Football History

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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.

April 2, 1965, in Brooklyn, New York, marked the arrival of Don McPherson, a celebrated quarterback whose collegiate career at Syracuse University etched his name into football lore. McPherson's time with the Orange was nothing short of spectacular, culminating in a senior season in 1987 that saw him amass an astounding collection of accolades.  

McPherson's college career was marked by exceptional leadership and on-field performance. His command of the offense and ability to make crucial plays earned him widespread recognition. In his remarkable 1987 season, he captured over 18 national Player of the Year awards, a testament to his dominance. Among these prestigious honors were the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award, recognizing the nation's top quarterback, the Maxwell Player of the Year award, honoring the best all-around player in college football, and the inaugural Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, celebrating the nation's premier senior quarterback. His stellar play also earned him unanimous First Team All-America honors, solidifying his status as the consensus best at his position. The pinnacle of individual recognition came when he finished second in the highly coveted 1987 Heisman Trophy balloting, narrowly missing the sport's most prestigious individual award.  

Following his decorated collegiate career, McPherson embarked on a professional football journey. He was selected in the sixth round of the 1988 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. He spent four seasons in the National Football League, also playing for the Houston Oilers. Subsequently, he ventured into the Canadian Football League for three seasons, playing for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the Ottawa Rough Riders. While his professional career was respectable, it was his achievements at Syracuse that truly defined his football legacy.  

Don McPherson's football legacy is firmly rooted in his exceptional accomplishments at Syracuse. His record-breaking senior season and numerous national awards established him as one of the most outstanding quarterbacks in college football history.

His impact extended beyond his playing days. McPherson founded the Sports Leadership Institute at Adelphi University, aiming to develop leadership qualities in athletes. Furthermore, he created the prestigious John Mackey Award, which annually recognizes college football’s most outstanding tight end, ensuring his continued influence on the sport. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008 stands as the ultimate recognition of his remarkable collegiate career and lasting impact on American football. Beyond the gridiron, McPherson has become a respected social activist and commentator, further demonstrating his leadership and commitment to making a difference.

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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.

The life and football career of College Football Hall of Fame star, Harley Sewell. Born April 18, 1931, Jefferson County, Oklahoma, was the University of Texas two-way player at guard and linebacker Harley Sewell.

Sewell was indeed a versatile player that the Longhorn’s used to gain advantages over opponents. One such instance of note, according to FootballFoundation.org, was the 1952 Cotton Bowl, where Texas blanked the Vols of Tennessee 16-0.

Sewell was named Defensive Most Valuable Player as he led a defense that held Tennessee to six first downs with negative 14 yards rushing. The National Football Foundation selected Harley Sewell for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

Harley went on to play in the NFL for the Detroit Lions and the LA Rams.

"Señor Sack" – Gabe Rivera, born April 7, 1961, terrorized opposing offenses at Texas Tech. Wearing #69, this dominant defensive lineman averaged 80 tackles a season, earning All-American honors and a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame. Though his NFL dream was tragically short, his Red Raider legend lives on.

Gabe Rivera's impact on Texas Tech football was immense. His nickname, "Señor Sack," was well-earned through his relentless pressure and exceptional tackling ability from the defensive line. His remarkable 1982 season alone showcased his dominance, solidifying his status as a Red Raider icon. Rivera's consistent high-level performance made him a force to be reckoned with and a beloved figure in Texas Tech football history.

-College Career:

Gabe Rivera's collegiate career at Texas Tech University was spectacular. He consistently disrupted opposing offenses as a standout defensive tackle from 1979 to 1982. Rivera's remarkable athleticism and relentless motor allowed him to average an astounding 80 tackles per season from his interior defensive line position. His senior campaign in 1982 was particularly noteworthy, as he amassed 62 solo tackles, 43 assists, 10 tackles for loss, five sacks, 25 quarterback pressures, and eight pass breakups. This exceptional performance earned him consensus All-America honors. Prior to his senior year, Rivera had already garnered recognition, earning honorable mention in All-America selections in both 1980 and 1981, showcasing his consistently high level of play throughout his time as a Red Raider.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Rivera's dominant performances at Texas Tech naturally attracted the attention of NFL scouts. His size, strength, and agility made him a highly coveted prospect in the 1983 NFL Draft. The Pittsburgh Steelers, known for their formidable defenses, selected Gabe Rivera with the 21st overall pick, envisioning him as a cornerstone of their defensive line for years to come. This high draft selection underscored Rivera's immense potential and impact during his college career, signaling a bright future in professional football.

