Football History

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Learn more about this classic stat based tabletop football game, Strat-O-Matic Football with expert guest Michael Kane

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The Cleveland Browns franchise started in the All-America Football Conference. A rival of the NFL. What they did in 1948 is remarkable.

In 1948, the Cleveland Browns, then part of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC), embarked on a historic journey, etching their name in football history as an undefeated team. The legendary coach Paul Brown led the team to dominate the league, leaving an enduring legacy.

-Undisputed Dominance: The Browns boasted a roster teeming with talent, including Otto Graham, Marion Motley, and Lou Groza. Their innovative T-formation offense and a stifling defense, allowing only 190 points all season, paved the way for their 14-0 record. Victories against strong contenders like the San Francisco 49ers solidified their claim as the league's best.

-Championship Glory: Following their regular season triumph, the Browns faced the Buffalo Bills in the AAFC Championship game. Their offensive prowess continued, crushing the Bills 49-7, securing their first league title. This capped off a perfect season, a feat unmatched in professional football.

-Lingering Debate: While the Browns' dominance was undeniable, their legacy is subject to some debate. The AAFC was considered weaker than the NFL, leading some to question the true strength of their competition. Despite this, their undefeated record and innovative style remain impressive achievements.

-Impact on Football: The 1948 season's impact extended beyond simply claiming a championship. The Browns' success challenged the dominance of the NFL, ultimately forcing a merger in 1970. Additionally, their innovative T-formation offense left a lasting impact on offensive strategies across the league.

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Born August 16, 1862, in West Orange, New Jersey, was College Football Hall of Fame Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg. Stagg was a great innovator of many items we know in football such as the huddle, man in motion, and more. Most of his career was as the head man for the University of Chicago Maroons. Biographer Jennifer Taylor Hall discusses the great Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg and his many contributions to football and sports in general.

Here is the transcript of Ms. Hall's conversation with us:

The Arizona State Sun Devils football program boasts a rich history dating back to 1891. While national championships may have eluded them, the Sun Devils have carved their own unique path in college football, marked by resilience, consistent improvement, and a commitment to developing NFL talent.

-Early Years (1891-1950s):

The Sun Devils' early years saw them compete in various conferences, including the Pacific Coast Conference and the Western Athletic Conference.

Their early history was marked by inconsistency and struggle, with limited success and sporadic winning seasons.

However, the program laid the foundation for future success, developing a strong identity and fostering a dedicated fan base.

-Golden Age (1950s-1970s):

The 1950s and 60s saw the rise of ASU football under legendary coaches Frank Kush and Darryl Rogers.
This era witnessed the program's most sustained success, including Seven conference championships (six Western Athletic Conference, one Pacific Coast Conference)

Three bowl appearances (1959 Sun Bowl, 1961 Sun Bowl, 1970 Astro-Bluebonnet Bowl)

Development of NFL stars, including Merlin Olsen, John Hadl, and Pat Tillman

-Turbulent Times (1980s-2000s):

The program faced challenges in the latter half of the 20th century, experiencing periods of coaching changes, NCAA sanctions, and inconsistent results.
Despite these obstacles, the Sun Devils continued to field talented players like Jake Plummer and Terrell Suggs, showcasing their commitment to player development.

-Resurgence and Modern Era (2010s-Present):

ASU football entered a new era of success under head coaches Dennis Erickson and Todd Graham.

The program achieved significant milestones, including Two Pac-12 South Division titles (2013, 2020)

Eight bowl appearances (2011 LVH Bowl, 2012 Mopar Bowl, 2013 Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, 2014 Cactus Bowl, 2015 Alamo Bowl, 2017 Sun Bowl, 2018 Las Vegas Bowl, 2020 Sun Bowl)

Continued development of NFL talent, including Brandon Aiyuk and Eno Benjamin

-The Future of ASU Football:

The Sun Devils are currently under the leadership of head coach Kenny Dillingham, looking to build upon the recent successes and establish themselves among the Pac-12 elite.

Their innovative approach to NIL opportunities and commitment to developing young talent position them for an exciting future.

Born June 5, 1920, was Marion Motley was Pro Football Hall of Fame fullback and linebacker that played professionally for the Cleveland Browns. Motley along with fellow teammate Bill Willis were two of the first African Americans to break the color barrier in professional football.

It was not easy for these men as they constantly faced harassment as they participated on pro football, but Motley overcame the adversity for a great career. During his collegiate playing days, Motley excelled at football at South Carolina State University and later at the University of Nevada.

The ProFootballHOF.com website tells of Motley's effectiveness as a solid all-around running back with Cleveland. He was a sound pass protector and was the AAFC's All-time leading rusher. In 1950, when Cleveland joined the NFL, he led his new league in rushing yards, too.  His career total of 4720 yards on the ground and an average carry of 5.7 yards is a true testament to how good this player was! Marion Motley was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968.

Born April 29, 1918, in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, was Pro Football Hall of Fame Coach George Allen. His coaching career was defined by his innovative strategies, relentless work ethic, and ability to inspire his players.  

