About Author Peter Oltchick
Journalist Peter Oltchick is the co-author (with former New York Daily News journalist Bill Bell) of Football for Fun: The Story of Coach Stewart “Fergie” Ferguson. Learn more about his work here on his own site!
Bevo was his Name
The History of the University of Texas Mascot.
From Hoya Hercules to NFL All-Star, a Life Cut Short
Albert Charles Blozis, known better as "Al," wasn't your average football player. He was a titan of a man, a gentle giant who dominated the gridiron and embodied the spirit of collegiate and professional athletics. His story is one of phenomenal strength, unwavering character, and a tragic twist of fate that left an indelible mark on the world of sports.
Born in Garfield, New Jersey, in 1919, Blozis's athletic prowess blossomed early. He excelled in football and track and field, standing at a towering 6-6 and weighing 245 pounds. At Georgetown University, he became a legend, earning the nickname "Hoya Hercules" for his dominance on the offensive line. He won three consecutive AAU and NCAA shot put titles, setting a world indoor record, and anchored the football team to two undefeated seasons.
In 1942, the NFL beckoned. The New York Giants drafted Blozis, and he quickly made his mark, earning All-Pro honors as a rookie. He was a force to be reckoned with, known for his devastating tackles and ability to clear paths for the Giants' running backs. His athleticism even earned him the nickname "the Human Bulldozer."
But World War II interrupted his burgeoning career. Blozis enlisted in the Army and served with distinction, setting the Army's hand-grenade throwing record with a toss of 94 yards. In 1945, tragedy struck. Just two weeks after arriving in France, Blozis was killed in action, leading a patrol to rescue wounded soldiers.
His death at the age of 26 sent shockwaves through the sports world. The New York Giants named their athletic center in Frankfurt, Germany, after him, and in 1986, he was inducted into the National Football Foundation's College Football Hall of Fame.
Born in Garfield, New Jersey, in 1919, Blozis's athletic prowess blossomed early. He excelled in football and track and field, standing at a towering 6-6 and weighing 245 pounds. At Georgetown University, he became a legend, earning the nickname "Hoya Hercules" for his dominance on the offensive line. He won three consecutive AAU and NCAA shot put titles, setting a world indoor record, and anchored the football team to two undefeated seasons.
In 1942, the NFL beckoned. The New York Giants drafted Blozis, and he quickly made his mark, earning All-Pro honors as a rookie. He was a force to be reckoned with, known for his devastating tackles and ability to clear paths for the Giants' running backs. His athleticism even earned him the nickname "the Human Bulldozer."
But World War II interrupted his burgeoning career. Blozis enlisted in the Army and served with distinction, setting the Army's hand-grenade throwing record with a toss of 94 yards. In 1945, tragedy struck. Just two weeks after arriving in France, Blozis was killed in action, leading a patrol to rescue wounded soldiers.
His death at the age of 26 sent shockwaves through the sports world. The New York Giants named their athletic center in Frankfurt, Germany, after him, and in 1986, he was inducted into the National Football Foundation's College Football Hall of Fame.
How BYU Got the Cougars nickname
The antics of BYU’s favorite cat—including the time Cosmo’s tail got stolen by a group of Utes. — magazine.byu.edu
A history lesson on the origin of the BYU Cougars moniker
The Enduring Legacy of a Hawkeye Hero
He signed with Iowa as a quarterback and punter. In 1942, he helped the Hawkeyes stall the previously unbeaten Wisconsin 6-0. He had four punts of 50 yards in the low scoring game.
He was chosen t — hawkeyerecap.com
He was chosen t — hawkeyerecap.com
Jim Youel wasn't just a talented athlete; he was a Hawkeye legend, weaving his story into the very fabric of Iowa football history. From punting prowess to coaching glory, his name echoes through the halls of Kinnick Stadium, an enduring testament to grit, talent, and unwavering Hawkeye spirit.
Born in Vinton, Iowa, Youel's athleticism blossomed early. He starred in football, basketball, and track, before choosing the gridiron as his battlefield. As a quarterback and punter for the Hawkeyes in the 1940s, his name became synonymous with precision and power. His booming punts often pinned opponents deep, earning him the nickname "Iron Jim" for his unyielding leg and unbreakable spirit.
Youel's impact on the field went beyond punting. He played a pivotal role in defeating the undefeated Wisconsin Badgers in 1942, showcasing his leadership and knack for winning plays. His legacy reached beyond Iowa City, leading him to a brief stint with the Washington Redskins before returning home to teach and coach.