-Football Legacy:

Despite playing only six games in the NFL, Gabe Rivera's impact and potential were undeniable. His selection as a first-round draft pick by a legendary franchise like the Pittsburgh Steelers speaks volumes about his talent. Tragically, his career was abruptly ended by a devastating car accident midway through his rookie season, which left him a paraplegic. While his professional playing career was brief, Rivera's legacy is cemented by his outstanding achievements at Texas Tech and the profound sense of what could have been in the NFL. His nickname, "Señor Sack," continues to evoke memories of his disruptive force on the defensive line.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-Consensus All-America selection (1982)

-Honorable Mention All-America (1980, 1981)
Averaged 80 tackles per season at Texas Tech

-1982 Season Stats: 62 solo tackles, 43 assists, 10 TFL, 5 sacks, 25 QB pressures, 8 pass breakups  

-Selected 21st overall in the 1983 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers
 
-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012  

Gabe Rivera's story is one of immense talent and heartbreaking tragedy. Though his NFL career was short-lived, his accomplishments at Texas Tech and the recognition he received both before and after his injury ensure his place in college football history. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012 serves as a lasting tribute to the remarkable abilities of "Señor Sack."

April 9, 1966, in Atlanta, Georgia, marked the birth of Tracy Rocker, a dominant defensive tackle whose collegiate career at Auburn University from 1985 to 1988 established him as one of the greatest defensive linemen in college football history. His sheer dominance on the field earned him numerous accolades and a place in the College Football Hall of Fame.  

-College Career:

Rocker was a force to be reckoned with for the Auburn Tigers. A three-time First Team All-SEC selection (1986-1988), he was also recognized as a consensus All-American in 1987 and a unanimous First Team All-American in his senior year, 1988. That same year, he achieved a historic feat by becoming the first SEC player to win both the Outland Trophy (nation's best interior lineman) and the Lombardi Award (nation's best college football player). His remarkable 354 career tackles remain the most by any Auburn down lineman, contributing to his selection to Auburn's Team of the Century and Team of the Decade for the 1980s. He also recorded an impressive 48 tackles for loss and 21 career sacks.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Following his decorated career at Auburn, Rocker was drafted in the third round of the 1989 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. He played for three seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Redskins (1989-1990) and briefly with the Orlando Thunder of the World Football League in 1992. While his NFL playing career was cut short by a knee injury, he earned PFWA All-Rookie Team honors in 1989, showcasing his potential at the professional level.  

-Football Legacy:

Tracy Rocker's football legacy extends far beyond his playing days. Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004, the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2005, and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 2018, he is celebrated as one of the greatest college defensive linemen of all time. After his playing career, Rocker transitioned into coaching, becoming a highly respected defensive line coach at both the collegiate and professional levels. His coaching journey includes stints at Auburn High School, West Alabama, Troy State, Cincinnati, Arkansas, Ole Miss, Auburn, Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, and in the NFL with the Tennessee Titans and Philadelphia Eagles, where he has mentored numerous talented players and contributed to championship-caliber teams.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-Unanimous First Team All-American (1988)  

-Consensus All-American (1987)  

-3x First Team All-SEC (1986-1988)  

-SEC Player of the Year (1988)  

-Outland Trophy (1988)  

-Lombardi Award (1988)  

-Auburn Team of the Century

-Auburn Team of the Decade (1980s)

-354 Career Tackles (Auburn Record for Down Linemen)  

-48 Tackles for Loss  

-21 Career Sacks  

-PFWA All-Rookie Team (1989)  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2004)  

-Alabama Sports Hall of Fame Inductee (2005)

-Georgia Sports Hall of Fame Inductee (2018)

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.

Harry Vincent Gilmer Jr. was born in Birmingham, Alabama on April 14, 1926. A talented athlete who excelled in multiple facets of the game, Gilmer left an enduring legacy in college and professional football.  

