Football History

---

Beneath the vibrant red and cream banners and the loud chants of "Hail Varsity" lies a program steeped in rich tradition and gridiron glory: the Nebraska Cornhuskers. But beneath the modern-day powerhouse lies a tale of humble beginnings, unexpected turns, and an unwavering spirit that forged one of the most iconic dynasties in college football history.


Humble Beginnings: Before the Cornhuskers (1890-1900)

In 1890, the University of Nebraska took its first steps onto the nascent gridiron, fielding a team known as the "Old Gold Knights." Soon, they shed their knightly armor for the moniker "Bugeaters," inspired by the insect-devouring bull bats that flitted across the Great Plains. These early years were marked by inconsistency and competition with regional rivals like Iowa and Kansas.


Birthing a Legend: The Rise of the Cornhuskers (1900-1920)

The turn of the century ushered in a pivotal moment. After a victory over Iowa, a headline in the Nebraska State Journal declared the team, "We Have Met The Cornhuskers And They Are Ours." The name resonated with the state's agricultural identity, and in 1900, the Cornhuskers were officially born.

The new nickname coincided with a surge in success. Legendary coach E.J. Stewart spearheaded a golden age, leading the Cornhuskers to their first conference title in 1914 and fostering a winning culture that laid the foundation for future generations.


Challenges and Triumphs: The Golden Age and Beyond (1920-1970)

The decades that followed saw Nebraska navigate highs and lows. Coaches like Dana Bible and Bob Devaney further cemented the program's reputation for hard-nosed defense and punishing ground attacks. Nebraska claimed multiple conference titles and even challenged for national championships, with Bob Devaney's "Split T" offense lighting up the scoreboard in the 1960s.

The Osborne Dynasty: An Era of Unmatched Dominance (1970-1998)

But it was with the arrival of Tom Osborne in 1973 that Nebraska truly entered the pantheon of college football royalty. Osborne, a former Husker player, instilled a philosophy of discipline, teamwork, and a relentless running game. His "Blackshirts" defense became a national force, while offenses featuring iconic running backs like Johnny Rodgers and Mike Rozier carved through opponents.

Under Osborne's leadership, Nebraska claimed five national championships (1970, 1971, 1994, 1995, 1997) and 13 conference titles. Memorial Stadium in Lincoln became a fortress, boasting a sold-out streak that continues today. The Cornhuskers were more than just a team; they were a cultural phenomenon, their success uniting the state and echoing across the nation.

The Modern Era: Adapting to Change (1998-Present)

Since Osborne's departure, Nebraska has faced new challenges in a changing college football landscape. The spread offense revolutionized the game, prompting coaches like Frank Solich and Bill Callahan to adapt. While national championship appearances became less frequent, the Cornhuskers maintained their status as a Big Ten powerhouse under coaches like Bo Pelini and Mike Riley.

---

In the heart of the Great Plains, where crimson bleeds into burnt orange and echoes of "Boomer Sooner" roll across the prairie, lies a football program as storied as it is fierce: the Oklahoma Sooners. Their history is a tapestry woven with legendary coaches, iconic plays, and an unwavering pursuit of national glory.

The saga begins in 1895, a fledgling program taking its first wobbly steps. But by the 1940s, under the legendary Bud Wilkinson, the Sooners found their stride. Wilkinson's "Split T" offense revolutionized the game, churning out future pros like Bob Stovall and Billy Vessels, the "Little General" who led Oklahoma to its first national championship in 1950.

The Sooners cemented their dynasty under Barry Switzer in the 1970s and 80s. The wishbone offense, orchestrated by players like the electrifying Steve Davis and the unstoppable Marcus Dupree, tore through defenses, culminating in three more national titles. Switzer's fiery spirit and larger-than-life persona solidified Oklahoma's reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

Oklahoma has continued to churn out talent under coaches like Bob Stoops's successor, Lincoln Riley. Baker Mayfield's Heisman Trophy campaign in 2017, Kyler Murray's dazzling dual-threat brilliance, and Jalen Hurts's leadership all remind us that the Sooner spirit burns bright.

Want to know more about Troy football? Then I might suggest you go to the source, the official Troy Trojans Football Page from the Troy University Athletics.

The site is filled with the latest news scores and upcoming events including games. This is one Trojan horse you will want to bring on in and stay up to date with all of the Troy Football information.

