Football History

Football has always been more than just a game. It’s a reflection of talent, hard work, teamwork, and a lot of heart. Over the years, certain players have risen above the rest, making indelible marks on the NFL. Let’s delve into the lives and careers of these football legends and celebrate their unparalleled contributions.

Photo by Jay Mullings via Unsplash |AD

The Criteria for Greatness

When evaluating the best NFL players of all time, several factors come into play:

Individual Success and Accolades: Achievements like

-MVP awards and Pro Bowl selections.[

-Dominance During Their Era: How they performed compared to their contemporaries.

-Longevity and Career Milestones: The duration and consistency of their careers.

-Enduring Impact and Legacy: Their influence on the game and its history.

-Team Success and Championships: Contributions to team achievements and championships.

These criteria ensure that only the most impactful, dominant, and consistent players make the list. Each of these legends has excelled in their unique way, setting benchmarks for future players.

-The Top 20 NFL Legends

1. Tom Brady: The Unmatched Quarterback

Teams: New England Patriots, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Achievements:

-7-time Super Bowl champion

-5-time Super Bowl MVP

-3-time NFL MVP

Tom Brady’s reign from 2000 to 2022 was nothing short of spectacular. His incredible career longevity and consistent performance, coupled with a record 7 Super Bowl victories, make him an unparalleled figure in the NFL. The New England Patriots odds of success often soared with Brady leading their offense.

2. Jerry Rice: The Record-Breaking Receiver

Teams: The 49ers, The Raiders, and the Seahawks

Achievements:

-3-time Super Bowl champion

-13-time Pro Bowl selection

-NFL career leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions

Jerry Rice’s career from 1985 to 2004 saw him setting numerous records that still stand today. His exceptional ability to perform under pressure and consistency in catching passes made him a vital asset to his teams.

3. Jim Brown: The Dominant Running Back

Teams: Cleveland Browns

Achievements:

-8-time NFL rushing leader

-NFL MVP

-Highest career rushing yards per game

Jim Brown’s career spanned from 1957 to 1965, but his impact on the game was immense. His powerful running style and ability to consistently break through defenses earned him accolades and respect.

4. Walter Payton: The Versatile Back

Teams: Chicago Bears

Achievements:

-Super Bowl champion

-9-time Pro Bowl selection

-NFL career leader in rushing yards at retirement

Walter Payton, also known as “Sweetness,” played from 1975 to 1987. His versatility and leadership on the field were unmatched, and he set numerous records during his career.

5. Peyton Manning: The Precision Passer
Teams: Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos

Achievements:

-2-time Super Bowl champion

-5-time NFL MVP

-NFL career leader in touchdown passes at retirement

Peyton Manning, with his career spanning from 1998 to 2015, was known for his meticulous preparation and ability to read defenses. His contributions to both the Colts and Broncos are well-remembered, and his passing accuracy set a new standard.

The Lasting Impact

Celebrating these legends goes beyond just their stats. Their influence on the NFL is seen in countless ways: from inspiring young athletes to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the field.

Players like Lawrence Taylor redefined the linebacker position with his tenacious play, while Reggie White dominated offensive lines as a defensive end. Barry Sanders dazzled fans with his elusive running style, proving that size isn’t everything in football.

These legends have not only shaped the history of the NFL but have also paved the way for future generations. Their stories remind us of the dedication, talent, and passion required to succeed at the highest level.

Conclusion

Football legends like Tom Brady, Jerry Rice, and Jim Brown demonstrate the power of dedication and talent in shaping the NFL. Their contributions are not just measured in records and accolades but in the lasting legacy they leave behind.

Whether it's Brady’s leadership, Rice’s precision, or Brown’s dominance, each player’s story is a testament to the sport's rich history. Honoring these greats helps us to remember the exhilarating experiences and amazing abilities that add so much magic to football. With each passing season, new legends will emerge, inspired by the giants on whose shoulders they stand.

The left tackle position in football is crucial for protecting the quarterback's blind side. These players are the unsung heroes, ensuring their team’s success by giving quarterbacks the time to make plays. Some left tackles have stood out throughout NFL history for their exceptional skills and contributions. This article celebrates the top left tackles who have left an indelible mark on the game.

PixaBay Courtesy of Quince Media (cropped)| AD

-The Role of a Left Tackle

A left tackle's primary responsibility is to protect the quarterback from the opposing defense’s pass rush. This requires a unique combination of size, strength, agility, and intelligence. Left tackles must read defenses, anticipate blitzes, and maintain balance and technique. Every player in this position across all NFL teams faces immense pressure to perform consistently. Their role is critical, and the best left tackles can dominate their position for years.