As a coach, Youel's legacy cemented. He led Fort Madison High School to two undefeated seasons and instilled the Hawkeye spirit in countless young athletes. His passion for the game was infectious, evident in his dedication to developing not just athletic prowess, but also character and integrity.
Though his life ended in 2020, Jim Youel's legacy lives on. His name graces Fort Madison's football field, reminding future generations of his achievements. He remains a cornerstone of Hawkeye lore, his story whispered in the stands and his spirit embodied in every Hawkeyes defender who lays it all on the line.
The First Plastic Helmets and 1940 Northwestern @ Syracuse
Those who designed, produced, and mailed the ticket brochure touting Syracuse’s 1940 game with Northwestern had no idea the game would be a watershed moment in football equipment history. Syracuse opened their season the previous week, downing Clarkson 33-0, but the matchup was Northwestern’s first, and that made all the difference. — www.footballarchaeology.com
Football Archaeology takes a snap shot look at the first time plastic helmets were introduced to live football games, and a bit on their creator, John Riddell.
Hobey Baker - a Tragic Tale of Fame
The tragedy of Hobey Baker was that young men of his social standing did not become professional athletes. in the end, that attitude may have killed him. — newenglandhistoricalsociety.com
The New England Historical Society has a great excerpt on the history of Hobey Baker and his days at Princeton.
COLLEGE HOF | ‣
Art Poe Famous Player not Poet
The famous Princeton Tigers two-way end was good enough to be inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame. He had five football-playing brothers, and was the nephew of Edgar Allen Poe, the famous writer.
South Florida Bulls Gridiron Traditions and History
From Sunshine State Upstart to Powerhouse Contender: Introducing the South Florida Bulls Football Program
Imagine a team born on a whim, defying expectations, and carving its own path to gridiron glory. That's the South Florida Bulls football program, a young powerhouse surging through the ranks of college football like a Florida hurricane. Their tale is one of audacious dreams, relentless spirit, and an unwavering drive to rewrite the record books.
Birth under the Sunshine: Established in 1997, the Bulls emerged as a vibrant symbol of the University of South Florida's growing ambitions. With no historical legacy, they had only talent, passion, and the sizzling Florida sun fueling their journey. Their first game, a resounding victory, set the stage for a remarkable ascent.
Conquering the Frontier: From humble beginnings in the NCAA's lower ranks, the Bulls clawed their way up, leaving a trail of shattered records and surprised opponents. The early days were paved with grit and determination, each win a testament to their unwavering spirit.
Charging into the Big Leagues: In 2001, the Bulls stormed the gates of the Division I-A (now FBS) level, facing established giants with youthful audacity. Undeterred by skepticism, they carved their niche, claiming conference titles, bowl victories, and even national rankings. They proved that passion and heart could match (and sometimes surpass) pedigree and tradition.
The Rocky Revolution: As their legend grew, so did their mascot, Rocky the Bull. More than just a symbol, Rocky embodies the Bulls' fearless spirit, charging onto the field with an infectious enthusiasm that ignites the stands. He's a reminder that dreams, no matter how audacious, can take flight on wings of unwavering belief.
On the following pages, we will cover aspects of the team, which may include the Program's Origin, the Biggest Games in School History, the Program's Top Players, the Most Significant Coaches, the Program's Logo and Mascot History, the team's Helmet Designs Over Time, and so much more.
Move forward into the school's Gridiron history on this page!
Imagine a team born on a whim, defying expectations, and carving its own path to gridiron glory. That's the South Florida Bulls football program, a young powerhouse surging through the ranks of college football like a Florida hurricane. Their tale is one of audacious dreams, relentless spirit, and an unwavering drive to rewrite the record books.
Birth under the Sunshine: Established in 1997, the Bulls emerged as a vibrant symbol of the University of South Florida's growing ambitions. With no historical legacy, they had only talent, passion, and the sizzling Florida sun fueling their journey. Their first game, a resounding victory, set the stage for a remarkable ascent.
Conquering the Frontier: From humble beginnings in the NCAA's lower ranks, the Bulls clawed their way up, leaving a trail of shattered records and surprised opponents. The early days were paved with grit and determination, each win a testament to their unwavering spirit.
Charging into the Big Leagues: In 2001, the Bulls stormed the gates of the Division I-A (now FBS) level, facing established giants with youthful audacity. Undeterred by skepticism, they carved their niche, claiming conference titles, bowl victories, and even national rankings. They proved that passion and heart could match (and sometimes surpass) pedigree and tradition.
