Football History

Born February 16, 1931, in West Natrona, Pennsylvania, was the University of Maryland’s great Tackle Dick “Lil Mo” Modzelewski. His name is synonymous with toughness and tenacity, and he carved a distinguished path through the world of football, leaving a lasting impact at both the collegiate and professional levels.

Dick was one of three brothers that had collegiate careers for the Terps. According to the NFF’s website bio on Lil Mo in his three varsity years, Maryland had a 22-game unbeaten streak. In 1951, Maryland was ranked third in the nation and knocked off the top-ranked team, Tennessee, in the Sugar Bowl, 28-13. Dick was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1993 after the National Football Foundation tallied their votes.

-College Career

Modzelewski's college career flourished at the University of Maryland, where he joined his brother, Ed, on the football team. From 1948 to 1951, he played a crucial role in the Terrapins' success. A standout two-way player, Modzelewski excelled as a fullback on offense and a linebacker on defense. His exceptional performance earned him All-America honors for three consecutive years (1949-1951), a testament to his consistent dominance on the field. In 1951, he was named the Most Valuable Player of the East-West Shrine Game, further solidifying his reputation as one of the nation's top collegiate players.

-Road to the Pro Game

Modzelewski's impressive college career paved the way for a successful professional journey. The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted him in the second round of the 1952 NFL Draft. "Little Mo," as he was known, quickly made his presence felt in the NFL. His hard-nosed playing style and versatility allowed him to contribute on both sides of the ball. He played for the Steelers for four seasons (1952-1955) before moving on to the Washington Redskins (1956-1960), the Cleveland Browns (1961), and finally, the New York Giants (1962-1964). Throughout his 14-year NFL career, Modzelewski was a consistent and reliable player known for his toughness and leadership. He was a key member of the Giants team that won the NFL Championship in 1956.

-Football Legacy

Dick Modzelewski's football legacy is one of dedication, excellence, and impact. His accomplishments at the University of Maryland solidified his place among the school's all-time greats. His three All-America selections and his MVP performance in the East-West Shrine Game are testaments to his exceptional talent and dedication. In the NFL, Modzelewski proved his versatility and toughness, earning the respect of his teammates and opponents alike. He was a valuable contributor to every team he played for, and his leadership helped shape those teams' culture. Beyond his on-field achievements, Modzelewski's commitment to the game and his unwavering sportsmanship made him a role model for aspiring football players. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1993 further cemented his legacy as one of the legends of the game.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

College Career:

-Three-time All-American (1949-1951)

-Most Valuable Player, East-West Shrine Game (1951)

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame (1993)

Professional Career:

-NFL Champion (1956)

-14 seasons in the NFL (Pittsburgh Steelers, Washington Redskins, Cleveland Browns, New York Giants)

Career Stats:

(While exact NFL stats might vary slightly depending on the source, his primary contributions were as a two-way player, particularly on defense, and as a leader. Statistics from that era often focus on offensive production)

Dick Modzelewski's football career, marked by excellence at every level, stands as a testament to his talent, dedication, and leadership. He left an indelible mark on the game, both on and off the field, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of football players.

Born March 7, 1952, in Alcoa, Tennessee, was the graceful pass-catching wide out of the USC Trojans of the early 1970, Lynn Swann.

Swann forged a remarkable career as a wide receiver, leaving an indelible mark on college and professional football.  

-College Career

Swann's collegiate journey unfolded at the University of Southern California (USC), where he became a key component of the Trojans' potent offense. Under the guidance of legendary coach John McKay, he showcased his exceptional athleticism, leaping ability, and sure hands. He was vital to USC's success in the early 1970s, contributing to their national championship victories. His graceful style and clutch performances made him a favorite and a highly regarded player.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Swann's outstanding college career led to his selection in the first round (13th overall) of the 1974 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He spent his entire professional career with the Steelers, becoming a key figure in their dominant era of the 1970s.

