Football History

Gary Spani wasn't just a linebacker; he was a Kansas icon, a college legend, and a cornerstone of the Kansas City Chiefs dynasty. His story is one of unwavering determination, gridiron prowess, and a legacy that continues to inspire.

Born in Satanta, Kansas, Spani's football roots ran deep. He dominated in high school, earning a scholarship to Kansas State University. There, he became a Wildcat legend, etching his name in the record books as the school's first consensus All-American. His ferocious tackling and leadership earned him national recognition, culminating in the prestigious Miller/NFL "Man of the Year" Award in 1983.

In 1978, the Kansas City Chiefs drafted Spani in the third round, eager to unleash his Kansas grit on the professional stage. And unleash he did. Spani quickly transformed into the heart of the Chiefs defense, racking up tackles and earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike. His single-season record of 157 tackles stood for over 20 years, a testament to his relentless pursuit of every ball carrier.

But Spani wasn't just a tackling machine; he was an intelligent player with a knack for making game-changing plays. He intercepted passes, forced fumbles, and even scored two touchdowns. His contributions were instrumental in guiding the Chiefs to their first playoff berth in 15 years in 1986.

Beyond his stats, Spani's impact went deeper. He was a team leader, his intensity and work ethic inspiring those around him. He earned the nickname "Crunchman" for his bone-jarring tackles, but also for his unwavering loyalty and dedication to the Chiefs organization.

After nine stellar seasons, a knee injury forced Spani's retirement in 1986. But his connection to the Chiefs didn't end there. He joined the team's front office, eventually becoming Director of Community Engagement, further cementing his legacy as a Kansas City icon.

In 2003, Spani's contributions were recognized when he was inducted into the Chiefs Hall of Honor. He's also enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his dominance at both levels of the game.

Born January 3, 1923, in Chicago, Illinois, was Hank Stram. He was an American football coach who is best known for his 15-year tenure with the Dallas Texans / Kansas City Chiefs of the AFL and National Football League.

He played college football at Purdue University, where he was a two-way player. After graduating from Purdue, Stram served in the United States Army during World War II. After the war, Stram began his coaching career as an assistant at Purdue. He then served as an assistant at Notre Dame and Miami (Florida) before being hired as the head coach of the Dallas Texans in 1960.

E. J. Holub wasn't just a football player; he was a chameleon, seamlessly adapting his game and his legacy, etching his name in two distinct positions on the gridiron. His story isn't a linear path, but a winding journey of grit, perseverance, and an unyielding spirit that defied expectations and transcended eras.

From the dusty fields of Texas, Holub emerged as a two-way terror at Texas Tech, earning accolades as both a ferocious linebacker and a dominant center. His raw talent caught the eye of the fledgling American Football League, and in 1961, he found himself drafted by the Dallas Texans, the future Kansas City Chiefs.

His professional career began as a linebacker, his fiery nature and bone-crushing tackles earning him instant recognition. He helped solidify the Texans' defense, contributing to their 1962 AFL Championship victory. But fate, perhaps sensing his versatility, intervened. Knee injuries threatened to derail his career. But Holub, refusing to be sidelined, made a remarkable shift, transitioning from the hard-hitting world of linebacker to the cerebral one of center.

This wasn't just a position change; it was a metamorphosis. Holub, with his intelligence and leadership, thrived at the pivot point of the offense. He became the cornerstone of the Chiefs' offensive line, anchoring a unit that protected the likes of Len Dawson and Mike Livingston. His leadership extended beyond the huddle, as he became a locker room beacon, respected for his work ethic and dedication.

And then, in 1969, with his name already etched in Chiefs lore, Holub achieved the extraordinary. He started Super Bowl IV, not as a linebacker, not as a center, but as both. This unique feat, a testament to his adaptability and skill, cemented his place among the pantheon of NFL legends.

But Holub's impact went beyond individual accolades. He was a symbol of the rise of the AFL, a player who helped bridge the gap between leagues and prove the legitimacy of professional football beyond the established NFL. He embodied the spirit of the early Chiefs, a team hungry for success and forging its own destiny.

His career spanned an era of change, from the rough-and-tumble days of the early AFL to the more strategic, pass-oriented game of the 1970s. Through it all, Holub remained a constant, a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of adapting to change.

More than just a player, E. J. Holub was a pioneer. He redefined versatility, defied expectations, and left an indelible mark on the game he loved.

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.

Len Dawson's professional football career is a testament to perseverance and finding the right fit. This gridiron legend was born in Alliance, Ohio on June 20, 1935.

Drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1957, Dawson struggled for playing time behind established veterans. Bouncing between the Steelers and the Cleveland Browns, his talent remained largely untapped. However, in 1962, a move to the upstart American Football League (AFL) and the Dallas Texans (soon to be the Kansas City Chiefs) proved to be the turning point.

-Starting QB

Dawson thrived in the AFL, a league known for its wide-open passing game. His calm demeanor and pinpoint accuracy quickly earned him a reputation as one of the league's premier quarterbacks. He not only led the Texans/Chiefs to their first AFL championship in 1962, a double-overtime thriller against the Houston Oilers, but also spearheaded a dominant run for the Chiefs, who would win AFL championships in 1966 and 1969 under his leadership.

The AFL-NFL merger in 1970 placed Dawson on the national stage. He led the Chiefs to Super Bowl I, where they fell to the mighty Vince Lombardi-coached Green Bay Packers. However, redemption arrived in Super Bowl IV. Facing the Minnesota Vikings, Dawson orchestrated a masterful performance, completing 17 of 29 passes for 142 yards and a touchdown. His poise and leadership under pressure not only earned him the game's Most Valuable Player award, but also solidified his place in Super Bowl history, marking a significant milestone in his career.

-Legacy of Dawson

Beyond his championship pedigree, Dawson's accolades are impressive. He won four AFL passing titles and was a six-time AFL All-Star. Notably, he achieved a perfect passer rating in Super Bowl IV, which was unmatched until Joe Montana in Super Bowl XXIX. Dawson's career spanned 19 seasons, a testament to his durability and dedication to the game.

Following his retirement in 1976, Dawson transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, becoming a beloved color commentator for the Chiefs. He remained a prominent figure in the sport he loved, sharing his insights and passion with a new generation of fans. Dawson is among the elite pro quarterbacks, with an 82.56 quarterback rating over a span of 19 seasons in the NFL.

Len Dawson's journey from struggling backup to Super Bowl champion is an inspiration. His ability to adapt to a new league, lead a team to sustained success, and perform under the brightest lights solidified his place as a legend in both the AFL and the NFL. Dawson's legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. His calm demeanor and leadership qualities are hallmarks of a true champion, earning him the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans.

Marcus Allen's NFL career was a captivating blend of power, agility, and clutch performances. Drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders in 1982, he quickly established himself as a dynamic weapon out of the backfield. This essay explores the highlights of Allen's career, showcasing his dominance as a runner, his Super Bowl triumphs, and the legacy he leaves behind.

-Early Brilliance and Sharing the Spotlight

-Born March 26, 1960 in San Diego California

-Allen attended USC and In 1980 he rushed for 1,563 yards, second in the nation. In 1981 he rushed for 2,342. He led the nation in scoring, 12.5 points per game; rushing, 219.9 yards per game; and all-purpose running, 232.6 yards per game.

-In 1981 Marcus won the Heisman, the Walter Camp Foundation Award, Maxwell Trophy, as well as the Pop Warner League Player of the Year honor.

-Marcus Allen received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

-The Los Angeles Raiders used their first round pick to take Marcus in the first round of the 1982 NFL Draft.

Allen burst onto the scene as a rookie, he showcased his explosiveness, leading the league in rushing touchdowns (12) and earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. The following season, the Raiders unleashed a potent one-two punch with Allen and quarterback Jim Plunkett, culminating in a Super Bowl XVIII victory over the Washington Redskins. Allen's dominant performance, including a game-clinching 74-yard touchdown run, cemented his place as a rising star.

-Taking the Lead and Championship Glory

By 1985, Allen emerged as the focal point of the Raiders' offense. Number 32 became the very first player in the League’s history to rush for more than 10,000 yards while also having receiving yards exceeding 5000 yards. This dominance propelled the Raiders back to the Super Bowl stage, facing the Washington Redskins once again. In Super Bowl XXV, Allen solidified his legacy, rushing for a then-Super Bowl record 209 yards and earning the game's Most Valuable Player award.

-Career Longevity and Adaptability

While Allen's peak years were undeniably impressive, his career extended beyond the late 1980s. He displayed remarkable adaptability, adjusting his playing style as his speed diminished.

He spent the last five with the Kansas City Chiefs. For his pro career Marcus compiled 12243 yards rushing with 123 touchdowns and another 21 scores from catching passes with 5411 yards receiving. Allen was a 2 time All-Pro and played in 6 Pro Bowls.

Allen spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, and finally returned to the Raiders before retiring in 1997. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined the great Marcus Allen in 2003.

May 30, 1943 - Wichita, Kansas - Gale Sayers the top notch Kansas Halfback, also known as the “Kansas Comet” was born. Gale is one of the most talented backs to have ever graced the gridiron.

