Football History

The history of the Crimson Tide's football program is summed up very well in this YouTube Video. Learn about the legendary coaches, players, and plays that make Alabama such a storied gridiron program.

Born October 23, 1869 in Cleveland, Ohio - John Heisman, American football coach who was one of the top innovators for the game of football in history. Heisman is credited per the NFF’s website with helping to legalize the forward pass, originated the center snap, innovated the “hike” cadence to initiate a snap and for which the Heisman Trophy is named. John coached at various schools including Oberlin, Akron, Clemson, Georgia Tech, Penn, Washington and Jefferson, Auburn and Rice. He played every line position while he was a student athlete at Brown University. The National Football Foundation selected John Heisman to enter into their College Football Hall of Fame in 1954. Of course the award given to the most recognozed top player in College Football each year is given at trophy that bears his name, the Heisman Trophy. That is how significant he was to the game.

Born June 11, 1902, in Willow River, Minnesota, was Ernie "Big Dog" Nevers the Stanford University fullback from 1923 to 1925. He was an All-American according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and excelled at basketball and baseball as well as football. Nevers gained national attention on New Year's Day 1925 at the Rose Bowl.

Ernie and his Cardinal teammates were matched against the powerful Notre Dame Fighting Irish squad that featured the 7 Mules, the Four Horsemen backfield and a legendary coach in Knute Rockne. Ernie’s performance was memorable and courageous as he was only five days removed from having a cast removed on a broken ankle, and with his foot bound tightly in a brace, Nevers dominated the game. Nevers established a Rose Bowl record with 34 carries as he gained 114 yards, only 13 less than the combined total for Notre Dame's legendary backfield. His brilliance in the contest did not stop there as Nevers averaged 42 yards punting as a bonus.

Unfortunately for the Cardinal faithful, the Irish were just a bit too much as Stanford fell 27-10. The FootballFoundation.org bio of Nevers goes on to say that Hall of Fame coach Glenn "Pop" Warner, who coached Nevers and the legendary Jim Thorpe picked Nevers over Thorpe as his personal choice as the "greatest football player of all time." In 1969, Nevers was named to Football's All-Time Team, which was part of college football's Centennial celebration. Big Dog was Stanford's captain in 1925 when he led a 24-17 upset of arch rival California. He handled the ball on all but three offensive plays as Stanford posted its first win over Cal in eight seasons.

Ernie Nevers received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1971. His bio on the ProFootballHOF.com explains that after college Nevers signed pro basketball and baseball contracts and, in fact, was destined to throw two homerun pitches to Babe Ruth in his historic 60-home run season in 1927. But pro football also beckoned. In 1926, the Duluth Eskimos convinced Nevers to join their ranks over lucrative offers of the other sports. The Eskimos had a unique existence as they played all but one of their games on the road during Never’s time there. Ernie reportedly played all but 29 of a possible 1,740 minutes in 29 games as a running back, kicker & quarterback. He got hurt and that fact forced him to miss the 1928 season but he came back with a vengeance in 1929 with a new team the Chicago Cardinals. He stayed with the Cards for a few seasons and was even coaching the squad during the 1930 and 1931 seasons. His biggest pro game was with Chicago in 1929 against their cross town rivals the Bears on Thanksgiving Day when Nevers scored all 40 of the Cardinals points in a Red Bird romp 40-7. Check out more on Ernie Nevers with our friend Joe Ziemba on the Sports History Network and in his great book, When Football Was Football. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined the Big Dog Ernie Nevers in 1963.

Marcus Allen's NFL career was a captivating blend of power, agility, and clutch performances. Drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders in 1982, he quickly established himself as a dynamic weapon out of the backfield. This essay explores the highlights of Allen's career, showcasing his dominance as a runner, his Super Bowl triumphs, and the legacy he leaves behind.

-Early Brilliance and Sharing the Spotlight

-Born March 26, 1960 in San Diego California

-Allen attended USC and In 1980 he rushed for 1,563 yards, second in the nation. In 1981 he rushed for 2,342. He led the nation in scoring, 12.5 points per game; rushing, 219.9 yards per game; and all-purpose running, 232.6 yards per game.

-In 1981 Marcus won the Heisman, the Walter Camp Foundation Award, Maxwell Trophy, as well as the Pop Warner League Player of the Year honor.

-Marcus Allen received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

-The Los Angeles Raiders used their first round pick to take Marcus in the first round of the 1982 NFL Draft.

