Football History

San Francisco 49ers fans revere the name Jimmy Johnson, not to be confused with the famed coach or an early College Football Hall of Fame player from Carlisle of the same name. Jimmy Johnson, a standout cornerback, played a pivotal role in the team's success throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Here's a look at his remarkable career:

A Two-Way Threat

Drafted by the 49ers in the first round of the 1961 NFL draft, Johnson initially showcased his versatility. He played not only cornerback but also wide receiver in his second season. While his receiving career was brief but productive, his true calling was on defense.

Lockdown Cornerback

Johnson quickly established himself as a shutdown cornerback. His exceptional athleticism, coupled with his intelligence and instincts, made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. He earned a reputation for acrobatic interceptions, often taking the ball away in crucial moments. His presence on the field instilled confidence in his teammates and frustration in opposing offenses.

A Champion's Mentality

Throughout his career, Johnson embodied the winning spirit that defined the 49ers during that era. At the time of his retirement, he played in 213 games, the most of any 49er, demonstrating his durability and dedication. His leadership and experience were invaluable assets, especially during the team's prominence.

A Legacy of Excellence

Jimmy Johnson's career achievements are impressive. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and a three-time First-Team All-Pro selection, a testament to his consistent excellence. While individual accolades are noteworthy, his most significant contribution lies in helping build a championship culture in San Francisco. He was part of a dominant defense that paved the way for future success for the 49ers.

Jimmy Johnson is the Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback of the San Francisco 49ers. Born March 31, 1938. He is one of the top NFL players to have worn the Number 37 Jersey.

Born May 5, 1919, Hamtramck, Michigan, was Michigan’s great tackle from 1939 to 1941 Bob Westfall. According to the Footballfoundation.org Bob was the starting fullback in every Michigan game from 1939 through 1941.

In his first two seasons he was part of a famous Michigan backfield, Tom Harmon, Forest Evashevski, Paul Kromer and Westfall. Westfall’s career yards in 3 seasons was 1,864 yards, a record for a Michigan fullback that lasted 30 years. Bob Westfall was honored to be selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1987.

Being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame is a mark of unparalleled prestige and accomplishment. It signifies that a player has not only excelled on the field but has also left a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This honor is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and impact in collegiate football, shaping the sport’s history and inspiring future players. Remembering these inductees is not just a tribute to their remarkable careers but also a celebration of their enduring influence on the game. Their stories and achievements serve as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the profound role they’ve played in elevating college football to new heights.

While Notre Dame's gridiron history is adorned with the names of flashy running backs and prolific passers, the foundation of any successful team is built on a strong offensive line. Edgar Miller, a stalwart tackle for the Fighting Irish in the early 1920s, exemplifies this principle. This essay explores Miller's impactful career, examining his role in Knute Rockne's revolutionary offense, his contributions to national championship runs, and his lasting legacy within the Notre Dame football program.

-A Pillar of Stability: Anchoring the "Seven Mules" (Early 1900s-1924)

Born in 1901, Edgar Miller arrived at Notre Dame possessing a powerful physique and a natural aptitude for football. Under the tutelage of the visionary coach Knute Rockne, Miller blossomed into a dominant tackle. He became a key member of the famed "Seven Mules" offensive line, a unit renowned for its strength, cohesion, and ability to pave the way for the explosive "Four Horsemen" backfield. Miller's unwavering presence on the left side of the line created running lanes and provided crucial protection for the likes of Don Hutson and Jim Crowley. His relentless blocking and tactical intelligence were instrumental in the "Seven Mules'" success.

-A Champion on and Off the Field (1922-1924)

Miller's impact extended beyond individual accolades. He was a leader within the offensive line, setting the tone with his work ethic and dedication. His quiet confidence and unwavering focus were admired by teammates and coaches alike. During his tenure at Notre Dame, the Fighting Irish established a national powerhouse under Rockne. Miller played a vital role in their undefeated season in 1924, a campaign culminating in a thrilling Rose Bowl victory. His contributions were a cornerstone of this historic achievement.

-From Player to Coach: A Legacy Beyond Notre Dame (1925-1974)

Following his playing career, Miller transitioned into coaching. He served as the head coach for the United States Naval Academy from 1931 to 1933, compiling a respectable record. Miller then spent over four decades at Navy as the line coach, leaving a lasting impact on countless players.

Miller's coaching philosophy emphasized the fundamentals – a reflection of his own playing style and the values instilled in him by Knute Rockne.

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Born May 22, 1907, in Chicago, Illinois, was Washington tackle of 1929 to 1931, Paul Schwegler. The FootballFoundation.org reflects on how the Washinton Huskies football program was not very good during Schwegler’s time there. In fact they won only 12 of the 27 games played. But the play of tackle "Schweg" Schwegler, a native of Raymond, Washington, helped ease the pain and reverse the trend.

Despite Washington's lack of success, selectors were unable to overlook Schwegler, naming him to no less than 43 collegiate all-star teams.  In 1931 Paul was a first team All-America choice that year as well, and went on to be named the defensive standout of the West squad in the 1932 East-West Shrine game. Paul Schwegler received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1967.

