Football History

The Air Force Academy Falcons and the Army Black Knights have been battling it out on the gridiron since 1959, creating a storied rivalry that transcends the mere outcome of the game. This clash of service academies represents not just athletic competition but also a display of discipline, honor, and respect.

Hallowed ground nestled amidst the rolling plains of Iowa City, Kinnick Stadium isn't just a concrete bowl; it's a living monument to tradition, a roaring crucible of Hawkeye passion, and a testament to the unyielding spirit of Iowa football. Standing proud since 1929, its very bricks echo with the footsteps of gridiron giants, the cheers of generations, and the relentless echoes of "Fight for Iowa!"

Named after Nile Kinnick, the Heisman Trophy winner who tragically died in World War II, Kinnick Stadium embodies both triumph and sacrifice. Its weathered walls have witnessed legendary victories, like the 1990 National Championship run and countless thrilling Big Ten battles. Each scratch and scuff whispers a tale of grit, determination, and Hawkeye fight never yielding to the final whistle.

But Kinnick Stadium isn't just about the past; it's a vibrant center of the present. On crisp autumn Saturdays, over 69,000 fans unite under the sea of black and gold, their roar transforming the air into a living entity, a wave of pure Hawkeye devotion. The iconic Tigerhawk logo, emblazoned on the videoboard, becomes a rallying cry, while the reverberating "Wave" across the stands paints a breathtaking portrait of community and shared passion.

Beyond the spectacle, Kinnick Stadium has evolved with the times. Recent renovations have modernized the experience while preserving the historic charm. The Kinnick Edge project expanded the north end zone, adding premium seating and state-of-the-art facilities. Yet, the essential spirit remains unchanged – the bleachers still thrum with student energy, the smell of hot dogs wafts through the air, and the cheers for the Hawkeyes echo like a primal hymn.

From the solemn inscriptions honoring fallen heroes to the joyous eruptions after last-minute touchdowns, Kinnick Stadium is a tapestry woven with the threads of Hawkeye history.

The Akron Zips football program boasts a long and storied history, dating back to 1891. While they haven't yet captured a coveted conference championship, their journey is marked by consistent grit and determination.
Their early years saw them compete in various conferences, eventually settling in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) in 1992. They've secured two MAC East Division titles (2005 and 2020), showcasing their potential to compete at the highest levels.
Though they've only reached one bowl game (the 2005 Motor City Bowl), the Zips have produced several NFL players, including Charles Tillman and Kyle Kalis. This highlights their ability to develop talent for the professional ranks.
Today, under head coach Joe Moorhead, the Zips are focused on building a consistently winning program. Their signature triple-option offense, coupled with the passionate home-field advantage at InfoCision Stadium–Summa Field, fuels their desire to reach a bowl game and contend for a MAC championship.
With their innovative approach to NIL opportunities and unwavering commitment to improvement, the Akron Zips are poised for an exciting future in college football. Their legacy of perseverance serves as an inspiration to players and fans alike as they continue to strive for excellence on the gridiron.

John McNally Jr., better known by his colorful nickname "Johnny Blood," wasn't your typical Hall of Fame football player. He wasn't a bruising fullback or a record-breaking passer. Instead, McNally carved out a unique legacy as a versatile backfield threat, a journeyman with a knack for finding the end zone, and a personality as vibrant as his nickname. This essay explores the career of Johnny Blood McNally, examining his nomadic journey through the early years of the NFL and his lasting impact on the game.

-Early Days and a Basketball Buzzer Beater (Early 1920s)

Born in 1895, McNally's athletic journey began on the basketball court. Playing for Saint John's University in Minnesota, he earned a reputation for clutch plays, famously sinking a game-winning shot at the buzzer. However, football beckoned, and McNally's speed and elusive running style attracted the attention of the Pottsville Maroons of the fledgling NFL.

-A Nomadic Star in the Early NFL (1925-1928)

McNally's professional career was a whirlwind of movement. He played for four different teams in his first four seasons, including the Pottsville Maroons, the Chicago Cardinals, the New York Giants, and finally, the Philadelphia Quakers (later renamed the Eagles). Despite the constant change of scenery, McNally consistently impressed. He could run, throw, and catch with exceptional skill, becoming a fan favorite for his on-field theatrics and infectious personality.

