Football History

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From the sun-baked plains of College Station to the thunderous roars of Kyle Field, Texas A&M football echoes with a history as rugged and resilient as the Texas landscape itself. But how did this gridiron giant first take its steps onto the field?

The year was 1894, when a young A&M, then known as Texas Agricultural and Mechanical College, yearned for an athletic outlet beyond track and baseball. Enter F. Dudley Perkins, a professor turned coach, who brought the first official football team to life. It was a humble beginning, a ragtag group of 11 men facing off against rivals like Baylor and Trinity University. Their initial record – 1 win, 1 loss – might not have set the world on fire, but it sparked a flame that would blaze for over a century.

Early years were marked by both grit and growth. Teams led by coaches like Charles Moran and Dana X. Bible carved their names in A&M lore, capturing conference titles and etching a reputation for tough, Texas-style football. The 1919 team, undefeated and untied, even earned a retroactive national championship title from the Billingsley Report.

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Ole Miss football, steeped in history and Southern charm, boasts not just wins and championships, but a treasure trove of intriguing facts that add another layer to the Rebels' legacy. Here are a few that might raise an eyebrow:

From Coach to Quarterback? Absolutely! Jacob Bennett, head coach from 1928-1941, also suited up as the team's starting quarterback in 1923. Talk about multi-tasking!

Bowled Over? Believe it or not, Ole Miss has a better win percentage in bowl games (68.6%) than regular season games (60.5%). Maybe they just thrive under pressure!

First and Fastest? Ole Miss football claims the fastest play ever executed in FBS history, a lightning-quick 1.1-second touchdown reception in 2017. Talk about instant gratification!

Hall of Fame Haven: Ten former players and coaches grace the College Football Hall of Fame, including Frank "Bruiser" Kinard, a member of both the College and Pro Football Halls! Double the honor!

South Carolina Gamecocks football boasts a captivating history, marked by impressive victories, intense rivalries, and organizational shifts. Here are some key highlights:

11-Win Seasons:[/v] Before coach Steve Spurrier, reaching double-digit wins was rare. Between 2011-13, the Gamecocks achieved this feat three times, tying their school record.

[b]Conference Hopping: From independent beginnings to Southern Conference, ACC, and finally landing in the SEC in 1992, the Gamecocks have traversed the collegiate landscape.

Bitter Rivalry: The "Palmetto Bowl" against Clemson reigns supreme. Though trailing overall, South Carolina enjoyed a dominant five-game winning streak from 2009-13.

Coaching Carousel: Throughout their history, the Gamecocks have had 32 head coaches, including notable names like Rex Enright and Steve Spurrier.

This rich tapestry of achievements, rivalries, and transitions make the South Carolina Gamecocks a fascinating team with a story worth exploring.

Nestled in the heart of Statesboro, Georgia, the Georgia Southern Eagles football program is more than just a team. It's a cultural phenomenon, a beacon of pride, and a champion of innovation, all wrapped up in the iconic blue and white feathers of their logo.

Early Beginnings and Rise to Prominence:

Founded in 1981, the Eagles quickly carved their niche in the NCAA Division I-AA (now FCS) under the legendary Coach Erk Russell. Their innovative triple-option offense, led by stars like Tracy Ham and Adrian Peterson, became a signature spectacle, earning them six national championships and solidifying their place among the elite.

The Paul W. Bryant Museum, located on the campus of the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama is a must-visit for any fan of college football, especially those with a passion for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of the program, the museum offers a captivating journey through the legendary career of Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant and the countless players who have contributed to Alabama's gridiron greatness.

The echoes of crunching tackles and deafening cheers still reverberate through the hallowed halls of Camp Randall Stadium, carrying with them the legend of Marty Below. More than just a football player, Below was a titan of the 1920s Wisconsin Badgers, a man whose name is synonymous with grit, power, and unwavering loyalty to his alma mater.

Standing at a formidable 6'2" and 220 pounds, Below was a human wall on the offensive line. He played with a ferocity unmatched in his era, his tackles clearing paths for Badger ball carriers like battering rams through stone walls. His dedication to technique and athleticism earned him the nickname "The Colossus," a moniker that perfectly captured his imposing presence on the field.

But Below's legacy transcends mere physical prowess. He was a leader, a strategist, and the heart and soul of the Badger teams he anchored. His calm demeanor under pressure and unwavering determination inspired his teammates and instilled fear in opponents. He possessed a keen football intellect, calling out defensive plays and adjusting the offensive line with the precision of a seasoned general.

His impact was undeniable. During his two-year varsity career (1922-1923), the Badgers compiled a stunning 14-2-1 record and captured two Western Conference championships. Below himself received a plethora of accolades, including unanimous All-America selection in 1923 and induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988.

However, his most defining moment came not on the field, but amidst the allure of professional football. After a dazzling senior season, Below was offered a lucrative contract by a professional team. Yet, with unwavering loyalty to Wisconsin, he rejected the offer, stating, "No one loves to play football any better than I do, but in my opinion there is no comparison between college and professional football. I have completed my work in college and therefore I have played my last game."

This selfless act cemented Below's status as a Wisconsin legend. He embodied the university's ethos of academic excellence and athletic integrity, choosing loyalty over personal gain. Though in the era's reality, Bbelow probably made a much better and consistent wage at his regular 9-5 than pro football would have paid him, it probably was not as fun as getting paid on the gridiron!

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Born June 11, 1956, was Joe Montana, the Pro Football Hall of Fame NFL Quarterback that played for the San Francisco 49ers & the Kansas City Chiefs. Joe hails from Notre Dame where he was the signal caller and guided the Irish to be National Champions in 1977.