Allen burst onto the scene as a rookie, he showcased his explosiveness, leading the league in rushing touchdowns (12) and earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. The following season, the Raiders unleashed a potent one-two punch with Allen and quarterback Jim Plunkett, culminating in a Super Bowl XVIII victory over the Washington Redskins. Allen's dominant performance, including a game-clinching 74-yard touchdown run, cemented his place as a rising star.

-Taking the Lead and Championship Glory

By 1985, Allen emerged as the focal point of the Raiders' offense. Number 32 became the very first player in the League’s history to rush for more than 10,000 yards while also having receiving yards exceeding 5000 yards. This dominance propelled the Raiders back to the Super Bowl stage, facing the Washington Redskins once again. In Super Bowl XXV, Allen solidified his legacy, rushing for a then-Super Bowl record 209 yards and earning the game's Most Valuable Player award.

-Career Longevity and Adaptability

While Allen's peak years were undeniably impressive, his career extended beyond the late 1980s. He displayed remarkable adaptability, adjusting his playing style as his speed diminished.

He spent the last five with the Kansas City Chiefs. For his pro career Marcus compiled 12243 yards rushing with 123 touchdowns and another 21 scores from catching passes with 5411 yards receiving. Allen was a 2 time All-Pro and played in 6 Pro Bowls.

Allen spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, and finally returned to the Raiders before retiring in 1997. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined the great Marcus Allen in 2003.

When you talk about the greatest running backs of all time, This guy needs to be discussed! Born September 9, 1878 in Galesburg, Illinois, was Willie Heston, a college football player and coach who is considered one of the greatest players in the history of the University of Michigan. He played halfback from 1901 to 1904, and led the Wolverines to four consecutive undefeated seasons and two national championships.

Willie attended San Jose Normal School (now San Jose State University) before transferring to Michigan. He was a two-way player for the Wolverines, excelling at both running and passing. He was also a superb punter and kicker.

Heston was a consensus All-American in 1903 and 1904. He was also named the captain of the 1904 team. In his four years at Michigan, Heston scored 72 touchdowns, which is still a school record. He also rushed for 2,339 yards and passed for 1,003 yards.

After graduating from Michigan, Heston played professional football for the Canton Bulldogs in 1905. He suffered a broken leg in his first game, and this ended his playing career.

Heston then turned to coaching. He was the head coach for Drake University in 1905 and North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts (now North Carolina State University) in 1906. He then returned to Michigan to practice law. Heston was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954.

May 30, 1943 - Wichita, Kansas - Gale Sayers the top notch Kansas Halfback, also known as the “Kansas Comet” was born. Gale is one of the most talented backs to have ever graced the gridiron.

The FootballFoundation.org lists that Mr. Sayers was a two-time First Team All-America selection for the Jayhawks, and when he concluded his KU career he had 2,675 yards rushing and 3,917 all-purpose yards. The Kansas Comet led KU in rushing, touchdowns and kickoff returns all three years he wore the Jayhawk colors. Gale also led the team in receiving and punt returns in his final two years with the program. Sayers became the first player in NCAA Division IA history to record a 99-yard run when he broke loose against Nebraska in Lincoln during the 1963 season.

One of Sayers top collegiate moments on the gridiron has to be the 96-yard kickoff return that aided a 15-14 upset of Oklahoma in his senior season. The University retired his number 48 jersey soon after he wore it last. Gale Sayers’ collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1977.

The Chicago Bears drafted Sayers in the first round of the 1965 NFL Draft and he had an almost immediate impact on the entire League! The Pro Football Hall of Fame says right out of the chute Gale in a pre-season game raced 77 yards on a punt return, 93 yards on a kickoff return, and then startled everyone with a 25-yard scoring pass against the Los Angeles Rams. During the regular games he kept it going, as this standout player set a rookie record that season of 22 touchdowns and 132 points! The Comet scored four touchdowns, including a 96-yard game breaking kickoff return, against the Minnesota Vikings. But that was not the rookie’s grand finale. No, not even close to it. In the second to the last game of the year, playing on a muddy field that would have stalled most rushing attempts, Gale scored a record-tying six touchdowns against the San Francisco 49ers. Included in his sensational spree were an 80-yard pass-run play, a 50-yard rush and a 65-yard punt return. Sayers went on to have a short but brilliant career with 9435 combined yards in his career, 4956 yards from running.

Gale still is the all-time leader in NFL kick returns as he was also an All-NFL selection in five straight seasons and the player of the game in three different Pro Bowls. The Pro Football Hall of Fame honored Gale Sayers with enshrinement in 1977 to become one of a very few that entered both Football Hall of Fame's in the same year.

