Football History

The number 33. A seemingly ordinary number, yet in the annals of NFL history, it resonates with a unique significance. It's a number worn by athletes who defied expectations, shattered records, and etched their names into the league's storied past. This series of posts celebrates the legacy of the number 33, exploring the careers of the exceptional players who donned this iconic jersey. These weren't just players; they were forces of nature, individuals who possessed a rare combination of talent, drive, and unwavering determination.

NFL 2021 - Week 7 - Washington vs. Packers courtesy of All-Pro Reels from the District of Columbia 10/24/2021 Lambeau Field via Wikimedia Commons

From bruising running backs who carved their way through opposing defenses to ball-hawking safeties who patrolled the secondary with unmatched prowess, the number 33 has been a symbol of versatility and excellence. These athletes weren't just wearing a number; they were carrying the torch of greatness, embodying the spirit of competition and the relentless pursuit of victory. Each post in this series will delve into the career of a different player who proudly wore the number 33, highlighting their achievements, their impact on their teams, and their lasting contribution to the game.

These are the stories of gridiron warriors, the men who battled in the trenches, made game-changing plays, and earned the respect of their peers. They represent a lineage of skill and athleticism, a testament to the enduring appeal of American football. Join us as we explore the rich history of the number 33 and celebrate the remarkable athletes who made it their own. This series is a tribute to their talent, their dedication, and their unwavering commitment to the game. Prepare to be inspired by the tales of these NFL legends, the men who wore the number 33 and left an indelible mark on the sport we love.

Dorsett carved his name into gridiron history with a career that redefined the running back position. This essay explores his journey, from his college dominance to his electrifying professional years.

Dorsett's brilliance first shone at the University of Pittsburgh. He broke numerous NCAA records, becoming the first player to rush for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons. His electrifying runs left defenders grasping at air, and his captivating style made him a national sensation. He didn't just run fast; he possessed exceptional vision and agility, weaving through defenses with a dancer's grace.

The Dallas Cowboys, recognizing his immense talent, drafted Dorsett with the second overall pick in 1977. He seamlessly transitioned to the professional level, winning Rookie of the Year honors while leading the league in rushing touchdowns. Dorsett's impact was immediate, transforming the Dallas offense into a juggernaut. He was a perfect complement to quarterback Roger Staubach, creating a dynamic duo that terrorized defenses for years.

Dorsett's career was a highlight reel. He amassed over 12,000 rushing yards, becoming the NFL's second-leading rusher at the time of his retirement. Four Pro Bowls and a Super Bowl ring in 1978 solidify his place among the game's greats. But beyond the accolades, it was his electrifying style that truly captivated fans. His speed was legendary, often leaving defenders in his dust.

Yet, Dorsett offered more than just raw speed. He possessed exceptional receiving skills, adding another dimension to his offensive threat. He was a master of breaking tackles, utilizing his quickness and agility to evade defenders and gain extra yards. Dorsett's impact went beyond the field as well. He was a pioneer for African American running backs, breaking barriers and inspiring generations to come.

However, Dorsett's career wasn't without its challenges. Injuries hampered him in later years, and his production declined. Still, he persevered, playing for 12 seasons before retiring in 1988.

Born April 24, 1903, in Cleveland, Ohio, was Mike Michalske, the Penn State All-American guard. Mike signed on in the pros with the original American Football League’s New York Yankees in 1927.

He played there for two seasons until the League disbanded, and then he joined the Green Bay Packers of the NFL in 1929, then anchored their lines all the way until 1937. Mike’s bio on the Pro Football Hall of Fame says that Michalske was particularly adept at going after the passer.

Michalske also championed the idea of using former fullbacks at guard because they were fast and explosive. He sold the idea to Green Bay Packers coach Curly Lambea,u and thu,s it was no accident that many fine Green Bay guards had cut their football teeth as fullbacks. Michalske  was a great two-way player as the guy played 60 minutes of darn near every game he played in earning him the name of “Iron Mike.” The Packers won NFL titles in 1929, 1930, and 1931, and Michalske was named All-NFL in 1929, 1930, 1931, 1934, and 1935. In 1964, the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Mike Michalske into their Canton, Ohio, museum of Legends. NFL Jersey Number 36

George "Wildcat" Wilson, a name synonymous with football excellence, left an indelible mark on both the collegiate and professional levels of the game. Born September 6, 1901, George Wilson or Wildcat Wilson, was a halfback from the University of Washington.

