Football History

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Before Fred Gehrke, football helmets were utilitarian – plain leather shells offering minimal protection. But in 1948, Gehrke, an art major playing halfback for the Los Angeles Rams, sparked a revolution. Inspired by his artistic background, he envisioned a helmet that wasn't just protective, but symbolic. He dreamt of painting the team's mascot, a ram, directly onto the leather.

Gehrke, ever the innovator, didn't just have the idea – he took action. He procured an old college helmet, painted it blue (the team's color), and meticulously added two bold yellow ram horns. This prototype became a conversation starter. He presented it to his coach, Bob Snyder, who saw the potential and encouraged Gehrke to present it to team owner Dan Reeves.

Reeves, captivated by the idea, contacted the NFL to ensure its legality. The response, a nonchalant "You're the owner; do what you want!" gave the green light. With that, Gehrke became the first player to paint a logo on a helmet, and history was made. He was tasked with painting the remaining helmets for the team, transforming a simple piece of equipment into a symbol of team spirit. The Rams' iconic logo debuted on the field that season, a testament to Gehrke's artistic vision and a turning point for the visual identity of football.

The first-ever NFL helmet with a logo was hand-painted by the Rams' Fred Gehrke in 1948.

-Frequently Asked Questions

-Who was the first player to wear a football helmet? We have your answer in our in-depth study ofthe first to wear a helmet.

-What is the history of each college team and their helmet designs? Check out many of them with our series College Football helmet history of schools.

-How come some teams have player numbers on their helmets? We asked this question too and had a college football expert historian help divulge helmet numbers history.

-Why do some teams like Michigan and Delaware look so odd and similar? It's really uncanny isn't it that the Wolverines and Blue Hens look the same, check this out for a reason when helmets had wings.

-What do stickers on college football helmets mean? Some of them look really crazy but there is some goos reason for the extra adornments and we have the scoop Why all the stickers on some football helmets?.

-When did football helmets change from leather to plastic? Just after World War II saw the most abrupt changes, we have more in this in our chat with an expert:When helmets changed from leather to plastic.

The roar of the Big House crowd, the flash of maize and blue, the legendary winged helmet – these are just a few of the things that come to mind when we think of the Michigan Wolverines football program. But the journey from fledgling club to college football's winningest team is a fascinating story of grit, innovation, and enduring spirit.

-Early Days: Pioneering the Gridiron (1870s-1890s)
The Michigan Wolverines' football roots trace back to the late 1870s, when students began playing informal interclass games. These early contests were a far cry from the organized spectacle we see today, played with makeshift equipment and often under a modified rugby or soccer rule set. Yet, the seeds of passion were sown, and by the 1890s, Michigan had established itself as a regional force, competing against other Midwest colleges.

-The Yost Era: Building a Dynasty (1901-1925)
The arrival of Fielding H. Yost in 1901 marked a turning point for the Wolverines. A pioneer of the "scientific" approach to football, Yost emphasized strategy, discipline, and conditioning, transforming the game into a highly organized and physical affair. His innovative "point-a-minute" offense, featuring the iconic forward pass, dominated opponents, leading to consecutive national championships in 1901, 1902, and 1903.

Yost's legacy extended beyond just wins. He established a winning culture and a tradition of excellence that continues to define the program. He also laid the groundwork for Michigan's iconic "Big House" stadium, completed in 1927 and destined to become one of the most intimidating venues in college football.

-Beyond Yost: Adapting and Evolving (1926-Present)
While Yost laid the foundation, the Wolverines' success story did not end with him. Subsequent coaches like Fritz Crisler, Bo Schembechler, and Lloyd Carr built upon his legacy, adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the game. Crisler introduced the iconic winged helmet and led Michigan to another national championship in 1947. Schembechler, with his "Winning Ugly" mantra, emphasized toughness and resilience, guiding the Wolverines to five Big Ten titles and a national championship appearance in 1989.

In recent years, under coaches like Jim Harbaugh, the Wolverines have embraced modern offensive schemes and technological advancements, while still honoring the program's rich tradition.

