Football History

Born February 20, 1912, in Chicago, Illinois, was the awesome Michigan Wolverines Tackle Francis Whitey Wistert. According to the National Football Foundation Whitey had absolutely no prior gridiron experience when he arrived on campus at Michigan in the early 1930s. The Wolverines were 7-0-1 in the 1933 season, aided in part by Whitey’s quick diagnosing of the opposition’s plays. Francis Wistert received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1967. Amazingly great football ran in his family’s bloodline as his brothers Albert, who played 1940-1941, and Alvin, who played 1947-1949, are also Hall of Fame enshrinees who played at Michigan.

Whitey Wistert, a name synonymous with Michigan football, carved a legendary path on the gridiron. His prowess as a two-way player for the Wolverines and his subsequent professional career solidified his place in football history.  

-College Career

Wistert's college career at the University of Michigan was spectacular. Playing under the legendary coach Fritz Crisler, he became a standout offensive and defensive end. His versatility was a tremendous asset, contributing significantly to the Wolverines' success. He was a key part of the undefeated 1947 team that was named national champion. Wistert earned All-American honors three times, a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the game.

Famed football journalist Grantland Rice once stated: "Wistert was unanimously selected as the best tackle in the Middle-West this year. He was the key to Michigan's defensive line play. He was a sure tackler and it was next to impossible to fool him on trick maneuvers. He was keen, quick, and accurate in diagnosing plays."

-Road to the Pro Game

The Philadelphia Eagles drafted Wistert in the 1944 NFL Draft. However, his professional career was delayed due to his service in the United States Navy during World War II. He eventually joined the Eagles after his military service.

His professional career leaned towards the game of baseball, and he played for the Cincinnati Reds of the MLB. Wistert played five years of professional baseball before entering a career as a New York attorney.

-Football Legacy

While shorter than his collegiate tenure, Wistert's professional career with the Eagles was still notable. He was a part of the Eagles team that won back-to-back NFL championships in 1948 and 1949. His two-way skills, honed at Michigan, continued to be an asset in the pros. After playing, he remained connected to the sport, serving as a color commentator for Michigan football games for many years.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-3x All-American (University of Michigan)  

-2x NFL Champion (Philadelphia Eagles)  

-Member of the College Football Hall of Fame  

Whitey Wistert's legacy is defined by his dominance at the University of Michigan and his contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles' championship teams. He was a true embodiment of the two-way player, excelling on both offense and defense. His accomplishments at both the collegiate and professional levels cemented his place as one of football's most respected figures.

Mike Rozier, born on March 1, 1961, in Camden, New Jersey, carved a memorable path through college football, earning national acclaim before transitioning to a professional career. His powerful running style and explosive speed made him a formidable force on the gridiron.

-College Career

-Rozier's collegiate career reached its zenith at the University of Nebraska, where he played running back for the Cornhuskers.

-He was a key component of Nebraska's dominant rushing attack, renowned for its physical style and explosive plays.

-In 1983, he had a spectacular season, winning the Heisman Trophy and leading Nebraska to the national championship game.

-His performance during his college years established him as one of the most electrifying running backs in college football history.

-Road to the Pro Game

-Instead of entering the NFL immediately, Rozier opted to play in the United States Football League (USFL), signing with the Pittsburgh Maulers in 1984.

-When the USFL folded, Rozier entered the NFL and was selected by the Houston Oilers in the first round of the 1985 NFL Supplemental Draft of USFL and CFL Players.

-He played for the Houston Oilers and the Atlanta Falcons.

-Football Legacy

-Mike Rozier's legacy is primarily defined by his outstanding college career and his victory in the Heisman Trophy.

-He symbolized Nebraska's potent rushing attack during their dominant era.

-While his NFL career did not reach the same heights as his college success, he remained a respected player.

-His choice to play in the USFL, also became a part of his legacy, showing the risks that players take.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Heisman Trophy winner (1983).

-Walter Camp Award (1983).

-Consensus All-American (1983).

-Big Eight Offensive Player of the Year (1983).

-His college career stats are very impressive, with many rushing records.

-His NFL career included multiple rushing touchdowns.

* His place in college football history is very secure.

Joe Hamilton was born on March 13, 1977, in Alvin, South Carolina. He became a standout quarterback, particularly recognized for his college career at Georgia Tech.  

-College Career

-Hamilton's college football career at Georgia Tech was remarkable. He played for the Yellow Jackets from 1996 to 1999.  

-He was a four-year starter, setting numerous records and becoming a key figure in the team's success.  

-His senior year, in 1999, was particularly outstanding, where he displayed his great talent.  