Being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame is a mark of unparalleled prestige and accomplishment. It signifies that a player has not only excelled on the field but has also left a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This honor is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and impact in collegiate football, shaping the sport’s history and inspiring future players. Remembering these inductees is not just a tribute to their remarkable careers but also a celebration of their enduring influence on the game. Their stories and achievements serve as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the profound role they’ve played in elevating college football to new heights.

College Football Hall of Fame halfback of the Kansas Jayhawks. He was also a member of the 1932 US Olympic Decathlon team.

Jim Bausch was a remarkable athlete whose talents extended far beyond the football field. Originally hailing from Kansas, he showcased his athletic prowess at both Wichita State and the University of Kansas. On the gridiron, Bausch was a standout halfback, earning All-American honors and leading Kansas to their first Big Six championship in 1930. His explosive speed and versatility made him a formidable opponent.

However, Bausch's athletic legacy is most closely tied to track and field. In 1932, he stunned the world by capturing the gold medal in the decathlon at the Los Angeles Olympics. His remarkable performance on the second day of competition, where he excelled in events like the discus, javelin, and pole vault, cemented his status as one of the greatest athletes of his era.

Bausch’s football career was relatively brief. He played professionally for the Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cardinals but didn’t achieve the same level of success as his collegiate or Olympic endeavors. Despite his short-lived professional football career, his impact on the sports world remains undeniable. His extraordinary athleticism and versatility serve as an inspiration to athletes of all generations.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Bausch’s life was marked by personal challenges. He faced health issues and adversity, but his determination to overcome obstacles is a testament to his character.

Born March 7, 1952, in Alcoa, Tennessee, was the graceful pass-catching wide out of the USC Trojans of the early 1970, Lynn Swann.

Swann forged a remarkable career as a wide receiver, leaving an indelible mark on college and professional football.  

-College Career

Swann's collegiate journey unfolded at the University of Southern California (USC), where he became a key component of the Trojans' potent offense. Under the guidance of legendary coach John McKay, he showcased his exceptional athleticism, leaping ability, and sure hands. He was vital to USC's success in the early 1970s, contributing to their national championship victories. His graceful style and clutch performances made him a favorite and a highly regarded player.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Swann's outstanding college career led to his selection in the first round (13th overall) of the 1974 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He spent his entire professional career with the Steelers, becoming a key figure in their dominant era of the 1970s.

-Football Legacy

Lynn Swann's football legacy is defined by his crucial role in the Pittsburgh Steelers' "Steel Curtain" dynasty. He was a key target for quarterback Terry Bradshaw, known for his acrobatic catches and ability to make big plays in crucial moments. He was vital to the Steelers' four Super Bowl victories (IX, X, XIII, and XIV). His performance in Super Bowl X, where he made several spectacular catches, including a leaping 53-yard reception, earned him the Super Bowl MVP award. He was known for his graceful style, intelligence, and clutch performances. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-4× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV)

-Super Bowl X MVP  

-3× Pro Bowl (1975–1977)

-3× Second-team All-Pro (1975–1977)

-NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

-Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (1993)  

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2001)  

-Receptions: 336

-Receiving yards: 5,462  

-Receiving touchdowns: 51

-Career NFL statistics

Receptions: 336
Receiving yards: 5,462
Receiving touchdowns: 51

Stats at Pro-Football-Reference.com

Lynn Swann's combination of athleticism, grace, and clutch performances cemented his place among the NFL's greatest wide receivers and solidified his legacy as a key figure in the Pittsburgh Steelers' storied history.

Jimbo Covert, born on March 22, 1960, in Conway, Pennsylvania, forged a legendary career as an offensive tackle, leaving an indelible mark on both college and professional football.  

The University of Pittsburgh's big offensive tackle, Jimbo Covert, later with the Chicago Bears, solidified his status as one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles.

College Career

Covert's journey at the University of Pittsburgh began with aspirations of playing defensive line. However, the Panthers' depth at that position, coupled with an injury, prompted a pivotal decision. He switched to offensive tackle, a move that proved transformative. He became a cornerstone of a formidable offensive line alongside Mark May and Bill Fralic, contributing to Pitt's offensive dominance. During his three seasons at tackle, he allowed a mere three sacks, with none surrendered during his senior year, a feat made even more remarkable by Pitt's pass-heavy offense. His exceptional performance earned him unanimous All-America honors in 1982, following a first-team All-America selection in 1981. His collegiate achievements culminated in his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003.  

Road to the Pro Game

Covert's stellar college career made him a highly coveted prospect in the 1983 NFL Draft. The Chicago Bears selected him sixth overall, a testament to his exceptional talent and potential.  

Football Legacy

Covert's nine-season tenure with the Chicago Bears solidified his status as one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles. He was a crucial component of the Bears' dominant 1985 team, which triumphed in Super Bowl XX. His exceptional blocking skills and unwavering consistency earned him widespread recognition. He was a linchpin of the bears offense, protecting the quarterback, and opening up running lanes. He was known as a smart, and tough player.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Covert's career is punctuated by numerous accolades:

-Unanimous All-America (1982).