-Anthony Muñoz: The Gold Standard

Anthony Muñoz is widely regarded as the best left tackle in NFL history. Playing for the Cincinnati Bengals from 1980 to 1992, Muñoz was a dominant force. He earned 11 Pro Bowl selections and was named to the First-team All-Pro nine times. Muñoz's blend of size, agility, and technique set the benchmark for future generations.

-Jonathan Ogden: A Modern Legend

Jonathan Ogden played for the Baltimore Ravens from 1996 to 2007. His imposing size and athleticism made him a formidable opponent. Ogden was an 11-time Pro Bowl selection and a nine-time All-Pro. His consistency and ability to neutralize top pass rushers solidified his legacy as one of the greatest left tackles.

-Walter Jones: The Silent Guardian

Walter Jones spent his entire career with the Seattle Seahawks from 1997 to 2009. Known for his quiet demeanor, Jones let his performance on the field speak for itself. He was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection and a four-time All-Pro. Jones's ability to dominate without drawing attention made him a respected figure in the league.

-Orlando Pace: The Pancake Maker

Orlando Pace, a key player for the St. Louis Rams from 1997 to 2008, was known for his "pancake" blocks, which easily flattened defenders. Pace was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro. He played a pivotal role in the Rams' "Greatest Show on Turf" offense, protecting quarterback Kurt Warner and opening lanes for running back Marshall Faulk.

-Joe Thomas: The Iron Man

Joe Thomas, who played for the Cleveland Browns from 2007 to 2017, is known for his remarkable durability. Thomas never missed a snap until a triceps injury ended his streak at 10,363 consecutive snaps. Despite playing for a struggling team, Thomas's performance never wavered. He was a ten-time Pro Bowl selection and a six-time All-Pro, earning respect for his commitment and excellence.

-Tony Boselli: The Trailblazer

Tony Boselli, the first-ever draft pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in 1995, quickly established himself as a dominant left tackle. Boselli was a five-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro. Although injuries shortened his career, Boselli's impact on the game and his role in the Jaguars' early success are undeniable.

-Willie Roaf: The Dominant Force

Willie Roaf played for the New Orleans Saints and the Kansas City Chiefs from 1993 to 2005. Known for his exceptional blocking skills, Roaf was an 11-time Pro Bowl selection and a nine-time All-Pro. His ability to excel in both pass protection and run blocking made him one of history's most versatile and dominant left tackles.

-Conclusion

The left tackle position is critical in football, requiring a unique blend of skills and attributes. The players highlighted in this article represent the best of the best, each leaving a lasting legacy in the NFL. Their contributions have protected quarterbacks and shaped the game, setting standards for future generations of left tackles. Their stories are a testament to the importance and impact of this vital position.

---

The Heisman is one of the most well-known awards in football. A trophy that every college football player covets. Let's take a look at its history in a fun way.

These trophies and awards are more than just objects; they are tangible reminders of the passion, hard work, and unwavering spirit that define football. Spend a few moments with a dose of football history. From the trophy case, where sports memories are preserved, we share some of the iconic moments and facts.

Author and Historian John Maxymuk has written over a dozen books and 30 articles published on gridiron history. His subject matter spans from his favorite NFL team the Green Bay Packers, to his neighbors the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Giants and beyond.

A Librarian at a prestigious university, John is no stranger to good literature, and to combine that with a passion for football history, Maxymuk is a bank filled with knowledge.

Maxymuk also dabbles in creating some cards of football legends and shares them in a blog post of his dedicated to the Green Bay Packers called: Packers Past Perfect. We are happy to be able to record a recent conversation with John and talk a little football.

Please note the links below to John's books are through the Pigskin Dispatch Affiliate link, and purchasing through them helps fund this website.

John Maxymuk's books include the following titles on Amazon:

- Packers by the Numbers

-Eagles by the Numbers

- Quarterback Abstract

-Uniform Numbers of the NFL

-Biographical History of the NFL Coaches

-Strong Arm Tactics

-Pioneer Coaches of the NFL

The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers' helmet journey reflects their evolution as a program from humble beginnings to Sun Belt contenders. Here's a quick tour:


Early Days (1908-1970s):


Simple leather lids with minimal markings, often just stripes or the letter "W."
Reflects the nascent nature of the program and limited equipment options.

Red Flag Era (1970s-2000s):


The iconic red flag logo takes center stage, appearing on helmets alongside stripes and the team name.
Creates a unified identity and boosts team spirit.
Variations include different helmet colors and stripe patterns.

