Football History

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LaVern "Lavvie" Dilweg wasn't your typical football player. A true renaissance athlete, Dilweg excelled in not just one, but three sports during his college years at Marquette University. Yet, it's on the gridiron where he carved his niche in American football history, becoming a standout player and an early contributor to the fledgling NFL.

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Dilweg's athletic prowess manifested early. He dominated the local high school scene before heading to Marquette, where he thrived as a three-sport athlete. As a center on the basketball team and a shot putter on the track team, Dilweg displayed his versatility and strength. However, it was on the football field where his talents truly shone.

Playing end for the Marquette Golden Avalanche under head coach Frank Murray, Dilweg earned All-American honors. His dominance on the field contributed to the Golden Avalanche's impressive record of 28-4-1 during his four years. This success culminated in an invitation to play in the inaugural East-West Shrine Game in San Francisco in 1925, a prestigious event showcasing the nation's top college football players.

Dilweg's college career intersected with the early years of the National Football League (NFL). While still enrolled at Marquette's law school, he dipped his toes into professional football with the Milwaukee Badgers in 1926. Unfortunately, the Badgers folded before the season's end. However, Dilweg's talent wasn't lost on another historic franchise – the Green Bay Packers.

In 1927, Dilweg signed with the Packers, embarking on a professional career that would last through the 1934 season. This period was a time of immense growth for the NFL, and Dilweg played a part in shaping its early identity. Balancing his legal career with his gridiron duties, Dilweg exemplified the dedication and versatility required of athletes in the league's nascent years.

Lavvie Dilweg's story is a testament to the spirit of early American football. He wasn't just a talented player; he was a multi-sport athlete who embodied the athletic ideal of his era. His contributions to the Green Bay Packers during a crucial period of growth for the NFL solidify his place as a pioneer who helped pave the way for the sport we know today.

-Transcript of Ken Crippen's Chat About Dilweg

And you look at someone like a Laverne Dilweg and it's just inexplicable to me how he can't become a finalist, you know, he, you'll see them in the, in the, um, centennial class where he was part of the top 20, but then never made it beyond that. And then, you know, it was never really been touched since then. Al Wister, he's getting close, but he's not making it. These are guys who dominated their positions. I mean, Dillwig was the second-best end in the pre-modern era. How can you not be considered if you're number two behind one of the greatest of all time in Don Hutson? You have somebody that, you know, Ken Riley, you know, we brought his name up earlier, so I don't want to keep picking on him, but doesn't have the all pros, doesn't have the Pro Bowls or anything like that. They used interceptions while he had 64 interceptions in his career. He never led the league in interceptions. He was in the top five once in interceptions. If you're a Hall of Famer, you only make top five and interceptions once in a 16-year career. There are times he didn't even lead his own team in interceptions, but yet that was the criteria for him getting in. Laverne Dillwig had 27 interceptions from a defensive end position. You look at the other pre-modern era ends that are in the Hall of Fame. They all have single digits in interceptions. Dillwig had 27. The only other end that had more was Hudson, but he played safety. So you're going to have more opportunities. You're going to be able to have more interceptions, and it's only three more than Dillwig had. He led, you know, Dilweg led the league in yards, touchdowns. That's what an end does, but you look at it, and you know, eight-time All-Pro, six-time consecutive consensus All-Pro, four-time consecutive unanimous All-Pro, all-decade team. The media members of the day said he was by far the best end of his time, but yet you look at the media members today and they're like, yeah, it doesn't matter.

The Boston Yanks, a team that flickered brightly briefly in the National Football League (NFL), represent a fascinating chapter in the league's early history. Although the Yanks existed for only five seasons, from 1944 to 1948, they left their mark on the fledgling league despite their struggles.
The Yanks ironically landed in Boston because owner Ted Collins wanted to bring a team to New York City's Yankee Stadium.

The Yanks, a team born out of unique circumstances, were initially intended for New York City's Yankee Stadium by owner Ted Collins. However, the name 'Yanks' stuck, a constant reminder of Collins' initial vision. Their arrival in 1944 coincided with a player shortage caused by World War II, leading to a unique situation for the 1945 season. The Yanks temporarily merged with the Brooklyn Tigers, another struggling franchise, becoming simply 'the Yanks' without a designated home city.

