Football History

Football is a sport that is very special to many people. It combines grit and power with endurance and elegance. If you're a fan of football now, you've most likely been one for the past few years and will continue to be one for the rest of your life. That's the thing about football: once you love the sport, you can't shake it. With the tremendous arena games, all the way over the thrill of simply watching it at home, football has a little something for everyone. 

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There are certain teams that have been around for a long time, that have garnered a lot of support over the years and that have proven that they belong as some of the most reputable football teams and franchises around. This article aims to shed light on exactly that. 

-The Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals are the oldest football team in the whole of the USA. This is a very special feat and one that is extremely impressive, especially in a country that lives and breathes football as much as the USA. They even bet on the sport to show just how engrossed they are in the game. Betting platforms are rather popular amongst football fans, who even stray away from football when it becomes too heated and try to find a good online fish shooting game with real money and no deposit, so that they have a thrilling distraction from the game. 

This team started its humble beginnings in 1898. Their name back then was actually different, it went as the Morgan Athletic Club. Back then, they were even based in the south side of Chicago. The reason they got their name as the Cardinals is because, in the early 1900s, the teams' managers received an old shipment of faded cardinal red football jerseys and just like that, the name stuck. 

The team was excellent when it started, which is exactly what propelled them to being part of the NFL in 1920 when it officially started. That was over a century ago, and since then, as you can imagine, the team has gone through many significant changes, never losing its Cardinal name, though. The team is now based in Phoenix. They're the oldest team in the franchise, but unfortunately, they have only won two NFL titles in the last 100 years. They are one of the least successful teams in the bunch; however, who knows, maybe the tides will change for them. 

-The Chicago Bears

Just like the Arizona Cardinals, the Chicago Bears started out under a different name. In 1920, they got their name from their then-founder, A.E. Staley, as the Decatur team. However, then Staley passed on the team to the famous George Halas in 1921, who moved the team all the way over to Chicago. After their first year, they were already showing success and Halas was already given the endearing name of 'Papa Bear', as he was known for walking up and down the field at every game, trying to help his team as much as possible. You see where the story and the name change are going. In 1922, seeing as they were located in Chicago and their managed was known as 'Papa Bear', the team got the endearing name of the Chicago Bears and the rest has been history. 

This team has done extremely well for themselves in the NFL and has proven time and time again that they are the ones to look out for. They have won 8 NFL Championships since they started and they have even won one Super Bowl Championship, to boot. Showing that they are truly the ones to watch and they continue to be successful even today. 

-The New York Giants

The New York Giants started their success in the early 1920s, they started their franchise in 1925 specifically and have shown progress and improvements right from then. They started their journey on the famous Polo Grounds in Manhatten, marking one of the most esteemed training grounds. As one of the only teams to have never changed their name, this team often says that it has been marked for success right from the very beginning. 

They naturally joined the NFL the moment they became a functioning team and actually managed to win the title four times over, in 1939, 1941, 1944 and 1946. Doing this made them one of the best teams to ever enter the NFL Championship and certainly a team to look out for. Another reason they are one of the most popular teams, even today, is because they have also won the Superbowl four times over, which is an incredible feat. 

Today, the New York Giants continue to be one of the most influential teams on the roster and one that shows incredible promise. 

-A Solid Foundation

One of the most impressive things about these older teams is that they continue to play, even today. The fact that football seems to truly be based on history and heritage, makes it far more understanding that football is one of the most beloved sports in the USA. Fans have been watching their favorite teams play for years and years, passing the love of the sport on to the next generation. Football also certainly shows no sign of slowing down. 

Henry Jordan was born January 26, 1935 in Emporia, Virginia. He would go on to become a Pro Football Hall of Fame superstar on defense.

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.

-College Career:

At the University of Virginia, Henry Jordan excelled as a two-sport star. He was a standout football player, serving as team captain his senior year, and also a dominant wrestler, achieving All-American status in 1957.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the 1957 NFL Draft, Jordan initially played for the Browns before being traded to the Green Bay Packers in 1959.  

-Football Legacy:

In Green Bay, Jordan blossomed into a cornerstone of Vince Lombardi's legendary defense. A five-time NFL champion and a seven-time All-Pro selection, Jordan was a dominant force on the defensive line. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback and his ferocious play style made him one of the most feared defenders of his era. Jordan's impact extended beyond his on-field accomplishments. He was a respected leader and a key figure in the Packers' dynasty of the 1960s, contributing significantly to their five NFL titles and two Super Bowl victories.  

