Football History

College Football Hall of Fame halfback of the Kansas Jayhawks. He was also a member of the 1932 US Olympic Decathlon team.

Jim Bausch was a remarkable athlete whose talents extended far beyond the football field. Originally hailing from Kansas, he showcased his athletic prowess at both Wichita State and the University of Kansas. On the gridiron, Bausch was a standout halfback, earning All-American honors and leading Kansas to their first Big Six championship in 1930. His explosive speed and versatility made him a formidable opponent.

However, Bausch's athletic legacy is most closely tied to track and field. In 1932, he stunned the world by capturing the gold medal in the decathlon at the Los Angeles Olympics. His remarkable performance on the second day of competition, where he excelled in events like the discus, javelin, and pole vault, cemented his status as one of the greatest athletes of his era.

Bausch’s football career was relatively brief. He played professionally for the Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cardinals but didn’t achieve the same level of success as his collegiate or Olympic endeavors. Despite his short-lived professional football career, his impact on the sports world remains undeniable. His extraordinary athleticism and versatility serve as an inspiration to athletes of all generations.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Bausch’s life was marked by personal challenges. He faced health issues and adversity, but his determination to overcome obstacles is a testament to his character.

Bennie Oosterbaan, born February 22, 1906, in Muskegon, Michigan, stands as a titan in the annals of American football. His legacy, built upon exceptional athleticism and unwavering dedication, extends far beyond the gridiron, influencing generations of players and coaches.

-College Career

Oosterbaan's collegiate career at the University of Michigan was legendary. He was a three-sport star, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. However, it was on the football field that he truly shone. Playing end under the tutelage of Fielding H. Yost, Oosterbaan became a cornerstone of the Wolverines' offense. His exceptional receiving skills and remarkable speed and agility made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. He was a three-time All-American, earning unanimous recognition in 1925 and 1926. Oosterbaan's connection with quarterback Benny Friedman remains one of college football's most celebrated passing duos.  

-Road to the Pro Game

While Oosterbaan's college exploits were widely recognized, the professional football landscape of the 1920s was vastly different from today's. He chose not to pursue a professional football career immediately after graduation, instead opting to remain at Michigan as an assistant coach. His focus shifted to developing the next generation of Wolverines, solidifying his commitment to the university that had shaped his athletic journey.  

-Football Legacy

Oosterbaan's legacy transcends his playing days. He returned to Michigan as head football coach from 1948 to 1958, leading the Wolverines to a national championship in 1948 and a Rose Bowl victory in 1951. He was known as a player's coach, fostering a culture of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. His contributions to the game extended beyond coaching; he was a pioneer, a role model, and an embodiment of the values that define college football.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Three-time All-American (1925, 1926, 1927)
 
-Unanimous All-American in 1925 and 1926.

-Member of the College Football Hall of Fame (1954)  

-Member of the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame (1958)  

-Coached the University of Michigan to a national championship (1948)  

-Coached the University of Michigan to a Rose Bowl victory (1951).  

Bennie Oosterbaan's influence on American football is immeasurable. His dedication to excellence, his commitment to his alma mater, and his unwavering belief in the power of sports to shape character have left an enduring mark on the game.

Michael Irvin, born on March 5, 1966, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, forged a legendary career as a wide receiver, leaving an enduring impact on football.

Image credit goes to Super Bowl-1-2 Michael Irvin 2012 by Stephen Luke via Wikimedia Commons.

The “Playmaker” Michael Irvin, who caught passes as a wide receiver for the Miami Hurricanes in the mid 1980s, arrived into this world. Michael was the first round pick of the Dallas Cowboys in the 1988 NFL Draft.

-College Career

-Irvin showcased his exceptional talent at the University of Miami, where he played for the Hurricanes.

-He was a key component of the Hurricanes' 1987 national championship team.

-His dynamic playmaking ability and toughness made him a standout receiver during his collegiate years.

-Road to the Pro Game

-Irvin's impressive college performance led to him being drafted in the first round (11th overall) of the 1988 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.
-He would spend his entire professional career with the Dallas Cowboys.

-Football Legacy

-Michael Irvin was a vital part of the Dallas Cowboys' dominant teams of the 1990s, contributing to three Super Bowl victories (XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX).

-Known for his passion and competitiveness, he earned the nickname "The Playmaker."

