Football History

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Are today's offenses more productive than those of forty years ago? The study examines the evolution of NFL offenses by comparing the 1983 season to the 2023 season. It focuses on offensive philosophies, leading passers and rushers from each era, and highlights the dramatic shift towards a more pass-oriented game.

-Offensive Philosophies:

-1983: Dominated by a heavier emphasis on running the ball. Teams prioritized establishing a solid ground game to control the clock and wear down defenses. Short and intermediate passing complemented the rushing attack with play action.

-2023: Witnessed a significant shift towards a pass-happy approach. Teams utilize a variety of passing concepts, including spread formations, vertical routes, and play-action passes, to exploit defensive weaknesses and score quickly.

-Leading Passers:

-1983: Lynn Dickey (Green Bay) led the league with 4,458 passing yards, highlighting the modest passing volume of the era. Quarterbacks prioritized efficiency and ball security over taking risks.

1983 Top 10 QBs
1 Lynn Dickey • GNB 4458
2 Bill Kenney • KAN 4348
3 Danny White • DAL 3980
4 Joe Montana • SFO 3910
5 Joe Theismann • WAS 3714
6 Brian Sipe • CLE 3566
7 Richard Todd • NYJ 3478
8 Ron Jaworski • PHI 3315
9 Vince Ferragamo • RAM 3276
10 Steve Bartkowski • ATL 3167
Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference

-2023: The landscape has drastically changed. Quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen routinely break 4,000 passing yards, emphasizing offensive explosiveness. Accuracy and arm strength are paramount for success in today's pass-first league. These do it with 2-4 fewer plays per game due to some timing changes over the last four decades in NFL rules, despite more no-huddle offensive plays and less "prevent" defense played.

2023 QB passing leaders
1 Tua Tagovailoa • MIA 4624
2 Jared Goff • DET 4575
3 Dak Prescott • DAL 4516
4 Josh Allen • BUF 4306
5 Brock Purdy • SFO 4280
6 Patrick Mahomes • KAN 4183
7 Jordan Love • GNB 4159
8 C.J. Stroud • HOU 4108
9 Baker Mayfield • TAM 4044
10 Trevor Lawrence • JAX 4016
Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference

-Leading Rushers:

-1983: Eric Dickerson (Los Angeles Rams) was running rapid through the opposition with 1,808 rushing yards, a testament to the era's dominance of running backs. Teams relied heavily on their featured back to control the tempo.

1983 Rushing Leaders
1. Eric Dickerson • RAM 1808
2. William Andrews • ATL 1567
3. Curt Warner • SEA 1449
4. Walter Payton • CHI 1421
5. John Riggins • WAS 1347
6. Tony Dorsett • DAL 1321
7. Earl Campbell • HOU 1301
8. Ottis Anderson • STL 1270
9. Mike Pruitt • CLE 1184
10. George Rogers • NOR 1144
Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference

-2023: While still significant, running backs play a more complementary role. While elite rushers like Derrick Henry or Christian McCaffrey exist, their production typically falls below 1,800 yards due to the increased focus on passing. Dual-threat quarterbacks have emerged as a significant rushing threat, adding another dimension to modern offenses.

2023 Rushing Leaders
1 Christian McCaffrey • SFO 1459
2 Derrick Henry • TEN 1167
3 Kyren Williams • LAR 1144
4 James Cook • BUF 1122
5 D'Andre Swift • PHI 1049
6 James Conner • ARI 1040
7 Najee Harris • PIT 1035
8 Joe Mixon • CIN 1034
9 David Montgomery • DET 1015
10 Raheem Mostert • MIA 1012
Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference

-The study would likely conclude that:

The NFL has undergone a dramatic offensive transformation, shifting from a run-first approach to a pass-dominant philosophy.
This change is driven by improved passing rules, advancements in quarterback training, and a growing emphasis on scoring points quickly.
While running backs remain valuable, their role has evolved to complement the passing game rather than serve as the offense's focal point.

-Further Exploration:

The study could be expanded to analyze additional aspects of offensive evolution, such as:

Changes in offensive line play to accommodate pass protection needs.
The rise of analytics and its impact on playcalling strategies.
The increasing popularity of specific formations and route combinations.
By examining these factors, the study would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the dramatic shift in NFL offenses over the past four decades.

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1926 was pivotal for professional football, particularly in the bustling metropolis of New York City. Two titans, fueled by ambition and a desire for dominance, clashed in what became known as the "Grange War." This post delves into how Red Grange, a charismatic college superstar, his manager C.C. Pyle, and the established New York Giants, led by owner Tim Mara, became locked in a battle for control of the New York pro football market.