-Career History

-Cleveland Browns (1957–1958)

-Green Bay Packers (1959–1969)

-Career highlights and Awards

-5 Time NFL champion (1961, 1962, 1965–1967)

-2 Time Super Bowl champion (I, II)

-7 Time All-Pro (1960–1964, 1966, 1967)

-4 Time Pro Bowl (1960, 1961, 1963, 1966)

-Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame

-Career NFL Statistics[]

-Games played: 163

Stats at Pro Football Reference

Henry Jordan. (2024, September 6). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Jordan

Born December 29, 1936 - Ray Nitschke the feared middle linebacker of the Green Bay Packers was born. Ray was the third overall pick in the 1958 NFL Draft by the Packers and he played with the team for 15 seasons according to his bio on the Pro Football HOF.

Nitschke defended both the run and the pass well as his 25 career interceptions would indicate. Ray was a member of 5 champion Green Bay teams and was the MVP of the 1962 NFL Championship game. The Pro Football Hall of Fame placed Ray Nitschke in a gold jacket in 1978.

-[b]College Career

Ray Nitschke's collegiate football career was marked by his time at the University of Illinois. While not a standout star, he displayed a relentless work ethic and a tenacious playing style that would define his professional career. Nitschke's college experience laid the foundation for his future success, instilling in him the discipline and determination necessary to excel at the highest level of the sport.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Selected by the Green Bay Packers in the third round of the 1958 NFL Draft, Ray Nitschke would go on to become one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history. Initially a backup, he quickly rose through the ranks to become a cornerstone of Vince Lombardi's legendary Packers defense. Nitschke's career was synonymous with toughness, relentless pursuit, and a ferocious playing style. He was the heart and soul of the Packers' dominant teams of the 1960s, contributing significantly to five NFL championships and the first two Super Bowl victories.  

Nitschke's impact extended beyond his statistics. He was a vocal leader, inspiring his teammates with his unwavering dedication and work ethic. His ability to consistently deliver bone-jarring tackles and make crucial plays in big games earned him the respect of opponents and fans alike.  

-Football Legacy

Ray Nitschke's legacy is etched in the annals of NFL history as one of the game's most ferocious and respected defenders. His impact on the Green Bay Packers and the sport as a whole is immeasurable. Nitschke's relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with his unwavering toughness, became the blueprint for generations of linebackers.

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Nitschke's character and leadership qualities made him a role model for aspiring football players. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978 was a fitting recognition of his extraordinary career. Ray Nitschke will forever be remembered as one of the greatest to ever play the game.

Born February 17, 1905, was Andy Oberlander, the fine Dartmouth halfback and tackle. Most of his close friends called the dashing youngster “Swede” because of his blonde hair.

Andy Oberlander's football legacy is rooted in his remarkable college career at Dartmouth College.

-College Career

From 1923 to 1925, he starred as a halfback, leading the team to an undefeated season in 1925 and a share of the national championship. Known for his speed, agility, and powerful running style, Oberlander was a key component of Dartmouth's potent offense. He was a versatile player, excelling as both a runner and a passer, and his leadership on the field was instrumental to the team's success. His performance against Yale in 1925, where he scored three touchdowns, is mainly remembered as a defining moment of his collegiate career.

Dartmouth's 32-9 dismantling of Harvard was their most decisive win against the Crimson to that point. Against Cornell, Oberlander put on a show, amassing 477 yards of total offense, including six touchdown passes – a Dartmouth record that remains unbroken. Accounts from the game credit him with contributing to roughly 500 yards of the team's total offensive output. Despite the lopsided 62-13 score, Cornell coach Gil Dobie famously quipped, "We won the game 13-0, passing is not football," downplaying the significance of Oberlander's aerial dominance.

Oberlander's path to professional football was somewhat unconventional for the era. While he did play professional football, it was a relatively brief stint with the short-lived Brooklyn Lions of the first American Football League in 1926. Professional football in the 1920s was still developing, and many players, even those with Oberlander's talent, did not pursue long professional careers.

