Football History

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Author of multiple books on sports history, including Lords of the Gridiron I and Lords of the Gridiron II, Matthew is also an accomplished podcast host of "The Packaged Tourist Show", as he spends his days archiving some of the great items in museums.

Jimmy Conzelman wasn't just a player, coach, or owner; he was a jack-of-all-trades who left his mark on the early professional football landscape. From 1920 to 1948, he donned various hats, making him a unique figure in the sport's history.

Playing Days & Early Coaching: Conzelman's playing career stretched across a decade, spanning teams like the Decatur Staleys (later Chicago Bears) and the Providence Steam Roller. In some instances, he showcased versatility, playing quarterback, halfback, placekicker, and even serving as player-coach. While individual statistics weren't widely tracked in his era, his leadership and talent were undeniable.

Championship Coach: Beyond the playing field, Conzelman found his true calling as a coach. He led the Providence Steam Roller to an NFL championship in 1928, showcasing his tactical understanding and inspiring ability. Even more impressively, he later guided the Chicago Cardinals to a title in 1947, proving his leadership could flourish at different levels.

Beyond the Gridiron: Conzelman's life wasn't confined to football. He dabbled in various fields, including acting, singing, and even as an executive in Major League Baseball. This diverse background brought a unique perspective to his coaching, allowing him to connect with players on a different level.

Legacy & Recognition: Conzelman's impact on football is undeniable. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1964 is a testament to his contribution to the game.

The Arizona State Sun Devils and the Arizona Wildcats football rivalry, known as the "Duel in the Desert," is one of the oldest and most intense in college football. Dating back to 1899, the rivalry transcends the gridiron, reflecting the political and cultural differences between the two universities and the state of Arizona.
Early Years and Political Tensions (1899-1950s):
The rivalry began early, with the first game played just two years after Arizona State's founding. The games were often fiercely competitive, mirroring the growing political tensions between the University of Arizona, established in 1885, and the newly formed Arizona State College.
The Territorial Cup and Shifting Landscapes (1950s-2000s):
The "Territorial Cup" was introduced in 1988, adding another layer of significance to the rivalry. The trophy, awarded to the winner of the annual game, symbolized the ongoing battle for bragging rights within the state. The late 1950s saw a particularly heated period, fueled by Arizona State's rise to university status, a move opposed by the University of Arizona.
Modern Era and Renewed Intensity (2000s-Present):
The rivalry has continued to be a highlight of the college football season in recent years. Both teams have experienced periods of success, contributing to dramatic and unpredictable matchups. The rise of social media has added a new dimension to the rivalry, allowing fans to engage in passionate online discussions and banter.
Beyond the Game: A Shared Legacy and Community Spirit:
Despite the intense competition, the rivalry is also rooted in mutual respect and a shared history. Both universities contribute to the vibrant educational and cultural landscape of Arizona, and the "Duel in the Desert" serves as a unifying event for the state's football fans.

The retired journalist turned author has a passion for writing about sports. Read his recent posts sportspage.com/author/budd-bailey/">Buffalo Sports Page & Learn more about him and his books here.

Born amidst the bustling energy of Austin, Texas, the Longhorns football program has a history as rich and vibrant as the state itself. Its origins trace back to 1893, when a group of students led by the visionary William T. Conner formed an informal team. Their passion and dedication ignited a fire that would blaze a path for future generations of Longhorn athletes.
The early years were characterized by a spirit of determination and resourcefulness. Despite limited resources and infrastructure, the Longhorns carved their own path, competing against local teams and gradually building a reputation for grit and tenacity. Their first official season in 1894 marked the beginning of a legacy that would transcend generations, establishing the Longhorns as a force to be reckoned with in the nascent world of college football.
Through the early decades of the 20th century, the Longhorns navigated a landscape of evolving rules and growing competition. Yet, their unwavering spirit continued to shine through. Coaches like E.J. "Doc" Steckel and Blair Cherry instilled a sense of discipline and tactical acumen that helped the Longhorns rise to prominence.
The journey of the early Longhorns was one of unwavering spirit, remarkable resilience, and a deep-seated love for the game. These foundational years laid the groundwork for the program's future success, paving the way for legendary coaches, iconic players, and countless victories that would solidify the Longhorns' place among college football's elite.