Allen's coaching journey began at the collegiate level, where he led teams at Morningside College and Whittier College. During his time as a head coach, he honed his skills and developed a reputation for his defensive expertise. His ability to identify and develop talent, combined with his strategic mind, set the stage for his future success.  

In 1957, Allen transitioned to the professional ranks, joining the Los Angeles Rams as an assistant coach. His contributions to the team's defensive schemes were instrumental in their success. He later served as an assistant coach and head of player personnel for the Chicago Bears, where he helped build a championship-caliber team.  

Allen's most significant impact came as the head coach of the Los Angeles Rams and the Washington Redskins. Known for his "Hail Mary" approach to the game, Allen emphasized physicality, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of victory. His teams were often characterized by their tough defenses and ability to make big plays. While he never won a Super Bowl, Allen's coaching career was marked by numerous successes and a legacy that continues to inspire coaches and players t

This legend entered the NFL as the LA Rams offensive ends coach and later served under George Halas with the Chicago Bears as :

- Consultant and Head of Player Personnel (1958)

- Assistant and Head of player personnel (1959–1961)

- Defensive Coordinator and Head of player personnel (1962–1965)

Allen went on to become the Head Coach of the Los Angeles Rams from 1966 to 1970 and again in 1978, and was the sideline boss of the Washington Redskins from 1971 through 1977.

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We have discussed it in other parts of this series on this series, but 1926 and the formation of the 1st American Football League, or Red Grange League as it is remembered, had a tremendous impact on so many levels of the pro game.

Hiistorian Larry Schmitt has recently released a article on Big Blue Interactive to get into more detail that any one has in almost a century. You can find the post in its entirety here: football-war-of-1926/">The Giants, New York and the Pro Football War of 1926.

We had a great discussion with Larry on the story that you can enjoy in the video above once you have read the article.

Born January 1, 1927, in Dallas, Texas, was Doak Walker the highly decorated Southern Methodist University halfback. The NFF site says that Doak was a 3-time All-America halfback for SMU.

He won the Maxwell Award in 1947, won the Heisman in 1948, and was named Player of the Year by Collier's Magazine in 1949. Doak Walker found the doors to be open wide to welcome him into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1959. Doak, after college, joined the Detroit Lions and spent six productive seasons with the franchise.

In fact, according to the ProFootballHOF.com site, he did almost everything for the Lions as he passed, ran returned punts and kicks, but he also performed the punting and place kicks for the team as well. Walker was selected as All-NFL in 5 of his six seasons played in the League. Doak Walker was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986.

Some outstanding players have come out of the Old Dominion Monarchs program. The following list is a combination of statistical achievements, historical significance, and fan recognition:

-Taylor Heinicke (QB, 2011-2014): Holds numerous ODU passing records, including career yards and touchdowns. Led the Monarchs to their first FBS bowl game and earned national recognition.

-Bobby Wilder (Coach, 2009-2019): The architect of ODU's transition to FBS and their early successes. Won three Sun Belt Conference championships and instilled a winning culture in the program.

-Zach Pascal (WR): This stalwart could catch a fish in the desert. He was so talented.

-[b]Isaiah Spencer (TE, 2020-present): Versatile tight end with impressive receiving stats and a key player for the Monarchs' recent success. Holds the ODU record for most receiving yards by a tight end.

-T J. Grant (RB, 2007-2009): ODU's all-time leading rusher, showcasing explosive speed and scoring prowess during the program's FCS championship run. She played several seasons in the NFL.

Drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and then traded to the San Francisco 49ers, Steve Young spent his early years living in the shadow of Joe Montana, the iconic quarterback leading the dynasty. But Young persevered, honing his skills and waiting for his chance. When injury sidelined Montana in 1991, Young stepped up, and the NFL witnessed the birth of a star.

Young's game was a captivating blend of precision and athleticism. He possessed a pinpoint throwing arm, leading the league in passer rating six times and completion percentage five times. But his true weapon was his mobility. Young was a constant threat to scramble, confusing defenses and extending plays with his legs. This dual-threat ability revolutionized the quarterback position, paving the way for future mobile gunslingers.

From 1992 to 1998, Young led the 49ers to a period of dominance. He secured two NFL MVP awards, showcasing his exceptional leadership and on-field dominance. His 1994 season was particularly remarkable, setting a then-record passer rating of 112.8. But the ultimate validation came in Super Bowl XXIX. With Young at the helm, the 49ers dominated the San Diego Chargers, earning Young the Super Bowl MVP title and etching his name in championship history.

Young's career wasn't without setbacks. Injuries plagued him throughout his tenure, forcing him to miss games and ultimately leading to his retirement in 1999. However, his impact on the game is undeniable. He's a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and holds numerous franchise records for the San Francisco 49ers.

Steve Young's story is one of perseverance, talent, and innovation. He rose from understudy to champion, redefining the quarterback position and leaving a lasting legacy on the game of football.