Football History

Ozzie Newsome, born March 16, 1956, in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, forged a legendary football career, transitioning from a standout wide receiver at the University of Alabama to a Hall of Fame tight end in the NFL.

Newsome's collegiate career at Alabama from 1974 to 1977 was nothing short of spectacular. As a four-year starter, he demonstrated exceptional talent and leadership. He served as the offensive captain and earned All-America honors in 1977. His impressive statistics—102 receptions for 2,070 yards, averaging 20.3 yards per catch—highlighted his playmaking ability. His senior year showcased his versatility, particularly in a game against Notre Dame where he caught seven passes, scored two touchdowns, and a two-point conversion, while also earning praise for his blocking. Perhaps his most significant accolade came from legendary coach Bear Bryant, who called Newsome "the greatest end in Alabama history," a testament to his all-around excellence. In 1994, Newsome's collegiate achievements were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Cleveland Browns selected Newsome in the first round of the 1978 NFL Draft. He transitioned to tight end in the pros, where he continued to excel. Over 13 seasons with the Browns, he redefined the tight end position, becoming a premier pass-catching threat. He retired as the NFL's fourth-leading receiver and the leading tight end, with 662 receptions for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. His best seasons came in 1983 and 1984, when he recorded 89 receptions in each year. Known as the "Wizard of Oz," Newsome was renowned for his reliable hands, precise route running, and exceptional athleticism.

Newsome's football legacy extends beyond his playing career. His transition to the front office, most notably as the general manager of the Baltimore Ravens, where he built two Super Bowl-winning teams, solidified his impact on the game. His ability to evaluate talent and build a championship-caliber roster cemented his status as one of the most respected figures in football.

Newsome's accolades include his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro selection. His college statistics include 102 receptions for 2,070 yards. His professional statistics include 662 receptions for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. Ozzie Newsome's contributions as a player and executive have left an indelible mark on the sport.

Born January 31, 1913 in Boston, Massachussetts was Notre Dame and Boston Redskins star end, Wayne Millner who was eventually ienshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

College Career

Wayne Millner's collegiate career at Notre Dame cemented his reputation as a tough and talented two-way player. Playing under the legendary coach Frank Leahy, Millner was a key contributor to the Fighting Irish's success in the early 1930s. He excelled as both an end and a defensive back, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. While specific game statistics may be less readily available from that era, accounts of his play highlight his impact. He was known for his hard-nosed style, both as a receiver and a tackler. Millner's contributions were instrumental in Notre Dame's strong performances during his time there, laying the foundation for his future professional success. He embodied the spirit of Notre Dame football, demonstrating dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence.  

Road to the Pro Game

Millner's path to professional football wasn't straightforward. While his talent was evident, the landscape of professional football in the 1930s was different than it is today. After his impressive college career, Millner entered the NFL and played for both the Brooklyn Dodgers and the Washington Redskins. During his time with the Redskins, he became a vital part of the team, contributing significantly to their success. He was a reliable target on offense and a force to be reckoned with on defense. Millner's professional career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served his country. This interruption underscores the dedication and sacrifice of athletes of that era. Upon his return from service, he continued his professional career, demonstrating the resilience and commitment that defined him.  

Football Legacy

Wayne Millner's legacy extends beyond his playing days. He is remembered as a tough, versatile player who excelled on both sides of the ball.

His contributions to both Notre Dame and the Washington Redskins solidified his place in football history. While individual statistics may not fully capture his impact, the stories and recollections of his contemporaries speak volumes about his talent and character. He was a respected figure both on and off the field, embodying the values of hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship. Millner's career, interrupted by military service, stands as a testament to his commitment to both his country and his sport. His legacy is one of grit, determination, and excellence, a reminder of the qualities that define the best football players. He represents a generation of players who played the game with passion and pride, leaving a lasting impact on the sport we know and love today.  


