Steve Suhey From College Legend to NFL Trailblazer
Professional Football Player. Born Steven Joseph Suhey, he was a guard with the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1948 and 1949 seasons. He is part of the first family of Penn State football, as his father-in-law, Bob Higgins, was his coach and he had three sons and two grandsons play for Penn State. His son Matt was also a... — www.findagrave.com
Steven Joseph Suhey's football career wasn't a whirlwind of touchdown dances and headline-grabbing stats. Instead, it was a carefully woven tapestry of leadership, versatility, and family legacy, leaving its mark on both Penn State and the fledgling professional game.
Suhey's collegiate years were the golden age. He was an All-American guard, anchoring the offensive line and leading the Nittany Lions to the 1948 Cotton Bowl Classic victory. His leadership extended beyond the field, with some crediting him for igniting the iconic "We Are Penn State!" chant in a defiant stand against racial prejudice. This fierce pride and dedication cemented him as a campus legend.
However, Suhey's story doesn't end in Happy Valley. He blazed a trail into the newly formed NFL, joining the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1948. While his professional career spanned only two seasons, his presence as one of the first Penn State products in the league held significant weight. He paved the way for future Nittany Lions like Franco Harris and John Cappelletti, showing that hard work and grit could bridge the gap from Big Ten excellence to professional success.
But Suhey's impact transcended even the gridiron. He married Virginia "Ginger" Higgins, daughter of his Penn State coach Bob Higgins, further intertwining his life with the Nittany Lion legacy. Three of their sons became Penn State lettermen, and his grandson Kevin even donned the blue and white. This generational commitment earned the Higgins-Suhey family the well-deserved title of "first family of Nittany Lion football," signifying their lasting influence on the program.
Steve Suhey's football career may not have been defined by gaudy numbers or championship rings. Instead, it was a testament to leadership, versatility, and family legacy.
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Randy Cross' Hall of Fame Career
Undersized yet remarkably strong, Randy Cross defied expectations to become one of college football's most dominant guards and centers, culminating in a stellar NFL career that cemented his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In this edition, we explore Cross' gridiron journey, from overcoming early challenges to becoming a champion and a legend.
Born in Oklahoma in 1931, Cross faced hardship at a young age. Left behind by his family during the Great Depression, he spent his formative years working odd jobs while displaying a natural athletic talent. This grit and perseverance would become his defining characteristics.
Cross' athletic prowess caught the attention of Bud Wilkinson, the legendary Oklahoma Sooners coach. Despite concerns about Cross' height (listed at 5'9"), Wilkinson saw a player with exceptional strength, agility, and a fierce competitive spirit. Cross arrived in Norman in 1950 and quickly earned his starting spot.
The 1951 season became Cross' breakout year. Alongside quarterback Glyn Milburn, he formed the core of a dynamic backfield. Nicknamed "The Little Wonder," Cross' explosive blocking and ability to neutralize defenders paved the way for the Sooners' high-powered offense. His performance in the "Game of the Century" against Notre Dame solidified his reputation as a national star. Despite trailing late, Cross anchored the offensive line, allowing the Sooners to score two late touchdowns and secure a dramatic victory.
The following year, Cross cemented his legacy. Leading the Sooners to an undefeated season and a national championship, he captured the 1952 Heisman Trophy. At the time, he was the shortest player ever to win the award, a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.
Cross' NFL career, entirely with the San Francisco 49ers (1976-1989), further solidified his place among the greats. While a knee injury cut his senior year at Oklahoma short, his talent translated seamlessly to the professional level. He transitioned from center to guard early in his career, showcasing his versatility. Cross earned three Pro Bowl selections and played a pivotal role in the 49ers' three Super Bowl victories (XVI, XIX, and XXIII). His intelligence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his teammates made him a cornerstone of the team's success.
