Football History

Born May 18, 1924, in Asheville, North Carolina, was North Carolina Tarheels halfback of 1946 through 1949, Charlie Justice. The National Football Foundation led his Edwards High School in Asheville, North Carolina, to two unbeaten seasons. He matched North Carolina all-stars against South Carolina all-stars and scored three touchdowns in the contest! After high school, he spent four years in the Navy in World War II. Charlie was a key player on the football team at Bainbridge Naval Center; therefore, after his discharge, he was offered a pro football contract. He chose instead, at age 22, to start college. He was the starting tailback for four years in the single-wing formation coached by Carl Snavely at North Carolina. North Carolina had a 32-9-2 record while Justice was wearing the North Carolina Blue. Charlie was named All-America in 1948 and 1949 and finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting in both seasons! Justice set a school record for total offense that lasted for 45 years. Among his achievements: 1946--As a freshman against Virginia, Justice carried the ball 17 times and gained 170 yards. 1948--He led North Carolina to a 9-1-1 record, a national No. 3 ranking, the highest in school history. He gained 766 yards rushing and 846 passing. He returned 19 punts for an average of 17.5 yards, five kickoffs for 18 yards. His punting standard, 44.1 yards, led the nation. Justice set Heel records a lot during his four years at UNC. He scored 234 points and passed or ran for 64 touchdowns. As a ball carrier, he accumulated 2,634 yards. His total offense record of 4,883 yards lasted for 45 years until quarterback Jason Stanicek broke the mark in 1994.
Justice, graciously, was on hand to congratulate Stanicek. He was named the Most Valuable Player in the 1950 College All-Star Game, leading the college team to a 17-7 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. His nickname was "Choo-Choo," and a book titled "Choo Choo." The website GoHeels.com tells us that the great Benny Goodman and the late Johnny Long recorded the Campbell-Beebe song "All The Way Choo Choo." It sold by the thousands. in honor of this great athlete. Charlie Justice's collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1961. Justice, after college, took his game to the pro level, where he played for the Washington Redskins from 1950-54. In his book, They Made the Bell Tower Chime, Bob Quincy succinctly summed up Charlie Justice's college career. An excerpt is repeated here:
The Justice era of 1946-49 was the most exciting in Carolina's football history. Charlie was the ringleader of a circus of thrills. He set the pace, but his backing was superb.

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Born May 10, 1917, in Montreal, Quebec, was Charlie O'Rourke the Boston College quarterback of 1938 through the season of 1940. The media labeled him “Chuckin” Charlie because with O’Rourke the passing lanes were always open. O'Rourke was one of the most clever tailbacks the game has ever known, bringing a twinkle to the eyes of a young head coach named Frank Leahy, and leading Boston College to a 9-1 record in the 1939 regular season campaign, and the Eagles' first bowl invitation. The FootballFoundation.org shares that Eagles lost to Clemson by the score of 6-3, in that 1940 Cotton Bowl contest, but the wily triple-threat O’Rourke would not be denied applying some damage. It was in Chuckin Charlie’s senior season that he led the Eagles to a 10-0-0 record and inspired the Boston College eleven to a come-from-behind 19-13 victory over powerful Tennessee in the Sugar Bowl. However, O'Rourke's career shining moment probably took place earlier that season. The game was match made in heaven and easily would have been the game of the week if played in the modern era. The Eagles were set to tangle with previously unbeaten Georgetown - a game that Grantland Rice claimed was "the greatest college football game I've ever seen." Boston College was clinging to a 19-16 lead with two minutes remaining when, on fourth down, O'Rourke raced back to his end zone, eluding tacklers for almost a full minute before taking a safety. He then punted BC out of trouble and preserved a 19-18 victory. Risky indeed but talk about adding drama to a game! Charlie earned All-America status in 1940. The National Football Foundation selected Charlie O’Rourke for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1972. After his collegiate playing days were over Charlie had a pro football career with the Chicago Bears, Los Angeles Dons, and Baltimore Colts in 1942 and from 1946-49. He later coached football at the University of Massachusetts 1952-59. Somewhere in that busy schedule he even served as commissioner of the Pop Warner League, a national organization of junior football teams. NCAAF Jersey 13

The Pigskin Dispatch series titled "Football History Rewind" takes listeners on a captivating journey through the annals of professional football. Hosted by knowledgeable commentators, each episode dives deep into a specific season, year, or event, offering a vibrant blend of historical facts, engaging storytelling, and insightful analysis.