-Career history

As a player:

-Boston / Washington Redskins (1936–1941, 1945)

As a coach:

-Chicago Hornets (1949)

-Defensive backs coach

-Baltimore Colts (1950)

-Defensive backs coach

-Philadelphia Eagles (1951)

Interim head coach

-Washington Redskins (1952–1956)

-Defensive backs coach

-Hardin–Simmons (1957)

-Defensive backs coach

-Florida Blazers (1974)

-Defensive backs coach

-Career Highlights and Awards
-NFL champion (1937)

-NFL 1930s All-Decade Team

-80 Greatest Redskins

-Washington Commanders Ring of Fame

-Consensus All-American (1935)

-Career NFL statistics

-Games played: 76

-Games started: 52

-Receptions: 124

-Receiving yards: 1,578

-Receiving touchdowns: 12

Stats at Pro Football Reference Edit this at Wikidata

Jimbo Covert, born on March 22, 1960, in Conway, Pennsylvania, forged a legendary career as an offensive tackle, leaving an indelible mark on both college and professional football.  

The University of Pittsburgh's big offensive tackle, Jimbo Covert, later with the Chicago Bears, solidified his status as one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles.

College Career

Covert's journey at the University of Pittsburgh began with aspirations of playing defensive line. However, the Panthers' depth at that position, coupled with an injury, prompted a pivotal decision. He switched to offensive tackle, a move that proved transformative. He became a cornerstone of a formidable offensive line alongside Mark May and Bill Fralic, contributing to Pitt's offensive dominance. During his three seasons at tackle, he allowed a mere three sacks, with none surrendered during his senior year, a feat made even more remarkable by Pitt's pass-heavy offense. His exceptional performance earned him unanimous All-America honors in 1982, following a first-team All-America selection in 1981. His collegiate achievements culminated in his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003.  

Road to the Pro Game

Covert's stellar college career made him a highly coveted prospect in the 1983 NFL Draft. The Chicago Bears selected him sixth overall, a testament to his exceptional talent and potential.  

Football Legacy

Covert's nine-season tenure with the Chicago Bears solidified his status as one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles. He was a crucial component of the Bears' dominant 1985 team, which triumphed in Super Bowl XX. His exceptional blocking skills and unwavering consistency earned him widespread recognition. He was a linchpin of the bears offense, protecting the quarterback, and opening up running lanes. He was known as a smart, and tough player.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Covert's career is punctuated by numerous accolades:

-Unanimous All-America (1982).

-First-team All-America (1981).  

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2003).  

-Two-time Pro Bowl selection.

-Two-time All-Pro selection.

-Offensive Lineman of the Year (1986).  

-Super Bowl XX champion.

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2020).

Jimbo Covert's career stands as a testament to his exceptional talent, dedication, and impact on the game of football.

October 31, 1900 - Keytesville, Missouri - Cal Hubbard was born on that day and he was a tackle for Centenary and Geneva Colleges. Hubbard stands as a unique figure in sports history, a dominant force in both football and baseball, achieving Hall of Fame status in both. His imposing physique and exceptional athleticism allowed him to excel in both arenas, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of sport.

-College Career

The NFF informs us that Cal Hubbard played end and tackle for Centenary 1922-24 and then moved with his coach, Bo McMillin, to play one season at Geneva College 1926. Cal Hubbard's college career at Centenary College (Louisiana) and later at Geneva College (Pennsylvania) showcased his immense talent as a football player. He was a towering figure on the field, playing tackle with a combination of strength and agility that was rare for his size. Hubbard's dominant play earned him All-American honors and established him as one of the premier college football players of his era.

-Road to the Pro Game

Hubbard's path to professional football was somewhat unconventional. While he had the talent to play in the NFL, he initially pursued a career in Major League Baseball. He played for the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Cincinnati Reds, showcasing his athletic prowess on the baseball diamond. However, his passion for football eventually drew him back to the gridiron. In 1927, he joined the New York Giants of the NFL, where he quickly became a star.

Even during his college years, his potential for professional greatness was evident, drawing scouts' attention from professional football and baseball leagues. His time in college not only honed his athletic skills but also instilled in him the discipline and work ethic that would serve him well in his professional careers. Later as a pro, Hubbard was a big tackle, standing 6-4 in height and weighing 250 pounds, for the New York Giants, Green Bay, and Pittsburgh franchises.

His size and strength made him a dominant force on the offensive and defensive lines. After two seasons with the Giants, he was traded to the Green Bay Packers in 1929, where he joined the legendary coach Curly Lambeau and helped solidify the Packers' reputation as a powerhouse in the early NFL.

-Football Legacy

Cal Hubbard's football legacy is one of dominance and leadership. He was a key member of the Green Bay Packers teams that won three consecutive NFL championships from 1929 to 1931.

