Football History

Born January 22, 1927, in Stevens, Arkansas, was Joe “ The Jet” Perry of Compton Junior College. According to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Joe put his relatively small school, Compton Junior College, on the map when he registered 22 touchdowns in a single season! However, these feats didn’t attract the pro football scouts, and Perry ended up being found by the professional game in a fascinating tale told by ProFootballHOF.com. Before the Jet completed his college football career, Uncle Sam called him to enter into military service for his country. At some point after his initial training, Joe was playing football for the Alameda, California Naval Training Station team when one of the San Francisco 49ers of the new All-America Football Conference players saw him in action. This Niners player reported this information to the 49ers’ brass, who offered Joe Perry a contract. Perry accepted their proposal in 1948 when he was complete with his obligations. In 1969 Joe Perry was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

Born August 9, 1931, in Detroit Michigan, was legendary NFL defensive Tackle Gene Big Daddy Lipscomb. Big Daddy famously terrorized quarterbacks in the National Football League for ten seasons and also participated as a professional wrestler in the off season. His NFL career saw him on the rosters of the Los Angeles Rams, Baltimore Colts, and the Pittsburgh Steelers but his career was tragically shortened by his untimely passing at the age of 31 years old. Lipscomb's final NFL game was after the 1962 season at the Pro Bowl in January 1963, in which he was voted lineman of the game. Gene was a two-time NFL champion with the Colts in 1958 and 1959, a two-time first team All-Pro, and made it to three Pro Bowls. The Professional Football Researchers Association named Lipscomb to the PFRA Hall of Very Good Class of 2006.

In 2019, despite currently not being in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, he was chosen as a finalist for the NFL's 100th Anniversary Team.

George Taliaferro wasn't just a football player; he was a symbol. More than statistics and touchdowns, his story is woven into the fabric of American history, where athletic prowess met racial prejudice head-on, paving the way for future generations.

Taliaferro's talent was undeniable. A three-time All-American at Indiana, he showcased versatility as a halfback, quarterback, defensive back, and even kicker. He led the Hoosiers to their only unbeaten season and was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1949. Yet, racism reared its ugly head. He didn't play for the Bears but signed with the Los Angeles Dons in the rival All-America Football Conference.

His professional career was a testament to his unwavering spirit. He played in the NFL for the New York Yanks from 1950 to 1951, the Dallas Texans in 1952, the Baltimore Colts from 1953 to 1954, and Philadelphia Eagles in 1955, earning three Pro Bowl selections. His quickness, elusiveness, and powerful running style captivated audiences, chipping away at the color barrier within the NFL.

Though his statistics, 2,266 rushing yards and 1,300 receiving yards, may not scream Hall of Fame, his impact transcended numbers. Each yard he gained, each tackle he broke, was a victory for equality, opening doors for the likes of Willie Mays and Jim Brown.

Beyond football, Taliaferro was a fierce advocate for civil rights. He challenged segregation in his hometown of Gary, Indiana, and championed educational opportunities for minority students. He understood that his athletic platform could be a powerful tool for change, using his voice to dismantle systemic barriers.

Today, George Taliaferro's legacy is etched not just in football history books, but in the hearts of those who strive for social justice. He wasn't just a talented athlete; he was a pioneer, a trailblazer who used his gridiron gifts to make the world a more equitable place.

The Indianapolis Colts boast a rich and complex history rooted in triumph and turbulence. Their story begins in 1953, not in Indianapolis, but in Baltimore, Maryland. As the Baltimore Colts, the team experienced early success, winning three NFL Championships (1958, 1959, 1968) and reaching Super Bowl III. Led by legends like Johnny Unitas and Raymond Berry, the Colts were an offensive powerhouse, captivating fans with their exciting brand of football.

However, financial struggles and stadium issues plagued the Baltimore years. In 1984, a controversial move saw the Colts relocate to Indianapolis, leaving behind a devastated fanbase and igniting a fierce rivalry with the newly created Baltimore Ravens.

Fresh beginnings in Indianapolis brought challenges. Early seasons were lean, and the Colts needed help to find their footing. But the arrival of Peyton Manning in 1998 marked a turning point. The "Manning Era" brought unprecedented success. With Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, Edgerrin James, and the steady hand of coach Tony Dungy, the Colts became a force to be reckoned with. They reached the playoffs nine times in Manning's 14 seasons, winning Super Bowl XLI in 2007 with a thrilling victory over the Chicago Bears.

Manning's retirement in 2011 ushered in a period of instability. The Colts cycled through quarterbacks and coaches, searching for the next franchise player. Andrew Luck showed promise, twice leading the team to the playoffs, but injuries forced his early retirement in 2019.

The Colts entered a new chapter with the arrival of quarterback Carson Wentz in 2021. Under the leadership of coach Frank Reich, they reached the playoffs in 2022, showcasing a young and exciting roster.

