College Football

Born October 27, 1928, in San Antonio, Texas, was William Kyle Rote a halfback from Southern Methodist University.

It was a chilly December afternoon in 1949, and SMU’s 1948 Heisman winner Doak Walker, was injured and unable to play in the game when the undefeated juggernauts of college football, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish rolled into town to face the Mustangs. Doak’s replacement was ayoung unknown talent called Kyle Rote and he was up to the challenge. Rote came in and according to the National Football Foundation he ran for 115 yards, passed for another 146, scored all three SMU touchdowns.

And by the way he also averaged 48 yards per kick while punting in the game. Notre Dame held on and won the game, but Rote gave them all they could handle in the 27-20 Irish win. In the 1950 season Rote went on to become a consensus All-American selection. He took second in the Heisman voting that season and even got his picture on the front cover of Life Magazine. Kyle Rote was honored in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1964. Kyle played a short stint in minor league baseball then joined the NFL's New York Giants where he played from 1951 through 1961 and was a team captain. Kyle Rote even made the Pro Bowl four times to cap off a brilliant career in football.

June 6, 1879 - Jimmy Johnson was the quarterback for the Carlisle Indian Industrial School from 1899 to 1903 as well as Northwestern University's Dental School in 1904 and 1905. At Carlisle he played under the teaching of the legendary head coach Pop Warner and was named All-American by Walter Camp per the FootballFoundation.org. Camp based his selection on a remarkable game he witnessed when Carlisle played Harvard.  After Carlisle he studied dentistry at Northwestern and helped turn the football program there around in his two seasons played. In 1904 he scored a touchdown and helped beat Illinois 12-6 in the last game played at Sheppard Field. In 1905 he helped dedicate a new field, seating 13,000, on Central Street in Evanston, Illinois, as Northwestern beat Beloit 18-2. Johnson scored a touchdown and ran for 200 yards. Mr. Johnson was selected to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1969. After school was completed Johnson returned to Carlisle to help coach the players as an assistant in 1906, one season before a kid named Thorpe showed up to play on the gridiron for the Institute.

Pooley Hubert was of the top early Southern college football players. Pooley played quarterback for coach Wallace Wade's Alabama Crimson Tide teams from 1922 to 1925, leading Alabama to its first bowl game, the 1926 Rose Bowl, Which changed the perception and legitimacy of football in the South.

Allison "Pooley" Hubert is a name synonymous with Alabama Crimson Tide football's golden age. A versatile athlete who excelled on both sides of the ball, Hubert's impact on the program is immeasurable.

Emerging as a star in the early 1920s, Hubert quickly established himself as the heart and soul of the Crimson Tide. As quarterback, his ability to both pass and run made him a nightmare for opponents. His leadership and playmaking skills were instrumental in Alabama's rise to national prominence.

Beyond his offensive prowess, Hubert was a defensive stalwart, earning accolades as one of the greatest defensive backs of his era. His versatility and tenacity made him a dominant force on the field.

Hubert's crowning achievement came in 1926 when he led Alabama to a historic victory over Washington in the Rose Bowl, marking the first time a Southern team had competed in the prestigious game. His performance in that game cemented his legacy as a Crimson Tide legend.

Beyond his playing days, Hubert continued to contribute to the sport as a coach at Mississippi State Teachers College and Virginia Military Institute. His impact on Alabama football, however, remains unparalleled. Pooley Hubert's name will forever be etched in the Crimson Tide's storied history.

Born May 1, 1905, in De Ridder, Louisiana, was the Louisiana-Lafayette (1922-25 ) and with Army from 1926 to 1929, halfback Chris “Red” Cagle. The National Football Foundation states in their bio of Red that Chris while at  Southwestern Louisiana chalked up 235 points by scoring touchdowns, kicking extra points and converting field goals. This was a school record that lasted until 1989! He was able to play in college for 8 seasons as he split the balance of his NCAA career with the Army Cadets. Red was an All-America halfback the last three seasons at West Point. His longest runs were 75 yards against Yale, 1928; 70 yards against Ohio Wesleyan and 65 yards against Yale, 1929. In four years at Army he scored 169 points, averaged 6.4 yards per attempt in rushing and 26.4 yards on kickoff returns. Our friend Chris Willis from NFL Films wrote in an article for the Pro Football Journal website that Cagle was on the cover of Time Magazine in 1929 while with Army. He was often seen playing with either his chin strap undone or with no helmet at all. Chris Cagle was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954 after the National Football Foundation tallied their votes. C. Willis goes on to tell us that Cagle played 5 steady but uneventful seasons in the NFL with the New York Giants. Red Cagle did however own an NFL franchise, the Brooklyn Dodgers, for a couple of seasons with his partner John “Shipwreck” Kelly. 