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Western Kentucky Hilltoppers football might not be a household name nationwide, but their gridiron history boasts some truly epic moments. From stunning upsets to championship clinchers, here are a few of their biggest games ever:

Early Era Thrills (1942-1973):

1942 Rose Bowl Bid Rejection: Though not technically a game, the Hilltoppers' controversial exclusion from the 1942 Rose Bowl, despite an undefeated season, remains a burning memory and a rallying cry for fans.
1960 Ohio Valley Conference Championship: WKU's first-ever conference championship, a dominant 27-0 shutout over Murray State, cemented their dominance in the OVC and ignited a golden era.
1973 NCAA Division II National Championship Game: Although they fell short against Montana, the Hilltoppers' run to the championship game showcased their rising talent and Division II prowess.
Transition and Upsets (1974-2008):

1979 Upset of Kentucky: As an emerging FBS team, WKU stunned in-state rival Kentucky 20-10, proving their competitiveness against larger programs.
2002 NCAA Division II National Championship Game: Revenge was sweet as the Hilltoppers finally captured the National Championship, defeating Hampton 27-14 and sealing their legacy in the Division II ranks.
2003 Upset of Louisville: Another memorable David vs. Goliath moment, WKU's 27-24 victory over then-ranked No. 17 Louisville announced their arrival as a force in FBS.
Sun Belt Soaring (2009-Present):

2009 Sun Belt Conference Championship Game: Clinching their first Sun Belt title with a gritty 38-17 win over Troy marked a defining moment in WKU's transition to FBS success.
2015 Popeyes Bahamas Bowl: The Hilltoppers reached their first FBS bowl game and capped a 12-2 season with a thrilling 48-21 victory over Louisiana Tech.
2022 Famous Toastery Bowl: A dominant 41-13 win over Appalachian State in the 2022 Famous Toastery Bowl secured WKU's fourth Sun Belt Championship and showcased their current dominance in the conference.
This is just a taste of the biggest games in Hilltopper history. Each matchup represents a turning point, an upset, or a championship triumph, etching itself into the hearts of WKU fans and solidifying the program's place in college football lore.

This is the story of the LSU Tigers, a century-long saga of gridiron glory, passionate fans, and an unwavering pursuit of national dominance.
The roar of Tiger Stadium first echoed in 1903, marking the birth of a program destined for greatness. Early stars like Harry Newman and Abe Mickens planted the seeds of success, their names whispering through the swamps alongside tales of punts blocked by goalposts and victories snatched from the jaws of defeat.

Yet, the true awakening came in 1958 under the legendary Paul Dietzel. He unleashed the "Wishbone" offense, a revolutionary rushing attack that tore through defenses like a pirogue through murky waters. Led by the "Golden Hurricane" Billy Cannon, LSU captured its first national championship in 1958, igniting a fiery passion that remains today.

The following decades saw an array of iconic figures etch their names onto the Tiger Stadium turf. Archie Manning, the "Golden Boy," threw laser-like passes; Charles Alexander, the "Honey Badger," terrorized backfields with his feral intensity; and Joe Burrow, the Heisman Trophy wonder, mesmerized crowds with his pinpoint accuracy and effortless swagger.

LSU football wasn't just about individual stars; it was about a collective spirit, a "geaux-getter" attitude that propelled them through adversity. Remember the Comeback in the Swamp of '73, where a 17-point deficit melted away against Mississippi State, or the "Drive of Destiny" against Auburn in 1992, where Tommy Hodson's last-minute touchdown etched itself into Tiger lore.

These moments weren't mere victories; they were testaments to the unyielding will of the Tiger faithful. The "Death Valley" faithful, clad in purple and gold, create an atmosphere so electric it could fry shrimp at 50 paces. Their cheers are a hurricane, their roars a symphony of unwavering support that pushes the Tigers ever higher.

