Football History

Don Shula was a legend of American football, both as a player and a coach. He carved his legacy across seven decades, leaving an indelible mark on the NFL. Here's a summary of his illustrious career:

Playing Career (1951-1957):

-Played seven seasons as a defensive back for the Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Colts, and Washington Redskins.

-Not a flashy player, but known for his intelligence, toughness, and leadership.

-Won NFL Championship with the Browns in 1954.

Coaching Career (1960-1995):

-Holds the record for most wins by a head coach in NFL history with 347 victories.

-Won two Super Bowls with the Miami Dolphins (Super Bowl VII and VIII), including the only perfect season in NFL history in 1972.

-Led the Baltimore Colts to one Super Bowl appearance (Super Bowl III).

-Coached in six Super Bowls in total, more than any other coach in NFL history.

-Known for his disciplined, meticulous approach and defensive innovations.

-Built two dominant dynasties with the Colts and Dolphins, featuring iconic players like Johnny Unitas, Larry Csonka, and Dan Marino.

-Earned induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997.

Born October 27, 1928, in San Antonio, Texas, was William Kyle Rote a halfback from Southern Methodist University.

It was a chilly December afternoon in 1949, and SMU’s 1948 Heisman winner Doak Walker, was injured and unable to play in the game when the undefeated juggernauts of college football, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish rolled into town to face the Mustangs. Doak’s replacement was ayoung unknown talent called Kyle Rote and he was up to the challenge. Rote came in and according to the National Football Foundation he ran for 115 yards, passed for another 146, scored all three SMU touchdowns.

And by the way he also averaged 48 yards per kick while punting in the game. Notre Dame held on and won the game, but Rote gave them all they could handle in the 27-20 Irish win. In the 1950 season Rote went on to become a consensus All-American selection. He took second in the Heisman voting that season and even got his picture on the front cover of Life Magazine. Kyle Rote was honored in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1964. Kyle played a short stint in minor league baseball then joined the NFL's New York Giants where he played from 1951 through 1961 and was a team captain. Kyle Rote even made the Pro Bowl four times to cap off a brilliant career in football.

The name "Four Horsemen" evokes images of gridiron dominance in college football history. But within this legendary backfield at Notre Dame, one player stands out for his well-rounded brilliance – Harry Stuhldreher. He wasn't just a football star; he was a poet, a lawyer, and a leader who embodied the spirit of innovation. Today, we delve deeper than the touchdowns and highlight reels. Join us as we explore the remarkable life of Harry Stuhldreher – the Renaissance Man of the gridiron!

Harry Stuhldreher wasn't just a football player; he was a multi-talented athlete who embodied the spirit of innovation and leadership during a golden age of college football. This essay explores Stuhldreher's remarkable career, examining his prowess on the field, his contributions to the legendary "Four Horsemen" backfield, and his lasting influence on the game.

-A Well-Rounded Athlete: From Poetry to the Playing Field (Early 1900s-1924)

Born in 1901, Stuhldreher displayed a diverse range of talents from a young age. He excelled in academics, even winning a poetry contest while attending Culver Military Academy. However, it was on the football field where his brilliance truly shone. He enrolled at the University of Notre Dame, quickly establishing himself as a standout player under the guidance of the visionary coach Knute Rockne.

-The Birth of a Legend: The "Four Horsemen" and Offensive Innovation (1922-1924)
Stuhldreher's place in football history is cemented by his role in Notre Dame's legendary "Four Horsemen" backfield alongside Don Miller, Jim Crowley, and Elmer Layden. This innovative offensive unit, spearheaded by Rockne's revolutionary "shift" formation, revolutionized college football. Stuhldreher, a versatile backfield threat, could pass, run, and block with exceptional skill. He was the glue that held the "Four Horsemen" together, his leadership and strategic understanding being instrumental to their success.

-Playing as a Pro

Stuhldreher's fame as a football player was lucrative in the years proceeding his time with the Irish. He played in multiple exhibition games with former teammates on the Notre Dame All-Star squad and later made spot appearances with the Waterbury Blues (Hartford Blues).

Harry Stuhldreher's professional football career was short-lived and marked by a unique twist. After a brief stint with the Brooklyn Lions in 1926, the team underwent a significant change. They merged with several players from the "Four Horsemen," including Stuhldreher, and even adopted the "Horsemen" name. However, this ambitious attempt at professional gridiron glory proved fleeting. Both the newly formed "Horsemen" franchise and the entire American Football League (AFL), in which they competed, folded after just one season. This unfortunate turn of events brought a premature end to Stuhldreher's professional football aspirations, along with the Brooklyn NFL franchise and the AFL itself.

