Football History

Born February 26, 1914, in Cleveland, Ohio, he was the stud center from 1933 through 1935 for the Ohio State Buckeyes Gomer Jones.

Gomer Jone's legacy at Ohio State University extends far beyond the gridiron, encompassing coaching triumphs and dedication to the sport that left an indelible mark.

From 1933 to 1935, Jones anchored the Buckeyes' offensive line as a center, leading them to a dominant 7-1 record each season. His leadership and talent earned him captaincy and All-America honors in his senior year. But Jones' impact wasn't limited to individual accolades. He was part of a winning culture, contributing to Ohio State's early gridiron success.

His passion for the game led him beyond the playing field. He transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant at Ohio State and John Carroll University before a 17-year stint as the line coach at the University of Oklahoma. During this time, he developed 16 All-American linemen, molding future stars and shaping the Sooners' defensive prowess.

Jones reached the pinnacle of coaching in 1964, becoming Oklahoma's head coach for two seasons. While his win-loss record might not reflect it, his leadership and dedication continued to inspire. He remained the athletic director at Oklahoma until his passing in 1971, leaving behind a legacy of service and commitment to the university.

Gomer Jones embodies the spirit of an Ohio State legend.

Clarence Swanson, born in Wakefield, Nebraska, on March 15, 1898, left an indelible mark on the landscape of college football. His dedication and skill on the gridiron earned him lasting recognition.  

-College Career:

Swanson's college career flourished at the University of Nebraska from 1918 to 1921. He distinguished himself as a formidable lineman, contributing significantly to the Cornhuskers' football program. His talent and determination were key factors in the team's successes during that era.  

-Football Legacy:

Clarence Swanson's legacy is firmly rooted in his exceptional contributions to the University of Nebraska's football history. He was known for his toughness and reliability on the line. He was part of the early formation of the very strong Nebraska Cornhusker football history. His play was a key part of setting the ground work for the future success of the Cornhuskers. His inclusion in the College Football Hall of Fame is a testament to the enduring impact of his contributions.  

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

-College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1973.  

-Distinguished lineman for the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers from 1918-1921.  

-played in a time of early college football, contributing to establishing that sport's future.

Swanson's recognition in the College Football Hall of Fame solidifies his place among the legends of the sport. His contributions to the University of Nebraska's football program have left a lasting impression, serving as an inspiration for future generations of Cornhusker athletes.

Mark Dantonio was born March 9, 1956, and his contributions to the college game were significant.

Dantonio's college football career as a player and coach is a testament to his unwavering dedication and strategic acumen. After a solid playing career at South Carolina, Dantonio began coaching as a graduate assistant at his alma mater. His ascent was steady, marked by successful stints as a defensive coordinator at various programs, including Michigan State under Nick Saban.

His return to Michigan State as head coach in 2007 marked a turning point. Dantonio inherited a program yearning for consistency and quickly instilled a culture of toughness and discipline. His tenure was defined by signature victories, most notably against rival Michigan, a dominance that shifted the power dynamic within the state. He led the Spartans to three Big Ten Championships (2010, 2013, 2015), culminating in a Rose Bowl victory in 2014 and a College Football Playoff appearance in 2015.  

The 2013 season, with its Rose Bowl triumph over Stanford, stands as a highlight, showcasing Dantonio's ability to build a resilient and formidable team. The 2015 playoff season, though ending in a loss to Alabama, solidified his status as one of the nation's elite coaches. However, his later years were marked by declining performance and off-field controversies, leading to his retirement in 2020. Dantonio's overall record at Michigan State was 114-57, a testament to his significant impact on the program.

He left a legacy of hard-nosed football and sustained success that elevated Michigan State to national prominence.  

Born April 2, 1871, in Clifton, New Jersey, Marshall Newell established a remarkable football legacy despite his modest stature. His college career at Harvard University from 1890 to 1893 saw him become a dominant force as a tackle.

Newell earned the endearing nickname "Ma" from his teammates due to his compassionate nature and willingness to mentor younger players. However, on the field, he transformed into a fierce competitor renowned for his exceptional leg strength, relentless drive, and an iron grip that few runners could escape.  

Newell's football legacy is cemented by his unprecedented achievement of being selected as an All-American for four consecutive years. This remarkable consistency speaks volumes about his skill and impact on the game. Despite standing only 5'7" and weighing 168 pounds, his unwavering passion and physical prowess allowed him to consistently outperform larger opponents. His selection into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1957 by the National Football Foundation stands as a testament to his enduring contributions to the sport.

While specific career statistics are less readily available from that era, his four-time All-American status remains a significant accolade, highlighting his position as one of the premier players of his time. Newell's story exemplifies how determination and skill can overcome perceived physical limitations, leaving an indelible mark on college football history. He did not play on any professional teams as the professional game was in its infancy during his playing years.