Despite the challenges, the Yanks showed glimpses of potential. They boasted players like Charley "Choo-Choo" Justice, a speedy halfback known for his dazzling runs. However, overall success proved elusive. Their first official season in 1944 yielded a meager 2-8 record, a trend that continued throughout their existence.

One of the Yanks' defining aspects was their home field situation. Primarily playing at Fenway Park, the iconic baseball stadium, they faced logistical hurdles. Sharing the field with the Boston Red Sox often meant scheduling conflicts. Braves Field, home to the Boston Braves baseball team, became a temporary home for games coinciding with Red Sox games. This lack of a dedicated stadium likely hampered fan engagement and team identity.

Financial struggles also plagued the Yanks. The league was still finding its footing, and attendance figures were often disappointing. Coupled with the team's lack of consistent winning, attracting top talent became difficult.

In 1946, the Yanks received a boost when they absorbed the remnants of the Brooklyn Tigers franchise, gaining a wealth of experienced players. However, it wasn't enough to turn the tide. Despite flashes of brilliance from individual players, the Yanks never managed a winning season.

By 1949, the franchise's future looked bleak. Facing mounting financial losses and a lack of on-field success, the Yanks relocated to New York City, becoming the New York Yanks. This move, however, proved temporary. After two seasons, the team moved again, becoming the Dallas Texans (later known as the Kansas City Chiefs), a franchise that thrives today.

Though their time in Boston was brief, the Yanks played a significant role in the NFL's growth. They brought professional football to a new city, showcasing the sport's potential to a wider audience. Their struggles, though challenging, also served as a catalyst for the league's evolution, highlighting the challenges faced by the NFL in its early years. The Boston Yanks, in their brief existence, serve as a testament to the league's perseverance in its journey to becoming the national phenomenon it is today.

Gridiron history is packed with exciting moments that have shaped the game we know and love today. On June 21st alone, the gridiron witnessed events that influenced the sport's trajectory. Let's delve into the past and explore some of the most significant happenings that went down on this specific summer date. We'll uncover rule changes, groundbreaking plays, or maybe even the birth of a legendary player – all of which left their mark on the game we cherish. So, gear up and get ready to take a fascinating journey through gridiron history, specifically focusing on the events that unfolded on June 21st.

This daily football history segment features the Great events, Franchise formation anniversaries as well as the birthdays of notable Hall of Fame players, coaches or anyone else in our great game and many more Legendary stories of the Gridiron.

On June 28th, we honor the gridiron heroes whose talents have shaped the game we love. From unforgettable touchdowns to game-changing plays, this date marks pivotal moments in football history. Join us in recognizing the Hall of Fame birthdays of icons who have left an indelible mark on the sport.

Let's reminisce on the triumphs and records set by these legendary athletes. From jaw-dropping catches to championship victories, each event has contributed to the rich tapestry of American football. Today, we celebrate their enduring legacy and the impact they've made on the game.

Stay tuned as we delve into the inspiring stories and achievements of these football greats.

On June 22nd, 1922, something monumental happened that changed the course of American football forever. But that's not all! This date also saw the birth of some legendary players who would leave their mark on the game.

Want to know what historic event unfolded on this day and which future stars were born to wear the gridiron crown? Tune in for a fascinating look back at June 22nd in American football history!

Great events, Franchise formation anniversaries, as well as the birthdays of notable Hall of Fame players, coaches, or anyone else in our great game, and many more Legendary stories of the Gridiron.

Take a pigskin plunge into the past! This post dives deep into the archives to uncover the most fascinating American football happenings and the legendary Hall of Famers who share a June 30th birthday. Get ready for unexpected moments, record-breaking feats, and some iconic figures who forever changed the game!

We even see some news from an NFL franchise that had a big event on June 30. Clench down on your mouthpiece and dive into the pile!

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We have heard of the famous lost NFL Championship of the Pottsville Maroons in 1925 and the controversy surrounding it. However, another Title controversy brewed a few seasons earlier concerning a now-defunct franchise when the League was still under its original American Professional Football Association banner.

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champions? Check it out here NFL Champions.