The Rocky Revolution: As their legend grew, so did their mascot, Rocky the Bull. More than just a symbol, Rocky embodies the Bulls' fearless spirit, charging onto the field with an infectious enthusiasm that ignites the stands. He's a reminder that dreams, no matter how audacious, can take flight on wings of unwavering belief.
On the following pages, we will cover aspects of the team, which may include the Program's Origin, the Biggest Games in School History, the Program's Top Players, the Most Significant Coaches, the Program's Logo and Mascot History, the team's Helmet Designs Over Time, and so much more.
Move forward into the school's Gridiron history on this page!
Helmet Design History of the Michigan Wolverines
The Michigan Wolverines' winged helmet is not just a piece of equipment; it's a symbol of resilience, tradition, and iconic style. Its history, spanning over eight decades, reflects the evolution of the program itself, marked by innovation, adaptation, and a timeless commitment to maize and blue.
-1938: Taking Flight
The story begins in 1938 with the arrival of legendary coach Fritz Crisler. Seeking a distinctive identity for his Wolverines, Crisler spotted a stock helmet design in a sporting goods catalog featuring leather wings flanking the traditional facemask. Recognizing its potential, he had the wings painted maize and blue, giving birth to the now-iconic winged helmet.
-Early Tweaks and the Maize & Blue Revolution
Initially, the wings were smaller and more delicate, resembling those of a swallow. Over the next few years, they were gradually enlarged and stylized, taking on the bolder, predatory form we see today. This coincided with the "Maize & Blue Revolution" under Crisler, where Michigan athletics adopted a unified color scheme, further solidifying the helmet's visual identity.
-The Modern Era: Subtle Refinements and Enduring Legacy
The basic design of the winged helmet has remained remarkably consistent since the 1950s. However, subtle changes have been made over the years, such as the introduction of a single stripe down the center of the wings and the removal of the facemask's leather padding. These tweaks have modernized the look while preserving the helmet's timeless essence.
-More Than Just a Design: A Symbol of Wolverine Spirit
The Michigan Wolverines' winged helmet transcends mere aesthetics. It embodies the program's relentless pursuit of excellence, its unwavering confidence, and its connection to a rich footballing legacy. Players don the helmet with pride, knowing they represent generations of Wolverines who have battled on the gridiron under its iconic wings.
-1938: Taking Flight
The story begins in 1938 with the arrival of legendary coach Fritz Crisler. Seeking a distinctive identity for his Wolverines, Crisler spotted a stock helmet design in a sporting goods catalog featuring leather wings flanking the traditional facemask. Recognizing its potential, he had the wings painted maize and blue, giving birth to the now-iconic winged helmet.
-Early Tweaks and the Maize & Blue Revolution
Initially, the wings were smaller and more delicate, resembling those of a swallow. Over the next few years, they were gradually enlarged and stylized, taking on the bolder, predatory form we see today. This coincided with the "Maize & Blue Revolution" under Crisler, where Michigan athletics adopted a unified color scheme, further solidifying the helmet's visual identity.
-The Modern Era: Subtle Refinements and Enduring Legacy
The basic design of the winged helmet has remained remarkably consistent since the 1950s. However, subtle changes have been made over the years, such as the introduction of a single stripe down the center of the wings and the removal of the facemask's leather padding. These tweaks have modernized the look while preserving the helmet's timeless essence.
-More Than Just a Design: A Symbol of Wolverine Spirit
The Michigan Wolverines' winged helmet transcends mere aesthetics. It embodies the program's relentless pursuit of excellence, its unwavering confidence, and its connection to a rich footballing legacy. Players don the helmet with pride, knowing they represent generations of Wolverines who have battled on the gridiron under its iconic wings.
