Football History

Everett Bacon was a standout iconic figure in the early days of college football.

A Wesleyan University standout, he redefined the game through his mastery of the forward pass at a time when the concept was just legalized and underappreciated. Bacon's innovative playmaking and exceptional athleticism earned him All-American honors twice, a remarkable feat for a player from a smaller institution.  

Even more significant for the period was that he was only one of two players on those honored teams that were not connected with what we today consider the Ivy League schools.

Beyond football, Bacon excelled in baseball, basketball, and tennis, showcasing his extraordinary versatility. His impact on Wesleyan University is immeasurable, with the school naming its field house in his honor. Bacon's legacy extends far beyond his playing days, as he is considered a pioneer of the modern passing game and a true icon of college sports.  

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Timothy P Brown takes his Football Archaeology to a whole new level as he examines an innovation of Amos Alonzo Stagg.

A wind sprint is a short, intense burst of running at maximum speed, typically lasting between 20 and 60 meters (around 65 to 200 feet). It's a training exercise used by athletes in various sports, particularly those that require short bursts of speed like track and field runners, football players, and basketball players.

The exact origin of wind sprints is difficult to pinpoint, as running drills have been used for centuries to improve athletic performance.

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Born May 4, 1928, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, was Michigan State’s fine tackle of 1949 to 1951, Don Coleman. According to the National Football Foundation Don Coleman helped guide MSU to a 9-0 record in 1951, winning the Spartans' first national championship on the gridiron.

Coleman was MSU's first unanimous All-American and first African-American All-American as a senior in 1951 after being picked by the Associated Press, United Press, Collier's, Look, The Sporting News, New York News, Football News, Newspaper Enterprise Association, All-American Board, International News Service, Chicago Tribune Players and Central Press. During Coleman's three seasons on varsity, he helped the Spartans to a 23-4 record, including 15 of the school-record 28 straight victories. Don Coleman’s good name and collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1975.  

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.

Gomer Jone's legacy at Ohio State University extends far beyond the gridiron, encompassing coaching triumphs and dedication to the sport that left an indelible mark.

From 1933 to 1935, Jones anchored the Buckeyes' offensive line as a center, leading them to a dominant 7-1 record each season. His leadership and talent earned him captaincy and All-America honors in his senior year. But Jones' impact wasn't limited to individual accolades. He was part of a winning culture, contributing to Ohio State's early gridiron success.

His passion for the game led him beyond the playing field. He transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant at Ohio State and John Carroll University before a 17-year stint as the line coach at the University of Oklahoma. During this time, he developed 16 All-American linemen, molding future stars and shaping the Sooners' defensive prowess.

Jones reached the pinnacle of coaching in 1964, becoming Oklahoma's head coach for two seasons. While his win-loss record might not reflect it, his leadership and dedication continued to inspire. He remained the athletic director at Oklahoma until his passing in 1971, leaving behind a legacy of service and commitment to the university.

Gomer Jones embodies the spirit of an Ohio State legend.

While Dan Reeves, born in 1912, may not be a household name among casual football fans, his contributions to the sport as an executive were nothing short of revolutionary. He wasn't a star player or a flamboyant head coach; his legacy lies in the quiet yet impactful changes he implemented that continue to shape the NFL today.

Reeves' impact began with the Los Angeles Rams, a team he owned and moved to the West Coast in 1946. He had bought the franchise in 1941 (it started five years earlier under different ownership in a rival league) and ran it in Cleveland, even taking the Rams to claim the 1946 NFL Championship. Notably, he was the first NFL owner to sign a black player in the post-World War II era, Kenny Washington, breaking a racial barrier that had existed since 1933. This move, while met with resistance, was a crucial step towards racial integration in professional football.

But Reeves' innovations extended beyond the playing field. He is credited with establishing the NFL's first full-time scouting staff. Prior to this, teams relied on informal networks to identify talent. Reeves' structured approach ensured a more thorough and systematic evaluation of college players, a practice that has become an essential part of modern NFL operations.

Furthermore, Reeves recognized the potential of television to showcase the sport to a wider audience. He experimented with early broadcasts, paving the way for the robust media coverage that surrounds the NFL today.

Perhaps less well-known is Reeves' initiative dubbed "Free Football for Kids." This program aimed to introduce young people to the sport, fostering a lifelong love for the game and generating future generations of fans.

Despite his innovative spirit, Reeves never achieved the same level of recognition as some of his contemporaries. He didn't win championships or garner headlines. However, his impact on the game's infrastructure and integration is undeniable.

In conclusion, Dan Reeves was a visionary leader who left an indelible mark on the NFL. From breaking racial barriers to establishing scouting networks and experimenting with television, his contributions helped propel the sport into the modern era. While his name may not be etched in Super Bowl history, his legacy as a quiet innovator continues to shape the way football is played, scouted, and enjoyed by millions.

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The 1905 Chicago versus Michigan football game, played on Thanksgiving Day at Marshall Field in Chicago, holds a significant place in college football history. Dubbed the "First Greatest Game of the Century," this clash between two powerhouse programs captivated audiences and reshaped the landscape of the sport.

Two Unstoppable Teams Collide:

The stage was set for an epic showdown. The undefeated Chicago Maroons, led by the legendary Amos Alonzo Stagg, boasted a dominant defense and a well-oiled offensive system. Facing them were the "Point-a-Minute" Michigan Wolverines, coached by Fielding Yost and riding a 56-game unbeaten streak.

