Football History

n the pantheon of Syracuse Orange traditions, one number occupies a hallowed space: 44. More than just a jersey number, it's a legacy, a torch passed down through generations of running backs who embodied grit, grace, and gridiron dominance.


The Early Legends:

-The story begins in 1954 with Jim Brown. "The Jim Brown" wore #44 and unleashed his unparalleled talent, leading the Orange to a Cotton Bowl berth and cementing his place as one of the game's greatest backs.

-Following Brown's departure, Ernie Davis donned #44, shattering racial barriers as the first Black Heisman Trophy winner while leading Syracuse to their first national championship in 1959.

-Another legend emerged in Floyd Little, who graced #44 from 1964 to 1966, setting school rushing records and earning All-America honors before a Hall of Fame NFL career.


Beyond the Stats:

The #44 wasn't just about stats; it embodied a style of play: powerful yet nimble, aggressive yet graceful. These running backs transcended the game, becoming symbols of Syracuse excellence and inspiring future generations.


Passing the Torch:

Tom Stephens in the 50s, Bill Schoonover in the 60s, and Rich Panczyszyn in the 70s each wore #44 with pride, carrying the weight of expectation while adding their own chapters to the legacy.


The Return and Retirement:

After a hiatus, the number returned in 1976 with Mandel Robinson, followed by several talented players who kept the tradition alive. However, the constant pressure and comparisons overshadowed individual achievements, prompting the number's retirement in 1998.


A Legacy Lives On:

Though retired, #44 retains its mystique. Statues of Brown, Davis, and Little stand outside the Carrier Dome, reminding fans of their indelible mark.

Ole Miss football has a rich history dating back to 1893, and with that history comes a select group of players whose contributions stand out above the rest. As of today, December 28, 2023, four jersey numbers have been officially retired:

18 - Archie Manning (1968-1970): "The Golden Boy" revolutionized Ole Miss and the SEC with his passing prowess. He led the Rebels to two bowl appearances and holds numerous school records. His legacy as a leader and talent cemented his number's retirement in 1971.

38 - Chucky Mullins (1989-1990): This inspirational figure not only excelled on the field but also persevered through a life-changing injury. After a devastating paralysis in 1989, Mullins returned to school and became a motivational speaker, leaving a lasting impact on the community. His number was retired in 1992.

10 - Eli Manning (2000-2003): Archie's son followed in his footsteps, leading the Rebels to their first SEC Championship in 33 years and winning the Mackey Award as the nation's top quarterback. His success and legacy within the Manning family solidified his number's retirement in 2014.

74 - Ben Williams (1972-1975): In 2022, Ole Miss made history by retiring the number of Ben Williams, the first black player to ever play in a varsity game for the program. His courage and talent paved the way for future generations and earned him this prestigious honor.

It's important to note that other iconic players, like Charlie Conerly and Archie Moore, were honored posthumously and have their numbers permanently displayed in the stadium but are not technically retired.

Born May 5, 1941, in Pine River, Minnesota, was Oregon State’s quarterback from 1960 to 1962, Terry Baker. The National Football Foundation says Terry is the only athlete to win the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, Scholar-Athlete Award from the National Football Foundation and Sports Illustrated's Sportsman of the Year Award in the same year.

Yes 1962 was a special one for Baker as he won the Liberty Bowl's Most Valuable Player Award as his 99 yard run was the only score in a 6-0 win over Villanova. Terry Baker’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1982. When school was done the Los Angeles Rams made the brilliant young QB the first player selected in the collegiate draft. He played three seasons for the Rams and one season in the CFL.

Being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame is a mark of unparalleled prestige and accomplishment. It signifies that a player has not only excelled on the field but has also left a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This honor is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and impact in collegiate football, shaping the sport’s history and inspiring future players. Remembering these inductees is not just a tribute to their remarkable careers but also a celebration of their enduring influence on the game. Their stories and achievements serve as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the profound role they’ve played in elevating college football to new heights.

College football, a sport steeped in tradition and brimming with talent, has witnessed countless remarkable athletes don the jerseys of their respective universities. From electrifying running backs to tenacious defenders, these players have etched their names into the annals of gridiron history, leaving an enduring legacy that resonates with fans across generations. Their jersey numbers, often simple digits, become symbols of their achievements, instantly recognizable and forever associated with their legendary performances.

The image is titled Original Caption: Four of Navy's mudstained stars pose after the Army and Navy football game on the Fourth of July, 1945 at Rizal Stadium, Manila, P.I. Left to Right: Geyer, Bloomfield, New Jersey; Hall, Chicago, Illinois; Horjes, Tacoma, Washington; Youngberg, Woodstock, Illinois. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (cropped).

This series of posts embarks on a journey through the storied landscape of college football, celebrating the very best players to have worn each jersey number. It's a tribute to the skill, dedication, and sheer brilliance of these athletes, a recognition of their impact on the game, and a chance to revisit the moments that made them icons. From the single-digit heroes to the double-digit dynamos, we'll explore the stories behind the numbers, uncovering the tales of triumph, perseverance, and unforgettable plays.

Each post will delve into the careers of the most exceptional players to have sported a particular number, highlighting their accomplishments, awards, and the indelible mark they left on their programs. We'll examine their contributions to their teams' successes, their individual accolades, and the lasting impression they made on the college football landscape. This is more than just a list of names; it's a celebration of the spirit of college football, the passion of the fans, and the enduring legacy of the players who wore the numbers that became synonymous with greatness.