-He set Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) career records for total offense, touchdown passes, and total touchdowns.  

-Road to the Pro Game

-Hamilton was selected in the seventh round of the 2000 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  

-He went on to play in the NFL, NFL Europe, and the Arena Football League (AFL).  

-His professional career included time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Indianapolis Colts.  

-He also participated in the arena football league playing with the Orlando Predators.  

-Football Legacy

-Joe Hamilton's legacy is primarily defined by his exceptional college career.

-He is remembered as one of Georgia Tech's greatest quarterbacks.  

-His achievements earned him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame.  

-He is very respected within the Georgia Tech football program.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-1999 Davey O'Brien Award winner.  

-1999 Consensus First-Team All-American.  

-Heisman Trophy runner-up in 1999.  

-ACC Player of the Year (1999).

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee 2014.  

-His achievements include holding many Georgia tech records, including passing yards, and touchdown passes.  

He was also placed on the ACC 50th Anniversary Football Team.

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Born March 21, 1884, in Boston, Massachusetts, was Princeton’s star fullback Jim McCormick Jim was a balance of swiftness and power and a very difficult runner to take down.

In the shadow of professional football's bright lights, college gridiron history holds a treasure trove of legendary players. One such player is Jim McCormick, a name synonymous with dominance during his time at Princeton University. This essay delves into the remarkable career of Jim McCormick, a fullback who redefined expectations and solidified his place as a Princeton legend.

-Early Promise and a Stellar Career

Born in 1884, Jim McCormick's athletic prowess emerged early. Playing for Princeton from 1904 to 1907, he established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His exceptional size, strength, and agility made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. McCormick's leadership qualities were equally impressive, earning him the captaincy of the team in his senior year.

-Repeat All-American Honors

A true testament to his talent, Jim McCormick achieved the rare feat of becoming a two-time All-American at a time when the honor was bestowed upon a select few players nationally. His dominance on the field and leadership off it solidified his reputation as one of the most decorated players in Princeton football history.

While statistics from this era are limited, historical accounts paint a vivid picture of McCormick's impact. He wasn't just a powerful runner; his agility and elusiveness made him a threat in the passing game as well. Defensively, his tackling prowess and ability to read plays further solidified his reputation as a complete player.

-A Legacy of Excellence

Jim McCormick's impact on Princeton football extends beyond his individual accolades. He was part of a golden era for the program, helping the Tigers secure multiple undefeated seasons and solidify their place as a national powerhouse. His leadership and dedication inspired future generations of Princeton football players.

-More Than Just a College Star:

While Jim McCormick didn't pursue a professional football career, his impact on the game is undeniable. He served as a head coach at Princeton for a brief period, further contributing to the program's legacy. His story reminds us of the rich history of college football and the exceptional talent that often thrives outside the professional spotlight.

Jim McCormick, the Princeton Tigers' fullback in the early 20th century, was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame by the National Football Foundation.

The University of Pittsburgh’s great end from 1927 to 1929, Joe Donchess was born on March 17, 1905 in Youngstown, Ohio

Joe Donchess, a name synonymous with early University of Pittsburgh football greatness, overcame significant early life challenges to forge a remarkable college career and establish a lasting football legacy. Born in Youngstown, Ohio, in 1905, Donchess's path to collegiate stardom was far from conventional. According to the National Football Foundation, he left school in the fifth grade to work in a steel mill to contribute to his family's finances. This detour could have easily ended his academic and athletic aspirations.

However, fate intervened when an alumnus of Wyoming Seminary learned of Donchess's situation. Recognizing the potential, this benefactor facilitated Donchess's enrollment in the prestigious prep school approximately five years later. Demonstrating exceptional dedication and intellectual aptitude, Donchess excelled at Wyoming Seminary, remarkably completing three grades in a single year. His success there paved the way for his enrollment at the University of Pittsburgh.

At Pitt, Donchess flourished both academically and athletically as an end from 1927 to 1929. His prowess on the gridiron quickly became apparent. The 1929 season proved to be a pinnacle, as the Panthers achieved an undefeated record. This dominant performance coincided with Donchess earning consensus All-American honors, solidifying his status as one of the nation's premier players. The 1929 Pitt squad, boasting four All-Americans and lauded as one of the greatest teams in Eastern football history, earned a coveted invitation to the Rose Bowl. Unfortunately, the highly anticipated matchup against the University of Southern California resulted in a disappointing 47-14 defeat for the Panthers. Donchess had previously experienced the Rose Bowl in 1928 against Stanford, where despite another strong Pitt team, they suffered a narrow 7-6 loss to the Cardinal.