The name "Four Horsemen" evokes images of gridiron dominance in college football history. But within this legendary backfield at Notre Dame, one player stands out for his well-rounded brilliance – Harry Stuhldreher. He wasn't just a football star; he was a poet, a lawyer, and a leader who embodied the spirit of innovation. Today, we delve deeper than the touchdowns and highlight reels. Join us as we explore the remarkable life of Harry Stuhldreher – the Renaissance Man of the gridiron!

Harry Stuhldreher wasn't just a football player; he was a multi-talented athlete who embodied the spirit of innovation and leadership during a golden age of college football. This essay explores Stuhldreher's remarkable career, examining his prowess on the field, his contributions to the legendary "Four Horsemen" backfield, and his lasting influence on the game.

-A Well-Rounded Athlete: From Poetry to the Playing Field (Early 1900s-1924)

Born in 1901, Stuhldreher displayed a diverse range of talents from a young age. He excelled in academics, even winning a poetry contest while attending Culver Military Academy. However, it was on the football field where his brilliance truly shone. He enrolled at the University of Notre Dame, quickly establishing himself as a standout player under the guidance of the visionary coach Knute Rockne.

-The Birth of a Legend: The "Four Horsemen" and Offensive Innovation (1922-1924)
Stuhldreher's place in football history is cemented by his role in Notre Dame's legendary "Four Horsemen" backfield alongside Don Miller, Jim Crowley, and Elmer Layden. This innovative offensive unit, spearheaded by Rockne's revolutionary "shift" formation, revolutionized college football. Stuhldreher, a versatile backfield threat, could pass, run, and block with exceptional skill. He was the glue that held the "Four Horsemen" together, his leadership and strategic understanding being instrumental to their success.

-Playing as a Pro

Stuhldreher's fame as a football player was lucrative in the years proceeding his time with the Irish. He played in multiple exhibition games with former teammates on the Notre Dame All-Star squad and later made spot appearances with the Waterbury Blues (Hartford Blues).

Harry Stuhldreher's professional football career was short-lived and marked by a unique twist. After a brief stint with the Brooklyn Lions in 1926, the team underwent a significant change. They merged with several players from the "Four Horsemen," including Stuhldreher, and even adopted the "Horsemen" name. However, this ambitious attempt at professional gridiron glory proved fleeting. Both the newly formed "Horsemen" franchise and the entire American Football League (AFL), in which they competed, folded after just one season. This unfortunate turn of events brought a premature end to Stuhldreher's professional football aspirations, along with the Brooklyn NFL franchise and the AFL itself.

-A Legacy Beyond Statistics: More Than Wins and Losses (1924-Present)

Stuhldreher's career transcended mere statistics. He helped lead Notre Dame to an undefeated season in 1924, solidifying the team's national dominance under Rockne. However, his impact goes beyond wins and championships. He embodied the ideals of sportsmanship and intellectual curiosity that Coach Rockne instilled in his players. After graduating, Stuhldreher enjoyed a successful career in business with US Steel, further demonstrating his well-rounded personality.

-Stuhldreher's Enduring Influence on the Game

Harry Stuhldreher's legacy is multifaceted. He was a key figure in the rise of Notre Dame as a national powerhouse, and his contributions to the "Four Horsemen" backfield remain etched in football history. Furthermore, his versatility and intelligence on the field played a significant role in the evolution of offensive strategies. Stuhldreher serves as an inspiration not just for athletes but for aspiring individuals who excel in multiple areas.

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Born August 16, 1862, in West Orange, New Jersey, was College Football Hall of Fame Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg. Stagg was a great innovator of many items we know in football such as the huddle, man in motion, and more. Most of his career was as the head man for the University of Chicago Maroons. Biographer Jennifer Taylor Hall discusses the great Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg and his many contributions to football and sports in general.

