Football History

The 1999 Texas vs. Texas A&M football game was more than just a rivalry game. Played just 12 days after the tragic collapse of the Aggie Bonfire, it became a symbol of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.


Pre-Game Tragedy:


On November 18, 1999, the Texas A&M student bonfire tradition collapsed, taking the lives of 12 students and injuring 27 others. The tragedy cast a dark shadow over the Aggie community and the upcoming game against Texas.


A Decision to Play:


Despite the tragedy, the decision was made to play the game. The Aggies, with the support of the Texas Longhorns and fans from both sides, decided to take the field as a way to honor the victims and show strength in the face of adversity.


An Emotional Game:


The atmosphere at Kyle Field was electric. The Aggie faithful, clad in maroon and white, sang the school's fight song with renewed fervor. The Texas Longhorns, dressed in black jerseys with a bonfire memorial patch, showed respect and solidarity.


A Thrilling Victory:


The game itself was a nail-biter. The Aggies, fueled by emotion and the spirit of their fallen comrades, played with remarkable courage and determination. Quarterback Randy McCown led the team to a 20-16 victory, sending the home crowd into a joyous frenzy.


A Symbol of Unity:


The 1999 Texas vs. Texas A&M game transcended the sport. It became a testament to the power of community and the ability to overcome tragedy. The image of the Aggies celebrating their victory while still grieving their loss, became a lasting symbol of hope and resilience.
Legacy and Impact:


The 1999 game continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Aggies and Longhorns alike. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the strength that can be found in the face of adversity. The game also cemented the Aggie Bonfire as a symbol of unity and sacrifice, ensuring that the memory of the victims will never be forgotten.

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The New York Giants boast a rich history filled with legendary players. Yet few stories are as captivating or as untold as that of Joseph "Doc" Alexander. This legend was successful at almost anything he put his mind to.

This wasn't your typical football hero. Doc Alexander was a brilliant scholar, a dedicated medical professional, and, against all odds, a dominant force on the gridiron.

Dive into the remarkable journey of Doc Alexander:

-Star football and lacrosse player at Syracuse University.

-Two-time captain of the 'Cuse gridiron squad 1919 & 1920

-In 1918, against Rutgers, he picked up a loose ball and ran 75 yards for a touchdown. Doc starred in a 1919 defeat of Pittsburgh, the Panthers' first loss in four years.

-Played in the early NFL for the Rochester Jeffersons (1921, 22,24) part-time while practicing medicine

-First player signed to the roster of the New York Giants franchise in 1925

-The Giant's first coach was successful college coach Bob Folwell. In 1926, Folwell left to coach the Philadelphia Quakers of the first AFL, and Doc Alexander assumed the player/head coach role, taking the team to an 8-4-1 record.

-Due to an increased demand for his medical services, he relinquished his head coach role and became an assistant player/coach at Earl Potteiger. The Giants won the NFL Title that year.

-Now having a successful lung practice in NYC, Alexander retired from football after the title win.

-Honored in both the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame

Henry Jordan wasn't a prototypical defensive tackle. At 6-1 and 230 pounds, he seemed undersized in a world of giants. Yet, for ten seasons in the NFL, Jordan defied expectations, carving his name in football history as one of the most dominant interior linemen ever.

His journey began in rural Virginia, where his athleticism shone through in both football and wrestling. He later excelled at the University of Virginia, becoming a captain and All-American on the gridiron and an NCAA runner-up wrestler. This blend of power and technique would lay the foundation for his professional success.

Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1957, Jordan found himself under the legendary tutelage of Vince Lombardi. Lombardi recognized Jordan's exceptional talent and encouraged him to develop his mental agility as much as his physical strength. Thus, the "bag of tricks" was born – a repertoire of deceptive moves and relentless hustle that allowed Jordan to outsmart and overpower much larger offensive linemen.

His on-field impact was immediate. Jordan anchored the Packers' defensive line, his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks earning him the nickname "The Country Parson" for his fierce determination. He racked up an impressive resume: five Pro Bowl selections, two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, and a key role in Green Bay's five NFL championships in the 1960s.