-The "Galloping Ghost" and a Lucrative Proposition

Red Grange, nicknamed the "Galloping Ghost," was a college sensation at the University of Illinois. His electrifying runs captured the nation's attention, making him a media darling and a potential goldmine for professional football. C.C. Pyle, Grange's shrewd manager, smelled the opportunity, and the collegiate star signed a three-year contract with Pyle and two other managers to help nurture and guide Grange's professional football career. The Chicago Bears were the first stop on the career path of Red in 1925, as he became a showcase talent that drew crowds for the NFL franchise in what was left of the regular season and a nationwide barnstorming tour during the winter months.

Pyle envisioned more money for his client and tried to use it to gain an ownership stake in the Bears for him and Red, but George Halas refused to yield.

Plan B for Pyle was to secure a five-year contract with Yankee Stadium in the Bronx and petition for a new NFL franchise in New York City.

-Mara's Turf, Mara's Rules

Tim Mara, owner of the fledgling New York Football Giants, refuted the petition, which would have invaded his franchise's territorial rights.

Tim Mara was a shrewd businessman who established the New York Giants as a new endeavour in the NFL. Within the League, he had exclusive rights to New York City. When Pyle approached him about a new franchise at Yankee Stadium, Mara vehemently opposed the idea. He saw Grange and a competing team as threats to his dominance and the NFL's budding success.

NFL President Joe Carr backed the blockade of another NY team, so Pyle went to plan C.

-A New League, a New York Franchise

"Cash and Carry" Pyle envisioned a professional league separate from the existing National Football League (NFL), with Grange as the star attraction. The first American Football League, or "Grange League," was formed, and the New York Yankees football team starring Red Grange was established along with other franchises across the country to compete with the NFL and Tim Mara's Giants.

Pyle proposed a lucrative offer to Grange, promising a cut of the profits from a new professional league. He then set his sights on New York City, a lucrative market with a passionate sports fanbase. However, a significant obstacle stood in his way – the New York Giants, led by owner Tim Mara.

-A Media Frenzy and Unfulfilled Promises

The "Grange War" became a national spectacle, splashed across newspapers and fueling public interest in professional football. Pyle, unable to secure a New York franchise within the existing NFL, formed a rival league – the American Football League (AFL). The AFL planned to expand across the country, showcasing Grange's talent and take pro football to new venues. However, the league proved short-lived, plagued by financial difficulties and a lack of established franchises.

-An Uneasy Truce and Lasting Impact

In the end, Red Grange did play professional football in New York City. After just one season, financial hardships forced the AFL to fold, and Pyle was able to take the Yankees club and merge them into the NFL in 1927. That franchise, too, floundered after injuries hampered their star player. Grange eventually signed with the Chicago Bears of the NFL. While the "Grange War" did deliver a new league and a New York City showdown, its impact made the NY Football Giants get stronger and grow a wider fanbase.

-The Legacy of a Football Feud

The "Grange War" highlighted the growing popularity of professional football and the scramble for dominance among owners and players. It also exposed the existing weaknesses of the NFL structure, leading to future expansion and rule changes. Though Red Grange didn't play in New York for very long, his presence and the "Grange War" fueled public interest in the sport, ultimately paving the way for a unified professional football landscape that would one day include a strong presence in the Big Apple.

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AFL (American Football League, 1960-1969): This upstart league challenged NFL tradition with innovative rules and aggressive marketing, ultimately forcing a merger in 1970 that led to the creation of the modern NFL structure with two conferences.

But other American Football Leagues competed against the NFL before this 1960s rendition, and we covered them in this video.

Most casual football fans know that the Super Bowl era of the NFL stems from a merger between the NFL and the AFL in the late 1960s. Super Bowl 1 was originally called the AFL–NFL World Championship Game. But did you know that this American Football League was the fourth NFL rival league with that exact name?

The first AFL started in 1926 and is often called the Grange League because it was created because of a dispute of inequity pay for Red Grange in his second pro season with his original NFL employer, the Chicago Bears. One of Grange's promoters, C.C. Pyle, along with Grange and others, started the league to compete with the NFL for revenue as they questioned the NFL structure and consistency after multiple controversies in 1925 plagued the NFL. Grange's New York Yankees and the Philadelphia Quakers were at the top of the nine-team league. The league folded, and the Yankees and Grange joined the NFL in 1927.

AFL II 1936

In 1936, amidst the established power of the National Football League, a fledgling challenger took the field: the American Football League (AFL). Though short-lived, the AFL's two-year stint boasted audacious ambition and left its mark on the game's history.