Join us as we embark on this exciting exploration, honoring the legends and the unforgettable moments that have defined college football. From the smallest schools to the most prominent programs, we'll uncover the stories behind the numbers, recognizing the athletes who transformed their jerseys into symbols of excellence. This is a journey through college football history, one number at a time.

Across the vast landscape of NFL history, certain jersey numbers transcend mere digits, becoming synonymous with legendary players and iconic moments. One such number is 62, boasting a diverse and distinguished pedigree across various eras and positions. So, buckle up as we delve into the top NFL players who donned the #62 jersey, leaving their indelible mark on the gridiron.
Offensive Stalwarts:
Jim Langer (Miami Dolphins, 1970-1983): A five-time All-Pro and two-time Super Bowl champion, Langer revolutionized the center position with his agility and blocking prowess. He paved the way for Dolphins greats like Larry Csonka and helped solidify the "No-Name Defense" era.
Joe Thuney (New England Patriots, 2016-2020): Thuney anchored the offensive line for a dominant Patriots dynasty, winning three Super Bowl rings during his tenure. His intelligence and versatility made him a cornerstone of Bill Belichick's system.
Bill Murray (New England Patriots, 2023-present): A recent addition to the #62 club, Murray's story is one of remarkable athletic transformation. Initially a defensive lineman, he switched to offensive guard and impressed coaches with his dedication and work ethic, earning a starting spot for the reigning Super Bowl champions.
Reggie Kinlaw (Los Angeles Raiders, 1979-1984): A cornerstone of the "Black Hole" defense, Kinlaw's size and strength made him a dominant nose tackle. He contributed to two Super Bowl victories for the Raiders and was a force to be reckoned with in the trenches.
Ted Hendricks

Born October 28, 1972, in San Diego, California - Terrell Davis was a running back out of Long Beach State & Georgia. Davis transferred to the University of Georgia from Long Beach State. During his first season with the Georgia Bulldogs, Davis backed-up future NFL starting running back Garrison Hearst. After Hearst graduated, Davis became the top running back during the 1993 season. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Terrell Davis in 2017.

---

George Halas wasn't just a football player, coach, or owner; he was an architect, a pioneer, and a godfather. Spanning seven decades, his career intertwined with the very evolution of professional football, leaving an indelible mark on the game we know and love today.

Starting as a versatile athlete in the early 1900s, Halas soon transitioned to coaching, leading teams with his innovative strategies and fierce competitiveness. He co-founded the Decatur Staleys (later renamed the Chicago Bears) in 1920, becoming owner, coach, and even player at times. He revolutionized the game with tactics like the T-formation and the "man in motion," forever changing the offensive landscape.

Halas wasn't just building a team; he was building a league. He was pivotal in establishing the National Football League (NFL) in 1920, serving as its president for multiple terms and shaping its rules and structure. He was a shrewd businessman, securing television deals and driving the league's financial growth.

His influence extended beyond the field. He advocated for player safety, fought for racial equality, and even served as a Navy officer during World War II. He became a symbol of integrity and leadership, earning the respect of players, coaches, and fans alike.

---

The great Colorado Buffalo back went much higher in life than football took him.

Born April 5, 1888, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was early gridiron legend Fred Chicken. His real name was Fred S. Slepicka, which when translated means "chicken." Fred was a tailback/halfback who played for the Minneapolis Marines (1915-1918), prior to that team's entry into the NFL. With him the Marines team went 34-3-1 between the years of 1913 thru 1917. 1918 during World War I Fred coached and played for the St. Paul Aviators School. He later played for the Rock Island Independents.

Fritz Pollard wasn't just a football player; he was a trailblazer, a symbol of defiance, and a testament to the power of athletic excellence to challenge societal norms. From his early days at Brown University to his groundbreaking professional career, Pollard's story is one of breaking barriers and leaving an indelible mark on the gridiron.

Born in 1894, Pollard excelled in athletics from a young age. His exceptional speed and agility landed him at Brown University, where he shattered racial barriers as the first African American to play for the school's prestigious football team. He led the Ivy League in scoring in 1916, silencing critics and proving his undeniable talent. Fritz played halfback on the Brown team that went to the 1916 Rose Bowl.

Pollard's on-field prowess was undeniable. He led the teams that he played for to heights. The Akron Pros, Union Club of Phoenixville, Milwaukee Badgers, Hammond Pros, Providence Steam Roller, and Akron Indians dazzled audiences with dazzling runs and electrifying touchdowns. His talent forced NFL teams to confront their racial prejudices with the integration of black players into the league in the early 1920s, which would be interrupted for decades after he hung up his cleats.

Though facing discrimination and prejudice throughout his career, Pollard persevered. He played for several NFL teams, becoming the league's first black head coach with the Akron Pros in 1928. His influence extended beyond the playing field; he served as a mentor and advocate for future generations of black athletes, encouraging them to break through barriers and pursue their dreams.

Beyond individual accolades, Pollard became a key figure in the fight for racial equality in sports. In 1930s, he coached the all-black "Brown Bombers," the standout professional football team. The Bombers challenged established leagues and showcased the talents of black players who were systematically excluded from mainstream professional sports.

Although his playing career ended in the early 1930s, Pollard's legacy continues to inspire. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006, his contributions finally recognized on the grandest stages.

Fritz Pollard wasn't just a football player; he was a catalyst for change, a champion for equality, and a role model for generations of athletes to come. His story reminds us that the power of sports transcends the game itself, serving as a platform for breaking down barriers and shaping a more equitable world.