And LSU has climbed to the apex. Under Les Miles and Nick Saban, two eras defined by power and precision, the Tigers brought home two more national championships (2007, 2011). These weren't just trophies; they were symbols of a program that dared to dream big and refused to be denied.

Today, the LSU Tigers continue their march through the gridiron landscape. Head coach Brian Kelly, a beacon of offensive dynamism, has infused the program with fresh energy, reminding the world that the bayou blitz still roars. LSU football is more than just a game; it's a cultural touchstone, a shared identity that binds generations together through cheers, tears, and an unwavering love for purple and gold.

So, as the echoes of Tiger Stadium's roar reverberate through the Deep South, remember this: the LSU Tigers are not just a football team; they are a force of nature, a testament to the indomitable spirit of a program that has etched its name on the very soul of Louisiana.

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The Texas Longhorns football program boasts a rich history dating back to 1893, making it one of the oldest and most successful programs in college football. Here's a glimpse into its journey:

-Early Days and Establishing a Winning Tradition (1893-1925):
The program began modestly, fielding its first permanent team in 1893.
Early success came quickly, with the Longhorns recording undefeated seasons in 1900, 1914, 1918, and 1920.
Notable coaches of this era include John Heisman (1902-1903) and Dana X. Bible (1916-1932).

-Dominant Decades and the Rise of Legends (1926-1976):
The program experienced sustained success under coaches such as Clyde Littlefield (1934-1956) and Darrell Royal (1957-1976).
This era saw the emergence of legendary players like Davey O'Brien (Heisman Trophy winner in 1938), Bobby Layne (Heisman Trophy winner in 1950), and Tommy Nobis (Heisman Trophy runner-up in 1965).
The Longhorns won four national championships during this period: 1963, 1969, 1970, and 1975.

-Ups and Downs and the Quest for Restoration (1977-2009):
After Royal's departure, the program experienced a period of inconsistency, with only occasional flashes of brilliance.


However, the hiring of Fred Akers in 1977 and David McWilliams in 1987 brought some stability and success.
Notable players from this era include Earl Campbell (Heisman Trophy winner in 1977) and Ricky Williams (Heisman Trophy winner in 1998).
Despite individual triumphs, the Longhorns struggled to replicate the dominance of the Royal era.

-The Mack Brown Era and Returning to Glory (2010-2014):
Mack Brown's arrival in 2005 marked a turning point for the program.

He instilled discipline, recruited top talent, and implemented a winning culture.

The Longhorns won the 2005 national championship, their first in 30 years, with Vince Young leading the charge.

The program remained competitive throughout Brown's tenure, consistently ranking among the nation's best.

-Recent Years and the Search for New Heights (2015-Present):
Charlie Strong took over as head coach in 2015, but his tenure was marred by disappointing results.
Tom Herman replaced Strong in 2017, bringing renewed hope and optimism.

While the program has shown improvement under Herman, it has not yet reached the heights of the Mack Brown era.

The Longhorns continue their quest for national championship glory, seeking to add to their rich legacy in college football.

Head coach Steve Sarkisian has the program going in the right direction as it heads to the four-team playoff of the FCS in 2023 and to the SEC in 2024.

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The 1960 Ohio Bobcats football team etched their names in program history with a dominant and undefeated season. Led by the visionary Coach Bill Hess, these Bobcats soared to a perfect 10-0 record, captured the Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship, and shut out five of their ten opponents in a display of defensive prowess.


Key Characteristics of the Team:


Balanced Offense: The Bobcats boasted a diverse offensive attack, featuring a strong running game led by Jim Albert and a reliable passing attack spearheaded by Bob Babbitt.
Defensive Dominance: The Bobcats' defense was a brick wall, shutting out five opponents and allowing only an average of 3.4 points per game. Ron Curtis and Cliff Heffelfinger anchored a formidable defensive line, while Frank Richey's schemes kept opponents off balance.
Poise and Confidence: Under Coach Hess's leadership, the Bobcats displayed remarkable maturity and composure throughout the season. They rarely lost their focus and displayed a relentless determination to win every game.

