Football History

Born May 14, 1907, in Salem, Ohio, was Carnegie Mellon’s quarterback from 1926 through the 1928 season, Howard Harpster. The National Football Foundation in their bio on this great player shares about what a brilliant on field tactician he was.

Carnegie Tech, as it was called back then, had q QB in Harpster that was such a good strategist that he could pull off the unexpected in the heat of the moment. The trait brought him acclaim as one of the great Eastern quarterbacks of the late 1920's. He was one of the first to challenge enemy defenses by passing from his own end zone, making it a successful maneuver. During a 1928 game against Notre Dame, Howard called for a quarterback sneak on a third-down-and-15 play, turning the surprise call into a 35-yard gain. His game-situation reactions prompted many to say he had the mind of a coach.

The 1928 season was a great one for Howard as he earned All-American honors leading Carnegie Tech to a 7-1 record with barely an interception. He was a great defender too as proven by in his three seasons, Tech's goal was crossed only three times, once on a fumble recovered by Notre Dame in the end zone. Howard did all of his team's kicking and punting and was noted for consistently booting within the 60 to 65 yard range. Howard Harpster received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1956. After graduation in 1933, at the youthful age of 25, Harpster became Carnegie Tech's head coach. He had four seasons at the helm, against a major-college schedule and his squad took home a 12-20-3 record. There were some big victories posted there though as they got the “W’s” against competition by the likes of Notre Dame, Temple, and Purdue and tied Pitt and Michigan State.

Born May 16, 1943, in Borger, Texas, was Donny Anderson who was the 1963 to 1965 starting halfback of Texas Tech. Donny’s NFF bio lists that he was known as "The Golden Palomino" as a two-time All-America halfback in 1964 and 1965.

He had some splash plays almost from the get-go, for as a sophomore at Tech, he intercepted a pass and ran 43 yards against Washington State. As a junior, his stat-line included a 90-yard run from scrimmage against Texas Christian and a 68-yard punt against Southern Methodist. The more he played, the better he got. In his Senior season, Donny was off the charts.

That 1965 season, Anderson ran a kickoff back 100 yards against Oklahoma State, caught ten passes against Arkansas, and scored 17 touchdowns in the season. The Sporting News named him co-winner (with Jim Grabowski of Illinois) of its Player of the Year Award. His 5111 yards on all-purpose running was a Texas Tech record. This includes his career yardage by rushing, receiving, kick returns, and interception returns. The National Football Foundation selected Donny Anderson for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989. Donny enjoyed nine seasons at the professional level as a player too. The Pro Football Reference website shares that he spent 6 seasons as a Green Bay Packer winning two Super Bowls and two NFL Championships and three more years as a St Louis Cardinal. During his NFL stint he tallied almost 4700 yards with a 3.9 yards per carry average.

April 3, 1934, in Macon, Georgia, marked the birth of Jim Parker, a dominant force as a guard for the Ohio State Buckeyes from 1954 to 1956. Described by the National Football Foundation as a player with relentless hustle and devastating tackling ability, Parker was a cornerstone of Woody Hayes' "three-yards-and-a-cloud-of-dust" offense. At 248 pounds, he was the largest guard to play for the Buckeyes at the time, yet possessed surprising quickness and explosive power, driven by unwavering determination.

His signature play involved a full-speed sprint on punt returns, often delivering bone-jarring hits. In 1956, Parker became the first Ohio State player to win the prestigious Outland Trophy, recognizing him as the nation's best interior lineman.  

Parker's exceptional college career paved the way for a prosperous professional career. The Baltimore Colts recognized his immense talent, selecting him with their first-round pick in the 1957 NFL Draft. Despite legendary Ohio State coach Woody Hayes suggesting his pro potential lay on defense, Colts coach Weeb Ewbank envisioned Parker as an offensive lineman, crucial for protecting their burgeoning star quarterback, Johnny Unitas. Initially lacking extensive pass-blocking experience, Parker quickly adapted under Ewbank's guidance, understanding the importance of keeping pressure away from Unitas. He spent eleven seasons with the Colts, demonstrating remarkable versatility by excelling at guard and tackle positions.  

Jim Parker's football legacy is defined by his dominance at both the collegiate and professional levels. His Outland Trophy-winning performance at Ohio State established him as an elite interior lineman. In the NFL, his versatility and consistent excellence earned him widespread recognition. He was selected to an astounding eight All-NFL teams and participated in eight Pro Bowls, a testament to his sustained high level of play. His crucial role in protecting Johnny Unitas was instrumental in the Baltimore Colts becoming a top-tier NFL team. Jim Parker's impact on the game is undeniable, leading to his enshrinement in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1974 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973, solidifying his place among the sport's all-time greats.

The fantastic thing is that he was versatile enough to make 8 All-NFL teams and eight Pro Bowl teams. His bio on the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s site says that Woody Hayes thought his best shot in the pros would be on defense, Colts' coach Weeb Ewbank tabbed Jim as an offensive lineman. The Colts at the time were just starting to become a National Football League top-tier team and the premier passer in the game, Johnny Unitas, was the guy who made the Baltimore attack click. Parker had little experience in pass blocking, but Ewbank was sure Parker could do the job. "It didn't take me long to learn the one big rule," Parker remembered. "Just keep them away from John,’ Coach Ewbank told me at my first practice. ‘You can be the most unpopular man on the team if the quarterback gets hurt.' I couldn't forget that!" And Parker didn't forget.