Oberlander's lasting impact on football resides primarily in his collegiate achievements. His time at Dartmouth cemented his place as one of the greatest players in the early era of college football. He was a consensus All-American in 1925 and was later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. While his professional career was short, his college exploits were legendary, establishing him as a pivotal figure in Dartmouth's football history and a symbol of the sport's burgeoning popularity in the 1920s.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

-Consensus All-American (1925)

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee

-Led Dartmouth to an undefeated season

Gene Washington was born January 25, 1947. This athlete is a trailblazer both on and off the field, and had an impactful football career. His college career at the University of Michigan showcased his exceptional athleticism and burgeoning talent. As a standout wide receiver, Washington consistently demonstrated his ability to outmaneuver defenders and make spectacular catches. His impressive performances earned him All-American honors and solidified his status as one of the most promising prospects in the nation.

Washington's collegiate success translated seamlessly into the professional arena. Drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1969, he quickly established himself as a dependable receiver. His speed, agility, and acrobatic catches made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Washington's impact extended beyond his on-field prowess. He became a vocal advocate for social justice, using his platform to address racial inequality and inspire others.

Per his Wikipedia bio:

Gene had many milestone accomplishments:

-NFL champion (1969)

-Second-team All-Pro (1969)

-2 Time Pro Bowl (1969, 1970)

-Among the 50 Greatest Vikings

-2 Time First-team All-American (1965, 1966)

-2 Time First-team All-Big Ten (1965, 1966)

Washington's Career NFL statistics include:

-Receptions: 182

-Receiving yards: 3,237

-Receiving touchdowns: 26

via Stats at Pro Football Reference


Gene Washington's legacy transcends his impressive statistics. He served as a role model for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that excellence in sports could be intertwined with activism. His contributions to the NFL and his unwavering commitment to social justice have cemented his place as a true legend in the history of the game.

Born on January 16, 1894, in Blue Springs, Nebraska was Guy Chamberlin, the sensational back and end of Nebraska Wesleyan and University of Nebraska. In 1911 and 1912 Chamberlin starred at Wesleyan, he then transferred to play with the Cornhuskers of Nebraska and in 1914 the team was 7-0-1 in 1914 with Chamberlin at halfback scoring on runs of 90, 85, 70 and 58 yards per the NFF.

After a transfer to end in 1915, he became an All-America selection and Nebraska went 8-0 on the season. The Cornhuskers had beaten Notre Dame 20-19. Knute Rockne, then a Notre Dame assistant coach, called Chamberlin "the key to Nebraska's victory." For his final college game, November 20, 1915, he moved back to halfback and scored five touchdowns in a 52-7 romp over Iowa.

Guy Chamberlin’s stats and bio went into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1962. After serving in World War I Guy played pro football for eight years. Bears legend, George Halas called him "the greatest two-way end in the history of the game." He was not only a good player but he was a great early coach in the NFL according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

In his six coaching seasons, five of which were spent as a player-coach, Chamberlin also won four NFL championships for the Canton Bulldogs in 1922 and 1923, the Cleveland Bulldogs in 1924, and the Frankford Yellow Jackets in 1926. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Guy Chamberlin in 1965.

Born February 3, 1945, in Evansville, Indiana was Purdue University’s famed Quarterback, Bob Griese.

Bob Griese's football journey, from his collegiate dominance to his professional triumphs, cemented his place as one of the game's most respected quarterbacks. His blend of intelligence, poise, and skill defined an era of Miami Dolphins football and left an enduring legacy on the sport.  

College Career

Bob Griese's college career at Purdue University was nothing short of spectacular.

According to the footballfoundation.org Bob started as a Sophomore for the Boilermakers and in the second game of that 1965 season he led Purdue in an upset of top ranked Notre Dame by the score of 25-21. In the win over the Irish Griese completed 19 of 22 passes, including 13 straight completions at one point. He was a consensus All-America selection in both 1965 and 1966. The National Football Foundation selected Bob Griese for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1984.

He quarterbacked the Boilermakers to a Rose Bowl victory in 1967, defeating USC and solidifying his status as a national star. Griese's performance in that game, throwing for over 300 yards and two touchdowns, showcased his exceptional talent and leadership. He earned All-American honors twice and was a Heisman Trophy runner-up in his senior year. Beyond the accolades, Griese demonstrated a remarkable understanding of the game, displaying a preternatural ability to read defenses and make smart decisions under pressure. His time at Purdue established him as one of the most coveted prospects in the country, setting the stage for his professional success.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Griese was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the first round of the 1967 AFL-NFL Common Draft. He quickly became the face of the franchise, leading the Dolphins to their first playoff appearance in 1970. Griese's arrival in Miami marked a turning point for the team, transforming them from a fledgling franchise into a perennial contender. He possessed a rare combination of physical tools and mental acuity, allowing him to excel in the professional ranks. His accuracy, arm strength, and ability to make quick reads made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Griese's leadership qualities were also evident, as he commanded respect in the huddle and inspired his teammates to perform at their best. The Dolphins' rise to prominence in the early 1970s was directly linked to Griese's exceptional play and his ability to elevate the entire team.