-A Legacy Beyond Statistics: More Than Wins and Losses (1924-Present)

Stuhldreher's career transcended mere statistics. He helped lead Notre Dame to an undefeated season in 1924, solidifying the team's national dominance under Rockne. However, his impact goes beyond wins and championships. He embodied the ideals of sportsmanship and intellectual curiosity that Coach Rockne instilled in his players. After graduating, Stuhldreher enjoyed a successful career in business with US Steel, further demonstrating his well-rounded personality.

-Stuhldreher's Enduring Influence on the Game

Harry Stuhldreher's legacy is multifaceted. He was a key figure in the rise of Notre Dame as a national powerhouse, and his contributions to the "Four Horsemen" backfield remain etched in football history. Furthermore, his versatility and intelligence on the field played a significant role in the evolution of offensive strategies. Stuhldreher serves as an inspiration not just for athletes but for aspiring individuals who excel in multiple areas.

Seldom do defensive players impact the game of football as much as standout defensive Lineman Reggie White did. His legacy in college, the USFL, and NFL in two cities still is remembered

-College Career

Reggie White’s collegiate career at the University of Tennessee was nothing short of dominant.

A raw but immensely talented defensive lineman, he quickly developed into a force to be reckoned with. With his imposing physical stature and relentless motor, White wreaked havoc on opposing offenses. His junior and senior seasons were particularly outstanding, as he earned consensus All-American honors and solidified his status as one of the nation’s top defensive prospects.  

-Road to the Pro Game

White’s professional football journey began in the United States Football League (USFL) with the Memphis Showboats, where he continued to showcase his exceptional talent. His impact was so significant that he was selected in the first round of the 1984 NFL Supplemental Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.  

In Philadelphia, White emerged as one of the most feared defensive players in the league. His combination of size, speed, and power was virtually unstoppable. He earned the nickname “The Minister of Defense” for his dominant performances and his strong Christian faith. White’s sack totals were staggering, and he consistently disrupted opposing offenses.  

After a highly successful stint in Philadelphia, White signed with the Green Bay Packers, where he continued to excel. His presence was instrumental in the Packers’ resurgence, culminating in a Super Bowl victory. White’s career concluded with a brief stint with the Carolina Panthers.  

-Football Legacy

Reggie White’s legacy is cemented as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history. His impact on the game was profound, as he redefined the position of defensive end. White’s combination of power, speed, and intelligence made him virtually unstoppable.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, White was also revered for his character and leadership. His strong Christian faith was evident in his life and actions, and he was a role model for players and fans alike. White’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006 was a fitting tribute to a career marked by excellence and integrity.  

His impact extends beyond statistics and accolades. White's influence on the game is still felt today, as young defensive linemen strive to emulate his dominance and character.

Born May 30, 1949 - Salem, New Jersey -  Lydell Mitchell 3 time Pro- Bowl NFL Running back played for the Colts, Chargers & Rams.  The Baltimore Colts drafted Mitchell with the 48th pick of the 1972 NFL Draft. Mitchell played his college career at Penn State under Joe Paterno along with his fellow backfield mate Franco Harris. Quite a one two punch for the Nittany Lions in the season of '71. Lydell Mitchell entered the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004. Lydell's was a threat to run and recieve passes as a pro and when he teamed up with Colts QB Bert Jones the pair helped the team win 3 consecutive AFC East Titles (1975, 76 & 77), stealing the crown from their division rival the Miami Dolphins, yes those Dolphins that only a year or two earlier had an undefeated season.

---

Steve Owen's career in professional football spanned nearly three decades, leaving an indelible mark on the New York Giants and the game itself. He carved out a successful path as a player before transitioning into a legendary coach, forever etching his name in Giants' lore.

Steve Owen not only starred while playing the game, he absorbed the lessons he learned on the field, put them into practice, and even innovated concepts of the gridiron when he got into coaching.

Steve Owen, born on April 21, 1898, in Cleo Springs, Oklahoma, was ambitious and resilient. His journey to success was not without its challenges. After completing high school, he continued his education at Philips University in Enid, OK. He worked on a cattle ranch to support himself, demonstrating his determination and work ethic. However, his pursuit of higher learning was interrupted when he served in the US Army during World War I.

Steve Owen's journey in professional football began in the early 1920s when the game was still finding its shape. After the War, he signed on with the NFL's Kansas City Cowboys in 1924, who played all their games on the road. The lineman earned a salary of $50 per contest for his labor.

At a relatively short 5'10" for a lineman, Owen's exceptional strength, intelligence, and fierce competitive spirit compensated for his stature. These unique qualities and his leadership skills set him apart from his peers.

His journey took him to several teams. After finding being a full-time road warrior quite the grind, the 26-year-old spent the 1925 season with the Waterbury-Hartford Blues, an independent team in Connecticut. The Blues had ambitions to join the NFL, and after Steve helped the team achieve a record of 10-2, including two narrow victories over the NFL's Rochester Jeffersons, Hartford would earn a League franchise in 1926. Steve was also signed to play for the Cleveland Bulldogs for one game that season.

