Football History

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How much do you know about the NFL and its historic rushers? We spotlight a running back of the National Football League and pose a question has just one answer. The clues are in the hangman style of letter giving, just like a popular game show.

We delve into the passing game of the NFL, and test you a puzzle of your knowledge and recollection of an important person in NFL lore.

Do you have enough NFL information rattling around in the grey cortex to solve this puzzle?

Don't forget to like and subscribe for more football content!

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The New York Giants were on shaky ground financially as was most of the rest of the National Football League in 1925. A bright star would arise to help save the League from going under.

As part of our celebration of the 100th season of the New York Football Giants, we present Part 3 of the NYG-100 series.

When Football Was Football host Joe Ziemba is our guest from an appearance he made back in 2021 on the Pigskin Dispatch Podcast NFL Jersey #77 episode.

Significant Daily Events in Football History on the 23rd of December - This Day in History

Explore the rich tapestry of American football history on July 11th, a day that marks the birthdays of several Hall of Fame legends. Join us as we celebrate the lives and careers of these iconic players whose contributions have shaped the game we cherish.

From memorable moments on the field to their enduring impact on football culture, delve into the stories behind these Hall of Fame birthdays. Discover fascinating anecdotes, career highlights, and the lasting legacies of these gridiron heroes.

Whether you're a passionate fan, a history buff, or simply curious about football's greats, this post offers a captivating journey through the milestones and milestones of July 11th in football history. Stay tuned as we honor these legends and their invaluable contributions to the sport

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Dr. Harry March, nicknamed "The Father of Professional Football," was a multifaceted individual who left a lasting mark on the evolution of the sport. His story intertwines with the early years of professional football, highlighting his contributions as a physician, promoter, and organizer.

Harry March was pivotal in early pro football, especially in founding the New York Giants NFL Franchise. His Great-Grandson Alan March joined us back in 2021, and in this segment from that interview, Alan reveals Dr. March's part in the founding of the Giants.

Early Life and Connection to the Game:

Born in 1875, March received his medical degree and worked as a doctor. However, his love for football blossomed at a young age, as he played for his college team and later covered the sport as a journalist.

Shaping the Early Pro Landscape:

March's involvement in the early days of professional football was multifaceted. He served as the team physician for the Canton Bulldogs, one of the first professional teams. His medical expertise helped ensure the well-being of players as the sport evolved.

Beyond his medical role, March recognized the potential of professional football. He became a promoter and organizer, advocating for establishing professional leagues and fostering collaboration between different teams. He played a pivotal role in the origin of the New York Football Giants by introducing franchise founder Tim Mara to NFL President Joe Carr. A few handshakes and $500 later, the Giants represented the NFL brand in the Big Apple.

Dr. March's contributions extended beyond the early years of the NFL. He wrote the first book on professional football history and was president of the rival American Football League. Despite some controversies, his dedication to the sport and his efforts in shaping its early years solidified his place as a founding father of professional football.

This is Part 1 of our year-long celebration of the 100th New York Football Giants season in 2024.

I appreciate Alan March for sharing his time and knowledge and the great image of Dr. March.

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Benny Friedman, born March 18, 1905, wasn't your typical football player. In an era dominated by ground-and-pound offenses, Friedman emerged as a passing prodigy, forever changing the game's landscape. This essay explores his remarkable career, highlighting his impact on the sport and his legacy as a true gridiron innovator.

We continue with the story of the New York Football Giants in this sixth part of our celebratory series on the franchise's first 100 seasons.

The gridiron experience for young Benjamin started negatively when his high school coach in Cleveland, Ohio, looked at the 5'-6 ", 150-pound youngster and informed him that he would never be able to play football due to his size. Friedman transferred to a neighboring school to pursue his sports dreams and thrived playing football, baseball, and basketball. Benny helped his new alma mater even win the 1922 City Gridiron Championship!

-Early Life and Aspiring Gridiron Career

His scholastic feats did not go unnoticed as Friedman was enrolled at the University of Michigan by the following fall, playing on the Freshman team. When eligible to play varsity, he was a reserve and witnessed a thumping the Wolverines took at the hands of a Red Grange-led Illinois eleven. Michigan Coach George Little shook the starting lineup a bit after this defeat and inserted Benny as the starting right halfback.

Friedman's brilliance shone brightly at the University of Michigan. Playing quarterback and halfback, he defied the run-heavy strategies of the time. Unlike most teams, his exceptional throwing ability and innovative playcalling, calling plays from the line of scrimmage, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. By the time the opening game of the 1925 season, Friedman's Junior year, the rising star accounted for all three of Michigan's touchdowns, two long pass plays, and a 26-yard run to the goal line in a 21-0 throttling of rival Wisconsin. With Benny leading the way, the Wolverines captured at least a share of the Big Ten Conference title in consecutive seasons. He earned All-American honors twice and was a significant factor in leading Michigan to a dominant period.