Wildcat showed his importance to the the Huskies team in the 1926 Rose Bowl Game. Wilson's dominant performance for much of the first half of the "Grand Daddy of them All" had opponent Alabama on their heels and down by a couple of scores. The Crimson Tide finally got a break late in the second quarter when George Wilson left the game due to injury. The Tide led by Johnny Mack Brown with 20 unanswered points and were driving down the field to score again when the banged up Wildcat Wilson re-entered the contest and was significant in stalling the 'Bama drive at the Husky 12 yard line.

Wilson then guided the Washington offense down the field and capped off the drive with Wilson throwing a 20 yard scoring strike to John Cole. It was not enough as the Tide held ont win the game 20-19. The stat line of the game showed that with Wilson on the field, the Washington Huskies gained 317 yards and put up 19 points, when he was out they mustered a mere 17 yards and were shut out while the Crimson Tide scored all 20 of their points in that 22 minute absence of Wilson from the contest.

It really put Alabama football on the map as a prominant football power in the college football landscape. The 1926 Rose Bowl has gone down in history known as "The game that changed the South." but it could have been a much different game had Wildcat Wilson played the whole game. Needless to say, the College Football Hall of Fame invited George Wilson into their exclusive club of legends in 1951.

His versatile skills and electrifying performances solidified his status as one of the most iconic players of his era.  

Wilson's collegiate career at the University of Washington was nothing short of extraordinary. As a halfback, he displayed a remarkable combination of speed, power, and agility. His ability to evade defenders, break tackles, and score touchdowns consistently made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Wilson's impact on the Huskies was undeniable, as he led them to numerous victories and earned consensus All-American honors.  

After his successful college career, Wilson transitioned to the professional ranks, where he continued to impress. His most notable stint was with the Los Angeles Wildcats. Despite the challenges of the early days of professional football, Wilson's talent and determination shone through. He became a fan favorite and a respected figure among his peers.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Wilson's legacy extends to his impact on the sport as a whole. His dynamic playing style and fearless approach to the game inspired countless athletes and fans alike. His contributions to the development of football, both at the collegiate and professional levels, continue to be celebrated and admired.

George "Wildcat" Wilson's name will forever be etched in the annals of football history. His exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and enduring impact on the sport make him a true legend.

Born August 2, 1937, was LSU former star halfback and 1959 Heisman winner, Billy Cannon was also born on this day. He attended Louisiana State University, where he played college football as a halfback, return specialist, and defensive back for the LSU Tigers. Mr. Cannon was enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008.

A Heisman Trophy winner at LSU, Cannon's college career was highlighted by his electrifying 89-yard punt return touchdown against Ole Miss, a play that has become one of the most iconic moments in college football history.

His professional career was equally impressive. Drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Rams, Cannon spent most of his time in the AFL, where he was a dynamic playmaker for the Houston Oilers and Oakland Raiders. With his speed, power, and versatility, he was a nightmare for defenses. Though injuries curtailed his career, Cannon's impact on the game remains undeniable, securing his place as one of the greatest all-around athletes of his era.

His punt return on October 31, 1959 haunted the number 3 ranked Ole Miss Rebels and is considered by many to be one of the greatest play in LSU football history. At LSU, Cannon was twice named a unanimous All-American, helped the 1958 LSU team win a national championship, and received the Heisman Trophy as the nation's most outstanding college player in 1959.

Billy Cannon also had a nice AFL and NFL career the Houston Oilers, Oakland Raiders and KC Chiefs. He was also drafted by the LA Rams but the AFL Oiler's owner Bud Adams won a court ruling and outbid the NFL's Rams for his rights.

Born May 1, 1930, in Trinity, Texas, was the University of San Francisco’s stud halfback of 1949 to 1951, Ollie Matson. Matson, a trailblazer in the realm of professional football, left an indelible mark on both the college and pro game. Hailing from Georgia, Matson's athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He attended the University of Georgia, where he excelled as a running back, earning All-American honors.

Ollie finished as a contender for the Heisman Trophy. After that season, he turned around and won the silver and bronze medals in the 1952 Olympic Games! The College Football Hall of Fame proudly placed a display in honor of Ollie Matson in their legendary museum in 1976. In 1952 Matson was the number one overall pick by the Chicago Cardinals in the NFL Draft.