The rivalry between Appalachian State and Wake Forest football is a relatively young one, but it has quickly grown to be one of the most heated in the state of North Carolina. Here's a brief history of the series:

Early Years (1941-1997):

The two teams first met in 1941, with Wake Forest winning 35-0.
The series was sporadic in the early years, with only five games played between 1941 and 1997.
Wake Forest dominated the early encounters, winning all five games by an average margin of 22 points.
Appalachian State's Rise and Rivalry Grows (1998-2013):

The rivalry began to heat up in the late 1990s as Appalachian State, then an FCS powerhouse, challenged Wake Forest to closer games.
In 1998, Appalachian State pulled off a stunning 24-21 upset victory, marking their first win over the Demon Deacons.
The series became more frequent after Appalachian State's victory, with the two teams playing seven times between 1998 and 2013.
The Mountaineers continued to compete well, winning three of those games and keeping the rivalry competitive.
FBS Era and Increased Competition (2014-Present):

Since Appalachian State's transition to the FBS in 2014, the rivalry has taken on a new level of significance.
Both teams have been competing for Sun Belt Conference championships, adding another layer of intensity to the matchup.
The series has been tightly contested during this era, with Wake Forest holding a slight 3-2 edge.
The most recent encounter in 2022 saw Wake Forest win a close 34-31 battle, highlighting the continued competitiveness of the rivalry.

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Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster was the anchor of a line that protected QB Terry Bradshaw. Part of the success of the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mike Webster's story is a complex one, a tale of gridiron greatness intertwined with a heartbreaking and controversial ending. He wasn't just a Pro Football Hall of Fame center for the Pittsburgh Steelers; he was a symbol of the human cost of playing the game he loved.

Webster's career began like a dream. Drafted by the Steelers in 1974, he quickly established himself as the anchor of their offensive line. His intelligence, strength, and leadership were instrumental in the Steelers' dynasty era, contributing to four Super Bowl victories and earning him four All-Pro selections.

Beyond individual accolades, Webster was a beloved teammate and locker-room leader. His calm demeanor and fierce loyalty earned him the respect and admiration of players and coaches alike. He embodied the "Steel Curtain" mentality, playing with a toughness and tenacity that defined the Steelers' identity.

Beyond the gridiron, the Texas Longhorns football program boasts a vibrant tapestry of traditions that enrich the game experience and bind generations of fans together. These traditions, passed down through the years, contribute to the unique atmosphere and passionate spirit that define a Longhorn football game.
Standout Traditions:

Bevo: The beloved mascot, a live Longhorn steer, embodies the strength and spirit of the Longhorns. Bevo makes grand entrances at every home game, captivating fans with his majestic presence.

The Eyes of Texas: This iconic song, sung after each touchdown and at the end of the game, serves as a powerful anthem of unity and pride for Longhorn fans.

Hook 'em, Horns: This ubiquitous phrase, accompanied by the iconic hand gesture, is a universal expression of Longhorn spirit, uniting fans in a shared passion for the team.

Smokey the Cannon: This historic Civil War cannon, fired after each Texas score and at the end of winning games, booms with resounding pride, adding a thrilling element to the gameday atmosphere.

Texas Fight: This spirited chant, led by the Longhorn Band, engages fans in a synchronized display of unity and excitement, reminding the players of their unwavering support.

Burnt Orange and White: These colors, representing the Texas flag and the university's official colors, are proudly displayed by fans, players, and coaches, symbolizing loyalty and belonging to the Longhorn family.

The University of Texas Tower: This iconic landmark, illuminated in burnt orange after every victory, serves as a beacon of Longhorn pride, visible throughout Austin and symbolizing the program's enduring legacy.

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How much do you know about the NFL and its historic rushers? We spotlight a running back of the National Football League and pose a question has just one answer. The clues are in the hangman style of letter giving, just like a popular game show.

We delve into the passing game of the NFL, and test you a puzzle of your knowledge and recollection of an important person in NFL lore.

Do you have enough NFL information rattling around in the grey cortex to solve this puzzle?

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The bio of the gridiron historian, author, and founder of the Football Learning Academy, Ken Crippen, as found on the FLA website.