Football History

The NFL, a gridiron spectacle that has captivated audiences for over a century, is a league rich with tradition, drama, and unforgettable moments. From legendary players and coaches to epic matchups and stunning upsets, the NFL has provided countless stories that have etched themselves into the fabric of sports history.

In this series, we will delve into some of the greatest games ever played in the NFL, those contests that transcended the sport and left an indelible mark on the collective memory of fans. We'll examine classic matchups, thrilling comebacks, and iconic performances that have shaped the league's legacy.

In addition to the greatest games, we will also explore significant league milestones. These moments, whether they involve individual achievements, team records, or rule changes, have played a crucial role in the evolution of the NFL. We'll examine the breaking of longstanding records, the introduction of innovative rules, and the emergence of new dynasties.

Join us as we embark on a journey through the annals of NFL history, reliving the most memorable moments and celebrating the enduring impact of this beloved sport.

Founded in 1960 as an expansion team, the Dallas Cowboys have become one of the most recognizable and storied franchises in NFL history. Their journey, however, hasn't been without its share of ups and downs, twists and turns. Let's delve into the key chapters of the Dallas Cowboys' legacy:

Early Years (1960s-1970s): Building the Foundation

The early Cowboys struggled, experiencing losing seasons and searching for an identity. But under the leadership of coach Tom Landry and iconic figures like quarterback Don Meredith and running back Duane Thomas, they gradually improved. The "Doomsday Defense," led by legends like Bob Lilly and Mel Renfro, became a force to be reckoned with, paving the way for their first Super Bowl appearance in 1967 (Super Bowl VI). Although they lost, the foundation for future success was laid.

Super Bowl Glory (1970s): The Landry-Staubach Era

The 1970s marked the golden age of the Cowboys. With quarterback Roger Staubach taking the helm and Landry's leadership continuing, the team became a dynasty. They won two Super Bowls (Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XII) and reached five total appearances in the decade. Prolific receivers like Drew Pearson and "Bullet" Bob Hayes complemented Staubach's arm, while the defense remained dominant. This era solidified the Cowboys' place as America's Team, captivating the nation with their exciting brand of football.

Turmoil and Transition (1980s-1990s): Glimmers of Hope and Missed Opportunities

The 1980s were a mixed bag. Landry's departure and injuries to key players led to struggles. However, the emergence of running back Tony Dorsett and the electrifying talent of wide receiver Michael Irvin brought moments of brilliance. Danny White took over at quarterback and led the team to Super Bowl XXVIII, but they fell short. The 1990s saw the arrival of quarterback Troy Aikman and the drafting of running back Emmitt Smith, forming a potent offensive trio with Irvin. This core, under coach Jimmy Johnson, led the Cowboys to back-to-back Super Bowl victories (Super Bowl XXVII and Super Bowl XXX). However, internal conflicts and Johnson's departure hampered further success in the later years.

The Quest for Another Ring (2000s-Present): Challenges and Hope

The 21st century brought new challenges for the Cowboys. Despite drafting talented players like Tony Romo and Dez Bryant, consistent playoff appearances and championship aspirations proved elusive. Ownership changes and coaching shifts added to the rollercoaster ride. But glimpses of hope emerged with quarterback Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott leading the offense. Although they reached the Divisional Round in 2014 and 2016, the ultimate prize, a Super Bowl win, remained just out of reach.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are more than just a football team; they're a dynasty, a cultural touchstone, and a living embodiment of the "Steel City" spirit. Since their humble beginnings in 1933, the Steelers have woven a tapestry of triumph, heartbreak, and unwavering resilience, etching their name into the annals of NFL history.

Early Years and the Rooney Legacy:

Founded by Art Rooney, a local entrepreneur, the Steelers' early years were marked by struggle. Yet, Rooney's vision and dedication laid the foundation for future success. His son, Dan Rooney, would later usher in an era of stability and excellence, solidifying the Rooney family's legacy as one of the most influential in NFL history.

The Steel Curtain Rises:

The late 1960s and early 1970s saw the Steelers transform into a defensive juggernaut. The legendary "Steel Curtain" defense, anchored by Hall of Famers like Mel Blount, Jack Ham, and Lambert, was virtually impenetrable, striking fear into the hearts of opposing offenses.

Four Super Bowls in Six Years:

Led by the "Steel Curtain" and the "Blonde Bomber" Terry Bradshaw, the Steelers entered a golden age. From 1974 to 1979, they captured a staggering four Super Bowl titles, cementing their place among the NFL's elite. Their battles with rivals like the Dallas Cowboys and Oakland Raiders became instant classics, forever etched in football lore.