Cue the music, pump up the volume, and get ready to roar, Husker Nation! We're embarking on a nostalgic journey through the storied history of Nebraska Cornhuskers football, reliving the plays that etched themselves onto the hearts of every die-hard fan.

From the hallowed grounds of Memorial Stadium to iconic moments scattered across the gridiron landscape, this video is your ultimate touchdown pass straight to memory lane. We'll rewind time to witness Tommie Frazier's Heisman-clinching scramble against Florida in the 1995 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, a play that still sends shivers down spines.

Remember the magic of Johnny Rodgers' electrifying punt returns, weaving through defenders like a phantom with the ball tucked under his arm, leaving them grasping at air and fans in sheer awe? We'll revisit those game-breaking moments that left opponents wondering if they'd stumbled into a surreal world of Husker domination.

But the magic of Nebraska football extends far beyond individual brilliance. We'll celebrate the unwavering resilience of teams that defied the odds, like the 1997 squad that clawed its way back from a 17-point deficit against Kansas State in the Big 12 Championship, a comeback etched in the annals of Husker lore.

This video isn't just about touchdowns and triumphs. It's about the unyielding spirit of Husker Nation, the electrifying atmosphere of Memorial Stadium, and the shared passion that binds generations of fans together. It's about the goosebumps that erupt when the fight song blares, the tears that well up during emotional victories, and the unwavering belief that, no matter the odds, a Husker never quits.

---

Football in the South is important to a vast majority. In Georgia besides the Bulldogs and Yellow Jackets there is a different kind of Trojan warrior that stands proud. In Troy, Alabama, amidst rolling fields and Southern charm, resides a football program with a history as gritty and determined as the Trojans themselves. From humble beginnings on a dusty campus field to their recent ascension as Sun Belt champions, the Troy Trojans have defied expectations, weathered storms, and carved their own path through the gridiron landscape. This is their story, a saga of underdog victories, larger-than-life characters, and a never-say-die spirit that embodies the heart of a Troy Trojan. So, pull up a rocking chair on the porch, sip sweet tea, and prepare to hear the echoes of cheers and rattle of pads as we delve into the captivating tale of the Trojans, a team that proves size isn't everything when heart and grit pave the way to glory.

Early Years (1909-1945):

-Intermittent play due to various factors like low participation and the World War.

-Coach George Penton led an undefeated season in 1911-12.

-Coach Albert Elmore changed the team name to "Red Wave" and enjoyed moderate success.

-Coach Fred McCollum achieved back-to-back winning seasons.

-Coach William Clipson's tenure included a single strong season.

Modern Era (1946-Present):

-Continuous play since 1946.

-Transitioned to Division I-A in 2001 and joined the Sun Belt Conference in 2004.

-Played in their first bowl game in 2004 but lost.

---

The Fighting Illini football program stands as a beacon of grit and resilience on the American gridiron. While championships may be few and far between, the Illini boast a storied history punctuated by moments of pure sporting magic. These victories, etched in the annals of Champaign-Urbana lore, transcend mere wins; they become epic tales whispered on the autumn wind, reminding fans of the unyielding spirit that lies at the heart of Illini football.

At the apex of this tapestry sits the 1951 season. Led by the indomitable Red Grange protégé, Jim Lehmann, the Illini went 9-0-1, capped off by a 40-7 rout of Stanford in the 1952 Rose Bowl. This feat, the program's first national championship, remains a crowning achievement, forever synonymous with Illinois football's golden age.

Yet, Illini victories extend beyond national titles. In 1983, John Elway, the Golden Arm himself, orchestrated a legendary comeback against Ohio State. Trailing 24-14 with nine minutes to play, Elway's pinpoint throws and the Illini's fierce defense clawed their way back, culminating in a heart-stopping 27-24 victory that still sends shivers down the spines of Illinois faithful.

And who can forget the 2007 "Miracle on Michigan Avenue"? Facing arch-rival Michigan, the Illini trailed 38-27 with mere seconds left. In a moment of pure pandemonium, Juice Williams launched a desperation hail mary, finding Derek Kinder in the end zone for a jaw-dropping 47-yard touchdown as the clock struck zero. The ensuing pandemonium and unbridled joy solidified this victory as one of the most iconic moments in college football history.

