Football History

Born May 1, 1910, in Akron, Ohio, was the strong halfback of the seasons of 1928 to 1931 of West Virginia Wesleyan, Cliff “Gyp” Battles. Battles was masterful in busting off long runs according to the FootballFoundation.org.

During the 1929 season, he broke off a 50-yard run from scrimmage against Salem. In 1930 he returned a kickoff 98 yards and a punt 90 yards against Waynesburg and ran back a punt 90 yards against Georgetown. That same year he also had runs of 80, 73, 68, and 66 yards. His 1931 scorecard showed runs of 86, 62, 57, 54, 44, and 22; that season he crossed the goal line 15 times and booted four extra points.

Against Salem in 1931 he made seven touchdowns. The next day’s paper registered that Gyp had 354 yards rushing, 91 on kick returns, and 24 on pass receiving, total 469 for the game. Causing the great gridiron historian of the day Grantland Rice to write: "Battles simply ran over or around all opponents."  

The National Football Foundation selected Cliff Battles for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1955. After his schooling was complete Cliff played pro football with the Boston/Washington franchise from 1932-37 and twice led the National Football League in rushing in both 1932 and 1937 per the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Cliff was the first player in NFL history to surpass the 200 yard mark in a single game and earned All-NFL honors five different times from 1932 to 1937.  Battles fought his way over the goal line 3 times in a division clinching victory over the Giants in 1937.  He was at the pinnacle of his career it seemed, and then he abruptly retired as the Redskins froze his salary at $3000 per year. He was a standout player in fact Cliff Battles was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968. Battles was assistant coach at Columbia 1938-43, served in the Marines in World War II, and coached the Brooklyn Dodgers of the All-America Football Conference 1946-47.

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The 1937 Washington Redskins, a team that had recently relocated from Boston, etched their name into NFL history by capturing the league championship. This feat solidified their arrival as a force to be reckoned with. 1 Led by the astute coaching of Ray Flaherty and the dynamic quarterbacking of Sammy Baugh, the Redskins displayed a potent blend of offensive innovation and defensive tenacity.

-Podcast and Video Episode

Our guest expert is Washington football historian and author Mike Richman. Find Mike's books at: mikerichmanjournalist.com

The podcast episode unfolds the exhilarating narrative surrounding the 1937 NFL Championship, a pivotal moment for the Washington Redskins in their inaugural season in the nation’s capital. With insightful commentary from Mike Richmond, a prominent historian of the Redskins franchise, the discussion intricately examines the circumstances leading up to this historic match against the Chicago Bears. The episode elucidates the significance of the Redskins’ relocation from Boston, culminating in their triumphant achievement of securing a championship title in their debut year in Washington, D.C. Richmond articulates the key players who shaped the season, particularly the legendary Sammy Baugh, whose prowess as a quarterback heralded a transformative era in the NFL, transitioning the game from a predominantly run-based strategy to one that embraced the art of passing.
As the narrative progresses, the episode delves into the championship game itself, held at the iconic Wrigley Field amidst frigid temperatures and an icy playing surface that tested the mettle of both teams. Richmond's vivid recounting of the players' experiences on the field paints a stark picture of the brutality and competitiveness of the game, characterized by fierce tackles and strategic maneuvers. The hosts provide a detailed analysis of key plays and turning points that defined the match, culminating in the Redskins’ victory over the Bears, which not only solidified their place in NFL history but also served as a testament to their resilience and determination.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the broader implications of this championship victory, as the episode contextualizes it within the rich tapestry of American football history. Through expert insights and engaging storytelling, the podcast invites fans to appreciate the heritage of the sport and the lasting impact of the players who have contributed to its legacy.


Baugh, a rookie sensation, revolutionized the quarterback position with his accurate passing and strategic play. His presence immediately elevated the Redskins' offense, providing a crucial spark that propelled them to victory. The team's offensive prowess was further bolstered by the running game, which provided a vital balance, although not as flashy as Baugh's passing.

-1937 Season and NFL Title Game

Defensively, the Redskins were a formidable unit, characterized by their disciplined play and ability to stifle opposing offenses. Their cohesive teamwork and strategic execution allowed them to control games and limit scoring opportunities. This defensive strength proved essential in their championship run, allowing them to overcome formidable opponents.

The Washington club had recently relocated from Boston, and what a way for owner George Preston Marshall to introduce his franchise to a new town.

The 1937 championship game against the Chicago Bears, a rematch of the previous year's title clash, was a testament to the Redskins' resilience and determination. They avenged their earlier loss, showcasing their growth and development as a team. The victory secured the championship and marked a significant milestone in the franchise's history, establishing them as a dominant force in the NFL.

The 1937 Redskins' championship season was a watershed moment, demonstrating the impact of innovative coaching, exceptional quarterback play, and a solid defensive foundation. Their victory resonated throughout the league, setting a standard for future teams and contributing to the growing popularity of professional football.