Here's what you can expect from Football History Rewind:

Rich Content:

Season-by-Season Deep Dives: Each episode focuses on a particular season, exploring the league's landscape at the time, key rivalries, memorable games, and the iconic players who dominated the gridiron.

Beyond the Field: The podcast goes beyond statistics and touchdowns, delving into the historical context, cultural impact, and societal changes that shaped each era of football.

Unforgettable Moments: From game-winning Hail Marys to heartbreaking fumbles, Football History Rewind relives the most dramatic and defining moments in NFL history, bringing history to life with vivid narration and sound effects.

Engaging Host:

Knowledgeable and Passionate: The hosts are true football aficionados, their enthusiasm for the game evident in their storytelling and commentary. They possess a deep understanding of football history and share their knowledge with infectious passion.

Unique Perspectives: They bring different viewpoints to the table, creating a dynamic and engaging dialogue that keeps listeners hooked. Sometimes, they even host guest interviews with players, coaches, or historians, adding further depth and firsthand experiences.
Variety and Accessibility:

Diverse Focus: The series covers a wide range of eras and topics, from the early days of professional football to the modern era. Whether you're a fan of the "Greatest Generation" of players or the high-octane offenses of today, Football History Rewind has something for you.
Convenient Format: Available on various podcast platforms, you can enjoy Football History Rewind on the go, during your commute, or while relaxing at home. The episodes are well-paced and digestible, making them perfect for casual listening or dedicated history buffs.
Overall, Football History Rewind offers a captivating and informative experience for anyone who loves the game of football. It's a journey through time, celebrating the legends, reliving the moments, and uncovering the stories that shaped America's most popular sport.

Strap on your helmets, football fans, because we're about to embark on a journey through the hallowed halls of gridiron history! This series will delve into the epic tales of the men who etched their names onto the fabric of the sport, both on the collegiate and professional stages.

From the electrifying atmosphere of Saturday Night Lights to the electrifying clashes of the NFL, we'll meet the legends who broke records, defied expectations, and left their mark on the game we love. We'll hear their stories, witness their iconic moments, and understand the impact they had on the sport and its fans.

Get ready to:

-Relive the magic: Witness legendary plays, heart-stopping finishes, and unforgettable moments that shaped the game.

-Go beyond the stats: Dive deeper than just the numbers to understand the personalities, motivations, and struggles that made these legends who they were.

-Discover the diverse landscape: We'll explore legends across eras, teams, and positions, celebrating the unique contributions of each individual.

-Feel the inspiration: Be drawn into the passion, dedication, and resilience that fueled these legends' journeys, leaving you feeling motivated and inspired.

So, whether you're a die-hard fan, a casual observer, or simply someone who appreciates greatness, this series is for you. Join us as we celebrate the legends of the gridiron, their legacies, and the enduring spirit of the game!

Western Pennsylvania boasts a rich and storied legacy in the world of football, dating back to the sport's early days in America. From humble beginnings to producing gridiron legends and fostering a passion for the game, this region's contribution to American football is undeniable.

The seeds of Western Pennsylvania's football history were planted in the late 19th century. Universities like the University of Pittsburgh (then known as Western University of Pennsylvania) took the lead, playing one of the first official collegiate games in the state in 1890. Shortly thereafter, professional and semi-professional teams emerged, showcasing the growing popularity of the sport amongst both players and fans.

The early 20th century witnessed a golden age for Western Pennsylvania football, particularly at the collegiate level. The University of Pittsburgh, under legendary coach Pop Warner, captured national championships in 1916 and 1918, solidifying the region's reputation as a breeding ground for football talent. Additionally, schools like Carnegie Mellon University and Duquesne University established themselves as powerhouses, fostering fierce rivalries that continue to captivate fans today.

Western Pennsylvania's professional landscape also flourished during this era. The Western Pennsylvania Professional Football Circuit, consisting of teams like the Latrobe Athletic Association and the Allegheny Athletic Association, offered a platform for early professional players and helped solidify the foundation for the future of professional football.

Beyond the professional and collegiate levels, high school football became deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Western Pennsylvania communities. Local high school rivalries became an important part of community life, fostering passion and camaraderie amongst generations of fans and players. This strong grassroots support system continues to nourish the talent pool and contributes to the region's continued success in the sport.

Today, Western Pennsylvania remains a hotbed for football talent, producing numerous professional players and continuing to be a major force in collegiate athletics. From the roar of the crowd at Heinz Field to the dedicated practices on local high school fields, the legacy of Western Pennsylvania football lives on, inspiring generations of athletes and fans alike.

This is just a brief glimpse into the rich history of Western Pennsylvania football. Stay tuned for further exploration of this remarkable story, delving into specific teams, legendary figures, and the unique aspects that continue to make this region a cornerstone of American football history.