But Big Number 74's legacy extends beyond statistics. He was a leader, a motivator, and a source of comic relief for his teammates. His quotable personality and jovial spirit earned him the reputation as the "life of the party" on and off the field. He was revered by Lombardi, who famously proclaimed, "We treat everyone the same. Like dogs."

Sadly, Jordan's career was cut short due to knee injuries in 1967. However, his influence on the game continued. He remained an advisor to Lombardi and later became a successful businessman. In 1979, he was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his remarkable career.

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Dateline December 28, 1958, The New York Giants sideline was stunned as the Baltimore Colts scored in Overtime to defeat the G-men 23-17 in the Greatest Game Ever Played. On that Giants sideline was a rookie wide receiver from Texas Western named Don Maynard.

Little did anyone know that this speedy wideout would avenge this early championship loss to bask in the limelight of a brilliant 15-year pro football career. We often think of Don Maynard as the guy on the other end of so many of Joe Namath's spirals, but there are some hidden knowledge nuggets about the legend that goes beyond his 633 receptions with 11,834 receiving yards and 88 Touchdowns.

It got rocky before it got good, though, as NY released Maynard and went North the following year to play for the Hamilton Ti-Cats of the CFL. After a one-year stint there, the new American Football League came calling and gave the speedster an opportunity with the New York Titans. Don stayed with that club throughout the AFL, witnessed the rebranding as the Jets won a title, and helped the franchise merge into the NFL for a spectacular 13-year career in NY Green. He went on to play for the St. Louis Cardinls, LA Rams, and later with with the Houston Texans / Shreveport Steamer of the WFL.

Maynard played in four different Pro Football Leagues, NFL, AFL, CFL and WFL.

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George Halas wasn't just a football player, coach, or owner; he was an architect, a pioneer, and a godfather. Spanning seven decades, his career intertwined with the very evolution of professional football, leaving an indelible mark on the game we know and love today.

Starting as a versatile athlete in the early 1900s, Halas soon transitioned to coaching, leading teams with his innovative strategies and fierce competitiveness. He co-founded the Decatur Staleys (later renamed the Chicago Bears) in 1920, becoming owner, coach, and even player at times. He revolutionized the game with tactics like the T-formation and the "man in motion," forever changing the offensive landscape.

Halas wasn't just building a team; he was building a league. He was pivotal in establishing the National Football League (NFL) in 1920, serving as its president for multiple terms and shaping its rules and structure. He was a shrewd businessman, securing television deals and driving the league's financial growth.

His influence extended beyond the field. He advocated for player safety, fought for racial equality, and even served as a Navy officer during World War II. He became a symbol of integrity and leadership, earning the respect of players, coaches, and fans alike.

The bio of the Canadian-born football star Arnie Weinmeister and his brilliant CFL and NFL career. He played in the NFL for the New York Yankees, and New York Giants and in the CFL with the BC Lions.

Arnie Weinmeister was a trailblazer. Though his career spanned a mere six years (1948-1953), his impact transcended statistics, leaving a mark on both Canadian and American football.

Born in Canada, Weinmeister began his career with the Regina Roughriders before turning heads with his athleticism and leadership. Drafted by the New York Yankees in the AAFC, he quickly transitioned to defense, showcasing his power and finesse as a tackle. His performance earned him All-AAFC honors in his rookie year, setting the stage for a dominant run.

Joining the New York Giants in 1950, Weinmeister became a defensive cornerstone. His aggressive style and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks earned him the nickname "The Howitzer." He garnered All-NFL selections four consecutive years and participated in the first four Pro Bowls, a new tradition at the time.

Beyond individual accolades, Weinmeister was a team player. He served as co-captain in his final season, leading the Giants to several championship appearances. His influence extended beyond the field, inspiring younger players like Sam Huff and Willie Mays with his work ethic and dedication.

Though his career was cut short by injuries, Weinmeister's legacy lived on. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1963 and, more impressively, the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984, one of the shortest careers to receive such an honor.

Jimmy Conzelman wasn't just a player, coach, or owner; he was a jack-of-all-trades who left his mark on the early professional football landscape. From 1920 to 1948, he donned various hats, making him a unique figure in the sport's history.