Randy Cross' legacy transcends his Heisman Trophy and Super Bowl rings. He challenged stereotypes and proved that greatness doesn't come in a single size. His work ethic, leadership, and unparalleled blocking skills redefined the role of the offensive lineman. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010 was a fitting tribute to a player who anchored his teams both literally and figuratively.
Born April 25, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, was Randy Cross the tough interior lineman of the UCLA Bruins. The National Football Foundation tells the tale of how Cross as a standout on the UCLA line helped the Bruins avenge an earlier 41-20 blowout loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes.At the 1976 Rose Bowl, UCLA slipped past the top-ranked Ohio State squad in one of the largest upsets in Rose Bowl history subsequently denying OSU of their national championship aspirations. Starting as the team’s center midway through his sophomore season, the coaches moved Randy to play guard for his final two years of eligibility where he became a first-team all-conference and a first-team All-America as a senior. Randy Cross received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010. After graduation Cross was picked by the San Francisco 49ers in the 1976 NFL Draft. Randy thrived in the Leagues for 13 years and won three Super Bowls with the franchise. Avoiding major injury, the iron man missed only eight games in his professional career propelling him to be named to three All-Pro teams. He was voted the San Francisco 49ers' Man of the Year (1985) for his work in the community. Later after taking off the jersey for the last time, Cross became a television analyst. NFL Jersey Number 51
Born in Oklahoma in 1931, Cross faced hardship at a young age. Left behind by his family during the Great Depression, he spent his formative years working odd jobs while displaying a natural athletic talent. This grit and perseverance would become his defining characteristics.
Cross' athletic prowess caught the attention of Bud Wilkinson, the legendary Oklahoma Sooners coach. Despite concerns about Cross' height (listed at 5'9"), Wilkinson saw a player with exceptional strength, agility, and a fierce competitive spirit. Cross arrived in Norman in 1950 and quickly earned his starting spot.
The 1951 season became Cross' breakout year. Alongside quarterback Glyn Milburn, he formed the core of a dynamic backfield. Nicknamed "The Little Wonder," Cross' explosive blocking and ability to neutralize defenders paved the way for the Sooners' high-powered offense. His performance in the "Game of the Century" against Notre Dame solidified his reputation as a national star. Despite trailing late, Cross anchored the offensive line, allowing the Sooners to score two late touchdowns and secure a dramatic victory.
The following year, Cross cemented his legacy. Leading the Sooners to an undefeated season and a national championship, he captured the 1952 Heisman Trophy. At the time, he was the shortest player ever to win the award, a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.
Cross' NFL career, entirely with the San Francisco 49ers (1976-1989), further solidified his place among the greats. While a knee injury cut his senior year at Oklahoma short, his talent translated seamlessly to the professional level. He transitioned from center to guard early in his career, showcasing his versatility. Cross earned three Pro Bowl selections and played a pivotal role in the 49ers' three Super Bowl victories (XVI, XIX, and XXIII). His intelligence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his teammates made him a cornerstone of the team's success.
Randy Cross' legacy transcends his Heisman Trophy and Super Bowl rings. He challenged stereotypes and proved that greatness doesn't come in a single size. His work ethic, leadership, and unparalleled blocking skills redefined the role of the offensive lineman. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010 was a fitting tribute to a player who anchored his teams both literally and figuratively.