Modern Tweaks and Innovation (2000s-Present):


Refinements of the red flag logo, with cleaner lines and a bolder shade of red.
Introduction of alternate helmet designs for special occasions, featuring variations of the Hilltopper mascot.
Most recently, the "Red Towel" logo joins the mix, reflecting the vibrant fan tradition.

A Symbol of Pride and Evolution:


WKU's helmet history is more than just changing designs. It represents the program's growth, the evolving team identity, and the enduring spirit of the Hilltoppers. From simple stripes to Big Red fury, each helmet tells a story, waiting to be unleashed on the gridiron.


This quick synopsis provides a snapshot of WKU's helmet history. If you'd like to delve deeper into specific eras or designs, feel free to ask!

---

A question that has an answer for only one team since the Super Bowl Era began: who won the most regular season games?

Our characters from the Museum of Football Legends pose this question and deliver the facts.

Bronze Busts Football Facts: Icons Who Defined the Game
Description: Welcome to Bronze Busts Football Facts, where we highlight the biggest names and moments in football history. In every short video, we share a key fact or event that helped shape the sport. From historic performances to game-changing decisions, we bring you the rich history of football’s greatest players and teams. Each episode celebrates the legends immortalized in the Halls of Greats and the remarkable achievements that made them icons. Get ready for a quick dive into football's past!

The Vanderbilt University Commodores boast a unique nickname with a rich history intertwined with the life of their founder, Cornelius Vanderbilt. Though not a military man himself, Vanderbilt earned the moniker "Commodore" during his early career in shipping.

The story begins in the early 19th century. Young Cornelius, with a thirst for success, started ferrying passengers between Staten Island and Manhattan. His relentless drive and leadership impressed fellow captains, who bestowed upon him the playful title of "Commodore," a naval rank denoting a leader of a squadron of ships. The nickname stuck, becoming synonymous with Vanderbilt's ambition and eventual rise as a shipping and railroad tycoon.

When Vanderbilt established Vanderbilt University in 1873, his influence naturally extended to the university's athletic teams. While the earliest teams lacked a formal mascot, Vanderbilt's legacy as the "Commodore" provided a natural connection. Interestingly, live dogs served as unofficial mascots for a short period before the university settled on a more permanent symbol.

The official Vanderbilt Commodore mascot, a costumed naval officer complete with a traditional uniform and cutlass, first appeared in the 1960s. This visual representation not only honors Cornelius Vanderbilt's nickname but also pays homage to the era when "Commodore" was a prominent naval rank.

The Vanderbilt Commodore moniker transcends mere athletics. It embodies the spirit of perseverance, leadership, and ambition that Cornelius Vanderbilt exemplified. Today, students, faculty, and alumni alike proudly wear the "Commodore" title, a testament to the enduring legacy of the university's founder and the values he instilled.

---

Charles Follis, often referred to as "The Black Cyclone," etched his name into the annals of American football history as the first African American professional football player.

Born in Wooster, Ohio, in 1879, Follis' journey to football stardom began on the high school gridiron. His exceptional talent and leadership skills led him to captain his team, earning the respect of both his white teammates and coaches.  

Follis' football career took a significant turn in 1902 when he joined the Shelby Blues, a professional team in the Ohio League. His performance on the field was nothing short of extraordinary, and he quickly became a fan favorite. In 1904, he signed a contract with the Blues, making him the first Black man to have a professional football contract. His presence on the team challenged racial barriers and paved the way for future Black players in the sport.  

Despite his groundbreaking achievements, Follis' career was cut short due to injuries. His impact on the game, however, was undeniable. He not only demonstrated his exceptional athletic abilities but also challenged societal norms and prejudices. His legacy continues to inspire generations of football players and serves as a reminder of the importance of breaking down barriers and fighting for equality.  

When it comes to discussing the top quarterbacks in NFL history, the debate can get as heated as a last-minute playoff drive. With a blend of old-school legends and modern-day maestros, narrowing down the best of the best is no easy task. But who makes the cut among the greatest quarterbacks to ever grace the gridiron? Here’s a look at the top ten quarterbacks in NFL history, blending statistical milestones, impact on the game, and championship pedigree.

A football laying on top of a lush green field, Courtesy Melissa McGovern via UnSplash| AD.

-1. Tom Brady
 
Starting off with Tom Brady is a no-brainer. With seven Super Bowl wins and three NFL MVP awards, Brady's career from his days with the New England Patriots to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers showcases unmatched longevity and peak performance. Brady ranks No. 1 all-time among quarterbacks in wins (251), Pro Bowls (15), Super Bowl MVPs (5), completions (7,753), passing yards (89,214), and passing touchdowns (649).