He earned the nickname, the "Come Back Kid" in the following year when he played in a frigid temperature Cotton Bowl. The QB was suffering from hypothermia at halftime and he stayed in the locker room being fed chicken soup and warm I.V.s. When he returned in the second half his team trailed 34-12 to the University of Houston when Montana guided the rally for a ND 35-34 win. The Pro Football Hall of Fame states that his uncanny ability to bring a team back from apparent defeat was so common that it simply became referred to as “Montana Magic.” A true student of the game, Montana won the NFL’s passing title in both 1987 and 1989. He topped the NFC in passing five times (1981, 1984, 1985, 1987, and 1989).

Joe threw for more than 300 yards in a game 39 different times in his career and 7 of those had yardage over 400 yards too. His six 300-yard passing performances in the post-season are an NFL record. He also owns the career playoff record for attempts, completions, touchdowns, and yards gained passing. In the NFL he became known as Joe Cool where he guided the 49ers to 4 Super Bowl victories under Bill Walsh. His amazing 15 seasons included 40,551 passing yards as he also earned a spot in 8 Pro Bowls.

Born September 11, 1913, in Arkansas, was College Football Hall of Fame Coach Paul Bear Bryant. Bryant is a special breed of man who is a revered coach in college football history.

Known for his gruff demeanor and relentless pursuit of victory, Bryant coached the University of Alabama for 25 years, transforming the Crimson Tide into a powerhouse. His dedication to discipline, hard work, and physical conditioning led to numerous national championships, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest coaches in history. Bryant's iconic image, often seen wearing his signature fedora, has become synonymous with Alabama football. His legacy continues to inspire coaches and players alike, reminding them of the importance of perseverance, commitment, and the pursuit of excellence.  

Coach set a record (which was later broken) for the most games won in a collegiate coach's career.

The majority of the NCAA victories came during his tenure (1958–82) at the University of Alabama. During his 25-year tenure as Alabama's head coach, he amassed six national championships and thirteen conference championships. Prior to heading up the Crimson Tide, Bryant was head football coach at the University of Maryland, the University of Kentucky, and Texas A&M University.

Jim Crowley, a name synonymous with dazzling footwork and innovative playmaking, was a cornerstone of Notre Dame's legendary "Four Horsemen" backfield in the 1920s. This essay explores Crowley's remarkable career, highlighting his exceptional talent, his impact on the game's evolution, and his enduring legacy within Notre Dame football history.

This isn't just another story of a star athlete. Here, we delve into the life and legacy of Jim Crowley, uncovering the secrets behind his electrifying play. We'll explore how his shifty style and innovative spirit, coupled with the visionary coaching of Knute Rockne, redefined offensive strategies and propelled Notre Dame to national glory.

-A Natural Talent with a Flair for the Dramatic (Early 1900s-1924)

Born in 1896, Jim Crowley possessed a natural talent for football from a young age. He arrived at Notre Dame in 1918, quickly catching the eye of head coach Knute Rockne with his elusive running style and ability to improvise on the field. Crowley's dazzling moves and knack for finding gaps in the defense made him a nightmare for opposing teams. He became a key figure in Rockne's revolutionary "shift" formation, a precursor to modern single-wing sets, that emphasized deception and misdirection.

-The Spark Plug of the Four Horsemen (1922-1924)

Crowley's true impact on football history unfolded alongside his fellow "Four Horsemen" – Don Hutson, Don Miller, and Elmer Layden. Under Rockne's tutelage, this backfield quartet revolutionized offensive strategy. Crowley, the spark plug of the group, dazzled fans with his shifty runs, pinpoint passes, and ability to break tackles. His creativity and understanding of the game elevated the entire offense, making the "Four Horsemen" a nearly unstoppable force. Crowley's electrifying play was instrumental in Notre Dame's undefeated season in 1924, solidifying their place in college football history.

-A Legacy Beyond the Gridiron (1924-1980)

Crowley's legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. He became a coach after graduating, implementing Rockne's innovative strategies at various universities. His coaching career, though successful, was overshadowed by his playing days. However, his influence on the game is undeniable. He popularized the role of the mobile quarterback and helped usher in a new era of offensive football that emphasized speed and deception.

-A Notre Dame Legend Forever (Present Day)

Jim Crowley's impact on Notre Dame is undeniable. He is revered as one of the program's greatest players, his dazzling runs and innovative spirit forever etched in the collective memory of Fighting Irish fans. His story serves as a testament to the power of individual brilliance combined with strategic innovation.

While the annals of professional football history are filled with the names of legendary quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers, there also exist countless stories of talented players who, for various reasons, never quite reached the pinnacle of the sport. Pat Harder is one such player. This essay explores Harder's football journey, examining his early promise, professional experiences, and the factors that may have shaped his career trajectory.

Born May 6, 1922, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Wisconsin Badgers fullback from the era of 1941 to 1942, Pat Harder. The FootballFoundation.org reflects on the unique cheer that the Wisconsin faithful would yell in unison from the stands, "Hit 'em again - Harder! Harder! Harder!"

In 1941 he led the Big Ten in rushing and scoring and followed that up in 1942 with the Badgers going 8-1-1. Harder scored 17 points as the Badgers knocked off national champion Ohio State 17-7. He was part of a backfield that included Jack Wink at quarterback and the “Three H’s” of Harder, Hoskins, and Hirsch.

Pat Harder’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1993. Harder served in the Marines in World War II. Pat had another year of eligibility but passed it up and joined the pros after his discharge from service. He was in two College All- Star games, 1943 and 1946. Harder earned the Most Valuable Player in 1943’s Chicago All Star event in a 27-7 victory over the NFL Champion Redskins, as Pat scored two touchdowns and kicked three extra points.