Related Titles
"IRON JIM", AL BLOZIS, ALBERT EXENDINE, BEN TICKNOR, CHARLEY TRIPPI, DARTMOUTH BIG GREEN, DUKE SLATER, FOOTBALL FOR FUN, FROM COLLEGE STAR TO PRO FOOTBALL PIONEER, JEROME BRUD HOLLAND, RUTGERS VS. PRINCETON, 1869, SEWANEE TIGERS, THE GREAT ROSE BOWL HOAX, UNDEFEATED, UNTIED, UNSCORED UPON, AND UNINVITED, 1960 GOPHERS, A CENTURY OF HUSKY GRIDIRON GLORY, A DUEL IN THE DESERT, A GATOR GALLOP THROUGH TIME, A MARCH THROUGH TIME, A VISUAL EVOLUTION, AGGIE TRADITIONS, AGGIE UPSETS, AIR FORCE ACADEMY FALCONS FOOTBALL, AKRON ZIPS, AKRON ZIPS FOOTBALL, ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE, ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE'S TOP SEASONS, APPALACHIAN STATE MOUNTAINEERS, ARIZONA WILDCATS FOOTBALL, ARKANSAS RAZORBACKS, AUBURN TIGERS, AUBURN TIGERS' IRON BOWL MAGIC, BAYOU BLITZ, BEYOND HAIL MARYS, BULLDOGS UNCHAINED, CHARGING THROUGH HISTORY, CHEVY CHASE FIELD, COLLEGE BOYS TO NATIONAL CONTENDERS, COMMODORE CONQUEST, CORN HUSKERS GREATS, DAWG DAYS IN ATHENS, DAWGS THROUGH THE DECADES, DAWGS IN THEIR INFANCY, DEFINING MOMENTS, DIVE INTO THE GRIDIRON GLORY OF THE WASHINGTON HUSKIES, EAGLES TAKING FLIGHT, FLORIDA GATORS 1911 SEASON, FLORIDA GATORS FOOTBALL, FROM AGGIES TO BULLDOGS, FROM BLACK AND GOLD TO STRIPES OF GLORY, FROM BLUEGRASS ROOTS TO NATIONAL CONTENDERS, FROM BUGEATERS TO CHAMPIONS, FROM CARDINALS TO CHAMPIONS, FROM CHAMPAIGN TO THE PROS, FROM COLONEL REB TO LANDSHARK, FROM DESERT SUN TO WILDCAT FURY, FROM GATORS IN TRAINING TO COLLEGIATE CHAMPS, FROM GREEN LEATHER TO CHARGING GRIT, FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO FOOTBALL ROYALTY, FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO GRIDIRON GREATNESS, FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO HILLTOPPER HEIGHTS, FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO NATIONAL STAGE, FROM HUMBLE FIELD TO SWAMP SENSATION, FROM HUMBLE ORANGE TO CHECKERED POWER, FROM MONUMENT TO MAYHEM, FROM OLD LINERS TO TERRAPIN TALES, FROM PALMETTO TO SPURS UP, FROM POWDER BLUE TO NAVY AND BACK, FROM PRAIRIE TO GLORY, FROM SAILOR HATS TO STAR V, FROM SCRIBBLE ON A NAPKIN TO BIG ORANGE ICON, FROM SIMPLE STRIPES TO BIG RED FURY, FROM STARRY V TO BLOCK AND BOLD, FROM STOLL FIELD TO KROGER FIELD, FROM TERRAPIN SHELL TO FLYING TURTLE, FROM WILDCATS TO BOBCATS, GATOR GREATS, GATORS GRIDIRON GEAR, GATORS GRIDIRON GRAPHICS, GEAUXING FOR GREATNESS, GEORGIA BULLDOGS, GUIDING THE GOLDEN GOPHERS, HAIL TO THE HOWLING RED, HAWKEYE SKY, HAWKEYE TRIUMPHS, HAWKEYES SOARING HIGH, HILLTOPPER HEIGHTS, HOOSIER HAVEN, HOOSIER HEROES, ILLINI HELMETS, ILLINI ILLUSIONS?, ILLINI THUNDER, ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI, IOWA HAWKEYES, KENTUCKY WILDCATS, KENTUCKY WILDCATS FOOTBALL, KINNICK STADIUM, KNIGHTS OF DISTINCTION, LSU TIGERS, LEGENDS OF THE ORANGE & BLUE, LINK TO THE OFFICIAL HOME OF WASHINGTON HUSKY FOOTBALL, LOUISVILLE CARDINALS, MAROON AND WHITE MOSAIC, MARYLAND TERRAPINS, MEMORIAL STADIUM, MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS, MICHIGAN WOLVERINES, MINNESOTA GOLDEN GOPHERS FOOTBALL LOGO, MISSISSIPPI STATE BULLDOGS, MISSOURI TIGERS HELMET DESIGN, MORE THAN BRICKS AND BLEACHERS, NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH, NUMBER 