That solitary game with the struggling Bulldogs would be a springboard to his eventual pigskin roost. Steve played briefly with the Cleveland Bulldogs before being sold to the New York Giants in 1926 for $500. The legendary Dr. Harry March had seen Owen play a year earlier at a meager salary of $100 a game, which barely covered the expenses of barnstorming across Florida with the Cowboys. Yet, his exceptional defensive skills couldn't be ignored.

Owen truly blossomed with the Giants, becoming a key cog in their 1927 champ "on-ship run. His leadership on and off the field earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.

By 1931, Owen had transitioned into a player-coach role with the Giants, marking the start of a coaching dynasty that would span over two decades. His approach to the game was characterized by a strong emphasis on defense and fundamental football, a stark contrast to the more flamboyant offensive schemes of the time. This defensive focus, known as "Stout Steve's System," shaped the Giants' play and left a lasting" impacSteve'se game i "self, revolutionizingGiants'y team approach to defense.

Despite initial skepticism, Owen's methods proved to be game-changers. He led the Giants to eight Eastern titles and two NFL championships (1934 and 1938). His innovative tactics, such as the A-formation that revolutionized running plays and the umbrella defense designed to counter emerging passing attacks, significantly impacted the game's evolution. Owen's ability to adapt and innovate, combined with his unwavering fundamentals, reshaped the game, leaving a lasting legacy.

Steve Owen's impact extended beyond his tactical brilliance. He fostered a culture of Owen's focus and teamwork within the Giants organization, a testament to his leadership and character. He was known for his loyalty to his players and staff, instilling a sense of family within the team. This loyalty extended beyond the playing field, as Owen famously coached with the Giants for 24 seasons on a handshake agreement – a testament to his mutual respect and the Mara family, who owned the team.

The innovator took chances, too, with little things he learned and quick decisions. In the 1934 championship game (now known as the "sneaker game"), he found himself on a frozen field. In a stroke of genius, the New York Giants switched to sneakers in the second half, gaining traction and defeating the Chicago Bears 30-13. This innovative move forever changed the game, as NFL teams always wear rubber-soled shoes on icy fields.

Under the leadership of Coach Owen, the Giants would also claim the NFL title in 1938.

As a coach, Owen had a career win/loss record of 155-108-17 as his teams won eight division titles and two NFL Championships. The G-men under his watch were in eight of the first 14 NFL Title games! Coach Owen's innovations to the game were outstanding, and he is credited with the A-foOwen'sn offense. The umbrella defense, where he dropped four defensive backs to cover the deep field partly to neutralize the powerful Cleveland Browns passing attack after they joined the NFL in the early 1950s. He even participated in implementing the two-platoon system of personnel with specialists in offense and defense. Steve Owen was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966.

Steve Owen retired from coaching in 1953, leaving a legacy far beyond wins and championships. He was pivotal in establishing the New York Giants as a perennial contender, laying the foundation for future success. More importantly, Owen's dedication to defense, his emphasis on fundamentals, and his innovative Owen'ss significantly impacted the game's evolution. He is a testament that leadership, intelligence, and a deep understanding of the game can overcome physical limitations. Steve Owen, the "Rock of New York," remains a towering figure in the Giants' history and an innovator in "the annals of professional football Giants.'

Henry Louis "Hank" Stram wasn't born into gridiron greatness; he earned it, yard by bloody yard. From his humble beginnings in Chicago to his legendary reign as the head coach of the Dallas Texans/Kansas City Chiefs, Stram's story is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and an unyielding love for the game.
His coaching career began not with fancy schemes or celebrity
status but on the dusty fields of rural Ohio, molding high school teams into gridiron warriors. His talent caught the eye of the University of Miami, where he honed his coaching skills and gained a reputation for defensive ingenuity.
In 1959, Lamar Hunt, founder of the newly formed American Football League (AFL), took a chance on the unassuming coach, appointing him to lead the Dallas Texans. This marked the beginning of a dynasty. Stram, nicknamed the "Big Texan" for his imposing presence and booming voice, instilled a culture of tough-nosed defense and aggressive offense.

His leadership saw the Texans win the 1962 AFL Championship, showcasing his ability to build a winning team in a league often overshadowed by the established NFL. His strategic innovations, like the "No-Huddle offense," revolutionized the game, adding speed and unpredictability to the gridiron.

In 1963, the Texans relocated to Kansas City, becoming the Chiefs. Stram's legacy followed as he continued to mold championship contenders. He led the Chiefs to another AFL title in 1966 before guiding them to victory in Super Bowl IV – the first time an AFL team had beaten an NFL team in the ultimate game.

Stram's impact went beyond trophies. He recognized the burgeoning cultural significance of football, embracing fan interactions and creating memorable moments like his sideline tirade after Len Dawson's fumble, now an iconic part of football history.