Ignored by national media and relegated to "page filler" status, the AFL II served as a crucial springboard for several iconic franchises. Cleveland, pre-NFL glory, first donned its Rams jerseys under the AFL's lights. And on the West Coast, the Los Angeles Bulldogs made history as the first professional team to call it home - and to conquer their league with an undefeated season, a feat not repeated for decades.

But the AFL was more than just stepping stones. It was a laboratory for innovation, where gridiron dreams took flight with the hopes of eight eager cities: Boston, Cleveland, Jersey City, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Providence, and Syracuse.

AFL III 1940

The American Football League (AFL III) was a professional American football league from 1940 to 1941. It was the third major league to bear that name, but its existence was short-lived due to competition from the established National Football League (NFL).

The AFL III was formed in 1940 when three teams from the minor-league American Professional Football Association (APFA) - the Cincinnati Bengals, the Columbus Bullies, and the Milwaukee Chiefs - were lured away to join six new franchises in Boston, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Rochester, Syracuse, and New York City. After one season, this startup soon folded.

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The 1925 Chicago Bears, led by the legendary "Galloping Ghost" Red Grange, weren't just playing another game when they faced the New York Giants at the Polo Grounds. This seemingly ordinary December matchup marked a pivotal moment in the history of professional football. Here's why:

-Red Grange: A Superstar Ignites the Nation

Red Grange was a college sensation at the University of Illinois. His electrifying running style captivated audiences. Chicago Bears owner George Halas recognized his potential to boost pro football's popularity and signed Grange to a controversial and record-breaking contract. However, Grange was still technically an amateur in NFL eyes, leading to an internal League battle.

The 1925 season became a nationwide spectacle as the Bears embarked on a grueling post-Thanksgiving road trip, showcasing Grange's talent. The New York game was a pivotal stop. A large, enthusiastic crowd, estimated at nearly 70,000, packed the Polo Grounds, eager to witness Grange in action.

-Boosting Pro Football's Legitimacy

Professional football, in its early stages, struggled to compete with the established popularity of college football. Many saw it as a rough and unsophisticated sport. Grange's electrifying performance, coupled with the massive New York crowd, helped legitimize the professional game.

National media attention skyrocketed after the game. Newspapers across the country reported on the spectacle, exposing a wider audience to the thrills of professional football. This positive exposure helped shift public perception, paving the way for future growth.

-Financial Lifeline for the Giants

The Giants, facing financial difficulties, desperately needed a boost in attendance. Grange's star power was the answer. The packed Polo Grounds provided a much-needed financial injection, helping the team stay afloat. This demonstrated the potential for professional football to be a profitable enterprise, attracting more investors and solidifying the league's future.

-A Turning Point for the NFL

The 1925 Bears' season, culminating in the Polo Grounds game, marked a turning point for the NFL. The sheer interest generated by Grange and the packed stadium proved that professional football could be a major spectator sport. This success led to increased investment in the league, improved facilities, and ultimately, a rise in overall quality of play.

-Conclusion

The 1925 Chicago Bears' game against the New York Giants transcended the win-loss column. It was a cultural phenomenon that propelled professional football into the national spotlight. Red Grange's electrifying talent, combined with the massive attendance, helped legitimize the sport, secure its financial future, and pave the way for the NFL's eventual dominance in the American sporting landscape.

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New York businessman Tim Mara in 1925 made what many would consider a gamble when he invested $500 in a fledgling franchise in the NFL. Mara needed to gain more knowledge of the game of professional football, but the New York Giants were born with the council of the newly hired Dr. Harry March and others.

We continue with the story of the New York Football Giants and go back to an interview we did with Alan March, the great-grandson of Dr. Harry March. We find that the Giant crosses paths with legends like Jim Thorpe and Red Grange during this franchise's inaugural season.

This is Part 2 of our year-long celebration of the 100th New York Football Giants season in 2024.

Bringing in Star Power

By 1925, Jim Thorpe was already a household name. An Olympic Champion and many seasons of football and professional baseball had all but assured this great athlete's legacy. 1925 saw him take on a new challenge – professional football with the New York Giants.

Thorpe's arrival with the Giants wasn't met with universal fanfare. His professional baseball career began in 1913 but hadn't entirely met expectations. While showcasing his athleticism, his batting average remained relatively low. Some questioned whether his skills would translate to the gridiron.

Thorpe's athleticism was in decline, and rumors swirled of his dependencies on alcohol. Despite his contributions, Thorpe's time with the Giants was short-lived. Professional football in the 1920s was a far cry from the modern game. Injuries were common, and the rules were less protective of players. Thorpe battled nagging injuries throughout the season, limiting his impact. Additionally, the grueling travel schedule and financial constraints took a toll.