Controversy is always good subject matter for a solid story, and what we have for today is solid. Back in 2021 we spoke with Football Learning Academies' Ken Crippen, speaking of a Buffalo All-Americans NFL title controversy with the Chicago Staleys and George Halas.

The 1921 APFA title, the precursor to the NFL championship, went to the Chicago Staleys (later Bears) in a controversial decision. Both the Staleys and Buffalo All-Americans finished the season with a 9-1-1 record. A tiebreaker game was played, but there's disagreement on its significance. Buffalo believed it was an exhibition, while Chicago argued it counted towards the standings. The Staleys won the game, and league officials ultimately awarded them the title. This decision, known as the "Staley Swindle" by Buffalo fans, remains a point of contention.

Big thanks to Ken Crippen for sharing the information and his time. Check out the Football Learning Academy https://www.football-learning-academy.com/.

Ken has written a few books on Buffalo Pro football too. We share some links through our Amazon Associates Account that gives some proceeds to the running of Pigskin Dispatch if purchased through. Kens books include:
The Original Buffalo Bills: A History of the All-America Football Conference Team, 1946-1949.

Step into the annals of American football history on July 23rd, a date marked by pivotal moments that have left an enduring impact on the sport. From historic signings to memorable games and influential decisions, July 23rd has witnessed events that resonate deeply with football enthusiasts and fans alike. It serves as a reminder of the sport's rich heritage and its evolution over the decades.

Join us as we embark on a journey through the significant events that have defined July 23rd in American football. From groundbreaking innovations in strategy to dramatic victories on the field, each story illuminates the passion and drama that make football such a beloved pastime. Whether you're passionate about the game's history or simply curious about its cultural significance, our exploration promises to uncover intriguing narratives and highlight the individuals who have shaped the sport's trajectory.

Stay tuned as we uncover the stories behind July 23rd's most memorable moments in American football history. Discover how these events have not only shaped the game itself but also captivated the hearts and minds of millions around the world. Join us in celebrating the heritage of football and exploring the impact of July 23rd on its enduring legacy.

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Chris Willis's book, The Columbus Panhandles: A Complete History of Pro Football's Toughest Team, 1900-1922, dives into the largely forgotten story of a unique and successful professional football team: the Columbus Panhandles.

From Railroad Yard to Championship Contenders:

The book chronicles the rise and fall of the Panhandles, a team formed in 1901 by workers at the Pennsylvania Railroad's Panhandle shops in Columbus, Ohio. These immigrant railroad workers honed their football skills during lunch breaks on the sandlots of the railroad yards.

Key Figures and Strategies:

Willis highlights the role of innovative team manager Joseph Carr, who later became the NFL commissioner. Carr used perks like free railroad travel for employees and the star power of the Nesser brothers, a family of talented players, to build a strong traveling team.

Season-by-Season Account:

The book delves into a season-by-season account of the Panhandles' journey. Willis utilizes original interviews, newspaper reports, and photographs to recreate the team's triumphs and heartbreaks. Readers get a glimpse into the team's playing style, known for its physicality and toughness, earning them the nickname "Pro Football's Toughest Team."

The 1974 Florida Blazers were an American football team that played in the short-lived World Football League (WFL). Their story is one of ambition, turbulence, and, ultimately, disappointment.
Early Days and Formation:
In 1974, oceanographic engineer E. Joseph Wheeler purchased the WFL rights to the Washington, D.C., area.
The team was initially named the Washington Ambassadors, but due to a conflict with the NHL expansion team of the same name, it was changed to the Florida Blazers.
The team was slated to begin play in July 1974 and was to be housed in Orlando, Florida.
Turbulent Season:
Despite the promise of a new league and a fresh start, the Blazers' season was marred by instability.
The team faced financial difficulties, ownership changes, and logistical challenges.
They played in four different cities throughout the season – Orlando, Jacksonville, Memphis, and San Antonio – and had seven different nicknames, including the Suns, Express, Southmen, and Wings.
On-field performance was inconsistent, with the team finishing 7-7 and missing the playoffs by one game.
League Demise and Legacy:
The WFL itself folded after only one season due to financial problems.
The Blazers, along with all other WFL teams, disbanded, and their legacy faded.
However, the 1974 Florida Blazers represent a fascinating chapter in football history, highlighting the challenges and uncertainties of a new league and the fleeting nature of success.