Just before the 1927 football season, Friedman, who was now out of school, announced that he would be signing a contract to play with the Cleveland Bulldogs of the NFL. The Rookie started all 13 games for the Bulldogs, tossing a 50-yard TD pass in the opener, and led his hometown Cleveland eleven to a respectable 8-4-1 record. The franchise relocated and rebranded as the Detroit Wolverines the following season.

Again, Friedman led the League in passing with ten touchdowns for the second year. He also used his legs and led the NFL in rushing TDs, becoming the only player in League history to be at the top of both categories in a year. The Wolverines finished the year in third place at 7-2-1.

-Giant Aquisition

The 1927 World Champion New York Giants swept the entire League except for one team, the Friedman lead Bulldogs. In an interesting spin, the Giants had never beaten Benny Friedman. They were 0-2-2 against him and 0-1-1 against both the Cleveland Bulldogs and the Detroit Wolverines in their lifetime. Despite the success of the past two seasons with Benny, the Detroit franchise could have been a more stable financial venture; thus, the team only played one season as the Detroit Wolverines, as in 1929, they were absorbed into the New York Football Giants. Giants owner Tim Mara had seen enough and figured if he couldn't beat Friedman, he bought him and the rest of the Wolverines team.

Mara's foresight of Friedman being an elite player who could lead the Giants to better things was spot on. Friedman was the main reason the New York businessman bought the Wolverines franchise. Mara also figured that Benny would be a great draw at the gate, and Friedman quickly became the highest-paid NFL player when he inked his new contract with the Giants for an unprecedented $10,000 per season.

To put Benny's effectiveness and innovative style of play into perspective, it was in the fourth contest of the 1929 campaign (Friedman's third NFL season) that the signal-caller became the NFL's all-time career leader in touchdown passes. The milestone was significant as it would not be broken until 1943 by Sammy Baugh. The former Michigan star had transformed the forward pass from a third-down desperation tactic into an offensive attack method that could be deployed on any down.

We must remember that the footballs of that era had a more considerable girth than the modern pigskin. Friedman reportedly trained and stretched the fingers of his throwing hand to be strong enough to depress the leather with a wide grip. His secrets included carrying a rubber ball in his coat pocket that he continually worked over, and he would also practice manipulating his thumb and forefinger to be in a painfully stretching straight line for as long as he could hold it.

Benny played with the Giants through the 1930 season and then announced he would retire to focus on a coaching job he accepted at Yale. His schedule worked out that he would sign on with the Giants for the 1931 season and play nine games. In 1932, Friedman suited up for the Brooklyn Dodgers gridiron franchise as their player/coach for three more seasons before retiring from play.

-Friedman's NFL Legacy

Friedman's professional career, from 1927 to 1934, further solidified his reputation as a passing pioneer. He consistently led the League in passing touchdowns, shattering records and proving the effectiveness of the aerial attack. His success forced teams to adapt their defensive strategies, marking a turning point in the game's evolution. Many experts consider Benny Friedman the model for the modern quarterback, as his play changed the dynamics and expectations of the position.

The future Hall of Famer would continue coaching with the City College of New York, an assistant with the US Navy team during the Second World War, and finally, the Athletic Director at Brandeis University in Massachusetts.

-Beyond his passing prowess

Friedman was a complete player. He was a skilled kicker, an accurate passer, and an accomplished runner. This versatility made him a true offensive weapon, capable of attacking defenses in multiple ways. His durability was also impressive, as he played through a time when player safety wasn't a primary concern.

However, Friedman's career was challenging. He faced prejudice as the son of a Jewish immigrant, a rarity in professional football at the time. Additionally, injuries began to hamper his performance later in his career. Despite these obstacles, his impact on the game remains undeniable.

Benny Friedman's legacy extends beyond statistics and accolades, though his record-breaking achievements are worth noting. The stalwart was part of the inaugural 1953 College Football Hall of Fame class but was overlooked for enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame until 2005, sadly some 23 years after he had passed away.

In conclusion, Benny Friedman was a trailblazer in professional football. His vision, combined with his exceptional talent, helped usher in a new era of offensive football. More importantly, he revolutionized the quarterback position, demonstrating the power of the forward pass. He paved the way for future generations of quarterbacks who would dominate the game with their aerial attacks. His legacy lives on in the thrilling passing games we witness today, a testament to the impact of a Jewish kid from Cleveland who dared to be different.

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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.