Football History

Jim Swink was born on March 14, 1936, in Sacul, Texas. His electrifying performances on the football field at Texas Christian University (TCU) cemented his place in college football history.

College Career

Swink's college career at TCU was nothing short of spectacular. As a halfback, he became a legend, renowned for his elusive running style that earned him nicknames like "Ol' Swivel Hips" and "The Rusk Rambler." Under coach Abe Martin, Swink played a crucial role in TCU's success, leading the Horned Frogs to a Southwest Conference (SWC) championship in 1955 and consecutive Cotton Bowl appearances in 1956 and 1957. His performance against the University of Texas in 1955, where he rushed for 235 yards and scored 26 points, is particularly memorable, and it's where the famous "Hook 'em, Horns" slogan originated.

-Road to the Pro Game

While Swink's college achievements were extraordinary, his professional football career was limited. He did not play in the NFL. Swink's legacy is firmly rooted in his collegiate achievements.

-Football Legacy

Jim Swink's legacy is deeply intertwined with TCU football and the lore of the SWC. He is remembered as one of the most dynamic halfbacks in the conference's history. His impact extends beyond statistics, as he inspired the iconic "Hook 'em, Horns" slogan, a testament to the fear and respect he commanded on the field.

Swink also is remembered for being the subject of the famous University of Texas expression, “Hook ’em, Horns.” Before a November 12, 1955 game where TCU, ranked 8th in the nation were set to battle with the Longhorns, Texas students fearing Jim Swink’s elusive running style came up with the inspirational slogan to motivate and illustrate their desire for their defense.

“They had a guy in their student body that knew our team and spread the word that they needed to stop me from running,” Swink told the TCU magazine in a 2006 interview. “The Texas players obviously had heard about how strong a team we had, too. So they came up with ‘hook him’ because they wanted to catch me, trip me up, slow me down. And that game was the first time they used that.”

Other than the legacy that the team slogan still carries, it was all for not in the case of the 1955 game against the Horned Frogs though. Jim Swink had one of his best games of his collegiate career, as he pounded the turf for 235 yards on 15 carries for a 15.7-yard average and scored a school-record 26 points. TCU dominated Texas on that Saturday by a score of 47-20.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-Two-time All-America selection.

-1955 Heisman Trophy runner-up.

-Led the nation in scoring and was second in rushing yards in 1955.

-Set a TCU record with 1,283 rushing yards in 1955.

-Scored a school-record 26 points in a single game against Texas.

-125 points scored during his 1955 junior season.

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1980.

-Led TCU to a SWC crown in 1955.

-Helped TCU reach back-to-back Cotton Bowl appearances.

Jim was a two-time All-America selection and ended up second to Howard Cassady of Ohio State in the Heisman Trophy voting in '55. Jim Swink received the great honor of being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1980.

Tom Shevlin, born on March 1, 1878, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was a pioneering figure in the early days of American football. His contributions to the sport, both as a player and later as a coach, left a lasting impact on the game.

-College Career

The National Football Foundation’s biography of Shevlin tells us that he was a physical specimen, fast, and intimidated opposing players who would wear head and nose protection with taunts and vicious hits. During Shevlin's four varsity campaigns, the Elis scored an impressive 42-2-1 record. Tom captained the 1905 Blue and White squad that finished with a perfect 10 game record in a season when Yale out-scored the competition, 227-4. The Princeton Tigers were the only team to get a sniff on the scoreboard against Yale that season, as they finished as co-National Champions with the University of Chicago Maroons. The NFF voters selected Tom Shevlin for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954.

-Shevlin's football prowess blossomed at Yale University, where he was a standout end from 1896 to 1899.

-He was a key member of Yale's dominant teams of that era, known for their innovative strategies and physical play.

-His speed, agility, and exceptional catching ability made him a formidable offensive weapon.

-He was also known for his tough defensive play.

After his playing days, he became a very respected football coach.

-Football Legacy

-Tom Shevlin's legacy is rooted in his contributions to developing early football strategy and his exceptional play at Yale.

-He was considered one of the top players of his time, helping to solidify the importance of the end position in the evolving game.

-His coaching helped to spread his knowledge of the game.

-He was selected to the College Football Hall of Fame.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (1954).

-He was recognized as one of the premier players of his era.

-His impact was primarily felt in his college career, and in the early coaching that he performed.

-Due to the period, reliable statistical data is scarce, but his recognition by the Hall of Fame speaks to his immense impact.

Born February 20, 1912, in Chicago, Illinois, was the awesome Michigan Wolverines Tackle Francis Whitey Wistert. According to the National Football Foundation Whitey had absolutely no prior gridiron experience when he arrived on campus at Michigan in the early 1930s. The Wolverines were 7-0-1 in the 1933 season, aided in part by Whitey’s quick diagnosing of the opposition’s plays. Francis Wistert received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1967. Amazingly great football ran in his family’s bloodline as his brothers Albert, who played 1940-1941, and Alvin, who played 1947-1949, are also Hall of Fame enshrinees who played at Michigan.

Whitey Wistert, a name synonymous with Michigan football, carved a legendary path on the gridiron. His prowess as a two-way player for the Wolverines and his subsequent professional career solidified his place in football history.  

-College Career

Wistert's college career at the University of Michigan was spectacular. Playing under the legendary coach Fritz Crisler, he became a standout offensive and defensive end. His versatility was a tremendous asset, contributing significantly to the Wolverines' success. He was a key part of the undefeated 1947 team that was named national champion. Wistert earned All-American honors three times, a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the game.

Famed football journalist Grantland Rice once stated: "Wistert was unanimously selected as the best tackle in the Middle-West this year. He was the key to Michigan's defensive line play. He was a sure tackler and it was next to impossible to fool him on trick maneuvers. He was keen, quick, and accurate in diagnosing plays."

-Road to the Pro Game

The Philadelphia Eagles drafted Wistert in the 1944 NFL Draft. However, his professional career was delayed due to his service in the United States Navy during World War II. He eventually joined the Eagles after his military service.

His professional career leaned towards the game of baseball, and he played for the Cincinnati Reds of the MLB. Wistert played five years of professional baseball before entering a career as a New York attorney.

-Football Legacy

While shorter than his collegiate tenure, Wistert's professional career with the Eagles was still notable. He was a part of the Eagles team that won back-to-back NFL championships in 1948 and 1949. His two-way skills, honed at Michigan, continued to be an asset in the pros. After playing, he remained connected to the sport, serving as a color commentator for Michigan football games for many years.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-3x All-American (University of Michigan)  

-2x NFL Champion (Philadelphia Eagles)  

-Member of the College Football Hall of Fame  

Whitey Wistert's legacy is defined by his dominance at the University of Michigan and his contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles' championship teams. He was a true embodiment of the two-way player, excelling on both offense and defense. His accomplishments at both the collegiate and professional levels cemented his place as one of football's most respected figures.

Born August 6, 1947, in Bartow, Florida, was Pro Football Hall of Fame Corner Back, Ken Riley. Riley was a First-Team All-Pro 1983 for the Cincinnati Bengals and later was the coach of Florida A&M 1994-2003. Riley recorded 65 interceptions in his career, which was the fourth most in NFL history at the time of his retirement behind three members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Before his Hall of Fame career as a cornerback in the NFL, Ken Riley Sr. carved his name in college football history as a standout quarterback at Florida A&M University (FAMU).

Leading Man of the Rattlers:

From 1965 to 1968, Riley was the starting quarterback for the FAMU Rattlers, then part of the NCAA Division II Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). Under legendary coach Jake Gaither, Riley led the Rattlers to a dominant 23-7 record, capturing three consecutive SIAC championships (1966-1968).

Riley's offensive prowess shined. He accumulated impressive stats, including:

-3,860 rushing yards: This set a new FAMU record at the time and remains the fifth-highest total in school history.

-1,702 passing yards and 14 touchdowns: His dual-threat ability kept defenses guessing.