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The Ohio Bobcats, with their fierce mascot and vibrant green and white, have a logo history as dynamic as their on-field play. Let's rewind and explore the evolution of the Bobcat symbol:


Early Days (1894-1907):


1894-1907: The early Ohio football teams, known as the "Green and Whites" or "Wildcats," lacked a formal logo. They often used simple lettering or mascots drawn by students, reflecting the university's nascent athletic program.

Birth of the Bobcat (1907-1940):


1907: The official Bobcat mascot was adopted, inspired by the abundance of bobcats in the Ohio wilderness. The first logo featured a stylized bobcat head with a fierce expression, often accompanied by the letter "O" or the team name.
1920s-30s: The logo evolved, becoming more detailed and dynamic. Variations included a bobcat leaping in mid-action, holding a football, or perched atop a rock, emphasizing the mascot's athleticism and territorial nature.

Mid-Century Modernization (1940-1978):


1940s-50s: The Bobcat underwent a sleek makeover, adopting a more angular and stylized design. The mascot's outline became sharper, with a focus on its piercing eyes and predatory stance.
1960s-70s: Experimentation continued, with different artists interpreting the bobcat in various styles. Some versions featured a more cartoonish design, while others remained fierce and intimidating.

The Iconic "Charging Bobcat" (1978-Present):


1978: The iconic "Charging Bobcat" logo was introduced, capturing the team's spirit of aggression and determination. This powerful design features a muscular bobcat in full stride, claws extended, ready to charge towards victory.
1996-Present: Minor adjustments have been made to the "Charging Bobcat" over the years, refining its details and color scheme. However, the core design remains a beloved symbol of Ohio football, recognized by fans and opponents alike.

More Than Just a Logo:


The Ohio Bobcats logo is more than just an image. It represents the program's history, tradition, and fighting spirit. It embodies the fierce athleticism and territorial pride of the Bobcat mascot, rallying fans and intimidating opponents. As the Bobcats continue to charge through the gridiron landscape, their logo will undoubtedly evolve, but the essence of the Bobcat spirit will always remain a powerful symbol of Ohio football.

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The Syracuse Orange football program boasts a rich history filled with moments of triumph and national relevance. While their legacy may not boast consistent dominance, several exceptional seasons stand out as shining examples of their talent and potential. Here's a glimpse into some of their greatest campaigns:


1959: Undefeated Champions and National Recognition: Arguably their crowning achievement, the 1959 Orange rolled through the season undefeated, claiming the national championship in a dominant 23-14 Cotton Bowl victory over Texas. Quarterback Ernie Davis, the first Black Heisman Trophy winner, spearheaded the charge, making this campaign a landmark moment in both program and college football history.


1966: Climbing the Ranks and Orange Bowl Glory: Under coach Ben Schwartzwalder, the 1966 Orange delivered impressive wins over Penn State and UCLA, ultimately finishing the season ranked 8th nationally. Their dominance culminated in a thrilling 26-24 victory over Florida in the Orange Bowl, cementing their place among the nation's elite.


1987: Unforgettable Comeback and Donovan McNabb's Arrival: Down by 16 points to Miami in the Carrier Dome, the 1987 Orange rallied for a dramatic 27-20 victory, etching an unforgettable comeback into program lore. This season also marked the arrival of freshman quarterback Donovan McNabb, who would later lead Syracuse to even greater heights.


1991: McNabb's Magic and a Return to National Prominence: With McNabb as a Heisman Trophy finalist, the 1991 Orange captured the Big East title and defeated Virginia Tech in the Aloha Bowl, finishing the season ranked 11th nationally. McNabb's electrifying talent rekindled the program's national relevance and ushered in a new era of hope.


2004: Defying Expectations and Bowl Domination: Despite initial doubts, the 2004 Orange, led by quarterback Perry Fewell, upset West Virginia in the Carrier Dome and went on to defeat Kansas State in the Insight Bowl. This unexpected success demonstrated the program's resilience and ability to defy expectations.

Born September 7, 1908, in Norwalk, Ohio was Pro Football Hall of Fame Coach Paul Brown.

Brown's journey began in high school, where he won four national championships at Massillon Washington High School, establishing a dominant running attack and pioneering the playbook. He transitioned to college at Ohio State, leading them to their first national championship in 1942. During World War II, he coached the Great Lakes Navy football team, winning two service championships.