Through triumph and turmoil, the Indianapolis Colts have remained a resilient force in the NFL. They've captured the hearts of fans with their exciting play and fierce determination.

Johnny Unitas wasn't just a quarterback; he was a revolution. In a time dominated by bruising running backs and conservative play-calling, Unitas emerged as a gunslinger, a magician with a cannon for an arm who redefined the position and ushered in a golden age of NFL passing. This essay explores Unitas' remarkable career, highlighting his rise from obscurity to stardom, his innovative playing style, and his lasting impact on the game of football.

-From Undrafted to Unstoppable (1955-1959)

Born in 1933, Johnny Unitas' path to greatness was anything but conventional. Despite a stellar college career at the University of Louisville, he went undrafted in 1955 due to his perceived size and lack of experience in a pro-style offense. Undeterred, Unitas signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but was released before the season began. He eventually landed with the Baltimore Colts, initially relegated to a backup role. However, fate intervened when the starting quarterback suffered a season-ending injury in the fourth game. Thrust into the spotlight, Unitas seized the opportunity. With his strong arm, pinpoint accuracy, and calm demeanor under pressure, he led the Colts on a remarkable winning streak, showcasing a revolutionary passing style that emphasized completing short and intermediate passes for consistent gains.

-The Architect of the Modern Passing Game (1959-1973)

Unitas' arrival coincided with the rise of head coach Weeb Ewbank, who implemented an offensive scheme built around Unitas' strengths. This "West Coast Offense" emphasized short passes, quick throws, and high completion percentages, a stark contrast to the run-heavy strategies prevalent at the time. Unitas thrived in this system, becoming the NFL's first true passing star. He shattered records, revolutionized the quarterback position, and led the Colts to a dominant era. He won three NFL championships (1958, 1959, 1968) and was named league MVP three times (1957, 1959, 1964). His iconic "Colts Prayer" touchdown pass in the 1958 NFL Championship game against the New York Giants is etched in football history as a testament to his clutch play and impact on the game.

-A Legacy of Inspiration and Innovation

Johnny Unitas' legacy extends far beyond statistics and championships. He inspired a generation of young quarterbacks to embrace the passing game. His calm leadership, competitive spirit, and dedication to accuracy transformed the way offenses operated, paving the way for the high-octane passing attacks that dominate the modern NFL. Even today, quarterbacks strive for the "Unitas-like" precision throws that revolutionized the sport.

Johnny Unitas' story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a love for the game. He was the right player at the right time, a gunslinger who dared to challenge the established order and ushered in a new era of football.

Born May 6, 1907, in Richmond, Indiana, was the only coach that won World Championships in both the AFL and the NFL, Weeb Ewbank. Think about that for a second, and couple it with the fact that he accepted his first head coaching job at the age of 47, and what a small window that was to accomplish so much!

Weeb’s 1958 and 1959 Baltimore Colts won the NFL Title in both seasons, and the New York Jets that Ewbank led won Super Bowl III! Ponder that, His Teams won the Greatest Game Ever Played and the Namath’s Promise of the Jets upsetting the Colts! Those two victories each changed the NFL forever and spurned its growth in popularity in amazing ways.

Ewbank's football experience prior to coaching the Baltimore Colts spanned various levels and roles.

-In College Weeb played quarterback at Miami University (Ohio), leading his teams to state championships in basketball, baseball, and football.

-He Coached high school football in Ohio from 1928 to 1943, achieving a winning record.
Military:

- Ewbank served in the Navy during World War II, coaching basketball and assisting with football on the Great Lakes Naval Academy team.

At the Professional Level he gained more skill and acclaim to propel him to the Colts job.

-Assistant coach for the Cleveland Browns under Paul Brown from 1949 to 1953.

-Head coach of Washington University in St. Louis (1947-1948), leading them to a winning record in his first season.

Weeb was best known for using the process of building winning teams patiently around great quarterbacks and Johnny Unitas and Joe Namath thrived in his system. Coach won 130 professional football games walking the sidelines as the head man and his legacy will endure as the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Weeb Ewbank in 1978.

In the annals of gridiron lore there are few defensive linemen as dominant and feared as Gino Marchetti of the Baltimore Colts. His revered legacy has stood the test of time.

-College Career

Gino Marchetti's collegiate football journey began at the University of San Francisco.

A standout defensive lineman, he quickly established himself as a dominant force on the field. His exceptional athleticism, combined with his relentless pursuit of the quarterback, made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Marchetti's college career laid the foundation for what would become a legendary professional football journey.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Selected in the second round of the 1952 NFL Draft by the New York Yanks, Marchetti's professional career began in earnest. When the franchise relocated to Dallas and then Baltimore, he remained a cornerstone of the defensive line. It was with the Baltimore Colts that Marchetti truly etched his name into football history.  

