The game of American football is filled with strategy, legendary figures, great teams, and amazing events that have created euphoria in fandom. We celebrate the game and its people. Here are some items of interest that capture the spirit of the gridiron.
January 4, 1981 - The Red Right 8...
Football History | January 4, 1981 - The Red Right 88 Game
The 1922 Rose Bowl
Celebrate 2 of the top Gridiron Coaches in history in the latest Pigskin Dispatch book When Greasy Met the Wonder Coach
Greatest Pro Team
Who was the MOST DOMINANT team in Pro Football History? We have the answer in the latest Pigskin Dispatch book The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team
FREE Daily Sports History
You are only seconds away from receiving the Pigpen's Newsletter everyday filled with new items
SUBSCRIBE BY CLICKING
_________________________
January 4, 1981 - The Red Right 88 Game
The January 4, 1981, AFC Divisional Playoff game between the Cleveland Browns and the Oakland Raiders will forever be etched in NFL lore, not just for the frigid temperatures – one of the coldest games ever played – but for a heartbreaking finish. A tightly contested game saw the Raiders hold a narrow 7-6 lead at halftime. In the fourth quarter, the Raiders extended their advantage with a touchdown drive capped by Mark van Eeghen's second rushing score.
With time running out, the Browns, led by quarterback Brian Sipe, mounted a desperate comeback. Driving deep into Raiders territory, the Browns faced a crucial decision. Coach Sam Rutigliano, in an attempt to avoid a risky field goal attempt, called for "Red Right 88," a passing play with instructions to throw the ball away if no one was open. However, Sipe, under pressure, threw the ball towards Ozzie Newsome. The pass, unfortunately, was intercepted in the end zone by Raiders safety Mike Davis, sealing Oakland's victory and shattering the hopes of the Browns and their fans.
With time running out, the Browns, led by quarterback Brian Sipe, mounted a desperate comeback. Driving deep into Raiders territory, the Browns faced a crucial decision. Coach Sam Rutigliano, in an attempt to avoid a risky field goal attempt, called for "Red Right 88," a passing play with instructions to throw the ball away if no one was open. However, Sipe, under pressure, threw the ball towards Ozzie Newsome. The pass, unfortunately, was intercepted in the end zone by Raiders safety Mike Davis, sealing Oakland's victory and shattering the hopes of the Browns and their fans.
Preserving Gridiron History in a New Way!
Enjoy football history with some challenging word puzzle funThe Pigskin Dispatch Football Word Search
Proud to Support The Professional Football Researchers Association
To learn more about joining the fun in preserving football history go to The Official PFRA Website.
_________________________
We have placed some product links on this page. If you purchase by clicking on them, we will get a commission to use to help with operating costs.
Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there!
Brought to you by Number 80 Productions and Pigskin Dispatch
_________________________
Gridiron Legacy: Pro Football's Missing Origin Story
Author Gregg Ficery tells the story of the beginnings of Pro Football through the pro football career of his Great Grandfather, Bob Shiring
_________________________
Sports History Network
A Proud Partner in the Headquarters of Sports Yesteryear, SHN.
_________________________
Sports Jersey Dispatch
If you like remembering players of the NFL by their numbers then you may also enjoy going uniform number by number in other team sports as well. We have it for you on our other website in baseball, basketball, hockey and more on the Sports Jersey Dispatch.
_________________________
Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry
Author Joe Ziemba the master historian of football in Chicago has released another beauty. It is titled Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry.
_________________________