Known as "Rattler" during his playing days, wasn't just a big NFL football player; he was a lockdown cornerback who left a lasting impression on the Cincinnati Bengals franchise and the sport itself. Here are some key points about his career:

Career Highlights:

-15 seasons: Played his entire career (1969-1983) with the Cincinnati Bengals, a testament to his loyalty and impact on the team.

-Interception Machine: Holds the Bengals record for most career interceptions (65), tied for 5th most in NFL history at the time of his retirement.

-5 Touchdown Returns: Demonstrated his offensive explosiveness, turning interceptions into scoring plays.

-All-Pro Recognition: Earned Pro Bowl selections in 7 consecutive seasons (1974-1980) and received All-Pro honors 3 times.

Pete Rozelle, born Alvin Ray Rozelle on March 1, 1926, was instrumental in transforming the National Football League (NFL) into the powerhouse sports organization it is today. He served as the NFL's commissioner for nearly three decades, from 1960 to 1989, marked by unprecedented growth and popularity for American football.

Rozelle's early career showcased his talent for sports promotion and management.

-Early Football Experience

He began at Compton Community College, handling athletic news and assisting the Los Angeles Rams in public relations. His abilities caught the attention of a University of San Francisco basketball coach, who helped him secure a scholarship at USF. There, Rozelle excelled as a student publicist, drawing national attention to the university's sports teams.

After graduating, he worked as USF's full-time athletic news director. He then returned to the Rams as a PR specialist and later held other public relations roles, including marketing the 1956 Olympics. In 1957, he became the Rams' general manager, facing the challenge of a struggling team. Despite on-field difficulties, he successfully revitalized the Rams' business operations, demonstrating his capacity to turn around a struggling sports franchise. In short, Rozelle's early career was marked by his ability to promote and manage sports teams, laying the groundwork for his future success as NFL commissioner.

His visionary approach to sports management characterized Rozelle's leadership. He is particularly renowned for:

-Facilitating the AFL-NFL Merger:

One of his most significant accomplishments was orchestrating the merger of the NFL and the rival American Football League (AFL) in 1970. This merger not only expanded the league but also led to the creation of the Super Bowl, which has become one of the world's most-watched sporting events.

-Negotiating Lucrative Television Contracts:

Rozelle recognized the immense potential of television to expand the NFL's reach and revenue. He skillfully negotiated increasingly lucrative television contracts, bringing NFL games into millions of homes and establishing the league as a television phenomenon. The creation of "Monday Night Football" was a prime example of his innovative approach to broadcasting.

-Implementing Revenue Sharing:

He was a strong proponent of revenue sharing among NFL teams, which helped to ensure the financial stability of even small-market franchises. This policy fostered a sense of unity and cooperation within the league.

-Professionalizing the NFL:

Rozelle brought a level of professional management to the NFL that had been previously unseen. He was known for his calm, decisive leadership and his ability to navigate complex issues.

In essence, Pete Rozelle's tenure as NFL commissioner was a period of transformative growth. He modernized the league, expanded its reach, and solidified its position as America's most popular sport. His contributions earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.

Jim Owens, born March 6, 1927, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, carved a significant niche in football history, primarily through his impactful coaching career, though his playing days also contributed to his legacy.

Owens was a brilliant end of the Oklahoma Sooners from 1946 through 1949, he played in the NFL, and Jim later went on to coach the University of Washington from 1957-74. The Husky teams of 1959 and 1960 won in the Rose Bowl.

-College Career

Owens's collegiate football journey unfolded at the University of Oklahoma, where he played under the legendary coach Bud Wilkinson. As a key member of the Sooners, he contributed to the program's burgeoning success during the late 1940s. He played as an end, showcasing his abilities on both sides of the ball. His dedication and performance solidified his place within the Sooners' esteemed football history.

Jim’s head coach for three of his four college seasons, Bud Wilkinson is quoted as saying, ” He's undoubtedly one of the best football players I've ever coached, both offensively and defensively. He is one of the best tight ends to play college football." That is a pretty big statement from the coach because in Owen’s final two years, Oklahoma had a fantastic record of 21-1, going 10-0 in 1949 with a scoring ratio of 364 points to 88 of the opposing teams they faced. Jim had won All-America honors for his offensive excellence in that senior season. The NFF voters elected Jim Owens, who was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1982.