Red Puts Them in the Black

The highly anticipated matchup between the Chicago Bears, featuring the legendary Red Grange, and the New York Giants on December 6, 1925, was pivotal in NFL history. However, the impact on the Giants' bottom line wasn't as positive as the packed stadium might suggest.

Grange Steals the Show:

He lived up to the billing despite early concerns about Grange's hype. While he didn't score any touchdowns on the ground, he did make a crucial 35-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. The Bears emerged victorious, 19-7.

Financial Boon or Bust?:

While the game drew a record-breaking crowd of over 70,000 fans, it's essential to consider the financial realities of the era. Professional football was still in its early stages, and revenue streams were limited compared to today's sports landscape. Every indication, though, says that this game turned the financial situation of the Giants franchise to the point where Mara invested in the program for seasons beyond 1925.

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The 1920s were a period of innovation and upheaval in professional football. While the established National Football League (NFL) was still in its formative stages, a unique challenger emerged—C.C. Pyle's New York Yankees. This essay explores Pyle's audacious attempt to establish a rival football team in New York City, a story marked by ambition, controversy, and a lasting impact on the sport.

The Birth of a Renegade Franchise

A flamboyant entrepreneur, C.C. Pyle wasn't new to shaking things up. He had already revolutionized professional basketball with the American Basketball League. In 1926, he set his sights on professional football, capitalizing on the immense popularity of college star Red Grange. Recognizing Grange's potential to elevate the sport, Pyle convinced him to join a new league – the American Football League (AFL) – with a single franchise: the New York Yankees.

Grangemania in the Big Apple

The arrival of Red Grange in New York ignited a media frenzy. Nicknamed the "Galloping Ghost," his electrifying talent and iconic status as a college legend attracted massive crowds. The Yankees, despite playing in a fledgling league with a questionable schedule, filled stadiums across the country, showcasing Grange's immense drawing power.

A Clash of Titans

However, the Yankees' existence was a thorn in the side of the established NFL. The league saw Pyle and Grange as interlopers, and a fierce rivalry ensued. Legal battles and scheduling conflicts plagued the AFL's short lifespan. While the Yankees enjoyed some success, including a victory over the NFL's Chicago Bears, the lack of a cohesive league structure and the financial strain of competing with the well-established NFL ultimately proved impossible.

A Legacy of Change

Though the New York Yankees only lasted three seasons, their impact is undeniable. The AFL's competition forced the NFL to adapt, improve its organization, and expand its reach to compete with the excitement surrounding Grange and the Renegade League. The Yankees paved the way for future rival leagues like the American Football Conference (AFC), which eventually merged with the NFL, creating the powerhouse league we know today.

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Jack McBride's football career, spanning the late 1920s and early 1930s, embodied the versatility that defined the early years of the NFL. He excelled at multiple positions, showcasing his athleticism and adaptability throughout his ten seasons in the league.

Born in 1901, McBride's collegiate career at Syracuse University established him as a scoring machine. During his senior year, he scored second in the nation, displaying his prowess as a runner, passer, and kicker. This versatility caught the attention of the New York Giants, who inked him just before the 1925 season.

McBride quickly became a fan favorite in New York. His ability to play halfback, fullback, and even quarterback gave the Giants offensive flexibility. He led the team in scoring in each of his first three seasons. McBride's play was integral in the Giants' 1927 title run. Our friend Michael Moram writes that the city newspapers crowned McBride the MVP of the League.

After playing again for New York in 1928, Jack signed on with the Providence Steamroller in 1929. A year later, he suited up for the Brooklyn Dodgers Football team and remained with that franchise for three seasons before returning to the Giants late to help them win the 1934 NFL Championship in the "Sneaker game."

After his playing days were done, McBride went into coaching, serving as the head man for the New York Yankees Football franchise in both the second and third editions of the American Football League. In 1940, the Yankees fired them just before their owner got into conflict with the league. A new owner took over the AFL teams, rebranded the squad as the New York Americans, and rehired McBride as the coach in 1941.

Jack McBride's legacy is that he remains a significant figure in Giants' history, one of the first players to showcase the versatility that would become crucial in the evolving game of football.

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The top historic events that occurred in football on the date of March 9

Football History Rewind: A glance at how football developed in stages especially in post Civil War America

The Auburn Tigers football program roars with a history as vibrant as its burnt orange and navy blue stripes. Here’s a glimpse into their journey: