Football History

Born May 1, 1905, in De Ridder, Louisiana, was the Louisiana-Lafayette (1922-25 ) and with Army from 1926 to 1929, halfback Chris “Red” Cagle. The National Football Foundation states in their bio of Red that Chris while at  Southwestern Louisiana chalked up 235 points by scoring touchdowns, kicking extra points and converting field goals. This was a school record that lasted until 1989! He was able to play in college for 8 seasons as he split the balance of his NCAA career with the Army Cadets. Red was an All-America halfback the last three seasons at West Point. His longest runs were 75 yards against Yale, 1928; 70 yards against Ohio Wesleyan and 65 yards against Yale, 1929. In four years at Army he scored 169 points, averaged 6.4 yards per attempt in rushing and 26.4 yards on kickoff returns. Our friend Chris Willis from NFL Films wrote in an article for the Pro Football Journal website that Cagle was on the cover of Time Magazine in 1929 while with Army. He was often seen playing with either his chin strap undone or with no helmet at all. Chris Cagle was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954 after the National Football Foundation tallied their votes. C. Willis goes on to tell us that Cagle played 5 steady but uneventful seasons in the NFL with the New York Giants. Red Cagle did however own an NFL franchise, the Brooklyn Dodgers, for a couple of seasons with his partner John “Shipwreck” Kelly. 

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A Pigskin Dispatch One Minute of Football History on the legendary QB Sammy Baugh and his entrance into the NFL.

Baugh's ascent was meteoric. He stormed onto the collegiate scene at TCU, dazzling crowds with audacious throws and electrifying runs. His audacity knew no bounds; he once famously punted the ball with his left foot while holding it in his right hand, leaving stunned opponents wondering what trickery he'd conjure next.

But it was with the Washington Redskins that Baugh's legend truly exploded. He entered a league still clinging to outdated ground-and-pound tactics, a run-first, pass-later mindset. Baugh, however, possessed a revolutionary vision. He saw the potential of the forward pass, of unleashing the aerial assault.

And unleash it he did. Baugh's throws defied physics, zipping through the air with uncanny accuracy. He could thread the needle between defenders, launching spirals that seemed to hang in the air just a moment longer, tantalizingly out of reach. He mastered the art of the roll-out, weaving through tacklers while unleashing lasers that found their targets like homing missiles.

Baugh's impact wasn't just statistical. He transformed the game, paving the way for generations of aerial assassins. He wasn't just a quarterback; he was a showman, a magician weaving gridiron spells, a gunslinger leaving defenses scrambling for cover.

Pooley Hubert was of the top early Southern college football players. Pooley played quarterback for coach Wallace Wade's Alabama Crimson Tide teams from 1922 to 1925, leading Alabama to its first bowl game, the 1926 Rose Bowl, Which changed the perception and legitimacy of football in the South.

Allison "Pooley" Hubert is a name synonymous with Alabama Crimson Tide football's golden age. A versatile athlete who excelled on both sides of the ball, Hubert's impact on the program is immeasurable.

Emerging as a star in the early 1920s, Hubert quickly established himself as the heart and soul of the Crimson Tide. As quarterback, his ability to both pass and run made him a nightmare for opponents. His leadership and playmaking skills were instrumental in Alabama's rise to national prominence.

Beyond his offensive prowess, Hubert was a defensive stalwart, earning accolades as one of the greatest defensive backs of his era. His versatility and tenacity made him a dominant force on the field.

Hubert's crowning achievement came in 1926 when he led Alabama to a historic victory over Washington in the Rose Bowl, marking the first time a Southern team had competed in the prestigious game. His performance in that game cemented his legacy as a Crimson Tide legend.

Beyond his playing days, Hubert continued to contribute to the sport as a coach at Mississippi State Teachers College and Virginia Military Institute. His impact on Alabama football, however, remains unparalleled. Pooley Hubert's name will forever be etched in the Crimson Tide's storied history.

Born October 27, 1928, in San Antonio, Texas, was William Kyle Rote a halfback from Southern Methodist University.

It was a chilly December afternoon in 1949, and SMU’s 1948 Heisman winner Doak Walker, was injured and unable to play in the game when the undefeated juggernauts of college football, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish rolled into town to face the Mustangs. Doak’s replacement was ayoung unknown talent called Kyle Rote and he was up to the challenge. Rote came in and according to the National Football Foundation he ran for 115 yards, passed for another 146, scored all three SMU touchdowns.

And by the way he also averaged 48 yards per kick while punting in the game. Notre Dame held on and won the game, but Rote gave them all they could handle in the 27-20 Irish win. In the 1950 season Rote went on to become a consensus All-American selection. He took second in the Heisman voting that season and even got his picture on the front cover of Life Magazine. Kyle Rote was honored in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1964. Kyle played a short stint in minor league baseball then joined the NFL's New York Giants where he played from 1951 through 1961 and was a team captain. Kyle Rote even made the Pro Bowl four times to cap off a brilliant career in football.

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In the annals of college football, few tales weave together athletic brilliance, historic rivalry, and personal sacrifice like that of Charley Barrett. He wasn't just a quarterback; he was a triple-threat titan who tamed the wild west of early 20th-century gridiron with a blend of grace, power, and unwavering leadership.

Hailing from the steel town of Bellevue, Pennsylvania, Barrett arrived at Cornell in 1913, a raw talent yearning for the crucible of competition. Under the tutelage of Jack Moakley, he blossomed into a "real triple threat man," mesmerizing opponents with his swift runs, pinpoint passes, and bone-crunching tackles. He possessed a deceptive look – tall and slender, often mistaken for a passer. But the moment he touched the pigskin, his deceptive calm transformed into a whirlwind of athleticism.

His reign on the gridiron coincided with the golden age of the Cornell-Pennsylvania rivalry. Each fall, the gridiron became a battleground, a clash of two titans for Big Ten supremacy. And at the heart of it all stood Barrett, orchestrating victories with surgical precision and jaw-dropping displays of athleticism. His 1915 performance against Penn stands as a testament to his greatness. Trailing by nine points, he led a stunning comeback, racking up touchdowns of 40, 25, and 3 yards, and adding a drop-kick field goal and three extra points. "The Big Red Machine," they called Cornell that year, and Barrett was its engine, its relentless heartbeat.

But his story transcends touchdowns and trophies. He embodied the ideals of the scholar-athlete, excelling in the classroom as well as on the field.

The name "Four Horsemen" evokes images of gridiron dominance in college football history. But within this legendary backfield at Notre Dame, one player stands out for his well-rounded brilliance – Harry Stuhldreher. He wasn't just a football star; he was a poet, a lawyer, and a leader who embodied the spirit of innovation. Today, we delve deeper than the touchdowns and highlight reels. Join us as we explore the remarkable life of Harry Stuhldreher – the Renaissance Man of the gridiron!

Harry Stuhldreher wasn't just a football player; he was a multi-talented athlete who embodied the spirit of innovation and leadership during a golden age of college football. This essay explores Stuhldreher's remarkable career, examining his prowess on the field, his contributions to the legendary "Four Horsemen" backfield, and his lasting influence on the game.

-A Well-Rounded Athlete: From Poetry to the Playing Field (Early 1900s-1924)

Born in 1901, Stuhldreher displayed a diverse range of talents from a young age. He excelled in academics, even winning a poetry contest while attending Culver Military Academy. However, it was on the football field where his brilliance truly shone. He enrolled at the University of Notre Dame, quickly establishing himself as a standout player under the guidance of the visionary coach Knute Rockne.

-The Birth of a Legend: The "Four Horsemen" and Offensive Innovation (1922-1924)
Stuhldreher's place in football history is cemented by his role in Notre Dame's legendary "Four Horsemen" backfield alongside Don Miller, Jim Crowley, and Elmer Layden. This innovative offensive unit, spearheaded by Rockne's revolutionary "shift" formation, revolutionized college football. Stuhldreher, a versatile backfield threat, could pass, run, and block with exceptional skill. He was the glue that held the "Four Horsemen" together, his leadership and strategic understanding being instrumental to their success.

-Playing as a Pro

Stuhldreher's fame as a football player was lucrative in the years proceeding his time with the Irish. He played in multiple exhibition games with former teammates on the Notre Dame All-Star squad and later made spot appearances with the Waterbury Blues (Hartford Blues).

Harry Stuhldreher's professional football career was short-lived and marked by a unique twist. After a brief stint with the Brooklyn Lions in 1926, the team underwent a significant change. They merged with several players from the "Four Horsemen," including Stuhldreher, and even adopted the "Horsemen" name. However, this ambitious attempt at professional gridiron glory proved fleeting. Both the newly formed "Horsemen" franchise and the entire American Football League (AFL), in which they competed, folded after just one season. This unfortunate turn of events brought a premature end to Stuhldreher's professional football aspirations, along with the Brooklyn NFL franchise and the AFL itself.

-A Legacy Beyond Statistics: More Than Wins and Losses (1924-Present)

Stuhldreher's career transcended mere statistics. He helped lead Notre Dame to an undefeated season in 1924, solidifying the team's national dominance under Rockne. However, his impact goes beyond wins and championships. He embodied the ideals of sportsmanship and intellectual curiosity that Coach Rockne instilled in his players. After graduating, Stuhldreher enjoyed a successful career in business with US Steel, further demonstrating his well-rounded personality.

-Stuhldreher's Enduring Influence on the Game

Harry Stuhldreher's legacy is multifaceted. He was a key figure in the rise of Notre Dame as a national powerhouse, and his contributions to the "Four Horsemen" backfield remain etched in football history. Furthermore, his versatility and intelligence on the field played a significant role in the evolution of offensive strategies. Stuhldreher serves as an inspiration not just for athletes but for aspiring individuals who excel in multiple areas.

August 11, 1919, is a crucial date in the history of the Green Bay Packers franchise. It set the stage and got things moving to organize the Gridiron Club.

Image courtesy Wikimedia Commons is a cropped version of Curly Lambeau posing to throw a pass in 1919.

During the first of what would be two meetings in the editorial rooms of the Green Bay Press-Gazette, preliminary plans to organize a professional football team were laid. Essentially, the Green Bay Packers were partially founded by Earl "Curly" Lambeau and George Whitney Calhoun. Ironically, the two had been high school rivals a few seasons earlier, but now, they are banded together for a higher cause.

To fund the project, Lambeau received $500 from his employer, the Indian Packing Company, on the condition that the team be named after their sponsor. The Packers have played in their original city longer than any other NFL team and are the only small market team community-owned in the U.S. that remains from the league's early beginnings. The Packers have won 13 league championships and 4 Super Bowls, the most Titles in NFL history per Yahoo.com. The group planned the second meeting just three days later at the Press-Gazette. At the August 14 organizational conference, over two dozen players were in attendance. Curly Lambeau was elected team captain, and George Whitney Calhoun was named manager.

For more on the Green Bay Packers and their players and origin story, visit our Packers Pages.

Seldom do defensive players impact the game of football as much as standout defensive Lineman Reggie White did. His legacy in college, the USFL, and NFL in two cities still is remembered

-College Career

Reggie White’s collegiate career at the University of Tennessee was nothing short of dominant.

A raw but immensely talented defensive lineman, he quickly developed into a force to be reckoned with. With his imposing physical stature and relentless motor, White wreaked havoc on opposing offenses. His junior and senior seasons were particularly outstanding, as he earned consensus All-American honors and solidified his status as one of the nation’s top defensive prospects.  

-Road to the Pro Game

White’s professional football journey began in the United States Football League (USFL) with the Memphis Showboats, where he continued to showcase his exceptional talent. His impact was so significant that he was selected in the first round of the 1984 NFL Supplemental Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.  

In Philadelphia, White emerged as one of the most feared defensive players in the league. His combination of size, speed, and power was virtually unstoppable. He earned the nickname “The Minister of Defense” for his dominant performances and his strong Christian faith. White’s sack totals were staggering, and he consistently disrupted opposing offenses.  

After a highly successful stint in Philadelphia, White signed with the Green Bay Packers, where he continued to excel. His presence was instrumental in the Packers’ resurgence, culminating in a Super Bowl victory. White’s career concluded with a brief stint with the Carolina Panthers.  

-Football Legacy

Reggie White’s legacy is cemented as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history. His impact on the game was profound, as he redefined the position of defensive end. White’s combination of power, speed, and intelligence made him virtually unstoppable.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, White was also revered for his character and leadership. His strong Christian faith was evident in his life and actions, and he was a role model for players and fans alike. White’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006 was a fitting tribute to a career marked by excellence and integrity.  

His impact extends beyond statistics and accolades. White's influence on the game is still felt today, as young defensive linemen strive to emulate his dominance and character.

Born May 30, 1949 - Salem, New Jersey -  Lydell Mitchell 3 time Pro- Bowl NFL Running back played for the Colts, Chargers & Rams.  The Baltimore Colts drafted Mitchell with the 48th pick of the 1972 NFL Draft. Mitchell played his college career at Penn State under Joe Paterno along with his fellow backfield mate Franco Harris. Quite a one two punch for the Nittany Lions in the season of '71. Lydell Mitchell entered the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004. Lydell's was a threat to run and recieve passes as a pro and when he teamed up with Colts QB Bert Jones the pair helped the team win 3 consecutive AFC East Titles (1975, 76 & 77), stealing the crown from their division rival the Miami Dolphins, yes those Dolphins that only a year or two earlier had an undefeated season.

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Steve Owen's career in professional football spanned nearly three decades, leaving an indelible mark on the New York Giants and the game itself. He carved out a successful path as a player before transitioning into a legendary coach, forever etching his name in Giants' lore.

Steve Owen not only starred while playing the game, he absorbed the lessons he learned on the field, put them into practice, and even innovated concepts of the gridiron when he got into coaching.

Steve Owen, born on April 21, 1898, in Cleo Springs, Oklahoma, was ambitious and resilient. His journey to success was not without its challenges. After completing high school, he continued his education at Philips University in Enid, OK. He worked on a cattle ranch to support himself, demonstrating his determination and work ethic. However, his pursuit of higher learning was interrupted when he served in the US Army during World War I.

Steve Owen's journey in professional football began in the early 1920s when the game was still finding its shape. After the War, he signed on with the NFL's Kansas City Cowboys in 1924, who played all their games on the road. The lineman earned a salary of $50 per contest for his labor.

At a relatively short 5'10" for a lineman, Owen's exceptional strength, intelligence, and fierce competitive spirit compensated for his stature. These unique qualities and his leadership skills set him apart from his peers.

His journey took him to several teams. After finding being a full-time road warrior quite the grind, the 26-year-old spent the 1925 season with the Waterbury-Hartford Blues, an independent team in Connecticut. The Blues had ambitions to join the NFL, and after Steve helped the team achieve a record of 10-2, including two narrow victories over the NFL's Rochester Jeffersons, Hartford would earn a League franchise in 1926. Steve was also signed to play for the Cleveland Bulldogs for one game that season.

That solitary game with the struggling Bulldogs would be a springboard to his eventual pigskin roost. Steve played briefly with the Cleveland Bulldogs before being sold to the New York Giants in 1926 for $500. The legendary Dr. Harry March had seen Owen play a year earlier at a meager salary of $100 a game, which barely covered the expenses of barnstorming across Florida with the Cowboys. Yet, his exceptional defensive skills couldn't be ignored.

Owen truly blossomed with the Giants, becoming a key cog in their 1927 champ "on-ship run. His leadership on and off the field earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.

By 1931, Owen had transitioned into a player-coach role with the Giants, marking the start of a coaching dynasty that would span over two decades. His approach to the game was characterized by a strong emphasis on defense and fundamental football, a stark contrast to the more flamboyant offensive schemes of the time. This defensive focus, known as "Stout Steve's System," shaped the Giants' play and left a lasting" impacSteve'se game i "self, revolutionizingGiants'y team approach to defense.

Despite initial skepticism, Owen's methods proved to be game-changers. He led the Giants to eight Eastern titles and two NFL championships (1934 and 1938). His innovative tactics, such as the A-formation that revolutionized running plays and the umbrella defense designed to counter emerging passing attacks, significantly impacted the game's evolution. Owen's ability to adapt and innovate, combined with his unwavering fundamentals, reshaped the game, leaving a lasting legacy.

Steve Owen's impact extended beyond his tactical brilliance. He fostered a culture of Owen's focus and teamwork within the Giants organization, a testament to his leadership and character. He was known for his loyalty to his players and staff, instilling a sense of family within the team. This loyalty extended beyond the playing field, as Owen famously coached with the Giants for 24 seasons on a handshake agreement – a testament to his mutual respect and the Mara family, who owned the team.

The innovator took chances, too, with little things he learned and quick decisions. In the 1934 championship game (now known as the "sneaker game"), he found himself on a frozen field. In a stroke of genius, the New York Giants switched to sneakers in the second half, gaining traction and defeating the Chicago Bears 30-13. This innovative move forever changed the game, as NFL teams always wear rubber-soled shoes on icy fields.

Under the leadership of Coach Owen, the Giants would also claim the NFL title in 1938.

As a coach, Owen had a career win/loss record of 155-108-17 as his teams won eight division titles and two NFL Championships. The G-men under his watch were in eight of the first 14 NFL Title games! Coach Owen's innovations to the game were outstanding, and he is credited with the A-foOwen'sn offense. The umbrella defense, where he dropped four defensive backs to cover the deep field partly to neutralize the powerful Cleveland Browns passing attack after they joined the NFL in the early 1950s. He even participated in implementing the two-platoon system of personnel with specialists in offense and defense. Steve Owen was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966.

Steve Owen retired from coaching in 1953, leaving a legacy far beyond wins and championships. He was pivotal in establishing the New York Giants as a perennial contender, laying the foundation for future success. More importantly, Owen's dedication to defense, his emphasis on fundamentals, and his innovative Owen'ss significantly impacted the game's evolution. He is a testament that leadership, intelligence, and a deep understanding of the game can overcome physical limitations. Steve Owen, the "Rock of New York," remains a towering figure in the Giants' history and an innovator in "the annals of professional football Giants.'