His imposing presence on the line was a major factor in the Packers' success during that era. Hubbard was a four-time All-Pro selection and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963. He was known for his exceptional strength, his relentless play, and his leadership on and off the field. Beyond his playing career, Hubbard also served as an NFL official, demonstrating his continued commitment to the game. His unique achievement of being inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Baseball Hall of Fame cements his place as one of the greatest all-around athletes in American sports history. Cal Hubbard's legacy extends beyond his athletic accomplishments; he is remembered as a man of integrity, sportsmanship, and dedication to excellence.

The College Football Hall of Fame added Cal to their lineup in 1962. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Cal Hubbard one year later, in 1963, for back-to-back Hall of Fame Enshrinements! Believe it or not 13 years after that in 1976 Cal Hubbard was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame as an umpire.

Career highlights and awards

-4× NFL champion (1927, 1929–1931)

-4× First-team All-Pro (1927, 1931–1933)

-NFL 1920s All-Decade Team

-NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team

-NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team

-NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

-Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame

-Grantland Rice's All-Time All-America

-Centenary College Athletic Hall of Fame

-Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame

-Missouri Sports Hall of Fame

-Baseball Hall of Fame

-Helms Foundation Hall of Fame

-Career NFL statistics

-Games played: 105

-Games started: 77

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Cal Hubbard. (2024, November 29). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cal_Hubbard

---

Our guest, Andrew Stockmann, is trying to preserve sports history. He is wrapping up post-graduate studies with the desire to run a sports museum near you. He is also the host of the Hallowed Ground Podcast, which showcases many museums and sports curators that honor the legends and the legendary.

We chat with Andrew about everything from his beloved KC Chiefs to his internship in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and everything in between.

Visit Andrew on X

This discussion is about the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the guest speaker’s experience working there as an intern. The speaker, Andrew Stockmann, shares his passion for football and museums, and recommends some must-see items at the Hall of Fame.

Andrew grew up in Kansas City and has been a Chiefs fan since childhood. He went to college at Wichita State University and studied sports management. After graduating, he worked for a fraternity and then started his own podcast called “Hallowed Ground: The Sports Museum Podcast.” In 2021, he decided to pursue a career in sports heritage and enrolled in the Museum Studies program at the University of Kansas. As part of his studies, he interned at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, during the summer of 2023.

Andrew recommends several things to see at the Hall of Fame, but he likes a gray metal panel on the second-floor and its interesting story in NFL history.

There is this and chats about the KC Choefs, a bit of baseball history and more. Take a look and listen.

---

Norm Van Brocklin's NFL career wasn't a linear path to glory. It was a journey marked by resilience, adaptation, and a pioneering spirit that helped revolutionize the quarterback position. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1949, Van Brocklin's early years were a struggle. The league was dominated by a run-first mentality, and passing was seen as a risky proposition.

Born March 15, 1926, in Parade, South Dakota, was the legendary Oregon Quarterback Norm Van Brocklin. He could quickly read the defenses and do what came automatically to him, find the open receiver for a gain. Norm was gifted with a peripheral vision that allowed him to take into view the entire panorama of play. In 1966 Norm Van Brocklin's collegiate story was placed into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Norm left Oregon while still having a year of eligibility left. The Rams used their number four pick in the 1949 Draft to pick Norm.

However, Van Brocklin possessed a strong arm and a deep understanding of the passing game. He chafed under the conservative offensive schemes of the time, yearning for a system that unleashed his talents. His frustration led to a trade to the Baltimore Colts in 1951. While his time there was short-lived, it marked a turning point. Under coach Weeb Ewbank, Van Brocklin was finally given the green light to throw. He thrived, setting a single-game passing record of 554 yards, a feat that stood for nearly two decades.

In 1954, Van Brocklin landed with the Philadelphia Eagles, reuniting with coach Ewbank. Together, they implemented a revolutionary passing attack dubbed the "Run and Shoot." This innovative scheme emphasized short, quick passes that exploited defensive weaknesses. Van Brocklin, with his accuracy and leadership, became the perfect conductor for this new offense. The Eagles flourished, reaching the NFL Championship game in 1960.

Van Brocklin's impact extended beyond on-field performance. He was a vocal advocate for the passing game, urging coaches and fans to embrace its potential. His success helped pave the way for future generations of quarterbacks who thrived in pass-heavy offenses.

