Football History

Russell Maryland, born on March 22, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois, carved out a distinguished football career marked by collegiate dominance and professional success.  

He was a big part in the success of the Miami Hurricanes and the Dallas Cowboys NFL Titles.

College Career

Maryland's journey at the University of Miami began with a unique challenge. Initially deemed less mobile due to his size, Miami's coaching staff recognized his potential. They redshirted him, emphasizing a weight-loss regimen to optimize his performance. This transformation proved pivotal. His breakout performance against Michigan in 1988, facing All-American John Vitale, ignited his confidence and unveiled his athletic capabilities. During his tenure, Maryland amassed 20.5 sacks, 279 tackles, and 25 tackles for loss. He was a cornerstone of a Hurricanes team that achieved remarkable success, securing two national championships, four bowl victories, a perfect home record, and a 44-4 overall record. His collegiate achievements culminated in his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2011.  

Road to the Pro Game

Maryland's exceptional college performance positioned him as a top prospect in the 1991 NFL Draft. The Dallas Cowboys selected him with the first overall pick, recognizing his potential to anchor their defensive line.  

Football Legacy

Maryland's professional career with the Dallas Cowboys solidified his status as a formidable defensive tackle. He played a crucial role in the Cowboys' dominance during the 1990s, contributing to three Super Bowl victories. His reliability and consistent performance made him a vital component of the team's defensive success. His presence was a key factor in the cowboys dominance during that era.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Maryland's career is punctuated by numerous accolades:

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2011).  

-First overall pick in the 1991 NFL Draft.  

-Three-time Super Bowl champion.  

-Pro Bowl selection (1993).

-Professional statistics: 375 tackles, 24.5 sacks, and 9 forced fumbles.  
Started 140 of 154 career professional games.  

Russell Maryland's career stands as a testament to his dedication, resilience, and impact on both collegiate and professional football.

Marchy Schwartz, born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1909, left an indelible mark on the University of Notre Dame football program, becoming a legendary halfback during a period of unparalleled success.  

Schwartz, was the last great Fighting Irish running back that Knute Rockne coached before his untimely death

College Career:

Schwartz's tenure at Notre Dame coincided with the twilight of Knute Rockne's coaching era, making him one of the last great running backs to play under the iconic coach. His impact was immediate and profound. As a sophomore in 1929, he played a crucial role in the Fighting Irish's undefeated 9-0 season. The following year, the team achieved even greater heights, going 10-0 and solidifying their dominance. Following Rockne's tragic death, Schwartz excelled under coach Hunk Anderson, contributing to the team's 6-2-1 record in 1931. Schwartz's career was marked by his exceptional rushing ability, amassing 1,945 rushing yards with an impressive average of 5.8 yards per carry. Beyond his running prowess, Schwartz was a versatile player. In a 1931 game against the Army, he punted 15 times for 501 yards, setting a school record for decades and showcasing his all-around athletic talent.  

Football Legacy:

Schwartz's football legacy is deeply intertwined with the golden era of Notre Dame football. He is remembered as a key player in the Fighting Irish's undefeated seasons and as one of the last great running backs coached by Knute Rockne. His exceptional rushing statistics and his record-setting punting performance against Army have become legendary within Notre Dame football lore. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1974 solidified his place among the greatest players in college football history.

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-Key player in Notre Dame's undefeated seasons of 1929 (9-0) and 1930 (10-0).  

-1,945 career rushing yards with a 5.8 yards per carry average.  

-Set a Notre Dame single-game record with 15 punts for 501 yards against Army in 1931.  

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1974.  

Marchy Schwartz's exceptional talent and his contributions to Notre Dame's legendary teams have cemented his status as a college football icon.

Nello "Flash" Falaschi, born March 19, 1913, in Santa Clara, California, established a legacy as a dynamic fullback, primarily remembered for his pivotal role in a historic upset victory.