-Championship Glory with the Green Bay Packers (1929-1933, 1935-1936)

McNally finally found a semblance of stability in 1929 when he joined the Green Bay Packers. Here, his versatility found a perfect fit within Coach Curly Lambeau's innovative offense. McNally's contributions were crucial as the Packers captured three consecutive NFL championships from 1929 to 1931. He formed a formidable backfield duo with Don Hutson, another future Hall of Famer.

-A Winding Road and a Coaching Stint (1937-1941)

McNally's later career saw him bounce between teams once again, playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates (later Steelers) and even returning briefly to the Buffalo Tigers in a minor league. He eventually retired as player-coach for the Kenosha Cardinals in a minor league. McNally's coaching stint was short-lived, but it cemented his dedication to the game.

-A Legacy of Versatility and Entertainment

Johnny Blood McNally's legacy goes beyond statistics. He was a true "iron man" of the early NFL, playing in an era before the luxuries of modern equipment and training methods. His versatility on the field and his larger-than-life personality made him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the rise of professional football's popularity in the early 20th century. While his career was defined by nomadic stints with various teams, his impact on the game, particularly his role in the Green Bay Packers' championship runs, is undeniable.

George "Mike" Wilson’s football career at Lafayette College was nothing short of legendary. Emerging as a sophomore, Wilson quickly became a dominant force on the field. His 1926 season, in particular, stands as one of the most prolific in college football history.

That year, Wilson led Lafayette to an undefeated season, scoring an astonishing 20 touchdowns. His electrifying runs, including a 69-yard touchdown in the opening game of the season, captivated fans and solidified his status as a national star. Beyond his offensive prowess, Wilson was also a versatile athlete, excelling in baseball and wrestling.

Wilson's impact extended far beyond the gridiron. He served his country with distinction in the United States Marine Corps, rising to the rank of brigadier general. His legacy as a football hero and decorated war veteran cements his place as one of Lafayette College’s most revered figures.

Born April 25, 1927, in Hector, Minnesota, was Minnesota’s Gustavus Adolphus tackle Calvin Roberts. With Roberts in the lineup, the Golden Gophers won three consecutive league titles and boasted a 23-1 regular season record per footballfoundation.org.

The 1951 team was undefeated as Roberts won the first of his two All-America honors and became a three-time All-MIAC selection. The National Football Foundation selected Calvin Roberts for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003. Calvin was drafted by the New York Giants, but an illness prevented him from taking on competition at the professional level. Therefore Roberts then entered the Marine Corps where he was named to the All-Marine Corps team while playing for the El Toro Marines. Calvin later became a line coach at Augsburg College for a short period before entering a role as a teacher in physical education.  

Louis Santop wasn't just a powerful slugger and agile catcher; he was the first true home run king of Black baseball. Born in Texas, he burst onto the scene in 1910, forming a "kid battery" with fellow rookie Dick Redding.

Though statistics remain incomplete, his dominance is undeniable. He averaged over .350 and smashed monstrous homers. His career stretched across various teams, culminating in four stellar years with the Hilldale Daisies. While towering over the competition at 6'4", Santop wasn't just muscle. He was a skilled leader, named the All-Star catcher five times, and earned a better-than-average salary for his draw.

His legend extends beyond statistics. He faced down fireballs from Smoky Joe Williams and Cannonball Redding, broke Oscar Charleston's ribs in a fiery altercation, and even held his own against the legendary Josh Gibson as far as hitting the long ball. He was a box office sensation, mesmerizing fans with his power and grace.

Though denied the opportunity to shine in the segregated significant leagues, Santop's impact on Black baseball is undeniable. He paved the way for future stars, proving the incredible talent unjustly hidden from mainstream audiences. In 2006, his legacy was finally recognized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Born May 1, 1930, in Trinity, Texas, was the University of San Francisco’s stud halfback of 1949 to 1951, Ollie Matson. Matson, a trailblazer in the realm of professional football, left an indelible mark on both the college and pro game. Hailing from Georgia, Matson's athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He attended the University of Georgia, where he excelled as a running back, earning All-American honors.

Ollie finished as a contender for the Heisman Trophy. After that season, he turned around and won the silver and bronze medals in the 1952 Olympic Games! The College Football Hall of Fame proudly placed a display in honor of Ollie Matson in their legendary museum in 1976. In 1952 Matson was the number one overall pick by the Chicago Cardinals in the NFL Draft.

Matson's college success translated seamlessly to the professional level. Drafted by the Chicago Cardinals in 1952, he quickly established himself as one of the league's premier running backs. Known for his elusive running style, Matson's ability to make defenders miss tackles and find open space was unmatched. He consistently led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns, earning numerous Pro Bowl selections and even winning the NFL MVP award in 1955.

Beyond his individual accomplishments, Matson also played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers in the NFL. As one of the first African American players to achieve widespread success and recognition, he helped pave the way for future generations of Black athletes. Matson's contributions to the game extended beyond the field, as he became a respected figure in the community and a role model for aspiring athletes. His legacy as a pioneering running back and a trailblazer in the fight for racial equality will continue to inspire future generations.

He played well for the Cards but was traded to the Rams in 1959 for nine players! You can learn more about that trade here. Ollie racked up over 12,000 yards of total offense in the League and was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972.

Forget your modern-day gridiron giants. Brace yourself for a tale spun from sepia-toned leather helmets and mud-caked cleats. This is the story of Harold Weekes, the "Hurdler," a Columbia Lions legend who redefined football in the early 1900s.

We're talking about a time when offense meant brute force and passes were a whispered heresy. But Weekes, a halfback with the speed of a cheetah and the courage of a lion (fitting, eh?), saw a different future. He envisioned the air alive with pigskin, defenses scrambling in futility.

And boy, did he defy it! Picture this: Weekes, perched atop the shoulders of teammates, hurdling over bewildered tacklers like a human cannonball. The "Flying Hurdle," they called it, a death-defying dance that left opponents awestruck and crowds roaring.

He wasn't just a daredevil; he was a triple-threat maestro. Weekes threw lasers, juked like a Houdini, and ran with the wind at his heels. He led Columbia to three championships, earned three All-American honors, and became the first-ever Lion inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Sonny Jurgensen wasn't your typical gunslinger quarterback. He wasn't known for scrambling or extending plays; his magic resided in his pinpoint accuracy and a throwing arm that earned him the nickname "The Cannon from Carolina." Jurgensen's 18-year career, spent with the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins, solidified his place among the finest pure passers in NFL history, culminating in his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983.

Born August 23, 1934 - Jurgensen's journey began in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he excelled at multiple sports before heading to Duke University. Drafted by the Eagles in 1957, he spent his first few seasons as a backup, honing his craft. However, upon becoming the full-time starter in 1960, Jurgensen exploded. He led the league in passing yards twice with the Eagles, showcasing his exceptional ability to dissect defenses. His throws, a mix of bullets and lasers, found receivers in tight windows with remarkable consistency.

In 1964, Jurgensen was traded to the Washington Redskins, a move that would define his legacy. Here, he flourished under head coach George Allen, who built an offense around his strengths. Jurgensen thrived, leading the league in passing yards three times for the Redskins and even tying Johnny Unitas' single-season touchdown record in 1961 with 32. His five Pro Bowl selections and career passer rating of 82.6, the highest for any player in the pre-1978 "Dead Ball Era," stand as testaments to his dominance.

Jurgensen wasn't just about statistics. He was a leader, a steadying presence on the field. He demanded the best from himself and his teammates, but he also had a playful side. His famous "hot dog" celebration, where he mimicked throwing a hot dog to the stands after a touchdown, became a fan favorite.

While Jurgensen never won a Super Bowl, he left an undeniable mark on the game. He was a pioneer in the world of the modern quarterback, a player who relied on his arm and tactical brilliance rather than mobility. His influence on the game is undeniable, inspiring generations of quarterbacks to prioritize precision passing.

Even after his retirement, Jurgensen remained a fixture in the NFL world as a broadcaster. His insightful commentary and infectious enthusiasm for the game solidified his status as a legend, not just for the Washington Redskins or Philadelphia Eagles, but for the entire NFL. Sonny Jurgensen was, and remains, a true gunslinger, a master of the aerial assault, and a deserving member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.