Playing Days & Early Coaching: Conzelman's playing career stretched across a decade, spanning teams like the Decatur Staleys (later Chicago Bears) and the Providence Steam Roller. In some instances, he showcased versatility, playing quarterback, halfback, placekicker, and even serving as player-coach. While individual statistics weren't widely tracked in his era, his leadership and talent were undeniable.

Championship Coach: Beyond the playing field, Conzelman found his true calling as a coach. He led the Providence Steam Roller to an NFL championship in 1928, showcasing his tactical understanding and inspiring ability. Even more impressively, he later guided the Chicago Cardinals to a title in 1947, proving his leadership could flourish at different levels.

Beyond the Gridiron: Conzelman's life wasn't confined to football. He dabbled in various fields, including acting, singing, and even as an executive in Major League Baseball. This diverse background brought a unique perspective to his coaching, allowing him to connect with players on a different level.

Legacy & Recognition: Conzelman's impact on football is undeniable. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1964 is a testament to his contribution to the game.

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Born February 7, 1917, in Fort Lawn, South Carolina, was the legendary Clemson Tigers halfback Banks McFadden. Many experts today consider the Great McFadden to be Clemson's most outstanding all-around athlete.

Banks was an athlete, starring on the baseball, basketball, and football eleven at Clemson and earning three letters in each. This legend earned All-America honors in both basketball and football. McFadden held the punting record for the Tigers for over four decades. Clemson's first bowl game, the 1940 Coton Bowl, cemented the icon's legacy. The Tigers knocked off Boston College by scoring 6-3 after McFadden batted down four 2nd half passes and averaged 44 yards for the 11 punts he made in the game.

The National Football Foundation selected Banks McFadden to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1959. He was the fourth overall pick in the 1940 NFL draft by the Brooklyn Dodgers and had the longest run in the League in 1940 with a 75-yard dash down the field. After eleven pro games, he left his playing days forever to serve his country and coach at his alma mater.

Born February 3, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia, was Fran Tarkenton, the mobile quarterback from the University of Georgia. Fran led the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and was an Academic All-American.

Tarkenton is best remembered at Georgia for the 1959 game with Auburn. Trailing 13-7 with time running out, Georgia had the ball, fourth down, on the 13-yard line. Tarkenton threw a touchdown pass, and Georgia won the game and clinched the conference title. The National Football Foundation selected Fran Tarkenton for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1987. Tarkenton was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1961, and in his first game, he tossed four touchdown passes and used his legs for a fifth. In 1967, Fran left the Vikings and spent five seasons with the New York Giants until a surprising trade in 1972 led him back to Minnesota. According to ProfootballHOF.com, Fran rewarded the Vikings for trading for him in his final seven years with the Vikings as he led Minnesota to six NFC Central Division titles and three Super Bowl appearances. He was named first- or second-team All-NFL three times. In 18 seasons in the NFL, Fran played in 9 Pro Bowls, threw 47,003 yards passing, and 342 TDs while he ran for another 3674 yards.  In 1986 ceremonies, the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Fran Tarkenton in their Canton museum.

A real trendsetter was this quarterback, who could kill a defense with his scrambling ability as much as possible with his accurate arm.

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Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster was the anchor of a line that protected QB Terry Bradshaw. Part of the success of the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mike Webster's story is a complex one, a tale of gridiron greatness intertwined with a heartbreaking and controversial ending. He wasn't just a Pro Football Hall of Fame center for the Pittsburgh Steelers; he was a symbol of the human cost of playing the game he loved.

Webster's career began like a dream. Drafted by the Steelers in 1974, he quickly established himself as the anchor of their offensive line. His intelligence, strength, and leadership were instrumental in the Steelers' dynasty era, contributing to four Super Bowl victories and earning him four All-Pro selections.

Beyond individual accolades, Webster was a beloved teammate and locker-room leader. His calm demeanor and fierce loyalty earned him the respect and admiration of players and coaches alike. He embodied the "Steel Curtain" mentality, playing with a toughness and tenacity that defined the Steelers' identity.