Nello “Flash” Falaschi was the star quarterback of Santa Clara from 1934 to 1936

-College Career:

Falaschi's collegiate career at Santa Clara University from 1934 to 1936 showcased his athleticism and strategic play. He quarterbacked the Broncos, leading them to prominence. His most memorable performance came in the 1937 Sugar Bowl against undefeated LSU. Despite being heavy underdogs, Falaschi's leadership and playmaking abilities propelled Santa Clara to an upset victory. He orchestrated an early 14-point lead, showcasing his offensive capabilities. In a rain-soaked, muddy game that neutralized LSU's passing attack, Falaschi sealed the victory with a crucial fumble recovery in the end zone, securing a 21-14 triumph.

-Road to the Pro Game:

Following his standout college career, Falaschi transitioned to the professional ranks, playing in the NFL for the New York Giants. While his professional career is less extensively documented than his collegiate achievements, his move to the NFL demonstrated his talent and recognition at the sport's highest level.

-Football Legacy:

Falaschi's football legacy is primarily defined by his role in Santa Clara's upset victory in the 1937 Sugar Bowl. His performance in that game, against a highly favored LSU team, has become legendary in college football history. His ability to lead his team to victory against overwhelming odds solidified his reputation as a clutch performer. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1971 is a testament to his significant contributions to the sport.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-Led Santa Clara to a 21-14 upset victory over LSU in the 1937 Sugar Bowl.

-Fumble recovery touchdown in the 1937 Sugar Bowl.

-Played for the New York Giants in the NFL.

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1971.

Nello "Flash" Falaschi's impactful performance in the 1937 Sugar Bowl and his subsequent Hall of Fame induction have ensured his place in college football history.

February 21, 1921 - Youngstown, Ohio - The awesome former end of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Bob Dove experienced his arrival into this world.

-College Career

Bob Dove was a standout football player at the University of Notre Dame in the early 1940s. His exceptional skills on both offense and defense made him a crucial contributor to the Fighting Irish's success. Dove played end, excelling as both a receiver and a defensive stalwart. He was a consensus All-American in 1941 and 1942, earning national recognition for his outstanding play. In 1942, he received the prestigious Knute Rockne Memorial Trophy, awarded to the nation's best lineman.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Dove's college career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the United States Marine Corps. After the war, he embarked on a professional football career, playing for the Chicago Rockets, Chicago Cardinals, and Detroit Lions. He was a member of the Detroit Lions teams that won back-to-back NFL championships in 1953 and 1954.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Following his playing career, Dove transitioned to coaching. He coached at both the collegiate and professional levels, including stints at the University of Detroit, the Detroit Lions, and the Buffalo Bills. He also served as the head coach at Hiram College and as an assistant coach at Youngstown State University for many years.  

Career history
As player

-Chicago Rockets (1946–1947)

-Chicago Cardinals (1948–1953)

-Detroit Lions (1953–1954)

As coach

-Chicago Rockets (1946)

-Career highlights and awards

-Pro Bowl (1950)

-2× Consensus All-American (1941, 1942)

-Career NFL statistics

Receiving yards: 128
Interceptions: 1
Touchdowns: 2

-College Football Hall of Fame Induction

Bob Dove's contributions to football as a player and coach earned him numerous accolades.

He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000, solidifying his legacy as one of the game's greats.  

Stats at Pro Football Reference

Harry "Cy" Young, born March 8, 1893 in Charleston, West Virginia, distinguished himself as a multi-sport athlete, primarily within college football.

I know what you are thinking, but this is not the famous baseball pitcher Cy Young you may be thinking of, even though he was a good player on the diamond and the gridiron. That more famous Cy Young's real name was Denton True Young. Harry Young was welcomed into the College Football Hall of Fame rooms of legends in 1958. Though Young played varsity football at two schools, he attended three colleges!

-College Career

Young's collegiate athletic journey spanned three institutions. He began at Marshall College (now Marshall University) in 1910, where he played varsity football, baseball, and participated in track and field. Notably, in 1910, he kicked three field goals in a 9-0 victory over Glenville. After spending a year on the freshman football team at the University of Michigan, he transferred to Washington and Lee University. He achieved remarkable success there, earning 16 letters across football, baseball, basketball, and track. He led the Washington and Lee football team in scoring for four consecutive years, captaining the team in his senior year. During his time at Washington and Lee, the team played against significant programs such as Army, Navy, Georgia Tech, and Cornell.  