Beyond the Super Bowls:

The Steelers' success continued beyond the Super Bowl era. They maintained their status as a perennial contender throughout the 1980s and 1990s, adding two more Super Bowl victories to their trophy case. Players like Franco Harris, Lynn Swann, and John Stallworth became household names, their exploits adding to the Steelers' mystique.

The Roethlisberger Era and Beyond:

The arrival of Ben Roethlisberger in 2004 ushered in a new chapter of Steelers football. The young quarterback, with his signature grit and determination, led the team to two more Super Bowl titles, proving that the Steelers' winning tradition remained strong.

A City's Identity:

Beyond their on-field achievements, the Steelers are intricately woven into the fabric of Pittsburgh's identity. Their black and gold jerseys are ubiquitous, a symbol of community pride and unwavering perseverance. Steeler Nation, the team's fiercely loyal fanbase, is renowned for its unwavering support and boisterous atmosphere at Heinz Field.

The Kansas City Chiefs, with their vibrant red and yellow jerseys and roaring fans, are synonymous with NFL excellence today. But their journey began not in Kansas City, but across the state line in Dallas, as the Dallas Texans. Founded in 1960 by Lamar Hunt, the Texans were part of the upstart American Football League (AFL) that challenged the NFL's dominance.

The Texans made an immediate impact, winning the AFL Championship in their second year under the legendary coach Hank Stram (pictured below). However, Dallas proved an unsuitable market for two professional football teams, and in 1963, the Texans made the bold move to relocate to Kansas City, becoming the Kansas City Chiefs.

Kansas City embraced the Chiefs with open arms. Led by the electrifying quarterback Len Dawson, the team quickly established itself as a force in the AFL. They battled against iconic figures like Joe Namath and the New York Jets, culminating in a 23-7 victory in Super Bowl I, the AFL's crowning moment before merging with the NFL.

The Chiefs continued their success in the merged league, reaching the Super Bowl four times in the 1970s. However, they couldn't overcome the Oakland Raiders, losing each time. Finally, in 1983, under the leadership of coach Marty Schottenheimer and the magical play of quarterback Joe Montana brought happier days, but not titles.

The following years saw the rise and fall of Chiefs legends like Derrick Thomas and Tony Gonzalez. The team experienced periods of both triumph and struggle, but never lost its passionate fanbase.

In 2013, a new era began with the arrival of Andy Reid as head coach and Patrick Mahomes as quarterback. Mahomes, with his gunslinging style and athleticism, quickly became a fan favorite and one of the league's most exciting young players.

Patrick Mahomes Kansas City Chiefs Quarterback
In 2020, the Chiefs, led by Mahomes' MVP season, finally scaled the mountain again, defeating the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV. It was a moment of pure joy for a city that had waited 50 years for another championship.

Today, the Kansas City Chiefs stand as one of the NFL's most successful and exciting teams. From their humble beginnings in Texas to their triumphant return to Kansas City, their story is one of resilience, passion, and a never-say-die attitude.

Football fans, huddle up! We're embarking on a thrilling journey through the rich tapestry of the Arizona Cardinals, a franchise boasting not just the oldest lineage in the National Football League, but also a story filled with resilience, fiery spirit, and moments etched in gridiron lore.

Our tale begins not in the sun-drenched Sonoran Desert, but in the bustling streets of Chicago in 1898. It was there, amidst the clatter of horse-drawn carriages and the hum of early industry, that the seed of the Cardinals was planted. Back then, they were known as the Morgan Athletic Club, a ragtag bunch of neighborhood lads with hearts full of grit and dreams of pigskin glory.

Fast forward to 1920, and the Cardinals, adorned in their cardinal red, find themselves as charter members of the fledgling National Football League. They navigate the league's infancy, witnessing the birth of legends and the evolution of the game itself. Through the roaring twenties and the somber thirties, the Cardinals carve their niche, collecting their first NFL Championship in 1925 under the legendary Ernie Nevers.

But the journey isn't all sunshine and confetti showers. The Cardinals face their share of struggles, enduring lean years and relocations, first to St. Louis in 1960, and then finally to the sun-baked embrace of Phoenix in 1988.

Yet, the desert air proves invigorating. The arrival of franchise icons like Larry Fitzgerald and Patrick Peterson injects a new lifeblood into the team. Under the fiery leadership of coaches like Ken Whisenhunt and Bruce Arians, the Cardinals soar to new heights, reaching Super Bowl XLIII in 2009 and claiming numerous division titles.

This is just the opening kickoff of our Cardinals odyssey. In the coming posts, we'll delve deeper into the iconic players, the unforgettable moments, and the enduring spirit that defines this storied franchise. We'll relive the highs and lows, the heartbreaks and triumphs, that have cemented the Cardinals' place in the annals of NFL history.