-Football Legacy

Bob Griese's legacy extends far beyond his individual achievements. He quarterbacked the Miami Dolphins to consecutive Super Bowl victories in 1972 and 1973, including the legendary undefeated season of 1972, a feat that remains unmatched in NFL history. Griese's role in that historic season solidified his place among the game's immortals. His calm demeanor and unflappable presence under pressure were instrumental to the Dolphins' success. While his individual statistics were impressive, it was his ability to lead and inspire that truly defined his career. Griese was a master of the mental aspects of the game, possessing an uncanny ability to anticipate plays and exploit defensive weaknesses. He retired in 1980, leaving a legacy of excellence and sportsmanship. Bob Griese was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, a testament to his extraordinary career and lasting impact on the game.

His name remains synonymous with Miami Dolphins football, and his achievements continue to inspire quarterbacks and fans alike.  

-Career history[/]b

Miami Dolphins (1967–1980)

[b]Career highlights and awards

-2× Super Bowl champion (VII, VIII)

-2× First-team All-Pro (1971, 1977)

-6× Pro Bowl (1970, 1971, 1973, 1974, 1977, 1978)

-NFL passing touchdowns leader (1977)

-NFL completion percentage leader (1978)

-2× AFL All-Star (1967, 1968)

-Jim Thorpe Trophy (1971)

-Bert Bell Award (1977)

-Miami Dolphins Honor Roll

-Miami Dolphins No. 12 retired

-Dolphins Walk of Fame (2011)

-Sammy Baugh Trophy (1966)

-Consensus All-American (1965)

-First-team All-American (1966)

-Chicago Tribune Silver Football (1966)

-2× First-team All-Big Ten (1965, 1966)

-Career NFL statistics

-Pass attempts: 3,429

-Pass completions: 1,926

-Completion percentage: 56.2

-Passing yards: 25,092

-TD–INT: 192–172

-Passer rating: 77.1

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Bob Griese. (2025, January 25). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Griese

February 16, 1972 - Detroit, Michigan - The powerful running back from the University of Notre Dame, Jerome Bettis, celebrates his birthday.

-College Career

Bettis's time at Notre Dame showcased the emergence of a powerful and talented running back. From 1990 to 1992, "The Bus" rumbled through opposing defenses, displaying a rare combination of size, speed, and agility. He quickly became a fan favorite, known for his punishing running style and ability to break tackles. Bettis contributed significantly to the Fighting Irish's success, helping them maintain their reputation as a national powerhouse. His impressive performances earned him national attention and set the stage for a highly anticipated professional career. While his college career was shorter than some, Bettis left a lasting impression on Notre Dame football.

-Road to the NFL

The St Louis Rams selected Jerome as their first-round pick and 10th overall in the 1993 NFL Draft. In just his first season as a Pro, Bettis received Rookie of the Year honors as he was second in yardage in the League that year and third in total yards from scrimmage per ProFootballHOF.com.

-Career Reboot

A few years later, he was famously traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he remained for the balance of his 13-year career. He led the Rams in rushing in three seasons and the Steelers in 8. When he retired, he had amassed 13662 yards rushing, which at the time listed him as the fifth-highest total in NFL history.

He was an All-Pro in several seasons and played in 6 Pro Bowl games. Jerome Bettis was selected for enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015’s class of inductees.

-Career Information

-High school: Mackenzie
(Detroit, Michigan)

-College: Notre Dame (1990–1992)

-NFL draft: 1993 / round: 1 / pick: 10

-Career History

-Los Angeles / St. Louis Rams (1993–1995)

-Pittsburgh Steelers (1996–2005)

-Career Highlights and Awards

-Super Bowl champion (XL)

-NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1993)

-NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1996)

-Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2001)

-2× First-team All-Pro (1993, 1996)

-Second-team All-Pro (1997)

-6× Pro Bowl (1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2004)

-PFWA All-Rookie Team (1993)

-Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team

-Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor

-Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame

-Career NFL statistics

-Rushing yards: 13,662

-Rushing average: 3.9

-Rushing touchdowns: 91

-Receptions: 200

-Receiving yards: 1,449

-Receiving touchdowns: 3

-Pro Football Hall of Fame

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Jerome Bettis. (2025, February 9). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerome_Bettis

The Georgia Bulldogs football helmet isn't just headgear; it's a visual embodiment of the program's history, resilience, and relentless pursuit of victory. Here's a dive into the evolution of this iconic symbol:

In the Beginning (1892-1963):

-Early helmets lacked a consistent design, often featuring simple leather caps or rudimentary leather helmets devoid of logos.