-Football Legacy

Cy Young's exceptional versatility and leadership define his football legacy. He was a dominant force on the field, contributing significantly to Washington and Lee's success. The 1913 and 1914 seasons were particularly notable, with the team achieving impressive records and outscoring opponents by significant margins. His consistent scoring and leadership solidified his place as a college football legend.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Led Washington and Lee in scoring for four years.  

-Served as captain of four sports at Washington and Lee.  

-Played on Marshall's football team with a 9-2-2 record.  

-Scored 54 points in 1913.

-Scored 57 points in 1914.

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1958.

Born on April 13, 1897, in Collierville, Virginia, James "Jimmy" Edward Leech left an indelible mark on the early landscape of college football through his remarkable career as a halfback at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). His time at VMI spanned 1917, 1919, and 1920, interrupted by a year of service in the Marines during World War I in 1918, showcasing his commitment both on and off the field.  

-College Career

Leech's return to VMI in 1919 and 1920 saw him reach the zenith of his collegiate career. The 1920 season was particularly spectacular, as Leech amassed an astounding 26 touchdowns. His versatility extended beyond rushing, as he also drop-kicked extra points and field goals, contributing significantly to his national-leading 210 points. Under his leadership and offensive prowess, VMI achieved a perfect 9-0 record, dominating prominent opponents such as Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, and North Carolina State by significant margins. The team's overwhelming dominance was evident in their staggering 431-20 scoring differential across the season.  

-Football Legacy

Jimmy Leech's impact on VMI football and the sport in its early years was profound. His exceptional scoring ability and leadership were instrumental in VMI's undefeated 1920 season, a feat that resonated across the nation. His versatility in scoring through both rushing and kicking highlighted his exceptional athleticism and value to his team. Leech's remarkable achievements and the dominant success of his VMI teams cemented his status as a legendary figure in the annals of college football. His contributions to the game were rightfully recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1956, ensuring his legacy would endure for generations of football enthusiasts.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Led the Nation in Scoring (210 points, 1920)  

-26 Touchdowns (1920)  

-Perfect Season Record (9-0, VMI, 1920)  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1956)  

Mark your calendars, football fanatics! June 14th isn't just another day on the calendar; it's a date etched in the annals of gridiron history. From legendary players who rewrote the game to future Hall of Famers taking their first breaths, June 14th boasts a unique blend of past and future glory.

Curious about which iconic coach might share a birthday with a cornerback drafted first overall? Wondering if a groundbreaking rule change took place on this very day? Dive into our exploration of June 14th in football history. We'll uncover fascinating facts, celebrate the birthdays of gridiron greats, and unveil the moments that shaped the sport we love today. So, gear up for a captivating journey through a single day in football history – you might just be surprised by what you discover!

In 1930 - in Elyria, Ohio, the slick halfback of the Ohio State Buckeyes from 1949 through 1951, Vic Janowicz, arrived.

The Football Foundation website says Vic is one of the best players to put on pads.

[center]

Vic Janowicz, born March 26, 1930, in Elyria, Ohio, was a multi-talented athlete whose football career, though tragically shortened, left a lasting impression. His journey, marked by both brilliance and adversity, exemplifies the fleeting nature of athletic glory.

-College Career

Janowicz's collegiate career at Ohio State University was nothing short of spectacular. He was a key figure in the Buckeyes' dominant teams of the early 1950s.

A versatile player, he excelled as a running back, passer, and kicker, showcasing his exceptional athleticism. As a sophomore defender in 1949, Vic became the hero of the 1950 Rose Bowl, as he picked off two passes, ran one back 41 yards, and helped Ohio State beat California 17-14. The following year, the coaching staff had Janowicz play on both sides of the ball. Vic's athleticism was on full display from the tailback position of the single-wing formation, where he ran, passed, punted, blocked, and place-kicked. His highlight game of 1950 was against Pitt, where Janowicz threw four touchdown passes in a 41-7 victory. That's not where his exploits stopped, as he booted a 90-yard punt against Minnesota, scored 46 points against Iowa, went on to become a unanimous All-American. The National Football Foundation voters selected Vic Janowicz for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1976.

In 1950, he won the Heisman Trophy, solidifying his place as one of the nation's top college football players. His performance against Michigan that year, where he accounted for virtually all of Ohio State’s points, became legendary. He was a key component of the 1950 Ohio State team.  

-Road to the Pro Game

After his Heisman-winning season, Janowicz's athletic pursuits took an unexpected turn. He signed a contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball, pursuing a career in professional baseball. After a few seasons, he returned to football, joining the Washington Redskins of the NFL. However, his professional football career was cut short by a severe automobile accident in 1956, which ended his playing days.  

-Football Legacy

Vic played Major League Baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates a few years and a couple of seasons in the NFL with Washington. A car accident ended his promising pro career in both sports.

His remarkable achievements at Ohio State primarily define Janowicz's football legacy. His Heisman Trophy wins, and his contributions to the Buckeyes' success cemented his place in college football history. Despite his brief professional career, his impact was undeniable. His story serves as a reminder of the potential for greatness and the fragility of athletic careers.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Heisman Trophy winner (1950)  

-Member of the Ohio State Football All-Century Team.

-Played professional baseball for the Pittsburgh Pirates.  

-Played professional football for the Washington Redskins.  

-His 1950 game against Michigan is considered one of the most incredible individual performances in college football history.

Vic Janowicz's career, though brief, was a testament to his exceptional talent and versatility. He remains a beloved figure in Ohio State football history, remembered for his brilliance and his enduring spirit.

Born in Osage, Iowa, in 1937, Randy Duncan's journey from a discouraged backup quarterback to a college football legend is a testament to perseverance and talent. His story, marked by remarkable achievements and a brief professional career, earned him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997.  

Duncan's fantastic career took him to national attention when, after sitting behind starter Kenny Ploen in 1956, who led the Hawkeyes to the Big 10 Championship and a Rose Bowl victory, Duncan was Iowa's starting quarterback in 1957 and 1958

-College Career:

Duncan's path at the University of Iowa began with challenges. Initially, he faced frustration under Coach Forest Evashevski and even considered transferring. However, he persevered, securing the backup quarterback position behind Kenny Ploen in 1956. That season, Iowa won the Big Ten Championship and the Rose Bowl, with Duncan contributing in crucial moments, notably leading a comeback win against Oregon State.  

In 1957, Duncan became the starting quarterback, displaying his exceptional skills. He led Iowa to a 7-1-1 record and earned All-Big Ten honors. 1958 marked his pinnacle year. He guided the Hawkeyes to a 15-2-2 record over the 1957 and 1958 seasons, another Big Ten title, and a decisive 38-12 victory over California in the Rose Bowl. That year, he led the nation in passing yardage and completion percentage, shared the lead in touchdown passes, and was a unanimous All-American. He received the Helms Foundation and Walter Camp Foundation Player of the Year awards, and was the Big Ten MVP. His incredible performance earned him runner-up in the Heisman Trophy voting to Pete Dawkins.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Duncan was the first overall pick in the 1959 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. However, he opted to play in the Canadian Football League with the British Columbia Lions, citing a more lucrative contract. After two challenging seasons in Canada, he returned to the United States and joined the Dallas Texans (later the Kansas City Chiefs) of the American Football League. While with the Texans, he also attended law school at Southern Methodist University. His playing time was limited, and he retired from football after the Texans acquired Len Dawson.  

-Football Legacy:

Randy Duncan's college legacy is defined by his exceptional quarterbacking skills and his leadership in Iowa's golden era of football. He transformed Iowa's offense, setting records and earning numerous accolades. His 1958 season stands as one of the most remarkable in Hawkeye history. His ability to overcome early adversity and achieve such remarkable success makes him a true icon of Iowa football.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

-College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1997.  