-College Career

Gilmer's college football career flourished at the University of Alabama from 1944 to 1947. He primarily played left halfback and quickly became known for his dynamic style of play. A unique aspect of his game was his "jump pass," a technique he developed in his youth while playing with taller teammates. This innovative approach became a signature move at the collegiate level. His freshman year saw him achieve a perfect 8-for-8 passing performance in the Sugar Bowl against Duke. His sophomore season was particularly outstanding, as he led the nation in touchdown passes (13) and also rushed for nine touchdowns. He amassed 1,457 yards of total offense, placing him second nationally, with a passing percentage of .648 on 88 attempts and a 7.0-yard average on 79 rushing attempts. Gilmer's versatility extended to punting and kickoff/punt returns. In his junior year, he led the nation in punt return average (14.5 yards on 37 returns). During the 1945 season, he guided Alabama to victory in the Rose Bowl against the University of Southern California (34-14). Over his Alabama career, Gilmer compiled impressive statistics, showcasing his all-around talent.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Gilmer's exceptional college performance made him the first overall pick in the 1948 NFL Draft, selected by the Washington Redskins. He played for the Redskins from 1948 to 1954, displaying his skills as both a halfback and quarterback. In 1955, he was traded to the Detroit Lions, where he played for two seasons (1955-1956) under head coach Buddy Parker.  

-Football Legacy

Harry Gilmer's football legacy is defined by his versatility, athleticism, and innovative playing style. His "jump pass" became a hallmark of his game and influenced future generations of quarterbacks. His college career at Alabama established him as one of the most talented players of his era, earning him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame. His professional career in the NFL further solidified his reputation as a dynamic and effective player. Beyond his playing career, Gilmer continued to contribute to the sport as an assistant coach with the Pittsburgh Steelers (under Parker) and the Minnesota Vikings. He later served as the head coach of the Detroit Lions starting in January 1965, demonstrating his leadership and football acumen.  

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1993)

-Twice finished fifth in Heisman Trophy voting (1945, 1947)  

-Alabama Career Stats:

-Passed for 26 touchdowns

-Ran for 24 touchdowns

-Passed for 2,894 yards

-Rushed for 1,673 yards

-Punting average: 36.4 yards  

-Kickoff return average: 28.7 yards  

-Punt return average: 13.5 yards  

Harry Gilmer's career spanned successful stints in college and the NFL, leaving behind a lasting impact on American football. He died on August 20, 2016.  

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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 on April 17, 1941, in Red Bluff, California, William "Bill" Redell distinguished himself as a remarkably versatile two-way player during his college career at Occidental College. His exceptional balance and consistent performance laid the foundation for a successful professional career in the Canadian Football League (CFL) and a subsequent impactful journey as a high school football coach. His multifaceted contributions to the sport earned him lasting recognition.  

-College Career

Bill Redell's time as the quarterback and defensive back for the Occidental College Tigers in the 1962 and 1963 seasons showcased his extraordinary athleticism and versatility. Nicknamed "the Falcon," Redell was a true threat on both sides of the ball. As a quarterback, he amassed 1,567 passing yards and 11 touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to lead the offense through the air. Equally impressive was his ground game, where he rushed for 1,583 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging an impressive 6.3 yards per carry. Defensively, Redell proved to be a ball-hawking defensive back, intercepting seven passes. His contributions extended to special teams, where he successfully kicked 36 out of 43 extra-point attempts. This consistent excellence culminated in his selection to the NAIA All-America team in 1963, highlighting his dominance at the small college level.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Following his stellar college career, Bill Redell transitioned to professional football in the Canadian Football League. He played for six seasons, from 1965 to 1970, suiting up for three different teams: the Edmonton Eskimos, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and the Calgary Stampeders. While specific statistics from his CFL career might be less widely publicized than his college achievements, his longevity in a professional league speaks to his continued athletic ability and football acumen. The experience gained in the CFL further honed his understanding of the game and likely influenced his later coaching career.  

-Football Legacy

Bill Redell's football legacy extends beyond his playing days, encompassing a significant impact as a high school football coach. After retiring from the CFL in 1970, he embarked on a coaching career, initially as an assistant at Cal State-Fullerton and California Lutheran University. His most notable coaching achievement came as the first head coach of the newly established football program at Oaks Christian High School in Westlake Village, California. Under his leadership, Oaks Christian quickly became a powerhouse program, demonstrating his ability to build a successful team from the ground up. His success as a coach further solidified his place as a respected figure in the football community.  

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-NAIA All-America Team: 1963  

-Occidental College Career Passing Yards: 1,567  

-Occidental College Career Passing Touchdowns: 11

-Occidental College Career Rushing Yards: 1,583  

-Occidental College Career Rushing Touchdowns: 8

-Occidental College Career Rushing Average: 6.3 yards per carry  

-Occidental College Career Interceptions: 7

-Occidental College Career Extra Points Made: 36 (out of 43 attempts)  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee: 2001