Even against insurmountable odds, the Illini spirit refuses to be quelled. In 2019, Brandon Peters stepped onto the hallowed turf of the Big House, facing a seemingly invincible Michigan team. Yet, the Illini defied expectations, pulling off a stunning 38-35 upset, reminding everyone that Illini hearts beat loudest when tested by adversity.

These victories, though diverse in context and era, share a common thread: the unyielding spirit of the Fighting Illini.

---

The Texas Longhorns football program boasts a rich history dating back to 1893, making it one of the oldest and most successful programs in college football. Here's a glimpse into its journey:

-Early Days and Establishing a Winning Tradition (1893-1925):
The program began modestly, fielding its first permanent team in 1893.
Early success came quickly, with the Longhorns recording undefeated seasons in 1900, 1914, 1918, and 1920.
Notable coaches of this era include John Heisman (1902-1903) and Dana X. Bible (1916-1932).

-Dominant Decades and the Rise of Legends (1926-1976):
The program experienced sustained success under coaches such as Clyde Littlefield (1934-1956) and Darrell Royal (1957-1976).
This era saw the emergence of legendary players like Davey O'Brien (Heisman Trophy winner in 1938), Bobby Layne (Heisman Trophy winner in 1950), and Tommy Nobis (Heisman Trophy runner-up in 1965).
The Longhorns won four national championships during this period: 1963, 1969, 1970, and 1975.

-Ups and Downs and the Quest for Restoration (1977-2009):
After Royal's departure, the program experienced a period of inconsistency, with only occasional flashes of brilliance.


However, the hiring of Fred Akers in 1977 and David McWilliams in 1987 brought some stability and success.
Notable players from this era include Earl Campbell (Heisman Trophy winner in 1977) and Ricky Williams (Heisman Trophy winner in 1998).
Despite individual triumphs, the Longhorns struggled to replicate the dominance of the Royal era.

-The Mack Brown Era and Returning to Glory (2010-2014):
Mack Brown's arrival in 2005 marked a turning point for the program.

He instilled discipline, recruited top talent, and implemented a winning culture.

The Longhorns won the 2005 national championship, their first in 30 years, with Vince Young leading the charge.

The program remained competitive throughout Brown's tenure, consistently ranking among the nation's best.

-Recent Years and the Search for New Heights (2015-Present):
Charlie Strong took over as head coach in 2015, but his tenure was marred by disappointing results.
Tom Herman replaced Strong in 2017, bringing renewed hope and optimism.

While the program has shown improvement under Herman, it has not yet reached the heights of the Mack Brown era.

The Longhorns continue their quest for national championship glory, seeking to add to their rich legacy in college football.

Head coach Steve Sarkisian has the program going in the right direction as it heads to the four-team playoff of the FCS in 2023 and to the SEC in 2024.

---

Despite not boasting national championships, the Troy Trojans football program has carved its unique path in college football history. Their journey is punctuated by stunning upsets, dramatic victories, and games that etched themselves into the hearts of loyal Trojans fans. Let's delve into some of the most significant games that shaped the identity of the Troy Trojans:


1. 1999 Division II National Championship Game: After years of dominance in the FCS (formerly I-AA) level, Troy finally reached the pinnacle, defeating Montana 23-16 to claim their first national championship. This historic victory solidified their place as FCS giants and fueled even greater aspirations.


2. 2000 Sun Belt Conference Championship Game: In their inaugural season in the Sun Belt Conference, the Trojans faced off against Arkansas State for the title. A last-minute field goal by Jarret Lee secured a 24-21 victory, marking the program's first conference championship at the FBS level and proving their immediate competitiveness.


3. 2004 Victory over LSU: On the road at Death Valley, the Trojans shocked the college football world by upending the mighty LSU Tigers 27-24. This upset victory, led by a dazzling performance from quarterback Troy Smith, signaled Troy's arrival on the national stage and sent shockwaves through the SEC.


4. 2006 New Orleans Bowl: After another dominant Sun Belt season, Troy earned its first bowl bid, facing Rice in the New Orleans Bowl. A 41-17 thrashing marked their first bowl victory, a significant milestone in their ascent to higher levels of college football.


5. 2017 New Orleans Bowl: A decade after their first bowl win, the Trojans returned to the New Orleans Bowl, this time facing Ohio. In a thrilling back-and-forth battle, Troy emerged victorious 48-41, showcasing their offensive prowess and resilient spirit on a national stage.