-Football Legacy

Lynn Swann's football legacy is defined by his crucial role in the Pittsburgh Steelers' "Steel Curtain" dynasty. He was a key target for quarterback Terry Bradshaw, known for his acrobatic catches and ability to make big plays in crucial moments. He was vital to the Steelers' four Super Bowl victories (IX, X, XIII, and XIV). His performance in Super Bowl X, where he made several spectacular catches, including a leaping 53-yard reception, earned him the Super Bowl MVP award. He was known for his graceful style, intelligence, and clutch performances. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-4× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV)

-Super Bowl X MVP  

-3× Pro Bowl (1975–1977)

-3× Second-team All-Pro (1975–1977)

-NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

-Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (1993)  

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2001)  

-Receptions: 336

-Receiving yards: 5,462  

-Receiving touchdowns: 51

-Career NFL statistics

Receptions: 336
Receiving yards: 5,462
Receiving touchdowns: 51

Stats at Pro-Football-Reference.com

Lynn Swann's combination of athleticism, grace, and clutch performances cemented his place among the NFL's greatest wide receivers and solidified his legacy as a key figure in the Pittsburgh Steelers' storied history.

When you think about the Pro Football Hall of Fame players of the 1970s Pittsburgh Steel Curtain defense, one may envision Mean Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, and Mel Blount, but you should not forget perhaps one of the top athletes and playmakers on that legendary squad, Linebacker Jack Ham.

Linebacker Jack Ham wasn't just a key figure in the Pittsburgh Steelers' legendary "Steel Curtain" defense; he was a cornerstone of their success throughout the 1970s. This essay explores Ham's remarkable career, highlighting his versatility, leadership qualities, and his undeniable impact on the game of football.

-From College Star to Steel Curtain Stalwart (1960s-1970s)

Born in 1948, Jack Ham displayed athletic prowess from a young age. In fact, in a remarkable twist of fate, his 24th birthday coincided with the most famous game of his career, and possibly in football history, the Immaculate Reception game.

He excelled in multiple sports at Penn State University before being drafted by the Steelers in 1971. Under the tutelage of defensive mastermind Chuck Noll, Ham quickly blossomed into a vital cog in the Steelers' emerging defensive unit. Unlike many linebackers focused solely on tackling or pass rushing, Ham possessed a rare blend of skills. He could drop back in coverage with the agility of a safety, blitz with the ferocity of a defensive end, and stuff the run with the strength of a defensive tackle. This versatility earned him the nickname "The Jack of All Trades," a moniker that perfectly captured his ability to disrupt opposing offenses in countless ways.

-The Heart of the Steel Curtain (1970s)

Ham's impact extended beyond his individual talent. He was a vocal leader on the field, a true quarterback of the defense, constantly communicating adjustments and directing his teammates. His intelligence, combined with his exceptional athleticism, made him the perfect complement to the other stars of the Steel Curtain – Joe Greene, L.C. Greenwood, and Mike Wagner. Together, they formed a unit that terrorized opposing quarterbacks and running backs for years to come. Ham's leadership and on-field presence played a vital role in the Steelers' four Super Bowl victories in six years (1974, 1975, 1979, 1980).

-Beyond Accolades: A Legacy of Excellence (1970s-Present)

Ham's career wasn't just defined by trophies and accolades. He embodied the spirit of the Steel Curtain – aggressive, disciplined, and relentless in pursuit of victory. His work ethic and dedication inspired teammates and instilled fear in opponents. Following his retirement in 1982, Ham transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game with a new generation of fans. He continues to be a respected voice in the sports world and a beloved figure in Pittsburgh.

-A Legacy Beyond Statistics

Jack Ham's legacy goes beyond statistics, though his eight Pro Bowls and eight All-Pro selections speak volumes about his dominance. He was a complete linebacker, a player who could excel in every facet of the game. His leadership and work ethic were instrumental in the Steelers' rise to dynasty status. Ham's story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, reminding them that dedication, versatility, and a strong football IQ can lead to greatness. He stands as a symbol of the "Steel Curtain" era, a testament to the power of a well-coached, cohesive defensive unit that revolutionized the sport of football.

The Question: What’s better than relaxing on a Sunday evening, watching two NFL teams battle it out under the prime-time lights? The Answer: a do-or-die Sunday Night Football (SNF) finale with everything on the line.