Here is the transcript of Ms. Hall's conversation with us:

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With a rich history dating back to 1890, Ohio State football boasts a pantheon of legendary players who left their mark on the gridiron. Choosing a definitive "top" is subjective, but considering Heisman wins, individual accolades, and impact on the program, some names consistently rise to the top.

The Heisman Heroes:

-Archie Griffin (1972-75): The only two-time Heisman winner in college football history, Griffin shattered rushing records and led the Buckeyes to a national championship. His legacy of leadership and resilience remains unmatched.

-Les Horvath (1944): A versatile threat, Horvath won the Heisman in 1944, playing running back, quarterback, and defensive back. His leadership during World War II adds another layer to his legend.

-Howard "Hopalong" Cassady (1953): Cassady's Heisman win in 1953 marked Ohio State's first national championship after decades. His electrifying running style and punting prowess made him a triple threat.

Defensive Dominators:

-Orlando Pace (1999-2002): A unanimous All-American and 1st overall NFL draft pick, Pace revolutionized the offensive tackle position with his size, athleticism, and dominance.

-Jack Tatum (1967-69): A ferocious safety and leader on the famed "Super Sophs" defense, Tatum's intimidating presence and game-changing interceptions cemented his place in history.

-Chris Spielman (1984-87): An emotional leader and tackling machine, Spielman's intensity and defensive acumen led the Buckeyes to a Big Ten title and earned him NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Offensive Masters:

-Troy Smith (2004-2006): Smith's dual-threat ability revolutionized the Buckeye offense, leading them to an undefeated season and national championship game appearance in 2006.

-Joey Bosa (2013-2016): A terror on the defensive line, Bosa's speed and relentless pass rush helped lead the Buckeyes to a CFP appearance and earned him the Nagurski Award.

-Curtis Samuel (2014-2016): A versatile threat as a receiver, runner, and returner, Samuel's explosiveness and playmaking ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

This is just a glimpse into the vast talent pool of Ohio State legends. From iconic coaches like Woody Hayes and Urban Meyer to countless other All-Americans and NFL stars, the Buckeye legacy is woven with the stories of these outstanding players.

O'Dea's impact wasn't limited to kicking. He excelled as a fullback, showcasing impressive athleticism and leadership. His success transcended the playing field, bridging the cultural gap between Australia and the United States. He became a symbol of the growing popularity of American football, showcasing the sport's global appeal.

Born in Australia on March 17, 1872, Pat became a legend in his home country for his athletic ability. After the start of a promising career of Aussie football, the youngster had ambitions of getting an education at Oxford University. On his way of furthering his education, O’Dea took a detour stop in the States to visit his brother Andy O’Dea at the University of Wisconsin, where the elder O'Dea served as the coach of the crew team.

In one 1899 game, Pat showed some football versatility as he returned a kick 90 yards for a score and added four field goals to the tally. He was a three-time All-American, a team captain, and a key figure in Wisconsin's rise to national prominence.

In 1899, O'Dea showed his moxy in a game against mighty Michigan. Both teams entered the late season game, held on Thanksgiving day, with only a single loss. Michigan's strategy was to take Wisconsin's best weapon, O'Dea, out of the game. The big, athletic Wolverine guard Richard France was one of the main characters deployed to execute the strategy, and he laid some viscous and on-the-verge-of-dirty hits on the Badger star player. Once O'Dea figured out France's intentions, the Aussie warned the Michigan guard to stop the activity or there would be trouble.

On consecutive punts, France charged O'Dea after the boot "like a battering ram," on the second of these occasions, O'Dea laid his fist across the Michigan guard's jaw, knocking him out to a sprawling condition on the ground. The Ref witnessed, and O'Dea was rightfully ejected, but he had already done enough damage, as the Badgers won the contest 17-5.

However, O'Dea's coaching career proved more tumultuous. After leading Notre Dame to a winning record, he was controversially fired for playing against his team in an exhibition game. He bounced around, coaching at Missouri and Stanford, but restlessness followed him. In 1917, O'Dea vanished, leaving behind a trail of speculation. Theories ranged from wanting to escape football fame to joining the Australian army in World War I.