---

Born February 14, 1913, in Clifton, Ohio, was the Ohio State University coaching legend Wayne Woodrow Hayes. We know him better as Woody Hayes, the Buckeyes frontman from 1951 through 1978. Woody was a prominent personality, and he commanded attention. The Buckeyes led the nation in home attendance in 21 of Woody’s 28 years at OSU. Hayes’s offensive football strategy was the old “Three Yards and a Cloud of Dust.” and credit Woody with creating the phrase.

The Buckeyes, under Woody Hayes, took the National Championship title in 1954, 1957, 1961, 1968, and 1970. Hayes’ coaching produced 3 Heisman Trophy winners and 51 first-team All-America selections.

He wasn’t without controversy, though, as Hayes had a well-earned reputation for losing his temper. There was when he shoved a cameraman at the Rose Bowl and destroyed the sideline markers near the end of a loss to Michigan. But his biggest tirade was his infamous punching of a Clemson player in the Gator Bowl on December 29, 1978. An action that ended Hayes’ long-tenured coaching career. Woody was enshrined into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983.

Art Howe, born on March 3, 1915, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, was a versatile athlete who excelled in football, leaving a lasting impact on the sport, particularly at the collegiate level.

-College Career

-Art Howe's college football career reached its heights at Yale University.  

-He was a standout quarterback and a key player for Yale's football team in the early 1900s.  

-Notably, he was the sophomore quarterback on a 1909 Yale team with a perfect 10-0 record, showcasing his role in a dominant football team.  
That team outscored their opponents 209-0.  

-He also had notable plays in the 1910 and 1911 seasons.

-He made a major impact on the early formation of Yale Football.

-Football Legacy

-Art Howe's legacy is firmly established within the history of Yale University football, and the early years of the collage football game.  

-He was a pivotal player during a period of Yale's football dominance, contributing to the team's successes.  

-His placement into the College Football Hall Of Fame, cements his Legacy.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (1973).

-His most impressive stat, is that of his 1909 season with Yale, and the teams astounding record.  

-His play in key Yale v Princeton games is also noteworthy.

Ellery Huntington Jr., born March 11, 1893, in Nashville, Tennessee, carved a unique niche in early American football. Huntington's college career at Colgate University showcased his versatility and athleticism.

He played quarterback, and was a prominent player on the Colgate team during his years there. Ellery earned the status of being a Consensus All-American at the quarterback position in 1913.

While his professional career wasn't extensive in the modern sense, football was taking its earliest shape in that era. There is research that shows he did play some pro football. Information regarding pro teams is fairly limited due to the era he played in.

Huntington's football legacy extends beyond his playing days. He contributed to the sport's formative years, helping to lay the groundwork for its future. His presence on the field during a time of significant change within the sport is noted.

Unfortunately, detailed career statistics for Huntington are sparse. Official, meticulously kept records from that era are often incomplete. However, it is recorded that he was a very well-respected football player from Colgate. His football legacy is more tied to his participation in the building blocks of early American football. Information available shows that he also had a later career coaching football. Due to this, he helped shape future football players and help increase the legacy of the sport.  

Jay Berwanger carved a unique path in football history, becoming the first recipient of the Heisman Trophy and a symbol of the sport's early rise in popularity. Here's a look at his career:

-College Domination: Berwanger starred as a halfback for the University of Chicago's "Maroons" in the 1930s. He earned All-America honors twice and was known as a "one-man team" due to his versatility, excelling in passing, running, punting, and even calling plays.

-The Birth of the Heisman: In 1935, Berwanger received the first Downtown Athletic Club Trophy, later renamed the Heisman Trophy. This award, initially given to the "most valuable player east of the Mississippi," recognized his exceptional college performance.

-NFL Draft Pioneer: In 1936, the fledgling National Football League held its first-ever draft, and Berwanger became the very first player selected. However, a salary dispute led him to decline the offer and pursue a career in the Olympics (though he didn't make the track team).

-Legacy: Despite not playing professionally, Berwanger's Heisman win and status as the first draft pick solidified his place in football history. He later became a successful businessman and a referee.

Born February 22, 1886, in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, William "Big Bill" Hollenback wasn't just a football player but a symbol of Penn's gridiron dominance at the dawn of the 20th century. From 1906 to 1908, this rugged fullback carved his name into the history books, becoming a legend at the University of Pennsylvania and beyond.

Hollenback's legacy transcends statistics. He captained the Quakers to two national championships in 1904 and 1908, epitomizing the team's grit and determination. Playing the entirety of a crucial game with a fractured leg and several other injuries exemplifies his legendary toughness.