Born April 25, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, was Randy Cross the tough interior lineman of the UCLA Bruins. The National Football Foundation tells the tale of how Cross as a standout on the UCLA line helped the Bruins avenge an earlier 41-20 blowout loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes.At the 1976 Rose Bowl, UCLA slipped past the top-ranked Ohio State squad in one of the largest upsets in Rose Bowl history subsequently denying OSU of their national championship aspirations. Starting as the team’s center midway through his sophomore season, the coaches moved Randy to play guard for his final two years of eligibility where he became a first-team all-conference and a first-team All-America as a senior. Randy Cross received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010. After graduation Cross was picked by the San Francisco 49ers in the 1976 NFL Draft. Randy thrived in the Leagues for 13 years and won three Super Bowls with the franchise. Avoiding major injury, the iron man missed only eight games in his professional career propelling him to be named to three All-Pro teams. He was voted the San Francisco 49ers' Man of the Year (1985) for his work in the community. Later after taking off the jersey for the last time, Cross became a television analyst. NFL Jersey Number 51
Jim Langer Pro HOF Center
In the annals of NFL history, some names evoke images of dazzling touchdowns and gravity-defying catches. Jim Langer wasn't one of those names. Yet, his impact on the game resides in a different realm – the often-overlooked yet crucial world of the offensive line. Langer's career wasn't defined by flashy stats, but by a relentless dedication to excellence and a dominance that anchored some of the most successful offenses in NFL history.
Langer's journey began not on a manicured football field, but in the disciplined environment of the United States Marine Corps. This instilled in him the toughness and perseverance that would become hallmarks of his playing style. Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1970, he was quickly released. However, the Miami Dolphins recognized his potential and picked him up on waivers. This decision proved to be a turning point, not just for Langer, but for the entire franchise.
Langer's arrival coincided with the rise of the legendary Miami Dolphins. Teaming up with the "Marks Brothers" – wide receivers Mark Clayton and Mark Duper – and anchored by center Dwight Stephenson, Langer formed the core of an offensive line that paved the way for the explosive passing attack led by quarterback Dan Marino. But Langer was more than just a blocker; he was the field general of the offensive line, calling out assignments and directing his unit with a quiet intensity.
Langer's dominance wasn't limited to brute strength. He possessed exceptional agility and footwork, a necessity for facing the speedy pass rushers of the era. His ability to neutralize them allowed Marino the time and space to orchestrate his magic plays. This resulted in seasons with league-leading offenses, culminating in Langer earning a place on the All-Pro team seven times.
However, Langer's legacy extends beyond individual accolades. He played a pivotal role in the Miami Dolphins' run of dominance in the 1970s and 80s, culminating in their perfect season in 1972 – the only undefeated season in NFL history. His leadership and work ethic became an inspiration for aspiring linemen, demonstrating that success on the field often hinges on the unseen and underappreciated contributions of these "big men."
Jim Langer's career serves as a testament to the vital role offensive linemen play in the game. He was the immovable force behind a dynasty, a silent leader whose dedication and grit propelled his team to unparalleled heights. While the spotlight may often shine on the quarterbacks and receivers, Langer's legacy reminds us that true greatness can be found in the trenches, anchoring the team and laying the foundation for victory.
Born May 16, 1948 - Little Falls, Minnesota - The South Dakota State center Jim Langer arrived to have his birth certificate signed.
Langer, according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s bio on him, walked on to the 1970 Miami Dolphins as a free agent. He soon became a starter and even played every offensive snap of the Miami perfect season of 1972, needing the help of a teammate on only three of 500 snaps of blocking assignments that year!
Jim was a four-time All-Pro, playing in 3 Super Bowls and in 6 Pro Bowls. Jim Langer had his body of NFL work enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.
Langer's journey began not on a manicured football field, but in the disciplined environment of the United States Marine Corps. This instilled in him the toughness and perseverance that would become hallmarks of his playing style. Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1970, he was quickly released. However, the Miami Dolphins recognized his potential and picked him up on waivers. This decision proved to be a turning point, not just for Langer, but for the entire franchise.
Langer's arrival coincided with the rise of the legendary Miami Dolphins. Teaming up with the "Marks Brothers" – wide receivers Mark Clayton and Mark Duper – and anchored by center Dwight Stephenson, Langer formed the core of an offensive line that paved the way for the explosive passing attack led by quarterback Dan Marino. But Langer was more than just a blocker; he was the field general of the offensive line, calling out assignments and directing his unit with a quiet intensity.