-First-team All-America (1981).  

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2003).  

-Two-time Pro Bowl selection.

-Two-time All-Pro selection.

-Offensive Lineman of the Year (1986).  

-Super Bowl XX champion.

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2020).

Jimbo Covert's career stands as a testament to his exceptional talent, dedication, and impact on the game of football.

Jackie Smith, born February 23, 1940, in Columbia, Mississippi, established himself as one of the most prolific tight ends in NFL history. His journey from humble beginnings to the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication.  

-College Career

Smith's football journey began at Northwestern State University in Louisiana. He excelled as a two-way player, showcasing his abilities as both a tight end and a defensive end. His performance earned him All-Gulf States Conference honors, laying the foundation for his future success. While not a major college powerhouse, Northwestern State provided the platform for Smith to develop his skills and attract the attention of professional scouts.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Smith's impressive college performance led to his selection by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 10th round of the 1963 NFL Draft. Despite his relatively late selection, Smith quickly proved his worth, demonstrating exceptional hands, speed, and route-running ability. He possessed a rare combination of size and athleticism that made him a formidable offensive weapon.  

-Football Legacy

Jackie Smith's legacy is firmly rooted in his remarkable career with the St. Louis Cardinals and, later, the Dallas Cowboys. He revolutionized the tight-end position, showcasing the potential for tight ends to be significant receiving threats. His fluid route running and reliable hands made him a favorite target for quarterbacks. Smith's ability to stretch the field and create mismatches made him a key component of the Cardinals' offense. His career is also remembered for a dropped pass in the Super Bowl while with Dallas, but that single play does not define his career. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1994 solidified his place among the game's elite.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (1994)  

-5× Pro Bowl (1967–1971)  

-2× First-team All-Pro (1969, 1970)

-NFL 1960s All-Decade Team

-480 receptions  

-7,918 receiving yards  

-40 receiving touchdowns

Courtesy Pro-Football-Reference.com

Ozzie Newsome, born March 16, 1956, in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, forged a legendary football career, transitioning from a standout wide receiver at the University of Alabama to a Hall of Fame tight end in the NFL.

Newsome's collegiate career at Alabama from 1974 to 1977 was nothing short of spectacular. As a four-year starter, he demonstrated exceptional talent and leadership. He served as the offensive captain and earned All-America honors in 1977. His impressive statistics—102 receptions for 2,070 yards, averaging 20.3 yards per catch—highlighted his playmaking ability. His senior year showcased his versatility, particularly in a game against Notre Dame where he caught seven passes, scored two touchdowns, and a two-point conversion, while also earning praise for his blocking. Perhaps his most significant accolade came from legendary coach Bear Bryant, who called Newsome "the greatest end in Alabama history," a testament to his all-around excellence. In 1994, Newsome's collegiate achievements were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Cleveland Browns selected Newsome in the first round of the 1978 NFL Draft. He transitioned to tight end in the pros, where he continued to excel. Over 13 seasons with the Browns, he redefined the tight end position, becoming a premier pass-catching threat. He retired as the NFL's fourth-leading receiver and the leading tight end, with 662 receptions for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. His best seasons came in 1983 and 1984, when he recorded 89 receptions in each year. Known as the "Wizard of Oz," Newsome was renowned for his reliable hands, precise route running, and exceptional athleticism.

Newsome's football legacy extends beyond his playing career. His transition to the front office, most notably as the general manager of the Baltimore Ravens, where he built two Super Bowl-winning teams, solidified his impact on the game. His ability to evaluate talent and build a championship-caliber roster cemented his status as one of the most respected figures in football.

Newsome's accolades include his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro selection. His college statistics include 102 receptions for 2,070 yards. His professional statistics include 662 receptions for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. Ozzie Newsome's contributions as a player and executive have left an indelible mark on the sport.

Born February 3, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia, was Fran Tarkenton, the mobile quarterback from the University of Georgia. Fran led the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and was an Academic All-American.

Tarkenton is best remembered at Georgia for the 1959 game with Auburn. Trailing 13-7 with time running out, Georgia had the ball, fourth down, on the 13-yard line. Tarkenton threw a touchdown pass, and Georgia won the game and clinched the conference title. The National Football Foundation selected Fran Tarkenton for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1987. Tarkenton was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1961, and in his first game, he tossed four touchdown passes and used his legs for a fifth. In 1967, Fran left the Vikings and spent five seasons with the New York Giants until a surprising trade in 1972 led him back to Minnesota. According to ProfootballHOF.com, Fran rewarded the Vikings for trading for him in his final seven years with the Vikings as he led Minnesota to six NFC Central Division titles and three Super Bowl appearances. He was named first- or second-team All-NFL three times. In 18 seasons in the NFL, Fran played in 9 Pro Bowls, threw 47,003 yards passing, and 342 TDs while he ran for another 3674 yards.  In 1986 ceremonies, the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Fran Tarkenton in their Canton museum.

A real trendsetter was this quarterback, who could kill a defense with his scrambling ability as much as possible with his accurate arm.