Known for his ferocious playing style and unmatched tenacity, Marchetti became the face of the Colts' formidable defense. His ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offensive plays earned him the reputation as one of the most feared defensive ends in the league. A key member of the Colts' championship teams in 1958 and 1959, Marchetti's impact on the game was undeniable.  

-Football Legacy

Gino Marchetti's legacy as a defensive titan is firmly established. His dominance on the field, coupled with his unwavering dedication to the game, made him a revered figure among fans and players alike. Beyond his individual accolades, Marchetti was a pivotal part of the Baltimore Colts' dynasty, helping to shape the NFL landscape during the 1950s and 1960s.  

His impact extended beyond his playing days. Marchetti's passion for football led him to become a respected broadcaster and analyst, sharing his insights and knowledge with a new generation of fans. The Pro Football Hall of Fame's recognition of Marchetti as the "greatest defensive end in pro football history" is a testament to his enduring legacy.  

Gino Marchetti's name will forever be synonymous with defensive excellence, and his contributions to the game continue to inspire and influence players and fans to this day.

March 28, 1984 -  The Colts relocated from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984. Reports say that franchise owner Bob Irsay moved the Colts in the middle of the night after renovations were not made to Memorial Stadium in Baltimore as he thought they should be. 

Mr. Irsay became a nemesis of then-city mayor William Donald Schaefer. When he later became Maryland’s governor, he converted the outrage into the political will to build Camden Yards. Irsay acquired the club in 1972, a year after they won Super Bowl V when he traded his rights to the LA Rams to former Colts owner Carroll Rosenbloom.

The Colts had a new stadium in place in the RCA Dome, called initially the Hoosier Dome, which they called home for 24 seasons in Indianapolis before Lucas Oil Stadium was built. Since in Indy, the Colts have made 2 Super Bowl appearances and even won Super Bowl XLI with Tony Dungy as coach and Peyton Manning under center.

Born May 30, 1949 - Salem, New Jersey -  Lydell Mitchell 3 time Pro- Bowl NFL Running back played for the Colts, Chargers & Rams.  The Baltimore Colts drafted Mitchell with the 48th pick of the 1972 NFL Draft. Mitchell played his college career at Penn State under Joe Paterno along with his fellow backfield mate Franco Harris. Quite a one two punch for the Nittany Lions in the season of '71. Lydell Mitchell entered the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004. Lydell's was a threat to run and recieve passes as a pro and when he teamed up with Colts QB Bert Jones the pair helped the team win 3 consecutive AFC East Titles (1975, 76 & 77), stealing the crown from their division rival the Miami Dolphins, yes those Dolphins that only a year or two earlier had an undefeated season.

Born June 5, 1925, was Art Donovan Jr. who was a Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive tackle that played professionally for the Baltimore Colts, New York Yanks and the Dallas Texans during his great career.

Donovan started college at the University of Notre Dame but this was cut short due to his enlisted service in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II. Art fought in some of the most famous battles of the war including Iwo Jima and Luzon. Donovan is a true hero as he earned multiple citations for his service and bravery and was even inducted into the U.S. Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame.

-College Career

Art Donovan's collegiate football journey began at Boston College.

Known for his immense size and strength, he quickly established himself as a formidable force on the defensive line. Donovan's physicality and tenacity made him a dominant presence, earning him recognition as an All-American. His college years laid the foundation for a legendary professional career.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Donovan's professional football career was marked by its unique trajectory. Initially drafted by the New York Giants, his path took several turns before he found his true home. He played for the Baltimore Colts, New York Yanks, and Dallas Texans before returning to Baltimore, where he would etch his name in NFL history.  

It was with the Baltimore Colts that Donovan truly flourished. As part of the legendary "Bulldogs" defensive line, alongside the likes of Gino Marchetti and Don Joyce, he became a cornerstone of one of the NFL's most formidable defenses. His ability to disrupt offensive lines and pressure quarterbacks earned him widespread acclaim. Donovan's career was highlighted by two NFL championships with the Colts, solidifying his status as a football icon.  

-Football Legacy

Art Donovan's legacy extends far beyond his on-field accomplishments. Known for his larger-than-life personality and sharp wit, he was as beloved for his colorful character as he was for his football prowess. His ability to entertain audiences with his storytelling and humor made him a popular figure both during and after his playing career.  

Beyond his comedic flair, Donovan was a fierce competitor who left an indelible mark on the game. His impact on the defensive line position is immeasurable, as he helped redefine the role of the defensive tackle. A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Donovan's contributions to the sport are celebrated to this day. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and football fans alike, showcasing the power of talent, determination, and a unique personality.

After the war Art played football for Boston College before he became a pro.