While Joe Donchess did not play in any professional football leagues after his collegiate career, his impact on the sport is undeniable. His exceptional play as a dominant two-way end during a golden era of Pitt football cemented his reputation as a foundational figure in the program's history. His leadership and outstanding performance contributed significantly to the Panthers' success during his tenure.

Joe Donchess's enduring football legacy is best exemplified by his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1979. This prestigious honor recognizes his exceptional collegiate career and his significant contributions to the sport. While specific career statistics from that era are often less comprehensive than modern records, his consensus All-American selection in 1929 stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the game. Joe Donchess's journey from a steel mill worker to a Hall of Fame college football player is a compelling story of perseverance, opportunity, and athletic excellence, forever etching his name in the annals of the sport.

Chris Zorich, born March 16, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois, carved out a formidable football career, marked by his tenacity and dominance on the defensive line in college and the NFL.

-College Career

Zorich's college career at the University of Notre Dame was legendary. Coming from the same high school as Dick Butkus, Zorich was expected to embody a brutal, relentless style of play, and he delivered. His exceptional physical attributes—bench pressing 455 pounds and running a 4.68 40-yard dash—set him apart. Initially a linebacker, Notre Dame coaches moved him to nose tackle, necessitating a year of learning and development on the practice squad. This dedication paid off handsomely. In his first game at nose tackle against Michigan, he recorded 1.5 sacks and 10 tackles, finishing the season as the team's leading tackler. His sophomore year culminated in an undefeated season, a national championship, and first-team All-America honors. As a junior, he was a consensus All-American, recording three double-digit tackle games and becoming a Lombardi Award finalist. His senior year saw him win the Lombardi Award and earn unanimous All-America recognition. He concluded his collegiate career by being named Defensive MVP of the Orange Bowl. In 2007, his remarkable college career earned him induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.

-Road to the Pro Game

The Chicago Bears, his hometown team, selected Zorich in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a reliable and hard-hitting defensive tackle. He played with the Bears for six seasons, becoming a key component of their defensive line. His career stats include 27.5 sacks and over 350 tackles. He was known for his toughness and consistent performance. He finished his career with a short stint in Washington.

-Football Legacy

His dominant presence on the defensive line defines Zorich's football legacy. His remarkable strength, speed, and relentless pursuit of the ball carrier made him a force to be reckoned with. His college accolades, including the Lombardi Award and unanimous All-America honors, highlight his exceptional talent. While shorter than some, his professional career was marked by consistent performance and a reputation for toughness.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Zorich's accolades include his 2007 induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, the Lombardi Award, unanimous All-America honors, and Defensive MVP of the Orange Bowl. His NFL career stats include 27.5 sacks and over 350 tackles. His contributions to Notre Dame's national championship team and his solid NFL career solidify his place in football history.

Ozzie Newsome, born March 16, 1956, in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, forged a legendary football career, transitioning from a standout wide receiver at the University of Alabama to a Hall of Fame tight end in the NFL.

Newsome's collegiate career at Alabama from 1974 to 1977 was nothing short of spectacular. As a four-year starter, he demonstrated exceptional talent and leadership. He served as the offensive captain and earned All-America honors in 1977. His impressive statistics—102 receptions for 2,070 yards, averaging 20.3 yards per catch—highlighted his playmaking ability. His senior year showcased his versatility, particularly in a game against Notre Dame where he caught seven passes, scored two touchdowns, and a two-point conversion, while also earning praise for his blocking. Perhaps his most significant accolade came from legendary coach Bear Bryant, who called Newsome "the greatest end in Alabama history," a testament to his all-around excellence. In 1994, Newsome's collegiate achievements were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Cleveland Browns selected Newsome in the first round of the 1978 NFL Draft. He transitioned to tight end in the pros, where he continued to excel. Over 13 seasons with the Browns, he redefined the tight end position, becoming a premier pass-catching threat. He retired as the NFL's fourth-leading receiver and the leading tight end, with 662 receptions for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. His best seasons came in 1983 and 1984, when he recorded 89 receptions in each year. Known as the "Wizard of Oz," Newsome was renowned for his reliable hands, precise route running, and exceptional athleticism.

Newsome's football legacy extends beyond his playing career. His transition to the front office, most notably as the general manager of the Baltimore Ravens, where he built two Super Bowl-winning teams, solidified his impact on the game. His ability to evaluate talent and build a championship-caliber roster cemented his status as one of the most respected figures in football.

Newsome's accolades include his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro selection. His college statistics include 102 receptions for 2,070 yards. His professional statistics include 662 receptions for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. Ozzie Newsome's contributions as a player and executive have left an indelible mark on the sport.