However, injuries hampered Van Brocklin throughout his career. Back problems forced him to retire in 1960, leaving many to wonder what heights he could have reached with better health. Despite a relatively short playing career, his influence is undeniable. He is credited with being one of the first quarterbacks to truly master the art of passing, a skill that would come to define the modern NFL.

Beyond his statistical achievements, Van Brocklin is also remembered for his leadership and competitive spirit. He was a player who demanded excellence from himself and his teammates. Notably, he became the only quarterback in NFL history to lead two different teams (the Eagles and the Rams) to league championship games.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame says that even splitting time with fellow HOF QB Bob Waterfield, Van Brocklin won the NFL passing title in 1950, 52 & 54, playing for both the Los Angeles Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles leading Philly to the NFL’s championship title in 1960. Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined him in 1971.

Born February 2, 1895, in Chicago, Illinois, was the gridiron legend at so many levels George Halas. Where would we be in Pro Football without the significant contributions of Papa Bear? A better question is if we have Pro football without Mr. Halas.

George Halas, Bob Carey and the Chicago Bears celebrate a victory over the 49ers in October of 1958 courtesy of Ralphcar via Wikimedia Commons

Halas was an outstanding player; in College, Halas caught a Touchdown pass from Paddy Driscoll as the Great Lakes Naval Station team cruised to a 17-0 Rose Bowl victory over the Mare Island Marines squad. Halas went on to help organize and coach the Decatur Staleys, was handed ownership of the franchise by Mr. Staley himself, and then moved the team to the Windy City and re-branded them as the Chicago Bears.

In 1902 Papa Bear met with other professional teams across the midwest to organize the APFA, the early name of the NFL in Ralph Hay’s Hupmobile Showroom over a bucket of beer! Halas also coached the Bears squad for 40 seasons stepping away once to serve in World War II.

According to his bio on the Pro Football Hall of Fame site, George Halas finished with 318 regular-season wins and 324 total victories, which were both long-standing NFL records until Don Shula surpassed them in 1993. His Chicago Bears teams won six NFL titles, the first coming in 1921 after the Staleys moved to Chicago.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame recognized George Halas when they enshrined him in the inaugural induction ceremony in 1963.

-Career history

As a player:

-Hammond All-Stars (1919)

-Decatur / Chicago Staleys / Bears (1920–1929)

-Chicago Stayms (1920)

As a coach:

-Decatur / Chicago Staleys / Bears (1920–1929, 1933–1942, 1946–1955, 1958–1967)
Head coach

As a staff member / executive:

-Decatur / Chicago Staleys / Bears (1921–1983)
Owner

-Chicago Bruins (1925–1931, 1939–1942)
Owner

-Newark Bears / Bombers (1939–1941)
Owner

-Akron Bears (1946)
Owner

-Executive profile at Pro Football Reference

Career highlights and awards

-8× NFL champion (1921, 1932, 1933, 1940, 1941, 1943, 1946, 1963)

-2× AP NFL Coach of the Year (1963, 1965)

-NFL 1920s All-Decade Team

-NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

-Sporting News 1940s All-Decade Team

-Second-team All-Pro (1920)

-Chicago Bears No. 7 retired

-100 greatest Bears of All-Time

-Second-team All-Service (1918)

-Career NFL statistics

-Games played: 104

-Touchdowns: 10

Stats at Pro Football Reference

Head coaching record

-Regular season: 318–148–31 (.671)

-Postseason: 6–3 (.667)

-Career: 324–151–31 (.671)

Record at Pro Football Reference
George Halas. (2025, January 28). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Halas

Frank "Gunner" Gatski, born on March 18, 1921, in Farmington, West Virginia, became a legendary center whose tenacity and skill anchored championship-winning offensive lines in professional football. His career spanned two leagues and an era of dominance, solidifying his place in the sport's pantheon.  

Gatski was the center from Auburn who anchored the Cleveland Browns offensive line during the championship years of the late forties in the AAFC and early 1950’s in the NFL

-College Career

While often associated with his professional career, Gatsby's foundation was laid in college. He attended Marshall College (now Marshall University), where he earned his nickname "Gunner" due to his aggressive style of play. Although comprehensive statistics from his time with the Thundering Herd are limited, his reputation as a fierce and reliable lineman began to take shape in Huntington, West Virginia. His performance there demonstrated the raw talent and toughness defining his professional career.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Gatski's path to professional football began after his time at Marshall. He was a key acquisition for the Cleveland Browns as they formed in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1946. His arrival marked the beginning of a remarkable professional journey. As the center, he was the linchpin of an offensive line that paved the way for a dominant Browns team. When the AAFC merged with the NFL in 1950, Gatski seamlessly transitioned, continuing his stellar play.