The leaves are changing colors, the air is cooling, and the weekends are filled with pageantry, bands playing, and the crack of pads. Welcome to our September series, where we dive into the rich and exciting history of American football, day by day. Each post will explore key moments, memorable games, and influential figures that have shaped the game we love. From groundbreaking plays to pivotal matches, and from legendary players to unforgettable coaching decisions, we'll cover the events that have made September a significant month in football history.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the sport, these daily snapshots will offer a fascinating look into how the game has evolved over the years. Expect to discover intriguing facts, celebrate historic achievements, and perhaps learn something new about your favorite teams and players. Join us as we celebrate the milestones that have defined American football, one day at a time. Get ready to relive the excitement, drama, and triumphs that have occurred on the gridiron throughout September. Let’s kick off this journey through football history together!

Its football season when you hit this ninth month of the year, and every teams hopes and aspirations are in full gear, so let's enjoy the present and the past of the game we love!

For passionate football fans, game days are more than just cheering on your team. They're about the camaraderie, the heart-pounding action, and the shared love for the gridiron. But that passion can extend far beyond the stadium. For many, it spills over into a lifelong pursuit of collecting treasured pieces of football history – jerseys worn by legends, signed helmets, or even game tickets from monumental upsets.

This series dives headfirst into the captivating world of American football collectibles and memorabilia. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting to explore this fascinating hobby, we've got something for you.

We'll delve into the different types of memorabilia, from iconic game-used items like helmets and jerseys to unique pieces like vintage programs and trading cards. We'll guide you through the ever-evolving world of authentication, helping you ensure the legitimacy of your prized possessions.

But this series goes beyond the simple act of collecting. We'll explore the stories behind the memorabilia, the iconic moments they represent, and the legendary players they were associated with. Each piece tells a story, a chapter in the grand narrative of football history.

So, gear up, football fans! Whether you're looking to unearth hidden gems at flea markets or track down that elusive signed photo, this series will be your roadmap to navigating the exciting world of American football collectibles. Let's find those pigskin treasures together!

November, a month synonymous with crisp air, falling leaves, and the electrifying energy of American football. It's a month rich with historical significance in the annals of gridiron history. From the birth of professional football to iconic moments that have shaped the sport, November has been a stage for some of the most memorable events in football's storied past.  

Throughout the month, we'll delve into the captivating stories that have unfolded on football fields across the nation. We'll revisit the day when the sport took its first professional steps, witness the emergence of legendary players, and relive the thrilling victories and heartbreaking defeats that have etched themselves into the fabric of football lore.

Join us on this journey through time as we uncover the hidden gems and celebrate the milestones that have defined November in American football history. From the gridiron's humble beginnings to the modern-day spectacles, each day of November holds a piece of the football puzzle, waiting to be explored and admired.

December, a month synonymous with holiday cheer and winter wonderlands, also holds a special place in the hearts of football fans. As the calendar flips to the final month of the year, the NFL season reaches its climax, with playoff hopes and dreams hanging in the balance.

Throughout the month of December, the gridiron has been the stage for some of the most iconic moments in football history. From thrilling comebacks to record-breaking performances, the month has consistently delivered unforgettable spectacles. As we embark on this journey through the annals of December football, we will delve into the remarkable stories, legendary players, and historic games that have shaped the sport.

Join us as we relive the excitement, drama, and pure joy that has defined December football. From the frigid fields of the Ice Bowl to the electrifying atmosphere of a packed stadium, we'll explore the moments that have captivated fans and left an enduring legacy.

While September marks the official kickoff of the NFL season, and fans eagerly anticipate the first snap, the true foundation for gridiron glory is laid in the often-overlooked month of August. This series delves into the unsung history of football's August, a period brimming with anticipation, adversity, and the forging of legacies.

From the sweltering heat of training camps to the cutthroat world of preseason showdowns, August is a crucible that shapes teams and players alike. We'll journey back in time to explore how the month has evolved from a period of basic conditioning to the highly orchestrated, media-saturated spectacle it is today.

We'll examine pivotal moments, legendary figures, and groundbreaking innovations that occurred in August. From the early days of leather helmets and grueling practices to the modern era of state-of-the-art facilities and sophisticated training regimens, we'll uncover the stories that have shaped the game we love.

Join us as we celebrate the unsung heroes, the pivotal decisions, and the dramatic turns of events that have unfolded beneath the August sun. This series is a tribute to the countless hours, sweat, and determination that have fueled the passion of football fans for generations.