-The iconic red and black color scheme emerged around 1906, adding a splash of Georgia spirit.


The Birth of the "G" (1964-Present):

-1964 saw the arrival of the now-legendary "G" logo, designed by artist Anne Donaldson. Its clean lines and bold presence instantly resonated with fans.

-The "G" wasn't simply a logo; it represented the program's grit, determination, and unwavering pride.


Variations on a Theme:

-While the "G" has remained the constant element, the helmet design has seen subtle refinements over the years.

-Different shades of red have been used, the helmet size and shape have evolved, and subtle details like outlining the "G" have been added and removed. Our friend Randy Snow has a great explanation of why Georgia's "G" looks so much like the Green Bay Packers and Grambling's headgear.




-Special Editions and Alternate Helmets:

-Georgia embraces the tradition of alternate helmets, showcasing variations like matte black lids for rivalry games or helmets adorned with commemorative decals.

-These variations pay homage to specific traditions, honor fallen players, or create a unique look for marquee matchups.

No pun but it is a Dog Eat Dog competition for mascot names sometimes.

Join us for more fun as we examine the origins of team and school mascots here on Pigskin Dispatch, your portal to Positive football history.

Jerry Rhome, born on March 6, 1942, in Dallas, Texas, carved a notable path through football, showcasing his skills as a quarterback at both the collegiate and professional levels.

-College Career

Rhome's college football journey started with the SMU Mustangs but his greatness unfolded later at the University of Tulsa, where he became a standout quarterback after a transfer. He excelled in the Golden Hurricane's passing attack, setting numerous records and earning widespread recognition for his arm strength and accuracy. His performance made him one of the most prolific passers in college football during his time. He was known for his ability to throw the deep ball.

-Road to the Pro Game

Rhome's impressive college career led to his selection in the 13th round of the 1964 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He also played for the Houston Oilers, Cleveland Browns, and Los Angeles Rams. His role marked his professional career as a backup quarterback, though he displayed his talent when given the opportunity.

-Football Legacy

While Rhome's professional playing career didn't reach the heights of his college success, he remained a respected figure in football. His legacy is primarily tied to his record-setting performances at the University of Tulsa. He was known as a very talented passer, and his college records were very impressive for that era of football. After his playing career, Rhome transitioned into coaching, further contributing to the sport. He served as an assistant coach for several NFL teams, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring quarterbacks.

*-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

* He held numerous passing records at the University of Tulsa.
* His college performance earned him recognition as one of the top passers of his era.
* He was inducted into the University of Tulsa Athletic Hall of Fame.
* While professional stats were not as prolific, his college stats were very impressive for the time period.

Jerry Rhome's football story is one of a gifted passer whose college achievements left a lasting mark, followed by a career that extended into coaching, where he continued to contribute to the sport.

-Career history

-As a player:
Dallas Cowboys (1965–1968)
Cleveland Browns (1969)
Houston Oilers (1970)
Los Angeles Rams (1971)
Montreal Alouettes (1972)

-As a coach:
Seattle Seahawks (1976–1977)
Quarterbacks coach
Seattle Seahawks (1978–1982)
Offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach
Washington Redskins (1983–1987)
Quarterbacks coach
San Diego Chargers (1988)
Offensive coordinator
Dallas Cowboys (1989)
Quarterbacks coach
Phoenix Cardinals (1990–1993)
Offensive coordinator
Minnesota Vikings (1994)
Wide receivers coach
Houston Oilers (1995–1996)
Offensive coordinator
St. Louis Rams (1997–1998)
Offensive coordinator
Atlanta Falcons (2000)
Quarterbacks coach
Minnesota Vikings (2005)
Offensive consultant

-Career highlights and awards

Super Bowl champion (XXII)
2× First-team All-MVC (1963, 1964)
First-team All-American (1964)
Sammy Baugh Trophy (1964)
AP Back of the year (1964)
Tulsa Golden Hurricane Jersey No. 17 retired

-Career NFL statistics

Games played: 71
TD–INT: 7–14
Passing yards: 1,628
Passer rating: 55.2

Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com