His coaching career spanned 17 seasons, with a 131-97-10 record and five AFL Championship appearances. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003, a testament to his enduring influence on the game.

Hank Stram was more than just a coach; he was a pioneer, an innovator, and a showman who dared to challenge the status quo. He left an indelible mark on the AFL and the NFL, forever remembered as the "Big Texan" who brought an AFL team to the mountaintop and forever changed the landscape of professional football.

Born April 10, 1909, in Toronto, Ohio, was the stud fullback of 1929 to 1931 from Bucknell University, Clarke Hinkle.

This legend was blessed with great foot speed and mobility which gave him excellent range, both on offense and the defensive side of the ball. He first achieved fame and notoriety in 1929, when he led the East in scoring with 128 points. Clarke Hinkle’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1971. Hinkle joined the Green Bay Packers in 1932 and he was the answer to counter the Bears Bronko Nagurski, as the two battled head to head on many occasions. During his 10 years with the Green Bay Packers, Hinkle was named first- or second-team all-league each year! In 1964 Clarke Hinkle was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Standing at just 5'11" and 202 lbs, Clark Hinkle carved a unique name for himself in NFL history as a dominant two-way player for the Green Bay Packers (1933-1941). Despite his smaller stature, he possessed tremendous heart, tenacity, and talent, leaving a lasting mark on the league.

On Offense:

-Hinkle amassed 3,860 rushing yards (then an NFL record), showcasing his powerful running and shifty moves.

-He caught 160 passes for 1,702 yards and 14 touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility as a receiving threat.

-He even served as the Packers' punter and placekicker for several seasons, further highlighting his well-rounded skillset.

On Defense:

-Hinkle was a fierce linebacker, earning the nickname "Iron Man" for his bone-crushing tackles and relentless pursuit.

-He proudly claimed he only allowed one receiver to get behind him during his entire career, a testament to his exceptional coverage skills.
His defensive prowess earned him three All-Pro selections, adding to his offensive accolades.
Legacy:

-Hinkle was selected for the Pro Bowl every year of his career (7x) and earned All-Pro honors eight times.

-He helped lead the Packers to three NFL championship games, winning in 1936 and 1939.
His career was unfortunately cut short by World War II service in 1942, leaving his potential unfulfilled.

-He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1964, recognized as one of the greatest two-way players in NFL history.

Born June 23, 1979 - Rosebud, Texas - LaDainian Tomlinson, the premier Texas Christian University running back from 1997 through the 2000 season was born.

According to the National Football Foundation, Tomlinson was voted as not only the 1999 WAC Offensive Player of the Year but was a unanimous First-Team All-American selection as a senior as well. Tomlinson led the nation in rushing in both 1999 with an outstanding 1,850 yards and in the 2000 season he even surpassed that adding 2,158 yards of Horned Frog ground yardage.  

He finished fourth in the voting for the 2000 Heisman Trophy. The all-time leading rusher in both conference and school history, Tomlinson set NCAA records for most yards in a half  with 287 and most yards in a game 406 in a big TCU win against UTEP in 1999. The College Football Hall of Fame proudly placed a display in honor of LaDainian Tomlinson into their legendary museum in 2014. The NFF bio on LaDainian goes on to state that he was selected as the fifth overall pick of the 2001 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers.

Tomlinson enjoyed a successful 11-year career with the Chargers and Jets. The 2006 NFL MVP twice led the league in rushing, and he finished his career fifth all-time in rushing yards with 13,684 and his 145 TD's ranked him second in career rushing scores. This five-time Pro Bowl selection and four-time All-Pro selection, was also named the Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2006.

Darrell Green is a name synonymous with speed, longevity, and excellence in the NFL.

His 20-year career with the Washington Redskins was a testament to his extraordinary athleticism and unwavering dedication to his craft.  

Prior to his NFL stardom, Green showcased his exceptional speed on the track at North Texas State University (Texas A&I). As a cornerback, his blazing speed made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. His college career was marked by impressive performances, earning him recognition as a standout defensive player.  

Drafted by the Redskins in 1983, Green quickly established himself as one of the league's premier cornerbacks. His speed was unmatched, allowing him to lock down receivers and make game-changing plays. He was a key contributor to two Super Bowl victories, and his interceptions, including several returned for touchdowns, became legendary.  

Green's ability to maintain an elite level of play well into his late 30s earned him the nickname "The Ageless Wonder." He defied the typical decline of athleticism and continued to be a dominant force on the field. His longevity, combined with his exceptional talent, solidified his status as one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Green was also known for his character and community involvement. His impact on the game extends far beyond his statistics, inspiring countless players and fans with his dedication, perseverance, and unwavering spirit. Darrell Green's legacy as a football icon is secure, and his name will forever be etched in the annals of NFL history.