Born March 27, 1921, in Dallas, Texas, Malcolm Kutner established himself as a dominant force in both college and professional football. His athletic prowess was evident early on, showcasing his talents across multiple sports.  

College Career:

Kutner was a standout end at the University of Texas from 1939 to 1941. At 6'2" and 190 pounds, he possessed an impressive combination of size, agility, and exceptional leaping ability. This made him a formidable target for Longhorn quarterbacks, boasting a significant catch radius. Beyond football, Kutner also excelled in basketball and track, highlighting his overall athleticism. As a junior in 1940, he led the team in receiving with 16 catches for 237 yards, contributing to an 8-2-0 season. His senior year in 1941 saw even greater recognition as he earned All-Southwest Conference and All-America honors, with the Longhorns finishing with an 8-1-1 record.  

Road to the Pro Game:

Kutner's path to professional football was temporarily interrupted by his service in World War II. During his time in the Navy Pre-Flight School, he continued to play football, honing his skills. Following the war, he transitioned seamlessly to the professional ranks, joining the Chicago Cardinals. His talent was immediately apparent, as he earned NFL Rookie of the Year honors in 1946.  

Football Legacy:

Malcolm Kutner left an indelible mark on the sport. His college achievements at Texas established him as one of the program's all-time greats, culminating in his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1974. In the professional arena, he quickly became a key player for the Chicago Cardinals. His outstanding performance in 1947 was instrumental in leading the Cardinals to the NFL World Championship. The following year, in 1948, Kutner's exceptional skill and impact on the game were recognized when he was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player. His ability to excel both before and after his military service underscores his dedication and talent.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-All-Southwest Conference: 1941  

-All-America: 1941

-NFL Rookie of the Year: 1946

-NFL World Champion: 1947 (Chicago Cardinals)  

-NFL Most Valuable Player: 1948  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee: 1974  

College Receiving Stats (1940):

16 receptions, 237 yards

Born May 2, 1955, in Mineral Wells, Texas, was Richard Ritchie the Texas A&I Quarterback from 1973 to 1976. After 9 games Texas A&I had a 1-8 record going into the last game of the 1973 season.

A freshman, Richard Ritchie, moved up the depth chart to get the nod as the starting quarterback position according to the NFF's Bio on Ritchie. The Javelinas won that game and that propelled Ritchie to continue as the A&I signal caller quarterback for the next three full seasons. Texas A&I, now known as Texas A&M-Kingsville, in those seasons with Ritchie under center sported records of 13-0, 12-0, 13-0 enroute to winning NAIA Division I championships those three years. He passed for 40 touchdowns and rushed for 19. For his collegiate career Ritchie passed a total of 5,131 yards and he rushed for 1492. He also kicked 137 extra points and nine field goals. The National Football Foundation selected Richard Ritchie for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998. Richard served as assistant football coach at Texas 1977-79, North Texas 1980, and Texas Tech 1981-84.

Being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame is a mark of unparalleled prestige and accomplishment. It signifies that a player has not only excelled on the field but has also left a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This honor is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and impact in collegiate football, shaping the sport’s history and inspiring future players. Remembering these inductees is not just a tribute to their remarkable careers but also a celebration of their enduring influence on the game. Their stories and achievements serve as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the profound role they’ve played in elevating college football to new heights.

David Williams, born on June 10, 1963, in Los Angeles, California, etched his name into football history through his remarkable collegiate career at the University of Illinois.  

A leading receiver for the Illini and all of College Football.

College Career

Williams's time with the Illinois Fighting Illini from 1983 to 1985 was nothing short of spectacular. He became a key component of the team's offensive prowess, particularly under the guidance of coach Mike White. His exceptional receiving skills led to numerous records and accolades. Notably:  

-He played a large roll in the 1983 Fighting Illini team, that went to the rose bowl.  

-In 1984, he led the NCAA in receptions and receiving yards.  

-He became a two-time unanimous All-American (1984 and 1985).  

-He finished his college career as one of the top NCAA recievers in history.  

Road to the Pro Game

Williams's impressive college performance led to his selection by the Chicago Bears in the 1986 NFL Draft. Though his NFL career was relatively brief, he also experienced significant success in the Canadian Football League (CFL).  

Football Legacy

Williams's lasting legacy stems primarily from his record-setting collegiate career. His impact on the Illinois football program is undeniable, and his achievements have earned him recognition among the all-time greats. Furthermore he has been inducted into the college football hall of fame.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Two-time unanimous All-American (1984, 1985).  

-Led the NCAA in receptions and receiving yards in 1984.  

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee.  
played in the CFL where he was voted league MVP.  

Williams's college statistics are a testament to his exceptional talent and remain a significant part of his football legacy.