A Defensive Struggle:

The game did not disappoint. Both defenses rose to the occasion, showcasing their talent and intensity. The Maroons, known for their "Monsters of the Midway" defensive line, effectively shut down Michigan's vaunted running game. In turn, Michigan's defense, led by Walter Eckersall, held Chicago's offense to limited scoring opportunities.

A Late-Game Twist:

As the game entered the final minutes, it remained a scoreless tie. However, with just over two minutes remaining, Chicago capitalized on a crucial turnover. Quarterback Walter Eckersall orchestrated a last-minute drive, culminating in a 2-yard touchdown run by halfback Ned Snow.

A Shocking Outcome:

Chicago's late-game heroics secured a stunning 2-0 victory, ending Michigan's 56-game unbeaten streak and handing Yost his first defeat as Michigan's head coach. The result sent shockwaves through the college football world and marked the end of the "Point-a-Minute" era.

Born May 7, 1881, in Alpena, Michigan, was the big tackle from the Army teams of 1899 to 1902, Paul Bunker.  The National Football Foundation lends the thought that when you are receiving high praise from an opponent you know you truly have a great player. Navy's star back of the 1900 era, Ralph Strassburger, who also  played defense. Approached Bunker several years after when the two met up on the gridiron, this time it was in the Philippines. "Bunker," Strassburger said, "I hate you. Let's have a drink."

As you can see back in 1902 Bunker had ended his playing career with that season's Army-Navy game, running wild against the Middies and leading the Cadets to a 22-8 victory. He had scored two touchdowns on offense and had spent much of the afternoon punishing Navy's star back which was Strassburger. Walter Camp described Bunker as a battering ram who outclassed all other backs and was a first class defensive tackle. Bunker is one of just a handful of athletes to win All-America mention at two different positions. He won All-America honors as a tackle in 1901 and in 1902 at both halfback and tackle. The College Football Hall of Fame proudly placed a display in honor of Paul Bunker into their legendary museum in 1969.    Bunker continued to be a hero off the field as he died for his country in 1943 as a Prisoner of War.

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.

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Bennie Oosterbaan's name is synonymous with excellence at the University of Michigan. Not only was he a legendary player, but he also went on to coach the Wolverines to glory. To understand Oosterbaan's impact, we must explore both facets of his football career.

On the field, Oosterbaan was a force to be reckoned with. Ultimately, he led the Big Ten in scoring in 1925, showcasing his offensive prowess. He earned three All-American selections and established himself as a critical contributor to Michigan's success, playing alongside another legend, quarterback Benny Friedman. Oosterbaan's athleticism was wider than football. He was a three-time letterman in basketball, leading the Big Ten in scoring in 1928, and a talented baseball player, leading the conference in batting average the same year. This versatility solidified his reputation as one of the most gifted athletes in college sports history.

After graduation, Oosterbaan chose to stay at Michigan, not as a player, but as a coach. He began his journey as an assistant, learning the ropes under the legendary Fritz Crisler. Oosterbaan's dedication and strategic mind were evident. In 1948, he was tasked with succeeding Crisler, who had just led Michigan to an undefeated season and a national championship.

Oosterbaan's debut as head coach was nothing short of spectacular. He led the 1948 team, known as the "Goofus Galore" squad, to another undefeated season and a national championship. He became the only coach in NCAA history to achieve this feat in his first year. He built a successful coaching career, winning three Big Ten titles and finishing in the top 20 in the polls most years.

However, Oosterbaan was known for more than wins and losses. He emphasized discipline, sportsmanship, and character development in his players. His quiet leadership style, emphasizing "poise" over yelling and screaming, earned him the respect and loyalty of his teams. He believed in his players and empowered them to excel on and off the field.

Bennie Oosterbaan's legacy extends far beyond wins and championships. He is a symbol of dedication, athletic prowess, and exceptional leadership. He was a role model for generations of players and coaches, proving that success can be achieved through hard work, humility, and a genuine love for the game. His name will forever be etched in the annals of Michigan football history as a true legend.

The records and stats of the Akron Zips football program are housed and presented quite well on the College Football Reference site.

Sports-Reference is your one-stop shop for college football history and stats. Dive into team and player records, explore past seasons, track rankings, and relive iconic games. Find Heisman winners, conference champs, and all-time leaders. From scores and schedules to rosters and recruiting, delve into the numbers that tell the story of college football's past, present, and future. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual enthusiast, Sports-Reference serves as your ultimate college football knowledge base.

Check out previous seasons, biggest games, origins, logo design, and players for Akron and their accomplishments in the MAC Conference and beyond.

Born April 24, 1918, was a legendary football player and executive Fred Gehrke. Fred was on the Cleveland Rams team that won the NFL Championship in 1945. Fred Gehrke went to college and suited up for the Utah Utes and also went on and played in the NFL for the Cleveland / Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Cardinals from 1940 through 1950.

Fred started a trend that we can appreciate today.To boost team morale, Gehrke designed and painted the Los Angeles Rams logo in 1948, which was the first painted on the helmets of an NFL team.

-Frequently Asked Question

-Who was the first to paint a logo on a helmet? The answer in the pro game is Fred Gehrke of the Rams in 1948, check out more about it in the story: First Helmet Logo.