-Helms Foundation Player of the Year: 1958.  

-Walter Camp Foundation Player of the Year: 1958.  

-Unanimous All-American: 1958.  

-Big Ten MVP: 1958.

-First in the Nation in Passing Yardage: 1958.  

-First in the Nation in Percentage of Passes Completed: 1958.

-Co-leader in the Nation in Touchdown Passes: 1958.  

-Runner-up, Heisman Trophy: 1958.  

-Led Iowa to a 15-2-2 record in 1957 and 1958.

-Led Iowa to a Rose Bowl victory in 1959.  

-First overall pick in the 1959 NFL Draft.
 

Sources and related content via Sports-Reference.com & Wikipedia

February 9, 1952 - Mesa, Arizona - The legendary quarterback from Arizona State University, Danny White, celebrated the day of his birth. Danny's football journey is a testament to perseverance and versatility. From his college days as a record-setting kicker to his NFL stardom as a quarterback, White carved a unique path to success, leaving a lasting impact on the game.

-College Career

Danny White's college career at Arizona State University began with him primarily as a kicker. However, his athletic abilities were undeniable, and he eventually transitioned to quarterback, showcasing his strong arm and leadership qualities. While he continued to handle kicking duties, White's prowess as a quarterback became increasingly evident. He set numerous school records and led the Sun Devils to a Fiesta Bowl victory. His dual role as kicker and quarterback highlighted his exceptional athleticism and dedication, setting the stage for his versatile professional career. His time at Arizona State instilled in him a strong work ethic and a competitive spirit that would drive him to succeed at the highest level.  

White guided the Sun Devils to an outstanding record of 32-4 during his time at the helm of the ASU offense and helped his team with three straight Fiesta Bowls in the early 1970s. The NFF tells of how White led the nation in pass efficiency and was named All-America in 1973. Danny held Arizona State records for the most yards gained by passing in a career, 6717, and most touchdown passes, 64. He threw six touchdown passes at his pinnacle collegiate game against New Mexico in 1971! The National Football Foundation selected Danny White to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

-Road to the Pro Game

White's professional football journey began in the World Football League (WFL) with the Memphis Southmen. This experience allowed him to hone his quarterback skills and gain valuable playing time. When the WFL folded, White joined the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL, initially as a punter and backup quarterback. He learned from the legendary Tom Landry and worked tirelessly to develop his quarterbacking abilities. Eventually, White took over as the starting quarterback for the Cowboys, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and three consecutive NFC Championship games. While he never reached the Super Bowl, White's leadership and clutch performances solidified his place as one of the top quarterbacks of his era. His time with the Cowboys showcased his resilience and his ability to perform under pressure.  

-Football Legacy

Danny White's football legacy is one of perseverance, versatility, and leadership. He excelled in multiple roles throughout his career, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to the game. While his NFL career was marked by both successes and near misses, White established himself as a highly respected quarterback who consistently led his team to victory. He was known for his toughness, his intelligence, and his ability to make plays under pressure. Beyond his playing career, White transitioned to coaching, further contributing to the sport.

His legacy extends beyond wins and losses; it's a story of dedication, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Danny White's unique path from kicker to starting quarterback serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, demonstrating that perseverance and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.  

-Career highlights and awards

As a player

-Super Bowl champion (XII)

-Second-team All-Pro (1982)

-Pro Bowl (1982)

-All-WFL (1975)

-WFL All-Time Team

-First-team All-American (1973)

-WAC Offensive Player of the Year (1973)

-Arizona State Sun Devils No. 11 retired

As a coach

-2× ArenaBowl champion (VIII, XI)

-AFL Coach of the Year Award (1993)

-Career NFL statistics

-Passing attempts: 2,950

-Passing completions: 1,761

-Completion percentage: 59.7%

-TD–INT: 155–132

-Passing yards: 21,959

-Passer rating: 81.7

-Punting yards: 24,509

-Punting average: 40.2

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Danny White. (2024, December 27). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danny_White