that day, each carrying the moniker of being undefeated for the season. The Gophers trailed the Panthers team by six as the clock was winding down on the game. Minnesota had managed to move the ball down the field in one last-gasp attempt to obtain at least a tie. But they faced a fourth and four deep in Pittsburgh territory at the 17-yard line. It all came down to this play. Lund took the pitch and surveyed the field, looking for a glimpse of daylight to escape through. At the last moment, he spotted end Bob Tenner in the open field, fired a strike to the rangy receiver, and Minnesota suddenly had the touchdown, which beat Pitt 13-7, and ignited a Gopher charge to a perfect eight-game record and the National Championship. Pug was a crucial player in this run, averaging about 6 yards per carry and throwing some very accurate passes that kept defensive opponents at bay.

-Legendary Coaches' Endorsement

Minnesota coach Bernie Bierman stated that Lund was also a true Ironman of the game. "He was our spark plug," Bierman said. "He was battered and broken up, teeth knocked out, finger amputated, thumb broken, and through all that, he carried on. Our opponents might break him in two, but they couldn't stop him." The Gophers coach would say Pug was the most outstanding player he had ever witnessed on the field. Lund was versatile as he handled the punting, passing, rushing, and blocking. Pug's career total of 2098 rushing yards is twice as many as his next most prolific rusher. Add to that some pretty good passing stats for the era: 85 attempts, 29 completions, and ten interceptions. The National Football Foundation selected Pug Lund for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1958.

Ed Widseth (1910-1998) wasn't just a football player; he was a force of nature. He carved his legacy on two battlefields: the snow-covered gridiron of the University of Minnesota and the professional trenches of the New York Giants, leaving behind a trail of accolades and memories etched in both college and NFL history.

Dominating the North (1934-1936):

His journey began in the heart of Minnesota, where he earned the nickname "Big Ed" for his imposing 6'2", 220-pound frame. At the University of Minnesota, he became a pillar of their legendary "Golden Gophers" dynasty, anchoring the offensive line and earning All-American honors for three consecutive years. Under coach Bernie Bierman, Widseth helped lead the Gophers to three national championships, losing only once in 24 games during his tenure. His relentless power and strategic blocking paved the way for legendary teammates like Johnny "Red" Grange and Bud Wilkinson, creating an iconic era of Minnesota football.

A Giant Among Giants (1937-1940):

Following his collegiate triumph, Widseth was drafted fourth overall by the New York Giants, instantly proving his skills in the professional ranks. He earned All-NFL recognition three times in his four-year career, becoming a mainstay on the Giants' offensive line. His tenacity and technique earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike, solidifying his reputation as one of the best linemen of his generation.

Beyond the Numbers:

Widseth's impact transcended statistics. He was a leader on and off the field, earning the admiration of coaches and fans for his unwavering work ethic and sportsmanship. He was a pioneer for Minnesota athletes in the NFL, paving the way for future generations to showcase their talents on the national stage.

Born July 25, 1914, in Los Angeles, California legendary football End and trailblazer, Woody Strode. Woody famously played in the the UCLA Bruins back field dubbed the Gold Dust Trio along with Jackie Robinson and Kenny Washington.

Woody Strode, a towering figure in the world of sports, left an indelible mark on both college and professional football. As a standout athlete at the University of Minnesota, Strode's exceptional talent and physical prowess earned him a place in the school's Hall of Fame. His contributions extended beyond the gridiron, as he also excelled in track and field.

Strode's journey into professional football was groundbreaking. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1951, he became one of the first African American players to break the color barrier in the NFL. Facing prejudice and discrimination, Strode persevered and demonstrated his exceptional abilities on the field. His strength, speed, and versatility made him a formidable opponent, earning him the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

Beyond his football accomplishments, Strode's impact extended into the realm of acting. His imposing physique and commanding presence led to roles in numerous films, including the iconic "Spartacus." Strode's career served as an inspiration to countless athletes and individuals, demonstrating that talent and determination can overcome adversity.

He went on with K. Washington to break racial barriers in the NFL as a member of the LA Rams, and later the CFL's Calgary Stampeders. After football he became a Hollywood and actor and can be found in such classics as the Posse, Cotton Club, Vigilante, and Scream.

Bobby Reynolds was different from your average college football player. Nicknamed "Mr. Touchdown" for a reason, he carved out a successful career at the University of Nebraska, leaving behind a legacy of scoring prowess and resilience. This summary explores Reynolds' journey, highlighting his dominance, overcoming adversity, and impact on the Cornhuskers program.

Early promise and All-American Honors

Hailing from Grand Island, Nebraska, Reynolds was a high school multi-sport star, excelling in basketball and football. He continued his football career at the University of Nebraska, quickly establishing himself as a scoring threat. His impressive performance 1950 earned him First-Team All-American honors, solidifying his place among the nation's elite running backs.