The Birth of a Dynasty: The Cleveland Browns (1946-1962)

Brown's impact truly flourished with the Cleveland Browns. He co-founded the team in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC), creating a professional platform for his philosophy. He innovated by establishing year-round coaching staffs, scouting nationwide, and implementing complex offensive schemes. The results were astonishing: four unbeaten seasons (1947-1950), three AAFC championships, and three NFL championships (1950, 1954, 1955).

Beyond Victories: Innovation and Legacy (1963-1975)

A power struggle with Browns' owner Art Modell led to Brown's controversial departure in 1963. He quickly resurfaced with the Cincinnati Bengals, another expansion team. While immediate success eluded him, Brown continued to innovate, creating the Bengals' draft strategy and shaping their foundation. He stepped down from coaching in 1970, focusing on the general manager role, guiding the Bengals to two Super Bowl appearances in the 1980s.

This legend was one of the most successful and influential football coaches of all time. He coached for 25 seasons in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) and National Football League (NFL), winning seven league championships.

Brown began his coaching career at Massillon Washington High School in 1932, where he led the team to six state championships and four national championships. He then moved on to Ohio State University, where he coached the Buckeyes to their first national championship in 1942.

In 1946, Brown became the head coach of the Cleveland Browns, a team he co-founded. The Browns won all four AAFC championships before joining the NFL in 1950. Brown continued his winning ways in the NFL, leading the Browns to three more championships in 1950, 1954, and 1955.

Brown was fired by the Browns in 1963, but he returned to coaching in 1968 with the Cincinnati Bengals. He led the Bengals to their first playoff appearance in 1970 and their first Super Bowl appearance in 1981.

Brown was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967. He is credited with many innovations in football, including the playbook, the facemask, and the draw play. He is also considered to be one of the first coaches to use modern statistical analysis and film study to improve his team's performance.

Among the storied seasons of the Iowa Hawkeyes, a select few rise above, adorned with moments of glory, etched onto the hearts of Hawkeye faithful.

1921-22: Twin Crowns Forged in Gold: Head Coach Howard Jones, dubbed "The Little Giant," orchestrated a dynasty in its infancy. Two consecutive undefeated seasons, boasting a combined 14-0 record, cemented the Hawkeyes as national champions. Led by the legendary Nile Kinnick and fueled by an unstoppable running game, Iowa carved its name onto the Grantland Rice Trophy (1921) and the Billingsley Trophy (1922) – a testament to Hawkeye dominance in the Golden Age of College Football.

1955-56: Evashevski's Dawning Light: Forest Evashevski, a man of vision and charisma, arrived in Iowa City, igniting a revolution. The 1955 season, though ending tragically with a Rose Bowl defeat, laid the foundation for future triumphs. 1956, however, saw the fruits of Evashevski's labor ripen. An 8-1 record, a Big Ten Championship, and a victory over Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl marked the arrival of a new Hawkeye era – one defined by offensive fireworks and championship aspirations.

1985: "Chuck Long's Night" and Unbridled Hope: Under the visionary leadership of Hayden Fry, the Hawkeyes soared to unprecedented heights. Led by the electrifying quarterback Chuck Long and a potent offense known as "The Air Raid," the 1985 season was a symphony of offensive brilliance. Victories over Michigan and UCLA propelled Iowa to the brink of a national championship, culminating in the legendary "Chuck Long's Night" – a thrilling comeback win over undefeated Michigan that remains etched in Hawkeye lore.

1995-96: The Hawkeyes Roar in the Bowl: Fry's legacy continued to shine in the mid-1990s. Back-to-back Big Ten titles in 1995 and 1996, fueled by the defensive prowess of the "War Pigs," sent the Hawkeyes to consecutive Rose Bowls. These seasons showcased the Hawkeyes' trademark resilience, epitomized by the 1996 Rose Bowl victory over Arizona - a game where Iowa overcame a 16-point deficit to claim a thrilling triumph.

2022: West Division Champions and Beyond: The latest chapter in the Hawkeye saga unfolded in 2022. Led by the dynamic duo of quarterback Spencer Petras and tight end Sam LaPorta, Iowa captured the Big Ten West Division for the third time in the past four years. Victories over rival Minnesota and Penn State, punctuated by a stirring comeback against Purdue, showcased the Hawkeyes' unwavering spirit and cemented their place among the nation's elite.

These are but a few threads in the intricate tapestry of Hawkeye football glory. Each season whispers tales of legendary coaches, record-breaking plays, and moments of unyielding grit.