Tyrann Mathieu of the Kansas City Chiefs. Courtesy of All-Pro Reels from District of Columbia, USA (Cropped/Scaled)| AD.

Whether it’s divisional titles, playoff berths, or dramatic endings that keep us shouting at our screens, Sunday night finales have given NFL fans some of the most thrilling moments in football history.

Here’s our list of the 5 Best Sunday Night Football finales in NFL history.

2012: Washington 28, Cowboys 18

Before "Dallas Heartbreak" became a meme, it was just another Sunday in the NFC East. This Week 17 matchup had the division title and a playoff spot at stake. On one side was rookie phenom Robert Griffin III (RG3), electrifying Washington with his incredible dual-threat game. On the other, the Cowboys’ Tony Romo is poised for redemption after a disappointing 2011 season finale.

Here’s the setup: Washington led 21-18 late in the fourth quarter. With the ball back in Cowboys territory, Romo had a chance to show us he was Mr. Clutch. Spoiler alert—he wasn’t. Instead, he threw a soul-crushing interception that gave Washington all the momentum.

Alfred Morris, the unsung hero of the night, then punched in his third touchdown of the game, sealing a 28-18 win. Washington celebrated their first division title in five years, while Cowboys fans braced themselves for another long offseason.

Cowboys fans should’ve seen the writing on the wall—they'd go on to lose Sunday night football finales three straight years (2011–2013). Talk about bad luck.

2013: Eagles 24, Cowboys 22

Ah, déjà vu. Another year, another Week 17 NFC East showdown. This time, it was the Philadelphia Eagles stealing the spotlight. However, Dallas had a new script—and a new quarterback. Tony Romo was sidelined, leaving Kyle Orton to lead the charge.

Surprisingly, Orton kept it close, and the Cowboys found themselves down 24-22 late in the game. After scoring what could’ve been a game-changing touchdown, they went for the two-point conversion—and missed (ouch).

Still, the Cowboys had one last chance. With the ball in Orton’s hands, this was his moment. But his final pass found the wrong receiver—Eagles cornerback Brandon Boykin—ending the game and Dallas’ playoff hopes.

Philly secured the division crown and made sure Cowboys fans went 0/3 on Sunday Night finales.

2015: Vikings 20, Packers 13

When Lambeau Field hosts a season finale, you know it’s going to be special. The Green Bay Packers, led by Aaron Rodgers, needed a win to defend their NFC North title. But the Minnesota Vikings came to crash the party - and crush the Packers spirit.

The Vikings stormed to a 20-3 lead by the third quarter, thanks to an absurd play where Aaron Rodgers fumbled away a touchdown (no, really). But if there’s anything Rodgers loves, it’s a fourth-quarter comeback.

He clawed the Packers back to within seven and had not one but two shots to tie the game. Cue Xavier Rhodes, who decided enough was enough by picking off Rodgers in the end zone to deny the Packers a game-tying touchdown.

Final score? Vikings 20, Packers 13. Division champs, baby.

2019: 49ers 26, Seahawks 21

This one wasn’t just a classic—it was a game for the history books. The San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks were already playoff-bound, but the stakes were sky-high. The winner secured the NFC West title, while the losers had to settle for a lower seed.

Seattle launched an epic comeback after being down 19-7, only for the game to come down to one final play from the 1-yard line. Could this be shades of their 2014 Super Bowl heartbreak?
Yes. Yes, it could.

Linebacker Dre Greenlaw delivered the hit of a lifetime on Jacob Hollister, denying the Seahawks by mere inches. Inches! The defensive stand handed San Francisco, the NFC’s No. 1 seed, and Seattle fans a familiar heartbreak.
Why do we still talk about it? One yard. One play. That’s all it took to crown the 49ers as NFC West champions. Brutal.

2021: Raiders 35, Chargers 32 (OT)

This SNF finale was chaos personified. The Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Chargers faced a win-and-in matchup—but there was a twist. If they tied, both teams could make the playoffs (cue conspiracy theories).

Despite this bizarre scenario, the two teams actually played to win. Justin Herbert, in full beast mode, mounted a jaw-dropping comeback to tie the game at 32-32 as time expired.