Memorable Moments:


Thrilling Wins: The Bobcats' season was not without nail-biters. Narrow victories over Kent State and Bowling Green showcased their ability to overcome adversity and win close games.


Shutout Spree: Five shutouts, including impressive performances against rivals Miami (OH) and Marshall, solidified the Bobcats' defensive dominance and sent shockwaves through the MAC.


MAC Championship Triumph: The Bobcats capped their perfect season with a convincing victory over Western Michigan in the MAC Championship game, cementing their place as undisputed conference champions.

Legacy of the 1960 Bobcats:


Unmatched Record: The 1960 Bobcats remain the only team in Ohio University history to achieve a perfect season and hold the record for most wins in a single season.


National Recognition: The Bobcats were recognized as the national "small college" champions by the Associated Press, further solidifying their place among the elite.
Inspiration for Future Generations: The 1960 team's dedication, resilience, and success continue to inspire future Bobcats and serve as a benchmark for excellence in Ohio football history.

The 1960 Ohio Bobcats were more than just a winning team. They were a symbol of unwavering determination, defensive mastery, and offensive balance. Their perfect season and championship victory remain an indelible mark on Bobcat football history, a testament to the program's potential for greatness and a source of inspiration for all who wear the green and white.

In the heart of Music City, amidst booming bluegrass ballads and swaying gospel hymns, lies a different kind of melody – the triumphant rumble of Vanderbilt Commodores football. But unlike country crooners and soul singers, the roots of Commodore gridiron glory don't reach back to smoky bars or dimly lit churches. Instead, they sprout from the fertile ground of academic ambition and southern gentility.

In 1890, Vanderbilt University, a young institution fueled by the philanthropic spirit of Cornelius Vanderbilt, sought to join the burgeoning world of collegiate athletics. Their first opponent? No less than the University of Nashville, an established team in the city. On a sun-drenched Nashville field, the Commodores, named after the Commodore's nickname for his fleet captains, took to the gridiron, etching their initials onto the nascent annals of southern football.

Vanderbilt's early years were marked by fierce competition and evolving standards. Chemistry professor William Lofland Dudley is often hailed as the "father of Vanderbilt football," guiding the team through its formative years and securing its place in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAA). Under his leadership, the Commodores enjoyed moments of brilliance, boasting a 20-3-2 record from 1901 to 1903.

Yet, Vanderbilt's football odyssey wasn't always paved with victories. Periods of struggle and shifting priorities left their mark. The program temporarily disbanded during World War I and faced challenges maintaining its footing in the ever-evolving landscape of college football.

But like the magnolia blossoms that grace Vanderbilt's campus, the Commodores' spirit endured. Through unwavering dedication and a commitment to academic excellence, Vanderbilt football carved its own unique path. They became known for their innovative "run-and-shoot" offense and produced NFL prospects like Earl Cunningham and Frank Thomas.

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Despite its relatively young age, the Old Dominion Monarchs football program boasts a collection of thrilling moments that solidify their place as a rising force in the Sun Belt Conference and beyond. Here are some of the top highlights that paint a vibrant picture of their gridiron journey:


Early Wins and Rise to FBS (2010-2013):


2011 FCS Playoff Upset: Defeating James Madison, a national powerhouse in the FCS playoffs during their inaugural season, announced ODU's arrival on the national stage.
2012 FCS Quarterfinal Appearance: Reaching the FCS quarterfinals solidified the Monarchs' dominance in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) and fueled their transition to FBS in 2013.
2013 First FBS Victory: Toppling UMass in their first FBS game was a symbolic victory, marking their official entry into the big leagues.

Sun Belt Success and Memorable Matchups (2014-Present):


2016 Sun Belt Conference Championship Game Appearance: Battling Appalachian State in the championship game, ODU proved their competitiveness in the Sun Belt despite falling short.
2019 "Foreman Field Return" Victory: After the stadium's renovation, defeating Virginia Tech on opening day in front of a packed and roaring crowd sent shivers down spines and cemented the field's significance.
2022 Louisiana Tech Bowl Upset: Knocking off Louisiana Tech in the 2022 LendingTree Bowl, their first bowl win in program history, showcased their ability to play with and defeat formidable opponents.