Arnie Weinmeister, born on March 23, 1923, in Rhein, Saskatchewan, Canada, became a formidable force in professional football, leaving a lasting legacy as a dominant defensive tackle. His journey to the gridiron's highest echelons began with his collegiate career.  

Weinmeister's consistent All-Pro selections and Hall of Fame induction speak volumes about his impact on the game.

-College Career:

Weinmeister's path to professional football was somewhat unconventional. He played college football at the University of Washington, where he showcased his raw talent and athleticism. Although details of his collegiate career are slightly sparse, his time with the Huskies laid the foundation for his future success. He developed the speed and strength that would become his hallmarks.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Weinmeister's professional career commenced in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) with the New York Yankees. His immediate impact was evident, earning him second-team All-AAFC honors as a rookie. The following year, in 1949, he ascended to first-team All-AAFC status, solidifying his reputation as a rising star. When the AAFC merged with the NFL, Weinmeister transitioned to the New York Giants, continuing his dominance. His exceptional speed and disruptive presence on the defensive line made him a nightmare for opposing offenses.  

-Football Legacy:

His consistent excellence and disruptive play define Weinmeister's legacy. He pioneered the modern defensive tackle, demonstrating a rare combination of speed and power. His ability to quickly penetrate the offensive line and disrupt plays made him a key figure in the Giants' defensive strategies. He elevated the standard for defensive tackles in the early NFL. His dominance was reflected in his stats and the fears he instilled in opposing offenses. His career helped to solidify the importance of a strong defensive line in football.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

Weinmeister's accolades underscore his exceptional talent. He earned second-team All-AAFC honors in his rookie year and followed it up with first-team All-AAFC honors in 1949.

In the NFL, he was a unanimous All-NFL selection for four consecutive years, from 1950 to 1953, a testament to his consistent excellence. He also earned four consecutive Pro Bowl selections during his NFL tenure. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984. While detailed statistics from that era are limited, his consistent All-Pro selections and Hall of Fame induction speak volumes about his impact on the game. His career is a benchmark for defensive linemen, and his name is forever etched in the annals of football history.

Born March 22, 1879, in Baltimore, Maryland, was Art Poe, the great end of Princeton University. According to some accounts, he was poetry in motion; after all, he was the nephew of the famous writer Edgar Allen Poe.

Art Poe was a 1969 inductee of the College Football Hall of Fame by the National Football Foundation. Poe was a member of the Princeton Tigers and had five famous Gridiron brothers, all the nephews of poet Edgar Allen Poe.

Art Poe was a standout football player for Princeton University in the late 19th century. Known for his exceptional athleticism and determination, Poe was a key figure in Princeton's college football dominance during that era. Despite his relatively small stature, he possessed incredible speed and agility, making him a formidable force on the field.

Poe's impact on the game was significant. His clutch performances in rivalry games against Yale, including a game-winning drop kick, solidified his legendary status. His contributions to Princeton football earned him All-American honors and a place in the College Football Hall of Fame.

Jim Otto was more than just a center; he was the heart and soul of the Oakland Raiders for 15 seasons, leaving an indelible mark on both the team and the NFL at large. Here's a summary of his illustrious career:

Playing Days:

-Played his entire career (1960-1974) for the Oakland Raiders, a testament to his loyalty and durability.

-The only player to appear in all 210 regular-season games for the Raiders' first 14 seasons, earning him the nickname "Iron Man."

-Played through numerous injuries, including 37 surgeries, displaying incredible toughness and commitment to the team.

-An All-Pro selection 10 times and participated in 12 Pro Bowls, solidifying his status as one of the best centers of his era.

-Won an AFL Championship with the Raiders in 1967, contributing to a pivotal point in franchise history.
Beyond the Stats:

-Known for his exceptional blocking skills, intelligence, and leadership, anchoring the Raiders' offensive line for years.

-His dedication and work ethic set a standard for professionalism within the team and inspired future generations of players.

-Considered one of the "Original Raiders," playing a key role in establishing the team's identity and fighting spirit.

-His impact extended beyond the field, earning him respect and admiration from fans and players alike.

Legacy:

-Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980, a testament to his lasting impact on the NFL.

-His legendary number 50 was retired by the Raiders in 1975, recognizing his immense contributions to the franchise.

-Remembered as a symbol of toughness, grit, and unwavering dedication, inspiring both athletes and fans.

In conclusion, Jim Otto's career was more than just statistics and accolades. He was a cornerstone of the Oakland Raiders, a pioneer for NFL centers, and a true football icon whose unwavering spirit continues to resonate today.

Born November 24, 1929 - John Henry Johnson was a great fullback who attended St. Mary’s University and was the second pick in the 1953 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, as told on the profootballhof.com internet site.

Johnson rushed for over 1000 yards in both the 1962 and 1964 seasons and was the first Steeler to ever accomplish the feat. After his contract ended in Pittsburgh, he played in the CFL for a season and then returned to the NFL with the 49ers and Detroit Lions and then played his 13th and final por season with the AFL’s Houston Oilers.

After the dust on his brilliant career had settled, Johnson accounted for 6803 career rushing yards and ranked him fourth on the All-Time rushing list. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined John Henry Johnson in the class of 1987.