Selected as an All-American three times, Hollenback earned the respect of opponents and fans alike. His powerful running style and fierce competitiveness made him a force to be reckoned with on the field. He even secured a place among Walter Camp's fabled 1908 All-American team, solidifying his place amongst the game's elite.

Born February 5, 1942, in Cincinnati, Ohio, was the Naval Academy’s legendary Quarterback Roger Staubach. Roger Staubach's journey to football greatness is a story of perseverance, leadership, and unwavering dedication.

From his decorated college career to his legendary status with the Dallas Cowboys, Staubach embodied the qualities of a true champion, earning the moniker "Captain America" and solidifying his place in NFL history.

-College Career

Roger Staubach's college career at the Naval Academy was marked by exceptional success despite a two-year service commitment.

As quarterback, he led the Midshipmen to national prominence, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1963. His performance against Army that year, where he orchestrated a stunning comeback, cemented his reputation as a clutch performer. Beyond the accolades, Staubach's time at Navy instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and teamwork, qualities that would serve him well in his professional career. His commitment to serving his country before pursuing his professional football dreams further enhanced his reputation as a man of character and integrity.

Staubach was befitting of the name “Roger the Dodger” as his elusive skill set kept defenses off guard, never knowing if he would run or throw a pass. The NFF states that During three varsity seasons, Staubach completed 292 of 463 pass attempts, for an incredible 63% completion rate. And of those 463 throws, only 19 were intercepted. In 1963 Roger was honored by receiving both the Heisman Trophy and Maxwell Award and being selected as an All-American. The College Football Hall of Fame voters came knocking on Roger Staubach’s door to induct him into their museum in 1981.

-Road to the Pro Game

Staubach's path to the NFL was unique. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 10th round of the 1964 NFL Draft, he was still serving his commitment to the Navy.

He didn't join the Cowboys until 1969, four years after being drafted, and many questioned whether he could still perform at a high level after such a long layoff. However, Staubach quickly silenced his critics. He possessed a remarkable ability to process information quickly and make smart decisions under pressure, a skill honed during his time in the Navy. His athleticism, combined with his leadership and unwavering poise, made him the perfect fit for Tom Landry's sophisticated offensive system. He quickly became the leader of the Cowboys, transforming them into "America's Team" and leading them to consistent playoff appearances.

Staubach served his four-year commitment to the Navy and, at 27, joined the Dallas Cowboys as a rookie. He spent ten seasons under center with Dallas and, per ProfootballHOF.com, left with an impressive 83.4 passing rating, the best mark by an NFL player.

-Football Legacy

His career stats were officially at 1,685 completions in 2,958 passing attempts, which were good for 22,700 yards and 153 touchdowns. He was a two-time Super Bowl winner and MVP of Super Bowl VI. Roger Staubach in 1985 was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Roger Staubach's legacy is one of unparalleled success and enduring respect. He led the Dallas Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories (VI and XII) and four Super Bowl appearances. His ability to orchestrate game-winning drives, often in dramatic fashion, earned him the nickname "Captain Comeback."

Beyond the championships, Staubach's impact on the game extended beyond the scoreboard. He epitomized class and sportsmanship, earning the respect of his teammates and opponents alike. His leadership and poise under pressure set a new standard for quarterbacks in the NFL. Staubach's career demonstrated that success could be achieved through dedication, hard work, and unwavering belief in oneself. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985, solidifying his place among the game's greatest quarterbacks. Roger Staubach's legacy is not just about wins and losses; it's about the character he displayed, the leadership he provided, and the inspiration he gave to generations of football fans. He remains a symbol of excellence, both on and off the field.  

-Career highlights and awards

-2× Super Bowl champion (VI, XII)

-Super Bowl MVP (VI)

-NFL Man of the Year (1978)

-Second-team All-Pro (1971)

-6× Pro Bowl (1971, 1975–1979)

-NFL passing touchdowns leader (1973)

-4× NFL passer rating leader (1971, 1973, 1978, 1979)

-NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

-NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

-Bert Bell Award (1971)

-George Halas Award (1980)

-Lamar Hunt Award (2012)

-Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor

-Heisman Trophy (1963)

-Maxwell Award (1963)

-Chic Harley Award (1963)

-UPI Player of the Year (1963)

-SN Player of the Year (1963)

-Walter Camp Memorial Trophy (1963)

-Unanimous All-American (1963)

-2× First-team All-East (1963, 1964)

-Second-team All-East (1962)

-Navy Midshipmen No. 12 retired

-Presidential Medal of Freedom (2018)

-Career NFL statistics

-Passing attempts: 2,958

-Passing completions: 1,685

-Completion percentage: 57.0%

-TD–INT: 153–109

-Passing yards: 22,700

-Passer rating: 83.4

-Rushing yards: 2,264

-Rushing touchdowns: 20

Roger Staubach. (2025, January 6). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Staubach