So, strap on your helmets, Cardinals faithful! It's time to relive the legacy, one play, one season, one legend at a time.

Brace yourselves, Flock faithful, for we're about to embark on a thrilling journey through the electrifying annals of the Baltimore Ravens. This isn't just a tale of touchdowns and tackles; it's a saga of resilience, reinvention, and a city's unwavering passion for pigskin.

Born from the ashes of betrayal, the Ravens took flight in 1996, inheriting the void left by the Colts' controversial departure. Baltimore, a city steeped in football lore, embraced these winged warriors with unflinching devotion. The name, echoing Edgar Allan Poe's haunting masterpiece, was a potent symbol – a dark, intelligent predator ready to soar above the competition.

And soar they did. Under the fiery leadership of coach Ted Marchibroda and the swagger of quarterback Vinny Testaverde, the Ravens quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Ray Lewis, a defensive dynamo, became the heart and soul of the team, his electrifying presence and thunderous tackles earning him the nickname "The Raven."

The year 2000 witnessed the team's defining moment: Super Bowl XXXV. With Lewis's iconic pregame dance fueling the fire, the Ravens decimated the New York Giants, etching their name on the Lombardi Trophy in just their fifth season. This wasn't just a victory; it was a declaration of Baltimore's unwavering spirit, a testament to a city that refused to be counted out.

But the Ravens' story isn't just about Super Bowls. It's about the unwavering dedication of Flacco's arm, the electrifying speed of Rice, and the clutch kicks of Tucker. It's about the roar of the fans at M&T Bank Stadium, a sea of purple united in their love for the team.

This series will be our roadmap through this storied franchise. We'll relive the epic battles, celebrate the iconic players, and delve into the moments that have cemented the Ravens' place in Baltimore's heart. So, put on your purple jersey, grab a Natty Boh, and join us as we take flight with the Baltimore Ravens. The journey promises to be unforgettable, a testament to a team that, like Poe's raven, forever echoes through the city's soul.

The roar of the crowd, the high-fives on the sideline – a successful extra point seems like a formality in today's game. But for football fans, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates a good underdog story, the extra-point play holds a surprising amount of intrigue.

This series, spanning articles and podcasts, delves into the fascinating evolution of the extra point in American football. We'll journey through time, uncovering the play's humble beginnings, its dramatic rule changes and its transformation into the strategic chess match we witness today.

-Prepare to be surprised! We'll explore:

-The Early Days: From place kicks to drop kicks and even touchdowns, we'll examine the various methods used to score an extra point before standardization.

-The Rise of the Kicker: Witness the emergence of the specialist kicker and the increasing importance of kicking accuracy in securing those crucial extra points.

-The Two-Point Gamble: We'll analyze the introduction of the two-point conversion and its impact on offensive strategy and game management.

-The Future of the Extra Point: Will the extra point remain a formality, or will new rules and strategies revolutionize it once again?

Whether you're a casual fan or a gridiron fanatic, this series promises a captivating exploration of a seemingly simple play with a rich and unexpected history. So, join us as we unpack the drama, the strategy, and the surprising stories behind the extra point in American football. Let's go beyond the PAT and discover a world of hidden meaning and historical significance in this crucial play on the gridiron.

Rise Up! It's a rallying cry, a battle cry, and the heartbeat of Atlanta Falcons fandom. But beyond the iconic chant lies a rich tapestry of gridiron history, woven with moments of triumph, heartbreak, and unwavering passion.

Prepare to embark on a journey through the nest, exploring the Falcons' evolution from fledgling expansion franchise to Super Bowl contenders. We'll witness the early days under the legendary Norm Van Brocklin, the electrifying era of "Dirty Bird" Michael Vick, and the rise of Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, and the "Legion of Boom."

But this isn't just about victories. We'll relive the sting of near misses, the crushing defeats, and the resilience that always pulls the Falcons back into the fight. We'll delve into the magic of Black Hammer Yards, the controversy of the 28-3 Super Bowl collapse, and the unwavering spirit that keeps fans chanting long after the final whistle.

This series isn't just for die-hard Falcons faithful; it's for anyone who appreciates the drama, the dedication, and the raw emotion that unfolds on the gridiron. It's about the human stories behind the helmets, the impact the Falcons have had on Atlanta, and the lessons learned along the way.

So, whether you're a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, join us as we soar through the Falcons' storied past. Together, we'll discover the heart and soul of a team that, like the phoenix, rises again and again, forever etching its legacy in the annals of NFL history.