-Football Legacy

Frank "Gunner" Gatski's football legacy is synonymous with winning and offensive line excellence. He was the unwavering presence at the center of the Cleveland Browns' dynasty, a team that consistently contended for and won championships in both the AAFC and the early NFL. Playing in an astounding 11 championship games out of a possible 12 in his professional career, and winning eight of them, underscores his pivotal role in the Browns' success. His toughness, intelligence, and leadership on the offensive line were instrumental in the team's ability to control the line of scrimmage and power their potent attack. Gatski's consistency and longevity at a demanding position solidified his reputation as one of the greatest centers of his era.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

-Played in 11 Professional Championship Games.  

-Won 8 Professional Championships (4 AAFC, 4 NFL).  

-Enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1985).  

While specific yearly statistics might be less readily available for the era in which he played, Gatski's impact is best measured by the championships he helped his team achieve and the recognition he received as a dominant force. His Hall of Fame induction is the ultimate testament to his enduring legacy as a cornerstone of one of professional football's most successful franchises.





March 18,1919 - Frank “Gunner” was born. According to the ProFootballHOF.com , Frank Gatski played in 11 Championship games in the 12 seasons he participated at the pro level, winning eight of them. Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Gunner Gatski in 1985.

---

Born March 18, 1952 - Mike Webster was the anchor of the Pittsburgh Steelers for 15 seasons, winning four Super Bowl Rings, per the Pro Football Hall of Fame's website. The fifth-round pick in the 1974 NFL Draft was durable, as he played ten straight seasons without missing a snap on offense. Webster was an All-Pro in seven seasons, earning a Pro Bowl slot in nine years. Mike completed his career by playing two additional years in the NFL with the KC Chiefs. Mike Webster was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997.

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.

Born February 19, 1942, in Flint, Michigan, was the great Safety out of Iowa, Paul Krause. Paul Krause, synonymous with interceptions, etched his place in NFL history with a remarkable 16-year career.

Krause's journey to the pros began at the University of Iowa, where he was a two-way star, excelling as both a wide receiver and defensive back. This versatility caught the attention of NFL scouts, and in 1964, he was drafted in the second round by the Washington Redskins.  

-College Career

At Iowa, Krause showcased his exceptional athleticism and football acumen. He stood out on both sides of the ball, demonstrating his prowess as a receiver and defensive back. His senior year saw him earn selections for prestigious events like the East-West Shrine Game, the Coaches' All-American Game, and the College All-Star Game, solidifying his status as a top prospect.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Krause's transition to the NFL was seamless. In his rookie season with the Redskins, he led the league in interceptions with 12, earning himself a Pro Bowl selection and All-NFL first-team honors. Despite his early success, the Redskins traded him to the Minnesota Vikings in 1968, a move that would prove to be one of the most lopsided trades in NFL history.  

Krause played for 16 seasons in the NFL, and when he retired, he had picked off more passes than anyone in League history at that point with 81 and made the All-NFL squad four times! He also started as a free safety in four Super Bowls. Paul Krause was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

-Football Legacy

Krause's tenure with the Vikings was legendary. He became integral to the "Purple People Eaters" defense, a unit renowned for its toughness and dominance. With the Vikings, Krause reached four Super Bowls, but unfortunately, they could not secure a victory in any of them.  

Krause's most enduring legacy is his NFL record of 81 career interceptions. This feat is a testament to his exceptional instincts, ball-hawking skills, and longevity. He was a true game-changer, capable of altering the course of a game with a single interception.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-NFL Record: 81 career interceptions  

-8x Pro Bowl selection  

-4x All-NFL selection  

-Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998
 
Paul Krause's impact on the game of football is undeniable. His range, intelligence, and playmaking ability redefined the free safety position. His interception record remains a benchmark for defensive backs, and his contributions to the Minnesota Vikings' success cemented his place among the NFL's all-time greats.  

Paul Krause. (2024, December 27). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Krause