Art Howe, born on March 3, 1915, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, was a versatile athlete who excelled in football, leaving a lasting impact on the sport, particularly at the collegiate level.

-College Career

-Art Howe's college football career reached its heights at Yale University.  

-He was a standout quarterback and a key player for Yale's football team in the early 1900s.  

-Notably, he was the sophomore quarterback on a 1909 Yale team with a perfect 10-0 record, showcasing his role in a dominant football team.  
That team outscored their opponents 209-0.  

-He also had notable plays in the 1910 and 1911 seasons.

-He made a major impact on the early formation of Yale Football.

-Football Legacy

-Art Howe's legacy is firmly established within the history of Yale University football, and the early years of the collage football game.  

-He was a pivotal player during a period of Yale's football dominance, contributing to the team's successes.  

-His placement into the College Football Hall Of Fame, cements his Legacy.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (1973).

-His most impressive stat, is that of his 1909 season with Yale, and the teams astounding record.  

-His play in key Yale v Princeton games is also noteworthy.

Corey Moore, born March 20, 1977, made a significant impact on college football as a dominant defensive force at Virginia Tech before transitioning to a brief NFL career.  

College Career:

Moore's collegiate career at Virginia Tech from 1996 to 1999 was nothing short of spectacular. Under the guidance of Coach Frank Beamer, he transformed into one of the nation's premier defensive players. His 1999 season was particularly exceptional, earning him both the Lombardi Award and the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, recognizing him as the nation's top defensive player. He was named Big East Defensive Player of the Year in both 1998 and 1999, becoming the first player to achieve this feat in consecutive years. Moore also set a conference record with 17 sacks. He was the first unanimous Big East Defensive Player of the Year and a unanimous first-team All-Big East selection. His senior season cemented his status as Virginia Tech's most decorated football player, earning him unanimous first-team All-American honors. In his final two seasons, he recorded an impressive 31 sacks. Virginia Tech honored Moore by retiring his jersey in 2010.  

Road to the Pro Game:

Moore's outstanding college performance led to his selection by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the 2000 NFL Draft.  

Football Legacy:

Moore's football legacy is primarily defined by his dominant college career at Virginia Tech. He is remembered as one of the most decorated defensive players in Hokies history, earning numerous accolades and setting records. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and his knack for sacking the quarterback made him a formidable presence on the field. While his NFL career was relatively short, his impact at the collegiate level was undeniable.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

Lombardi Award (1999).  
Bronko Nagurski Trophy (1999).  
Unanimous First-Team All-American (1999).
Big East Defensive Player of the Year (1998, 1999).  
Set Big East Conference record with 17 sacks.  
31 sacks in his final two college seasons.  
Third-round pick in the 2000 NFL Draft.  
Played for the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins.  
Virginia Tech retired his jersey.  
Corey Moore's remarkable college career solidified his place as a Virginia Tech legend and a standout defensive player in college football history.

Johnny Musso, born March 6, 1950, in Birmingham, Alabama, crafted a celebrated football career, excelling as a running back at collegiate and professional levels.

The Crimson Tide running back from 1969 through 1971 was a straightforward bruising back and described as a bulldozer type of runner.

College Career

Musso's college football journey unfolded at the University of Alabama, where he played under the legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant. He became a key figure in the Alabama Crimson Tide's offense, showcasing his powerful running style, toughness, and determination. Musso was vital to Alabama's success in the early 1970s, contributing significantly to their victories. He was a fan favorite, known for his relentless effort and ability to break tackles. He was a leader, and a very dependable player.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Musso's outstanding college performance attracted professional interest. The Chicago Bears drafted him in the 1972 NFL Draft. However, he opted to play in the Canadian Football League (CFL) for the Birmingham Americans and later the Toronto Argonauts. His professional career was marked by his consistent running ability and contributions to his teams' offenses.  

-Football Legacy

Johnny Musso's football legacy is deeply rooted in his remarkable achievements at the University of Alabama. He symbolized the Crimson Tide's dominance during the Bear Bryant era. His powerful running style and unwavering determination made him a fan favorite and a respected player. He was a key component of Alabama's national championship teams. He is remembered as one of the best running backs to ever play for Alabama. His impact extends beyond statistics; he embodied the spirit of Alabama football.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Member of Alabama's 1973 National Championship team.

-Multiple All-SEC selections.  

-Named a consensus All-American.

-Set numerous rushing records at the University of Alabama.  

-Inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.

-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.  

-Nicknamed "The Italian Stallion".  

Johnny Musso's career reflects a blend of exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and a deep passion for the game, solidifying his place in football history.