-Road to the Pro Game

While Owens's college play demonstrated his talent, his more significant impact came after his playing days. The Chicago Bears drafted him in the 1950 NFL draft. But his professional football career was very short due to an injury. The key road to Owens's more incredible football notoriety started with his transition into coaching.

-Football Legacy

His coaching career primarily defines Jim Owens's enduring legacy. He spent many years as a coach, most known for his time at the University of Washington. From 1957 to 1968, he served as the head coach of the Washington Huskies. He built a very successful program at the University of Washington. He led the Huskies to multiple Rose Bowl appearances, most notably winning the 1960 Rose Bowl. Owens instilled a culture of toughness and discipline, leaving a lasting imprint on the program. He was known as a tough, and very demanding coach. However, he got the best out of his players.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Rose Bowl victory (1960)

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame as a Coach.

While detailed playing statistics might be less emphasized, Owens's impact as a coach is undeniable. His contributions to the University of Washington's football program, and the discipline he instilled in his players, constitute a significant chapter in his football legacy.

Curt Warner, born March 18, 1961 in Wyoming County, West Virginia, forged a remarkable football career marked by exceptional talent and record-breaking performances, both in college and the NFL. His journey from a standout running back at Penn State to a beloved figure in Seattle reflects his enduring impact on the sport.

The 1981 All-American running back of the Penn State Nittany Lions was the leading rusher of the program when he left school.

-College Career

Warner's collegiate career at Penn State University was nothing short of spectacular. He became a cornerstone of the Nittany Lions' offense, setting numerous records and leading the team to significant victories. According to the National Football Foundation (NFF), Warner amassed 11 season, 14 bowl, and 42 school records. His prowess as a running back was undeniable, as he set records for career rushing yardage (3,398), career all-purpose yardage (4,982), and 100-yard rushing games (18). He was also a dynamic kick returner, boasting an impressive 28.8-yard career average and three touchdowns. Notably, Warner earned Most Outstanding Offensive Player honors in two Fiesta Bowls and played a pivotal role in Penn State's 1982 National Championship victory in the Sugar Bowl. His exceptional college career earned him All-American honors in 1981 and induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2009.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Warner's outstanding collegiate performance made him a highly coveted prospect in the NFL. He was selected by the Seattle Seahawks with the third overall pick in the 1983 NFL Draft.  

-Football Legacy

Curt Warner's football legacy is defined by his explosive running style and impact on college and professional football. He was a key figure in Penn State's championship success and became a beloved player in Seattle. His ability to break tackles, gain yards, and contribute as a kick returner made him a versatile and valuable asset. Although injuries shortened his NFL career, his impact on the Seahawks and the NFL is undeniable.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-1981 All-American.

-Most Outstanding Offensive Player in two Fiesta Bowls.

-1982 National Championship with Penn State.  

-Penn State career rushing yardage record (3,398).  

Penn State career all-purpose yardage record (4,982).  

-Penn State career 100-yard rushing games record (18).  

-4-time All-Pro selection with the Seattle Seahawks.

-Played seven seasons with the Seattle Seahawks.  

-Played one season with the Los Angeles Rams.

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2009).  

Curt Warner's career stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and determination. He left an indelible mark on Penn State and the Seattle Seahawks, earning his place among football's legends.

Clarence Swanson, born in Wakefield, Nebraska, on March 15, 1898, left an indelible mark on the landscape of college football. His dedication and skill on the gridiron earned him lasting recognition.  

-College Career:

Swanson's college career flourished at the University of Nebraska from 1918 to 1921. He distinguished himself as a formidable lineman, contributing significantly to the Cornhuskers' football program. His talent and determination were key factors in the team's successes during that era.  