44, OHIO BOBCATS, OKLAHOMA SOONERS, OLD DOMINION MONARCHS, OLD DOMINION'S FORTRESS, OLE MISS REBELS, RAZORBACKS RISE, REBELS RISING, REBELS WITH A TWIST, RED AND BLACK REIGN, ROCKY TOP RHYTHMS AND VOL WALK VIGOR, ROCKY TOP TRIUMPHS, SOARING THROUGH HISTORY, SOARING THROUGH TIME, SOARING VICTORIES, SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS, TENNESSEE FOOTBALL, TEXAS A&M AGGIES, TEXAS A&M FOOTBALL, TEXAS LONGHORNS, TEXAS LONGHORNS ALL-TIME STATISTICAL LEADERS, TEXAS LONGHORNS FOOTBALL, TEXAS TECH RED RAIDERS, THE 1966 DRAFT, THE ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE'S BEST PLAYERS EVER, THE MAIZE AND BLUE REIGN SUPREME, THE SWAMP, THE UNCROWNED KINGS, THE UNTAMED 1960 BOBCATS, THROUGH GOLD, BLACK, AND STRIPES, THROUGH HELMETS AND HEADLINES, THROUGH STRIPES AND SOARING HAWKS, TOP MOMENTS IN OLD DOMINION MONARCHS FOOTBALL HISTORY, TROY TROJANS, UCF KNIGHTS, UCF KNIGHTS FOOTBALL, UNDER CRIMSON SKIES, VICTORIES THAT ECHO ACROSS THE DESERT, WASHINGTON HUSKIES, WESTERN KENTUCKY HILLTOPPERS, WILDCAT PROWESS, WINDY CITY CROSSROADS, WYOMING COWBOYS FOOTBALL, SYRACUSE ORANGE, CORNELL BIG RED, HARVARD CRIMSON, BIG BILL HOLLENBACK, THE KANGAROO KICKER, THE BATTLE OF THE BULLDOGS, AN ICON FORGED IN TEXAS, 1905 CHICAGO VS. MICHIGAN, 1969 MICHIGAN VS. OHIO STATE, 1969 TEXAS VERSUS ARKANSAS, 1999 TEXAS A&M VERSUS TEXAS, 1999 TEXAS VS. TEXAS A&M FOOTBALL GAME, 2007 ARKANSAS VERSUS LSU, 2009 COLORADO VS. TEXAS, A TEXAS TRIUMPH, THE 1961 TEXAS-TCU GAME, THE 1969 ARKANSAS-TEXAS FOOTBALL GAME, THE 2008 TEXAS TECH VS. TEXAS FOOTBALL GAME, THE HAIL MARY HEARD AROUND MICHIGAN, THE UPSET OF THE CENTURY, DEVON KENNARDRelated Categories
ABOUT SPORTS, GREATEST GAMES, COLLEGE FOOTBALL PROGRAMS, AUTHORS, COLLEGE FOOTBALL PROGRAMS MOUNTAIN WEST, FOOTBALL HISTORY, FOOTBALL LEGEND, COLLEGE HOF, COLLEGE FOOTBALL PROGRAMS SUN BELT TEAMS, FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME, NFL PLAYERS IN REAL ESTATE, COLLEGE FOOTBALL PROGRAMS IVY LEAGUE TEAMS, GREATEST COLLEGE GAMES, COLLEGE FOOTBALL PROGRAMS BIG 12 TEAMS, COLLEGE FOOTBALL PROGRAMS PATRIOT LEAGUE, FOOTBALL ARCHAEOLOGY, FOOTBALL HISTORY MINUTE VIDEOS, COLLEGE FOOTBALL PROGRAMS ACCRelated Searches
sports:football, sports:college Football, Michigan Wolverines, sports:college football, Colgate Red Raiders, Pitt Panthers, Stanford Indians, sports:pro football, PCD:SandDe00, NFL Jersey 21, NFL Jersey 37, Iowa Hawkeyes, Rock Island Independents, NFL Jersey 14, NFL Jersey:Number 16, NFL Jersey:Number 47, Frankford Athletic Club, NFL Jersey 16, Los Angles Raiders, sports:profootball, Pottsville Maroons, Bevo, Hook 'em Horns, Texas Longhorns, Yale Bulldogs, Carlisle Indians, 1874 Harvard vs McGill, NCAAF Jersey 22, Boston College Eagles, sports:NFL, NFL Jersey:Number 40, San Francisco 49ers, PCD:MontJo01, NFL Jersey 19, CFB Jersey:Number 77, Chicago Maroons, Carlisle Industrial School, Canton Bulldogs, Oorang Indians, PCD:ThorJi20, Alabama Crimson Tide, Maryland Terrapins, Kentucky Wildcats, Sports:College football, CFB Jersey:Number 9, football position:center, CFB Jersey:Number 55, Appalachian State Mountaineers, big upset, NFL Jersey 2, football position:end