The FootballFoundation.org lists that Mr. Sayers was a two-time First Team All-America selection for the Jayhawks, and when he concluded his KU career he had 2,675 yards rushing and 3,917 all-purpose yards. The Kansas Comet led KU in rushing, touchdowns and kickoff returns all three years he wore the Jayhawk colors. Gale also led the team in receiving and punt returns in his final two years with the program. Sayers became the first player in NCAA Division IA history to record a 99-yard run when he broke loose against Nebraska in Lincoln during the 1963 season.

One of Sayers top collegiate moments on the gridiron has to be the 96-yard kickoff return that aided a 15-14 upset of Oklahoma in his senior season. The University retired his number 48 jersey soon after he wore it last. Gale Sayers’ collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1977.

The Chicago Bears drafted Sayers in the first round of the 1965 NFL Draft and he had an almost immediate impact on the entire League! The Pro Football Hall of Fame says right out of the chute Gale in a pre-season game raced 77 yards on a punt return, 93 yards on a kickoff return, and then startled everyone with a 25-yard scoring pass against the Los Angeles Rams. During the regular games he kept it going, as this standout player set a rookie record that season of 22 touchdowns and 132 points! The Comet scored four touchdowns, including a 96-yard game breaking kickoff return, against the Minnesota Vikings. But that was not the rookie’s grand finale. No, not even close to it. In the second to the last game of the year, playing on a muddy field that would have stalled most rushing attempts, Gale scored a record-tying six touchdowns against the San Francisco 49ers. Included in his sensational spree were an 80-yard pass-run play, a 50-yard rush and a 65-yard punt return. Sayers went on to have a short but brilliant career with 9435 combined yards in his career, 4956 yards from running.

Gale still is the all-time leader in NFL kick returns as he was also an All-NFL selection in five straight seasons and the player of the game in three different Pro Bowls. The Pro Football Hall of Fame honored Gale Sayers with enshrinement in 1977 to become one of a very few that entered both Football Hall of Fame's in the same year.

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Born June 11, 1956, was Joe Montana, the Pro Football Hall of Fame NFL Quarterback that played for the San Francisco 49ers & the Kansas City Chiefs. Joe hails from Notre Dame where he was the signal caller and guided the Irish to be National Champions in 1977.

He earned the nickname, the "Come Back Kid" in the following year when he played in a frigid temperature Cotton Bowl. The QB was suffering from hypothermia at halftime and he stayed in the locker room being fed chicken soup and warm I.V.s. When he returned in the second half his team trailed 34-12 to the University of Houston when Montana guided the rally for a ND 35-34 win. The Pro Football Hall of Fame states that his uncanny ability to bring a team back from apparent defeat was so common that it simply became referred to as “Montana Magic.” A true student of the game, Montana won the NFL’s passing title in both 1987 and 1989. He topped the NFC in passing five times (1981, 1984, 1985, 1987, and 1989).

Joe threw for more than 300 yards in a game 39 different times in his career and 7 of those had yardage over 400 yards too. His six 300-yard passing performances in the post-season are an NFL record. He also owns the career playoff record for attempts, completions, touchdowns, and yards gained passing. In the NFL he became known as Joe Cool where he guided the 49ers to 4 Super Bowl victories under Bill Walsh. His amazing 15 seasons included 40,551 passing yards as he also earned a spot in 8 Pro Bowls.

Born August 21, 1945 - Clover, Virginia - Willie Lanier the a linebacker from Morgan State University from 1963 to 1966 was born. Lanier earned first team All-America honors after his junior season under the instruction and training of Hall of Fame coach Earl Banks.

Willie was a member of some great Morgan State squads that went to bowl games in 1965 and 1966, winning both and holding opponents to 0 total yards offense in the 1965 game. Yes ZERO yardage in a bowl game! That same 1965 season, Lanier led a stubborn defense that held opponents to 129 yards rushing all season and 732 yards in total offense. In 1966, as an offensive guard, he used his strength to open holes for the offense, which rushed for 2,220 yards in eight games, per FootballFoundation.org.

Lanier still holds the school record for tackles in a game with 26. Willie Lanier is remembered in the College Football Hall of Fame for his outstanding play. After college "Honey Bear" played pro ball for the Kansas City Chiefs where he was a five-time all-pro middle linebacker. Years later, in 1986, Willie Lanier was elected into the Professional Football Hall of Fame. To learn more about the great Willie Lanier make sure to get a copy of our friend Joe Zagorski's book on the player titled, America's Trailblazing Middle Linebacker: The Story of NFL Hall of Famer Willie Lanier .

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Steve Owen's career in professional football spanned nearly three decades, leaving an indelible mark on the New York Giants and the game itself. He carved out a successful path as a player before transitioning into a legendary coach, forever etching his name in Giants' lore.