-He was a crucial part of the "triplets" with Troy Aikman and Emmitt Smith.

-His legacy is that of a tough, competitive, and highly skilled wide receiver.

-He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-3× Super Bowl champion (XXVII, XXVIII, XXX)

-5× Pro Bowl (1991–1995)

-First-team All-Pro (1991)

-2× Second-team All-Pro (1992, 1993)

-NFL receiving yards leader (1991)

-NFL 1990s All-Decade Team

-Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor

-National champion (1987)

-Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2007)

-Receptions: 750

-Receiving yards: 11,904

-Receiving touchdowns: 65

Michael Irvin's combination of talent, drive, and on-field presence solidified his place among the NFL's greatest wide receivers.
Also include any accolades, awards and career stats this player accomplished

Born on February 14, 1919, George Kerr defied expectations and etched his name into college football history. The Boston College product, known as the "Righteous Reject," famously arrived at Coach Gil Dobie's practice field sporting multiple layers of sweaters and overcoats, attempting to bolster his 155-pound frame to a more imposing 180. Told he was too small for college football, Kerr's determination proved otherwise. He not only made the team but thrived as a guard, rising from sixth-string to garner All-American mention.

George Kerr's gridiron prowess shone brightly, most notably as a member of the Boston College Eagles' 1941 Sugar Bowl championship team. His exceptional play against the University of Tennessee in that game secured his place on the All-Time Sugar Bowl team. The preceding year, 1940, saw Kerr captain the Eagles to an undefeated season. His contributions to Boston College athletics were later recognized with his induction into the Boston College Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame in 1970. Although drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 19th round of the 1941 NFL draft, Kerr never played professionally.

Boston College head coach Frank Leahy, a legend in his own right, hailed Kerr as the greatest scholar-athlete he ever coached. This wasn't just coach-speak. Kerr graduated cum laude as class salutatorian and captained the undefeated Eagles in his senior year. During his three seasons, Kerr helped lead the team to a remarkable 26-3-2 record.

After his collegiate success, Kerr entered the seminary and was ordained in 1945. His dedication to service continued, culminating in his appointment as Right Reverend Monsignor of Pope Paul in 1964, earning him the title of Domestic Prelate. He also served as chaplain of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Known for his boundless energy and deep humanitarianism, George Kerr's life exemplified dedication, both on the gridiron and in service to his community.

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Bennie Oosterbaan's name is synonymous with excellence at the University of Michigan. Not only was he a legendary player, but he also went on to coach the Wolverines to glory. To understand Oosterbaan's impact, we must explore both facets of his football career.

On the field, Oosterbaan was a force to be reckoned with. Ultimately, he led the Big Ten in scoring in 1925, showcasing his offensive prowess. He earned three All-American selections and established himself as a critical contributor to Michigan's success, playing alongside another legend, quarterback Benny Friedman. Oosterbaan's athleticism was wider than football. He was a three-time letterman in basketball, leading the Big Ten in scoring in 1928, and a talented baseball player, leading the conference in batting average the same year. This versatility solidified his reputation as one of the most gifted athletes in college sports history.

After graduation, Oosterbaan chose to stay at Michigan, not as a player, but as a coach. He began his journey as an assistant, learning the ropes under the legendary Fritz Crisler. Oosterbaan's dedication and strategic mind were evident. In 1948, he was tasked with succeeding Crisler, who had just led Michigan to an undefeated season and a national championship.

Oosterbaan's debut as head coach was nothing short of spectacular. He led the 1948 team, known as the "Goofus Galore" squad, to another undefeated season and a national championship. He became the only coach in NCAA history to achieve this feat in his first year. He built a successful coaching career, winning three Big Ten titles and finishing in the top 20 in the polls most years.

However, Oosterbaan was known for more than wins and losses. He emphasized discipline, sportsmanship, and character development in his players. His quiet leadership style, emphasizing "poise" over yelling and screaming, earned him the respect and loyalty of his teams. He believed in his players and empowered them to excel on and off the field.

Bennie Oosterbaan's legacy extends far beyond wins and championships. He is a symbol of dedication, athletic prowess, and exceptional leadership. He was a role model for generations of players and coaches, proving that success can be achieved through hard work, humility, and a genuine love for the game. His name will forever be etched in the annals of Michigan football history as a true legend.