Matson's college success translated seamlessly to the professional level. Drafted by the Chicago Cardinals in 1952, he quickly established himself as one of the league's premier running backs. Known for his elusive running style, Matson's ability to make defenders miss tackles and find open space was unmatched. He consistently led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns, earning numerous Pro Bowl selections and even winning the NFL MVP award in 1955.

Beyond his individual accomplishments, Matson also played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers in the NFL. As one of the first African American players to achieve widespread success and recognition, he helped pave the way for future generations of Black athletes. Matson's contributions to the game extended beyond the field, as he became a respected figure in the community and a role model for aspiring athletes. His legacy as a pioneering running back and a trailblazer in the fight for racial equality will continue to inspire future generations.

He played well for the Cards but was traded to the Rams in 1959 for nine players! You can learn more about that trade here. Ollie racked up over 12,000 yards of total offense in the League and was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972.

The Kansas City Chiefs boast a rich history filled with legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. As a testament to their extraordinary contributions, a select few have earned the ultimate honor of having their jersey numbers retired.

These numbers, once worn by gridiron greats, are now permanently enshrined in the annals of Chiefs history.  

The Chiefs' retired jerseys represent a pantheon of football legends, including quarterbacks, running backs, and defensive stars. These players not only excelled on the field but also became synonymous with the team's identity. Their jerseys serve as a constant reminder of the franchise's rich tradition and the unwavering dedication of those who have worn them.

The retirement of a jersey is a solemn occasion reserved for athletes who have transcended the game and become symbols of excellence. The Chiefs' retired numbers stand as a testament to the organization's commitment to honoring its greatest players and preserving their legacies for generations to come.

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in KC anymore:

-Jersey Number 3
Jan Stenerud 1967–1979

-Jersey Number 16
Len Dawson 1962–1975

-Jersey Number 18
Emmitt Thomas 1966–1978

-Jersey Number 28
Abner Haynes 1960–1964

-Jersey Number 33
Stone Johnson 1963

-Jersey Number 36
Mack Lee Hill 1964–1965

-Jersey Number 58
Derrick Thomas 1989–1999

-Jersey Number 63
Willie Lanier 1967–1977

-Jersey Number 78
Bobby Bell 1963–1974

-Jersey Number 86
Buck Buchanan 1963–1975


If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

Born in Lynchburg, Virginia, March 14, 1978, Ron Dayne etched his name into the annals of football history through sheer power and relentless determination. His career, spanning dominant college performances and a respectable NFL tenure, cemented his legacy as one of the game's most formidable running backs.

-College Career:

Dayne's time at the University of Wisconsin (1996-1999) was a masterclass in sustained excellence. He was a force of nature, a bruising back who consistently overwhelmed defenses. His remarkable consistency led him to become the NCAA's all-time leading rusher, a record he still holds, with an astounding 7,125 career yards. Notably, he achieved the rare feat of surpassing 2,000 rushing yards twice in his college career. His 1999 Heisman Trophy victory was a landslide, a testament to his undeniable impact on the game. He was also a three-time First-Team All-American.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Dayne's collegiate dominance made him a highly coveted prospect in the 2000 NFL Draft. The New York Giants selected him in the first round, anticipating his power running style would translate to the professional level. His NFL career spanned seven seasons, including stints with the Denver Broncos and Houston Texans, in addition to the Giants. He was a part of the Giants team that reached Super Bowl XXXV in 2001.  

-Football Legacy:

Ron Dayne's legacy is defined by his record-breaking college career and his powerful running style. He redefined the standard for collegiate rushing, setting a benchmark that remains a testament to his exceptional talent and work ethic. His ability to consistently churn out yards, combined with his Heisman Trophy victory, solidified his place among the greatest college football players of all time. His NFL career, while not as statistically dominant as his college years, showcased his resilience and ability to contribute at the highest level.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

-College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2013.

-Heisman Trophy: 1999.  

-NCAA Career Rushing Yards Record: 7,125 yards.

-Three-time First-Team All-American.  

-Super Bowl XXXV Appearance: 2001 (New York Giants).  

-Played 7 years in the NFL.  

-First round draft pick to the New York Giants.