Stay tuned for our first article, where we'll take a nostalgic look at the Falcons' humble beginnings and the birth of a city's love affair with football. Rise Up! The journey begins now.

The 1970s weren't just a decade – they were a steel-forged era dominated by the Pittsburgh Steelers' legendary defense. This unit, aptly nicknamed the "Steel Curtain," wasn't just good; it was a nearly impenetrable wall that revolutionized defensive strategy and instilled fear in the hearts of opposing offenses.

This series isn't just about victories and statistics. We'll delve into the stories of the men who made up this iconic unit, the "Steelers of Steel." From the ferocious tackling of Mean Joe Greene to the ball-hawking brilliance of Mike Wagner, we'll explore their unique personalities, on-field dominance, and the unwavering dedication that fueled their championship runs.

Get ready to relive the glory days of the Steel Curtain. We'll dissect game-changing plays, iconic moments, and the strategies that turned this group of talented individuals into a cohesive force that redefined defensive greatness. But this isn't just a trip down memory lane. We'll also examine the Steel Curtain's lasting impact on the game, exploring how their legacy continues to influence defensive schemes and inspire a new generation of football stars.

So, buckle up and join us on this journey through Steelers history. Prepare to be awestruck by the brilliance, the grit, and the sheer dominance of the Steel Curtain defense.

The football contest between the Allegheny Athletic Association and the Pittsburgh Athletic Club on November 12, 1892, in the football hotbed of Pittsburgh, marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the sport.

Pictured is the 1892 Allegheny Athletic Association team courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

While it may seem unremarkable in retrospect, this game stands as a foundational cornerstone for professional football.  Though not an NFL game, it makes our list of Greatest NFL games because it started the trend that made pro football a reality.

The Allegheny Athletic Association and the Pittsburgh Athletic Club were two of the most prominent football clubs in the late 19th century. The rivalry between these two Pittsburgh-based clubs was intense. Their desire to prevail led to a groundbreaking decision: the Allegheny Athletic Association paid William "Pudge" Heffelfinger, a renowned college football player, a substantial sum of $500 to suit up for their team. This unprecedented transaction transformed Heffelfinger into the first openly compensated football player, a watershed moment that signaled the transition from amateur to professional gridiron competition.  

Beyond the financial implications, the game itself was a spectacle. The rough and tumble nature of early football was on full display, with players often employing tactics that would be considered illegal by today's standards. The contest was a microcosm of the era, showcasing the sport's raw, physicality and its growing popularity.

While the Allegheny Athletic Association emerged victorious, the game's true significance lies in its historical context. It ignited a debate about the integrity of the sport and the blurring lines between amateurism and professionalism. Moreover, it laid the groundwork for the professional football leagues that would follow, transforming the game into a major spectator sport. This game was a turning point in the history of football, marking the beginning of the transition from amateur to professional and the rise of football as a major sport in the United States.

The 1892 Allegheny-Pittsburgh game serves as a reminder of the humble beginnings of professional football. It is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of those involved and the enduring appeal of competition. Though overshadowed by the storied franchises of today, this contest deserves recognition as a catalyst for the growth and development of the sport we know and love.

-Key figures associated with the game include:

-William "Pudge" Heffelfinger: The first openly paid football player.  

-1892 - Pudge Heffelfinger Becomes the First Person to be Paid to Play Football

-Allegheny Athletic Association: The team that employed Heffelfinger and won the game.
Pittsburgh Athletic Club: The rival team.

-Frequently Asked Questions About Early Pro Football

Do you like learning about older professional teams from yesteryear? Perhaps a stroll through these FAQ's will entertain your football brain.

-Who was the first professional football player? Pudge Heffelfinger is documented to have been paid $500 by the Allegheny Athletic Association in 1892. Learn more about it in this post: Pudge Gets Paid

-When did the first fullly professional team first take the field? The 1897 Latrobe Athletic Association 1897 team was the first to play a full season, but the first fully paid team to play a single game occurred a year earlier in 1896 when the Allegheny Athletic Association paid their entire roster for two games, AAA Pioneers of Pro Football 1896.

-What is the most famous professional team that was not an NFL franchise? There are a number to pick from if you count rival leagues to the National Football League, but when only focusing on independent early teams the Massillon Tigers are a candidate.

-What is the best professional football team of All-Time? Statistics show that the 1903 Franklin All-Stars from Franklin, Pennsylvania out perform any team in history, learn more about them here: 1903 Franklin All-Stars.

-When did the National Football League start? Though there was a 1902 three-team league of the same name, the NFL we know today actually was organized on September 17, 1920 in Canton, Ohio as the American Professional Football Association or APFA.