Setbacks and Resilience

Reynolds' career wasn't without its challenges. A shoulder separation, a broken leg, and a lime-in-the-eye infection hampered his performance in the following seasons. Despite the setbacks, his determination and dedication never wavered. He continued to contribute to the team, showcasing his grit and leadership.

A Legacy of Scoring

Even with the injuries, Reynolds left a lasting mark on the Nebraska program. He set the career records for scoring and rushing yards, demonstrating his offensive prowess. His nickname, "Mr. Touchdown," perfectly captured his ability to find the end zone and propel the Cornhuskers to victory.

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William Thomas Stanfill wasn't just a football player; he was a force of nature on the gridiron. Born in Cairo, Georgia, in 1947, Stanfill's athletic prowess became evident early, earning him All-State honors in high school. His path led him to the University of Georgia, where he became a legend, winning the Outland Trophy and a spot on the All-America team in 1968.

But it was with the Miami Dolphins that Stanfill truly etched his name in football history. He was drafted 11th overall in 1969 and quickly established himself as a dominant defensive end. His raw power, exceptional speed, and relentless hustle made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.

Stanfill's impact was immediately felt. He contributed to the Dolphins' first-ever playoff appearance in his rookie season and played a crucial role in their back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1972 and 1973. In the 1973 season, he recorded a staggering 18.5 sacks, a Dolphins record that still stands today.

Beyond his impressive stats, Stanfill's intensity and passion were infectious.

Unfortunately, Stanfill's career was cut short by injuries in 1979. However, his legacy lives on. He was inducted into the College Football and Pro Football Halls of Fame, solidifying his place among the all-time greats. Bill Stanfill was more than just a football player; he symbolized determination, passion, and Southern grit. He embodied the spirit of the Miami Dolphins and left an indelible mark on the game he loved.

Don Miller, often overshadowed by his flashier teammates in Notre Dame's legendary "Four Horsemen" backfield, was nonetheless a crucial figure in the team's dominance during the early 1920s. This essay explores Miller's impactful career, examining his role within the backfield, his exceptional running style, and his lasting influence on Notre Dame football history.

Here, we delve into the career of Don Miller, a force of nature on the field and a crucial component of the Fighting Irish's historic dominance in the early 1920s. Get ready to discover the power, efficiency, and unwavering dedication that made Don Miller a true legend in his own right.

-A Force of Nature: Power and Efficiency on the Gridiron (Early 1900s-1924)

Born in 1902, Don Miller arrived at Notre Dame with a reputation for raw athletic talent. While not possessing the flair of teammates like Jim Crowley, Harry Stuhldreher, or Elmer Layden, Miller brought a different kind of magic to the field. He was a powerful and efficient runner, a relentless force who could consistently churn out yards and wear down defenses. Coach Knute Rockne, recognizing Miller's unique skillset, slotted him into the "Four Horsemen" backfield alongside Crowley, Hutson, and Elmer Layden.

-The Heart of the Machine: Miller's Crucial Contribution (1922-1924)

Miller's impact on the "Four Horsemen" went beyond his raw rushing ability. He served as the engine that kept the machine running. His relentless ground attack stretched defenses, creating openings for his flashier teammates to exploit. He was the perfect complement to Crowley's dazzling runs and Hutson's game-changing throws. Miller's relentless effort and ability to consistently gain yards were instrumental in the "Four Horsemen's" success, contributing to Notre Dame's undefeated season in 1924.

-More Than Just Stats: Leadership and Impact Beyond the Field (1924-Present)

While Miller's name might not jump out from the stat sheet compared to his teammates, his value to Notre Dame goes beyond mere numbers. He was a leader within the backfield, setting the tone with his work ethic and dedication. His quiet determination and consistent production were vital to the team's overall success. After graduating, Miller enjoyed a brief professional career before transitioning into coaching at the high school level. He continued to inspire young athletes with his knowledge of the game and his embodiment of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish spirit.

-A Legacy of Efficiency and Unsung Heroism

Don Miller's legacy at Notre Dame is one of quiet efficiency and crucial contributions. He might not have been the highlight reel player, but his relentless work ethic and ability to consistently gain yards were the foundation upon which the "Four Horsemen's" success was built. His story reminds us that greatness in football can come in many forms, and that dedication and a team-first mentality are vital ingredients for on-field success. Don Miller's impact on Notre Dame football serves as a testament to the power of the unsung hero, forever etched in the rich history of the Fighting Irish.

Who were the Four Horsemen of Notre Dame?
The legendary 1924 Notre Dame Fighting Irish football backfield quartet that consisted of Don Miller, Elmer Layden, Jim Crowley, and Harry Stuhldreher.