He resurfaced in 1934, living under a pseudonym in California. While the reasons for his disappearance remain shrouded in mystery, it adds a layer of intrigue to his legacy. Was it a yearning for anonymity, a fallout from the coaching world, or something more?

Pat O'Dea's career may not have been conventional, but its significance is undeniable. He pioneered American football kicking, was a dominant player for Wisconsin, and symbolized the sport's burgeoning international appeal. Walter Camp described this athlete from "Down Under" as the man who “put the foot into football as no man has done or probably ever will do.” His enigmatic disappearance adds a layer of fascination to his story, making him a unique figure in the annals of football history.

Here's a snapshot of O'Dea's career:

-Dual-Sport Star: O'Dea's athletic journey began in his native Australia, where he excelled at Australian Rules Football for the Melbourne Football Club.

-American Adventure: In 1898, O'Dea crossed paths with American football at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He quickly emerged as their star fullback, showcasing his kicking prowess, a valuable skill in those days when fullbacks often handled punting and placekicking. He captained the team in 1898 and 1899.

-Coaching Stint: After graduation, O'Dea took on the head coach role at Notre Dame (1900) and the University of Missouri (1902), compiling a 19-7-2 record.

-Pioneering Kicker: O'Dea's kicking skills were considered top-notch for the era, earning him the nickname "Kangaroo Kicker." He helped introduce the placekicking style, which is more prevalent in Australian Rules Football, to the American game.

Impact and Legacy:

While O'Dea's playing career was brief, his impact is notable:

-Early Football Specialist: He was one of the first players to specialize in kicking, a vital role in the evolution of the sport.

-Bridging the Gap: O'Dea's experience in Australian Rules Football and American Football might have helped bridge some stylistic differences in the sport's early days.

Lee McClung wasn't your typical football player. In an era known for its brutality, McClung stood out for his remarkable athleticism and innovative spirit. This essay explores McClung's groundbreaking career at Yale University, highlighting his dominance on the field, his influence on the evolution of the game, and the legacy he leaves behind.

From Baseball Star to Football Pioneer: Born in 1867, McClung excelled at various sports in his youth. He was a standout baseball player, but it was at Yale University that he made his most significant impact. Joining the Yale Bulldogs football team in 1888, McClung quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Despite his relatively small stature for the time (5'10", 165-180 lbs.), he possessed exceptional speed, agility, and elusiveness.

Dominating the Field and Inventing the Cutback: McClung's impact on the game transcended mere statistics. He is credited with inventing, or at least popularizing, the cutback play. This innovative maneuver involved the ball carrier faking a run in one direction before cutting back against the grain for unexpected yardage. This revolutionary tactic challenged the rigid, straight-ahead running style prevalent in the late 19th century and opened doors for more dynamic offensive strategies.

An Unbroken Spirit and Unsung Hero: Football in the late 1800s was a brutal sport. Injuries were common, and protective equipment was minimal. Despite the physical toll, McClung never left a game due to injury, showcasing his remarkable toughness and dedication to his team. He captained the undefeated 1891 Yale squad, famously nicknamed the "unscored upon team," leading them to a dominant 13-0 record.

The bio of the life and career of Lee McClung, Yale Bulldogs College Football Hall of Fame star, and Secretary of the US Treasury.

Born May 30, 1915, in Conneaut, Ohio, was Yale’s great end from 1934 through the 1936 season, Larry Kelley. Kelley has been described by more than one reference as a very crafty and innovative player.

The FootballFoundation.org even gives an example from journalist Allison Danzig of the New York Times who called Larry a "genius who gets the touchdown regardless of the odds." One of the examples Danzig could be referring to is in a 1934 contest against Princeton, where Kelley caught a pass, ran 30 yards and was trapped by two defenders at the goal line.

He rammed between them and scored for a 7-0 Yale victory. Lightning struck twice as in the 1936 Yale versus Princeton matchup the Elis were down by a score of 16-0 but they rallied to win 26-23. Kelley gave a straight-arm to a defender and subsequently bull rushed his way to a critical touchdown. In total he played against Yale rivals Harvard and Princeton 6 times, scored a TD in each of the contests and Yale lost only once. Kelley indeed made a difference, he was that good. Good enough that in 1936 he won the Heisman Trophy, the second year of the award and the first time it was called the Heisman. The National Football Foundation selected Larry Kelley for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1969.