Steve Owen not only starred while playing the game, he absorbed the lessons he learned on the field, put them into practice, and even innovated concepts of the gridiron when he got into coaching.

Steve Owen, born on April 21, 1898, in Cleo Springs, Oklahoma, was ambitious and resilient. His journey to success was not without its challenges. After completing high school, he continued his education at Philips University in Enid, OK. He worked on a cattle ranch to support himself, demonstrating his determination and work ethic. However, his pursuit of higher learning was interrupted when he served in the US Army during World War I.

Steve Owen's journey in professional football began in the early 1920s when the game was still finding its shape. After the War, he signed on with the NFL's Kansas City Cowboys in 1924, who played all their games on the road. The lineman earned a salary of $50 per contest for his labor.

At a relatively short 5'10" for a lineman, Owen's exceptional strength, intelligence, and fierce competitive spirit compensated for his stature. These unique qualities and his leadership skills set him apart from his peers.

His journey took him to several teams. After finding being a full-time road warrior quite the grind, the 26-year-old spent the 1925 season with the Waterbury-Hartford Blues, an independent team in Connecticut. The Blues had ambitions to join the NFL, and after Steve helped the team achieve a record of 10-2, including two narrow victories over the NFL's Rochester Jeffersons, Hartford would earn a League franchise in 1926. Steve was also signed to play for the Cleveland Bulldogs for one game that season.

That solitary game with the struggling Bulldogs would be a springboard to his eventual pigskin roost. Steve played briefly with the Cleveland Bulldogs before being sold to the New York Giants in 1926 for $500. The legendary Dr. Harry March had seen Owen play a year earlier at a meager salary of $100 a game, which barely covered the expenses of barnstorming across Florida with the Cowboys. Yet, his exceptional defensive skills couldn't be ignored.

Owen truly blossomed with the Giants, becoming a key cog in their 1927 champ "on-ship run. His leadership on and off the field earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.

By 1931, Owen had transitioned into a player-coach role with the Giants, marking the start of a coaching dynasty that would span over two decades. His approach to the game was characterized by a strong emphasis on defense and fundamental football, a stark contrast to the more flamboyant offensive schemes of the time. This defensive focus, known as "Stout Steve's System," shaped the Giants' play and left a lasting" impacSteve'se game i "self, revolutionizingGiants'y team approach to defense.

Despite initial skepticism, Owen's methods proved to be game-changers. He led the Giants to eight Eastern titles and two NFL championships (1934 and 1938). His innovative tactics, such as the A-formation that revolutionized running plays and the umbrella defense designed to counter emerging passing attacks, significantly impacted the game's evolution. Owen's ability to adapt and innovate, combined with his unwavering fundamentals, reshaped the game, leaving a lasting legacy.

Steve Owen's impact extended beyond his tactical brilliance. He fostered a culture of Owen's focus and teamwork within the Giants organization, a testament to his leadership and character. He was known for his loyalty to his players and staff, instilling a sense of family within the team. This loyalty extended beyond the playing field, as Owen famously coached with the Giants for 24 seasons on a handshake agreement – a testament to his mutual respect and the Mara family, who owned the team.

The innovator took chances, too, with little things he learned and quick decisions. In the 1934 championship game (now known as the "sneaker game"), he found himself on a frozen field. In a stroke of genius, the New York Giants switched to sneakers in the second half, gaining traction and defeating the Chicago Bears 30-13. This innovative move forever changed the game, as NFL teams always wear rubber-soled shoes on icy fields.

Under the leadership of Coach Owen, the Giants would also claim the NFL title in 1938.

As a coach, Owen had a career win/loss record of 155-108-17 as his teams won eight division titles and two NFL Championships. The G-men under his watch were in eight of the first 14 NFL Title games! Coach Owen's innovations to the game were outstanding, and he is credited with the A-foOwen'sn offense. The umbrella defense, where he dropped four defensive backs to cover the deep field partly to neutralize the powerful Cleveland Browns passing attack after they joined the NFL in the early 1950s. He even participated in implementing the two-platoon system of personnel with specialists in offense and defense. Steve Owen was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966.

Steve Owen retired from coaching in 1953, leaving a legacy far beyond wins and championships. He was pivotal in establishing the New York Giants as a perennial contender, laying the foundation for future success. More importantly, Owen's dedication to defense, his emphasis on fundamentals, and his innovative Owen'ss significantly impacted the game's evolution. He is a testament that leadership, intelligence, and a deep understanding of the game can overcome physical limitations. Steve Owen, the "Rock of New York," remains a towering figure in the Giants' history and an innovator in "the annals of professional football Giants.'