-Maxwell Award (1999)

-Walter Camp Award (1999)

-Chic Harley Award (1999)

-Doak Walker Award (1999)

-Jim Brown Award (1999)

-AP College Football Player of the Year (1999)

-SN Player of the Year (1999)

-Unanimous All-American (1999)

-2× First-team All-American (1997, 1998)

-Third-team All-American (1996)

-Big Ten Male Athlete of the Year (2000)

-Big Ten Most Valuable Player (1999)

-Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year (1999)

-Big Ten Co-Freshman of the Year (1996)

-3× First-team All-Big Ten (1996, 1998, 1999)

-Second-team All-Big Ten (1997)

-Wisconsin Badgers No. 33 retired

Info courtesy National Football Foundation.org & Wikipedia

Born December 29, 1936 - Ray Nitschke the feared middle linebacker of the Green Bay Packers was born. Ray was the third overall pick in the 1958 NFL Draft by the Packers and he played with the team for 15 seasons according to his bio on the Pro Football HOF.

Nitschke defended both the run and the pass well as his 25 career interceptions would indicate. Ray was a member of 5 champion Green Bay teams and was the MVP of the 1962 NFL Championship game. The Pro Football Hall of Fame placed Ray Nitschke in a gold jacket in 1978.

-College Career

Ray Nitschke's collegiate football career was marked by his time at the University of Illinois. While not a standout star, he displayed a relentless work ethic and a tenacious playing style that would define his professional career. Nitschke's college experience laid the foundation for his future success, instilling in him the discipline and determination necessary to excel at the highest level of the sport.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Selected by the Green Bay Packers in the third round of the 1958 NFL Draft, Ray Nitschke would go on to become one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history. Initially a backup, he quickly rose through the ranks to become a cornerstone of Vince Lombardi's legendary Packers defense. Nitschke's career was synonymous with toughness, relentless pursuit, and a ferocious playing style. He was the heart and soul of the Packers' dominant teams of the 1960s, contributing significantly to five NFL championships and the first two Super Bowl victories.  

Nitschke's impact extended beyond his statistics. He was a vocal leader, inspiring his teammates with his unwavering dedication and work ethic. His ability to consistently deliver bone-jarring tackles and make crucial plays in big games earned him the respect of opponents and fans alike.  

-Football Legacy

Ray Nitschke's legacy is etched in the annals of NFL history as one of the game's most ferocious and respected defenders. His impact on the Green Bay Packers and the sport as a whole is immeasurable. Nitschke's relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with his unwavering toughness, became the blueprint for generations of linebackers.

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Nitschke's character and leadership qualities made him a role model for aspiring football players. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978 was a fitting recognition of his extraordinary career. Ray Nitschke will forever be remembered as one of the greatest to ever play the game.

Born March 17, 1914, in Temple, Texas. Baugh was also an excellent punter who would lead the league four times as a professional.

Sammy Baugh was a true pioneer in professional football. He helped redefine the quarterback position in an era that saw the prevalent single-wing offenses give way to the T-formation and where QBs were the leading passers. Here's a quick rundown of his impressive career:

-Dominant Quarterback: Baugh played for the Washington Redskins (now Commanders) from 1937 to 1952. He led the league in passing yards six times, a record that still stands, and revolutionized the quarterback position with his exceptional throwing accuracy and arm strength.

-Triple Threat: Nicknamed "Slingin' Sammy," Baugh wasn't just a passer. He excelled as a punter, leading the league four times, and also played defensive back, even leading the league in interceptions in 1943. His versatility made him a nightmare for opposing teams.

-Championship Pedigree: Baugh led the Redskins to NFL Championships in 1937 and 1942, solidifying his status as a winner.

-Durability and Recognition: Despite playing in a leather helmet era, Baugh enjoyed a long and successful career. He retired with numerous NFL records and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.

Born March 17, 1914 birth in Temple, Texas on this day. Sammy Baugh, according to the NFF, said that Baugh was also an excellent punter who, as a professional, would lead the league four times.

During a 3-2 TCU victory over LSU in the Sugar Bowl, Baugh punted 14 times for a 48-yard average, placing many kicks inside the Tiger five-yard line. Baugh gained All-America status in 1935 and repeated as a consensus All-America in his 1936 senior season. The National Football Foundation saluted the great career of Sammy Baugh by placing his stats and story in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951.

When Baugh left TCU he joined the Washington Redskins when they used the number one overall pick in the 1937 NFL Draft to select him. In 16 professional seasons Sammy played on five division and two league championship teams.

As a passer Baugh led the league six times and still holds many NFL passing records tossing an amazing for the time 187 TDs. In addition to being a great passer and punter, Baugh was also an extremely efficient defensive player as he led the NFL in interceptions in 1943 and finished his NFL career with 31. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Sammy Baugh's gridiron legacy in 1963.