Football History

The official website of the legendary Pro and College Hall of Fame Runningback Thurman Thomas

The legendary Coach Steve Owen has his football life preserved in this presentation post from The Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture

College football, a sport steeped in tradition and brimming with talent, has witnessed countless remarkable athletes don the jerseys of their respective universities. From electrifying running backs to tenacious defenders, these players have etched their names into the annals of gridiron history, leaving an enduring legacy that resonates with fans across generations. Their jersey numbers, often simple digits, become symbols of their achievements, instantly recognizable and forever associated with their legendary performances.

The image is titled Original Caption: Four of Navy's mudstained stars pose after the Army and Navy football game on the Fourth of July, 1945 at Rizal Stadium, Manila, P.I. Left to Right: Geyer, Bloomfield, New Jersey; Hall, Chicago, Illinois; Horjes, Tacoma, Washington; Youngberg, Woodstock, Illinois. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (cropped).

This series of posts embarks on a journey through the storied landscape of college football, celebrating the very best players to have worn each jersey number. It's a tribute to the skill, dedication, and sheer brilliance of these athletes, a recognition of their impact on the game, and a chance to revisit the moments that made them icons. From the single-digit heroes to the double-digit dynamos, we'll explore the stories behind the numbers, uncovering the tales of triumph, perseverance, and unforgettable plays.

Each post will delve into the careers of the most exceptional players to have sported a particular number, highlighting their accomplishments, awards, and the indelible mark they left on their programs. We'll examine their contributions to their teams' successes, their individual accolades, and the lasting impression they made on the college football landscape. This is more than just a list of names; it's a celebration of the spirit of college football, the passion of the fans, and the enduring legacy of the players who wore the numbers that became synonymous with greatness.

Join us as we embark on this exciting exploration, honoring the legends and the unforgettable moments that have defined college football. From the smallest schools to the most prominent programs, we'll uncover the stories behind the numbers, recognizing the athletes who transformed their jerseys into symbols of excellence. This is a journey through college football history, one number at a time.

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Wayne Meylan, born on March 2, 1946, in Bay City, Michigan, left a significant mark on college and professional football, particularly as a hard-hitting linebacker.

-College Career

Meylan's collegiate career thrived at the University of Nebraska, where he was a standout linebacker for the Cornhuskers. Known for his aggressive play and tackling ability, he was a key component of Nebraska's defense, contributing to the team's growing reputation.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Drafted Cleveland Browns in the 4th round (104th overall) of the 1968 NFL Draft. Meylan transitioned to the professional ranks. During his three seasons in the league, he played for the Browns and later the Minnesota Vikings, solidifying his reputation as a rugged and reliable linebacker.

-Football Legacy

Meylan's football legacy is defined by his physical play style and contributions to the Bills' defense in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He was a respected player known for his hard-hitting tackles and dedication to the game. His career highlights the physicality of football during that era.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

While detailed statistics for his era are not always readily available, Meylan was recognized for his consistent performance and impact on his teams' defenses. His selection in the first draft round speaks to the high regard in which he was held.

He was known for his tackling, and his aggressive play.  

The National Football Foundation or better known as NFF, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and developing amateur American football on all levels throughout the United States. They aim to:
Support amateur football: This includes providing resources and funding to local youth leagues, high school programs, and college teams.
Develop leadership: They emphasize the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and competitive spirit in young athletes, fostering valuable skills beyond the field.
Recognize excellence: The NFF honors outstanding players, coaches, and contributors to the sport through awards and recognition programs.
Preserve history: They maintain the College Football Hall of Fame, celebrating the legends and traditions that have shaped the sport.
Promote academic achievement: The NFF emphasizes the importance of education for athletes, encouraging them to excel in academics alongside their athletic pursuits.
Overall, the National Football Foundation plays a crucial role in fostering the growth and appreciation of amateur football while also promoting essential values among young athletes.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame tells of the 1984 NFL Draft and the Number 1 pick by the New England Patriots, Irving Fryar.

May 1, 1984 - Nebraska wide receiver Irving Fryar was the first pick by the New England Patriots in the 1984 NFL Draft. In my research I cannot find where one member of this draft class has been enshrined as of yet in Canton, Ohio. It is interesting that another Cornhusker offensive player was selected at the number 2 spot in Dean Steinkuhler to the Houston Oilers. The Pro Football Reference gives us a glimpse of the first ten selections:

Pick Tm Player Pos College/Univ

1 NWE Irving Fryar WR Nebraska College Stats
2 HOU Dean Steinkuhler T Nebraska College Stats
3 NYG Carl Banks LB Michigan St.
4 PHI Kenny Jackson WR Penn St. College Stats
5 KAN Bill Maas NT Pittsburgh
6 SDG Mossy Cade DB Texas
7 CIN Ricky Hunley LB Arizona College Stats
8 IND Leonard Coleman DB Vanderbilt
9 ATL Rick Bryan DE Oklahoma College Stats
10 NYJ Russell Carter DB SMU
NFL May 1