Once in overtime, both teams kicked field goals, and with just seconds left, it looked like a tie was all but inevitable. But leave it to Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson to spoil the Chargers’ playoff dreams with a game-winning field goal.

Final score? Raiders 35, Chargers 32. The Steelers snuck into the playoffs, and Chargers fans were left wondering, “Why not just play for the tie?”

We’ll probably never see another game quite like this one. The stakes, the drama, the utterly ridiculous chaos—classic SNF.

Game On

Sunday Night finales don’t just end the NFL season; they give us moments we’ll never forget. The clutch plays, the heartbreaking losses, the legends made under the prime-time lights—this is why football fans live for SNF.

And with the NFL expanding the schedule to include more prime-time matchups, who knows what unbelievable Sunday Night moments are yet to come? All we can say is bring it on—we’ve reserved the remote AND hidden the tortilla chips.

Bob Chappuis, born April 12, 1923, in Toledo, Ohio, left an indelible mark on college football, mainly through his extraordinary career at the University of Michigan. His legacy extends beyond statistics, embodying resilience and leadership.

The NFF says, “As a football star, he led the Big Ten in total offense twice and in 1947 was unanimous All-America halfback. He helped Michigan to a perfect season and was voted Most Valuable Player in the Rose Bowl after leading the way to a 49-0 victory over Southern California.”

-College Career

Chappuis's Michigan career was punctuated by exceptional play and a significant interruption. After joining the Wolverines in 1942, his collegiate journey was paused by service in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. Returning to Michigan in 1946, he became a key figure in the Wolverines' offense, known for his passing prowess and running ability. In 1947, he played a pivotal role in Michigan's undefeated season and national championship victory, setting records and earning widespread acclaim.

-Road to the Pro Game

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Chappuis. However, he opted to play in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC), choosing to join the professional ranks during the leagues era of competition. His professional football career was Relatively short. When the AAFC disbanded, he then retired from professional football.

-Football Legacy

His contribution to Michigan's storied football history defines Chappuis's legacy. He was a symbol of tenacity, overcoming the challenges of wartime to achieve remarkable success on the gridiron. His role in the 1947 championship team solidified his place among Michigan's greatest players.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Key contributor to Michigan's 1947 national championship team.

-Record-setting performance in the 1947 season.

-Played in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC).

-His war time service added to his already high level of respect.

Bob Chappuis's story is one of unwavering dedication, both to his country and his team. He embodied the spirit of Michigan football, leaving a lasting impact on the program's tradition.

Born March 10, 1965, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, was the cornerback with World Speed from Purdue Rod Woodson.

Per his bio on the FootballFoundation.org website Rod was the 1986 runner-up for the Jim Thorpe Award and left Purdue holding 13 individual school records. He left Purdue as the career leader in solo tackles, interceptions, interception return yardage, interceptions returned for touchdowns, kickoff returns and kickoff return yardage, and he still ranks in the top five in nearly every category. Rod Woodson was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2016 after the National Football Foundation tallied their votes. Woodson was the tenth overall player taken in the 1987 NFL Draft picked by the Pittsburgh Steelers.

All he did was produce great stats for the majority of his career. In 1993 he was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year and was a six time All-Pro during his 17 year career. Rod picked off 71 career passes and held the NFL record for interception return yards at 1473 when he retired. Besides the Steelers , Woodson played with the 49ers, the Ravens and the Raiders. Rod Woodson was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. For more on this legend, check out these awesome posts below:

---

Examining the transformation of sideline gear reveals not only the evolution of materials and designs but also reflects the changing dynamics of the game itself.

The discussion spawns from a Tidbit Tim wrote titled: The good old days of sideline gear .

The hosts engage with Timothy B. Brown, who presents intriguing insights from his extensive collection of historical football catalogs. These catalogs reveal that early players often relied on blankets for warmth, as well as the shift to wool parkas in the 1920s.

The discussion emphasizes the practical challenges faced by players in the past, including the lack of heated benches and the harsh outdoor conditions they endured. As the game evolved, so too did the need for functional sideline gear that allowed for quick transitions between being on the bench and entering the game, ultimately leading to the adoption of capes and other easily removable garments. This historical narrative not only sheds light on the players' experiences but also enhances our understanding of the broader context of football history.