6. 2023 Sun Belt Championship Game: After a season of thrilling performances and conference dominance, the Trojans faced Louisiana for the Sun Belt title. A gritty defensive effort propelled them to a 10-7 victory, reaffirming their status as a force to be reckoned with in the conference.

---

The Nebraska Cornhuskers football program boasts a rich history with legendary names and iconic moments. Selecting the "best" players from such a tapestry of talent is no easy feat, but here are a few titans who have etched their names onto Mount Memorial for the Huskers faithful:

-Johnny Rodgers (Running Back, 1971-1972): This electrifying Heisman Trophy winner (1972) remains the program's only recipient of the prestigious award. His dazzling speed, game-breaking ability, and infectious swagger revolutionized the running back position and led Nebraska to consecutive national championship appearances.

-Tom Novak (Center/Linebacker, 1946-1949): A versatile two-way star, Novak earned All-America honors at both center and linebacker, a feat unmatched in college football history. He anchored the legendary "Blackshirts" defense and his leadership guided Nebraska to three national titles during his time in Lincoln.

-Eric Crouch (Quarterback, 1998-2001): This dynamic dual-threat quarterback redefined the position in the option-based offense. His Heisman Trophy (2001) capped a career full of highlight-reel runs and pinpoint throws, leading the Huskers to the national championship game in 2001.

-Rich Stolfer (Wide Receiver, 1963-1965): Stolfer remains the program's all-time leading receiver, terrorizing defenses with his acrobatic catches and downfield dominance. He was a key cog in Nebraska's back-to-back national championships (1964-1965) and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

-Ndamukong Suh (Defensive Tackle, 2005-2009): A force of nature on the defensive line, Suh's relentless pursuit and disruptive play earned him the Lombardi Trophy (2009) and two consecutive AP Defensive Player of the Year awards. He transformed the defensive tackle position and cemented his place as one of the most dominant defenders in college football history.

The Fighting Illini of Illinois hold a unique and somewhat contentious place in college football history. While not widely recognized by official bodies, their claim to five national championships remains a source of fervent debate and local pride. This essay delves into the historical complexities surrounding these titles, exploring the arguments for and against their legitimacy and ultimately attempting to understand what these "crowns" mean to the Illinois football program and its loyal fans.

The Legacy of Zuppke: At the heart of the controversy lies Robert Zuppke, the legendary Illinois coach who led the team to four of its five claimed national titles between 1914 and 1927. Zuppke's teams were dominant in their era, boasting impressive records and defeating several powerhouses. However, the national championship selection process in those years was far less structured than it is today, often relying on subjective polls and media rankings. This lack of a centralized governing body allowed Illinois to claim titles based on their strong seasons and perceived national dominance, even without securing a definitive victory like a national championship game. Many thoughts are retroactively constructed from this era.

The Dickinson Factor: The fifth Illinois title, from 1951, seems more concrete as it was awarded by the William F. Boand Committee, one of the few recognized selectors of the time. Yet, even this selection generated debate, with other contenders like Michigan State and Tennessee also boasting strong cases. While Illinois finished the season undefeated and ranked highly in many polls, their lack of a clear-cut victory over another top contender left room for doubt.

Beyond the Trophies: Despite the lack of universal recognition, the "Illini crowns" hold immense significance for the Illinois football program and its fan base. They represent an era of dominance, a time when Zuppke's innovative "Champaign Spread" offense and the Fighting Illini spirit captured the hearts of the nation. They symbolize resilience, an underdog program punching above its weight and carving its own path to glory. More importantly, these titles serve as a source of local pride and identity, solidifying the Fighting Illini's place as a historic force in college football, regardless of formal recognition.

The Final Whistle: The debate surrounding the Illinois national championships may never be fully resolved. But it's important to recognize that these claims are more than just trophies on a shelf. They represent a complex interplay of historical context, subjective rankings, and unwavering team spirit. They are a testament to the legacy of Robert Zuppke, the talent of Illinois players throughout the years, and the enduring passion of the Illini faithful. Ultimately, whether or not the world officially recognizes their crowns, the Fighting Illini remains a force to be reckoned with, with a rich history and a fan base that fiercely believes in the legitimacy of their past, present, and future glory.