Individual Brilliance and Record-Breaking Achievements:


Zach Pascal's Record-Breaking Season (2016): Wide receiver Zach Pascal torched the Sun Belt with 1,450 receiving yards, setting a program record and solidifying his status as a Monarchs legend.
Taylor Heinicke's 2013 Playoff Performance: Quarterback Taylor Heinicke's incredible play in the 2013 FCS playoffs etched his name in ODU lore, leading the Monarchs to impressive victories and national recognition.
Jeremy Cox's All-American Honors (2022): Linebacker Jeremy Cox earned All-American honors in 2022, becoming the first ODU player to achieve such recognition and highlighting the program's defensive prowess.


More Than Just Victories:


These top moments, while exhilarating, represent more than wins and losses. They reflect the Monarchs' unwavering spirit, ability to overcome challenges, and dedication to building a program that continues to write its history. From underdog victories to record-breaking feats, each highlight reinforces the belief that anything is possible for the Old Dominion Monarchs under the lights of Foreman Field.

The Akron Zips football program, boasting a nickname as unique as its journey, is woven into the fabric of Akron's identity. Founded in 1891 as Buchtel College, the team has weathered storms, soared to victories, and remained a source of pride for the city throughout its 130-year history.


-Humble Beginnings and Early Successes:
Buchtel's first official contest occurred in 1891, a 6-0 defeat against Mount Union. Despite the initial setback, the program quickly found its footing, winning its first conference championship in 1894.
In 1913, the school adopted the name "University of Akron," the football team followed suit, becoming the "Zippers" due to the city's booming rubber industry. The name was later shortened to "Zips" in 1950.
Buchtel College Football Team in 1894
The Zips enjoyed a golden age in the 1920s and 30s, led by legendary coach Paul Brown. During his tenure, Akron won three Ohio Athletic Conference titles and first appeared in the Rose Bowl in 1942.
Paul Brown, Akron Zips Football Coach

-A Climb Through the Ranks:
After years of playing as an independent and in lower divisions, the Zips finally reached the pinnacle of college football in 1987, joining the Division I-A (now FBS) ranks.
The transition was initially challenging, but under the guidance of coach Leo Theis, Akron emerged as a competitive force in the Mid-American Conference (MAC).
In 2005, the Zips achieved their ultimate dream, capturing the MAC Championship for the first time in program history. The victory over Bowling Green sent the city of Akron into jubilation and marked a defining moment in the team's legacy.


Straight from the best authority on Akron Zipp's football, the University of Akron itself. Enjoy the latest news, schedules, and history of the Zips program from the folks who know the information best.

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The Air Force Academy Falcons football program has a rich history that dates back to its humble beginnings in 1955. With the establishment of the United States Air Force Academy just three years prior, the need for an athletic program to instill leadership, discipline, and teamwork became evident.

The academy's first athletic director, Colonel James C. Devereux, recognized the potential of football to achieve these goals. He envisioned a program that would not only compete athletically but also serve as a character-building experience for its players. Devereux recruited Ben Martin, a former coach at the University of Colorado, to lead the fledgling team.

Martin's arrival marked the start of a new chapter for Air Force athletics. He implemented a rigorous training program that emphasized discipline and physical conditioning. The team's distinctive triple-option offense, which focused on deception and ball control, was also introduced during this time.

Despite initial challenges, the Falcons quickly gained attention for their unique style of play and strong work ethic. They achieved their first winning season in 1958 and went on to win the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy (awarded to the top service academy team) for the first time in 1965.

Cheer for a team where excellence extends beyond the scoreboard. The Air Force Falcons fly high with a winning tradition, academic prowess, and a commitment to developing strong leaders both on and off the field. Witness the power of teamwork and dedication as these Falcons take to the sky (or rather, the gridiron) for a thrilling season!

It is a high flying brand of football!