Bobby Layne, a legendary quarterback born in Santa Anna, Texas, in 1926, excelled at the University of Texas. While not known for his exceptional running or passing abilities, Layne's innovative play in the T-formation was truly remarkable. Despite missing part of the 1945 season due to his service in the Merchant Marine, he returned to lead the Longhorns to the Cotton Bowl, where his exceptional performance, including 11 completions in 12 attempts, contributed to a decisive victory over Missouri.

Layne's collegiate career was marked by numerous achievements, including All-America honors and the breaking of 11 school records. His success continued into the NFL, where he enjoyed a record-setting career with the Detroit Lions and Pittsburgh Steelers. A highlight of his time with Detroit was his clutch last-second pass that secured the 1953 NFL Championship. Throughout his 15-year NFL career, Layne was recognized for his exceptional play, earning two First-Team All-NFL selections, four Second-Team All-NFL selections, and the 1956 NFL scoring title.

Layne's impact on the game was undeniable. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1968 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, solidifying his place among the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.

---

Myron Cope, the legendary radio color analyst for the Pittsburgh Steelers, was more than just a broadcaster; he was an iconic figure who became synonymous with the team itself. With his unique blend of wit, humor, and passion, Cope captivated Steelers fans for decades, turning every game into an unforgettable experience.

Myron Cope, the legendary Pittsburgh Steelers broadcaster, in this revealing interview with co-author Dan Joseph. The other author in this project was Myron's daughter Elizabeth Cope. Delve into the world of football media and learn about the colorful career of this iconic color analyst.

Learn about Myron Cope, the legendary Pittsburgh Steelers broadcaster, in this revealing interview with co-author Dan Joseph. Dan Joseph and Elizabeth Cope's book on Myron is titled: "Beyond the Yoi"

The YouTube page: Youtube Channel Official Myron Cope

Born in 1929, Cope began his broadcasting career in the 1960s and joined the Steelers radio team in 1970. His distinctive voice, filled with excitement and enthusiasm, quickly endeared him to fans. Cope's ability to break down the game in a way that was both informative and entertaining made him a beloved figure among Steelers Nation.

One of Cope's most famous catchphrases was "Yoi," a Cope Pittsburgh colloquialism for "Wow." This phrase became a staple of his broadcasts and a rallying cry for Steelers fans. Cope also created the Terrible Towel, which became a symbol of Steelers pride and is waved by thousands of fans at games, both at home and on the road.

Beyond his broadcasting duties, Cope was a beloved figure in the Pittsburgh community. He was known for his philanthropy and his commitment to giving back to the city he loved. Cope's legacy will live on for generations to come, as his voice and his spirit will always be synonymous with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Rocky Bleier's story is more than just a football career; it's a testament to human resilience and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.

A Late Draft Pick and Drafted Again:

Bleier, drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 16th round of the 1968 NFL Draft, was a late bloomer who faced initial skepticism due to his size and perceived lack of speed. However, his competitive spirit and dedication soon caught the eye of coaches.

The Vietnam War Interrupts a Promising Career:

Just as his football career was beginning to take shape, Bleier's life took an unexpected turn. Drafted into the U.S. Army, he was deployed to Vietnam and severely wounded by shrapnel in both legs during combat. Doctors initially feared he might never walk again.

Unwavering Determination and a Miraculous Recovery:

Despite overwhelming odds, Bleier embarked on a grueling rehabilitation process. Fueled by an unwavering determination and fueled by a desire to return to football, he defied doctor's expectations and slowly regained his ability to walk, then run.

A Second Chance and Super Bowl Glory:

Bleier's return to the Steelers was nothing short of remarkable. His perseverance and work ethic paid off, eventually earning him a starting spot as a fullback. He became a key contributor to the Steelers' dominant teams of the 1970s, known as the "Steel Curtain," playing in four Super Bowls and winning four championship rings.

From Hero to Inspiration:

Bleier's story transcended the world of sports. He became an inspiration to millions, showcasing the power of human spirit and the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.