-Football Legacy:

Clarence Swanson's legacy is firmly rooted in his exceptional contributions to the University of Nebraska's football history. He was known for his toughness and reliability on the line. He was part of the early formation of the very strong Nebraska Cornhusker football history. His play was a key part of setting the ground work for the future success of the Cornhuskers. His inclusion in the College Football Hall of Fame is a testament to the enduring impact of his contributions.  

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

-College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1973.  

-Distinguished lineman for the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers from 1918-1921.  

-played in a time of early college football, contributing to establishing that sport's future.

Swanson's recognition in the College Football Hall of Fame solidifies his place among the legends of the sport. His contributions to the University of Nebraska's football program have left a lasting impression, serving as an inspiration for future generations of Cornhusker athletes.

In Warren, Ohio, Ross Browner, born on March 22, 1954, cemented a legacy as one of football's most dominant defensive forces. His journey, marked by collegiate triumph and professional grit, etched his name into the annals of the sport.  

Browner is one of the most decorated college players in NCAA history, as he played defensive end for the Irish in 1973 and then from 1975 through 1977.

College Career

Browner's college career at the University of Notre Dame is a testament to his exceptional talent. Playing defensive end for the Fighting Irish in 1973 and from 1975 to 1977, he played a crucial role in the team's success, including their national championship victories. His impact was undeniable, establishing him as a legendary figure in Notre Dame's rich football history. Notably:  

-He was a key component of national championship winning Notre Dame teams.  

-His performance included a school-record 340 tackles.  

-He also recorded ten deflected passes and two blocked kicks.  

-He even scored a touchdown off of a blocked punt, and recorded two safeties.  

Road to the Pro Game

Browner's outstanding collegiate performance paved the way for his entry into the National Football League. His prowess caught the attention of professional scouts, and he was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals.

Football Legacy

Browner's legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics. He was a dominant force on the defensive line, known for his tenacity and skill. His contributions to the Cincinnati Bengals, including their Super Bowl appearances, solidified his place in NFL history. Furthermore his impact on the game in the collegiate level has left a lasting legacy. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1999 underscores his enduring influence on the sport.

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

Throughout his illustrious career, Browner accumulated numerous accolades:

-Outland Trophy winner (1976).  

-Unanimous All-America honors (1976, 1977).  

-Lombardi Trophy winner (1977).  

-Maxwell Award winner (1977).  

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (1999).  

He spent nine years with the Cincinnati Bengals and one year with the Green Bay Packers in the NFL.  
Browner's impact on football, both at the collegiate and professional levels, solidifies his place as one of the game's greats.

George Morris, born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, in 1931, established himself as a dominant two-way player at Georgia Tech during a period of remarkable success for the Yellow Jackets.

Georgia Tech’s two-way, Morris, played at center and linebacker, and during the span of time that George played on the Yellow Jackets from 1950 through 1952, the Ramblin' Wreck ripped off 23 straight victories.

-College Career:

Morris excelled as a center on offense and a linebacker on defense for Georgia Tech from 1950 to 1952. During his time with the Yellow Jackets, the team achieved an impressive 23-game winning streak, a testament to their dominance and Morris's vital role. While he contributed significantly on offense, his defensive prowess was particularly noteworthy. During his junior and senior seasons, Georgia Tech's defense was a formidable unit, allowing only two opponents to score more than a single touchdown. Morris's stout presence in the middle of the defense was a key factor in this defensive strength.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Information regarding George Morris's pursuit of a professional football career is limited. However, his strong collegiate career indicates his potential for the professional level. His contributions were made in college football.

-Football Legacy:

Morris's football legacy is defined by his exceptional contributions to Georgia Tech's dominant teams of the early 1950s. His two-way ability and his leadership on the field played a significant role in the Yellow Jackets' success. His defensive prowess, in particular, left a lasting impression, contributing to a period of defensive excellence for the program. His recognition by the National Football Foundation with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1981 solidified his place among the legends of college football.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-Key contributor to Georgia Tech's 23-game winning streak.

-Integral part of Georgia Tech's dominant defense.

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1981.  

While specific statistics from his playing days may be limited, George Morris's impact on Georgia Tech's football program is undeniable, and his Hall of Fame induction stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and contribution to college football.