-2. Joe Montana

Known for his calm demeanor and the ability to perform under pressure, Joe Montana, a four-time Super Bowl champion with the San Francisco 49ers, is often considered the epitome of a clutch quarterback. 

-3. Peyton Manning

Peyton Manning redefined NFL offenses with his intelligent play-calling and execution. Manning’s five MVP awards and two Super Bowl titles speak volumes about his impact on the game. In 2013, Manning set the all-time record for most passing yards in a single season with 5,477. That year, he also broke the single-season record by throwing 55 touchdowns.

-4. Johnny Unitas

Johnny Unitas's blend of toughness and leadership in the Baltimore Colts’ golden era set the standards for what it meant to be an NFL quarterback in the pre-Super Bowl era and beyond. 


-5. Brett Favre

With a career that spanned the Green Bay Packers, New York Jets, and Minnesota Vikings, Brett Favre was known for his iron-man streak and gunslinger mentality, which led him to one Super Bowl victory and three MVP titles.

-6. Dan Marino
 
Despite never winning a Super Bowl, Dan Marino’s pure passing ability and quick release set numerous passing records during his time with the Miami Dolphins, making him one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game.

-7. John Elway

John Elway’s career, marked by two Super Bowl victories and five appearances with the Denver Broncos, was defined by remarkable comebacks and his dual-threat capabilities. 

-8. Aaron Rodgers

As one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history, Aaron Rodgers boasts incredible accuracy and mobility, along with a Super Bowl win and three MVP awards in Green Bay. He is hoping to add at least one more Super Bowl in the twilight of his career with the New York Jets.

-9. Steve Young

Taking over for Joe Montana, Steve Young continued the San Francisco 49ers' legacy with his exceptional passing efficiency and mobility, winning three Super Bowl titles, one as a starter.
-(tie) 10. Drew Brees

Drew Brees combined accuracy and productivity to a level rarely seen in the NFL, breaking multiple passing records during his time with the New Orleans Saints and earning one Super Bowl MVP award.

-(tie) 10. Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes seems dead set on breaking some, if not all, of Tom Brady’s records. At just 28 years old, Mahomes already has three Super Bowl wins, three Super Bowl MVPs, and two regular season MVPs. Additionally, he has thrown 45 postseason touchdowns, ranking him No. 3 all-time. By the time 2024 ends, he could rank second on the list with only Brady above him.

-The Future of the Field: Jordan Love and the Next Generation of NFL Quarterbacks

As we honor the legends of the past, the NFL's future also looks bright with emerging talents like Jordan Love. Drafted by the Green Bay Packers, Love is seen as a quarterback with significant potential to shape the next decade of football. His strong arm, mobility, and poise under pressure suggest he could one day join the ranks of the quarterbacks discussed above. 

As Love develops, football fans and analysts on podcasts and in sports columns are keen to see how he will leave his mark in a league that constantly evolves. His journey is a reminder that the story of great NFL quarterbacks is ongoing, and the next great chapter could be just around the corner.

-Conclusion

This list of quarterbacks represents the pinnacle of NFL success. Their impact extends beyond the numbers, influencing generations and changing the way football is played. While the order may be debatable, their legendary status is undeniable.

From leather giants to chrome beauties, the Oklahoma Sooners' helmet design has traversed a century of gridiron evolution. Here's a glimpse into its fascinating journey:

Early Days (1904-1945): No "OU" in sight! Early teams donned simple leather helmets, some adorned with crimson stripes or numerals. Imagine gridiron pioneers charging forward under these archaic headgear.

The Birth of Crimson (1946-1965): Enter the iconic white helmet with a bold crimson center stripe. A timeless classic, it witnessed Billy Sims juke his way to Heisman glory and Barry Switzer orchestrate dynasty years.

The Interlocking "OU" (1966-present): Coach Jim Mackenzie ushered in a new era with the arrival of the iconic interlocking "OU" logo. Initially rounder, it later evolved into the blocky style we know today, becoming synonymous with Sooner pride.

Modern Twists (2003-present): While crimson remains the heart of the helmet, the Sooners haven't shied away from experimentation. All-white alternatives, metallic crimson splashes, and even black stripes have graced the field in recent years, offering temporary glimpses into another side of Sooner style.

If you think the helmet story is cool, wait till you check out the origins of the logo and mascotOklahoma Sooners Schooner history.

There is so much more to explore, so check out our other stories of Oklahoma Sooners football history.