Langer's dominance wasn't limited to brute strength. He possessed exceptional agility and footwork, a necessity for facing the speedy pass rushers of the era. His ability to neutralize them allowed Marino the time and space to orchestrate his magic plays. This resulted in seasons with league-leading offenses, culminating in Langer earning a place on the All-Pro team seven times.
However, Langer's legacy extends beyond individual accolades. He played a pivotal role in the Miami Dolphins' run of dominance in the 1970s and 80s, culminating in their perfect season in 1972 – the only undefeated season in NFL history. His leadership and work ethic became an inspiration for aspiring linemen, demonstrating that success on the field often hinges on the unseen and underappreciated contributions of these "big men."
Jim Langer's career serves as a testament to the vital role offensive linemen play in the game. He was the immovable force behind a dynasty, a silent leader whose dedication and grit propelled his team to unparalleled heights. While the spotlight may often shine on the quarterbacks and receivers, Langer's legacy reminds us that true greatness can be found in the trenches, anchoring the team and laying the foundation for victory.
Born May 16, 1948 - Little Falls, Minnesota - The South Dakota State center Jim Langer arrived to have his birth certificate signed.
Langer, according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s bio on him, walked on to the 1970 Miami Dolphins as a free agent. He soon became a starter and even played every offensive snap of the Miami perfect season of 1972, needing the help of a teammate on only three of 500 snaps of blocking assignments that year!
Jim was a four-time All-Pro, playing in 3 Super Bowls and in 6 Pro Bowls. Jim Langer had his body of NFL work enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.
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Alex Agase Hall of Fame Guard/Linebacker of the Illini, Browns, Colts & more
Alexander Arrasi Agase was born in Chicago, Illinois, on March 27, 1922. His distinguished career encompassed collegiate stardom, professional championships, and leadership as a college head coach, leaving an indelible mark on American football.
College Career
Agase's collegiate career began at the University of Illinois, where he quickly established himself as a dominant right guard starting in 1941. His exceptional play earned him his first All-American selection in 1942. Notably, in a game against Minnesota that year, Agase became only the second guard in college football history to score two touchdowns in a single game. With the onset of World War II, Agase enlisted in the U.S. Marines in 1943. During his military training, he played football alongside other military personnel at Purdue University. His outstanding performance there resulted in his second All-American honor in 1943, contributing to Purdue's undefeated season and Big Ten co-championship. After serving in the Pacific theater, including the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa where he was wounded and received a Purple Heart, Agase returned to Illinois for his senior season in 1946. He capped off his remarkable college career by earning his third All-American selection and the Chicago Tribune Silver Football as the Big Ten's most valuable player, leading the Fighting Illini to a Rose Bowl victory. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1963.
Road to the Pro Game
Although drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1944, Agase's professional debut was delayed by his military service. Upon graduating, he signed with the Los Angeles Dons of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1947. After a brief stint with the Dons and the Chicago Rockets, he joined the Cleveland Browns in 1948. This move proved pivotal, as he became an integral part of a dominant Browns team that won two AAFC championships (1948, 1949) and the NFL Championship in 1950, following the AAFC's merger with the NFL. Agase's contributions as a key member of the offensive line were crucial to the Browns' success during this golden era.
Football Legacy
Alex Agase's legacy extends far beyond his playing days. His three All-American selections in college underscore his exceptional talent and impact at that level. As a professional, he was a cornerstone of a championship-winning dynasty with the Cleveland Browns, demonstrating his toughness and skill in the trenches. Following his playing career, Agase transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant before taking on head coaching roles at Northwestern University and Purdue University. While his head coaching records were mixed, he notably led Northwestern to a Coach of the Year honor for the Football Writers Association of America in 1970. His career path, from a decorated player to a college coach, highlights his deep commitment to the sport. Agase's induction into the College Football Hall of Fame solidifies his place among the legends of the game.
Accolades, Awards and Career Stats
College:
-3x All-American (1942, 1943, 1946)
-Big Ten MVP (Chicago Tribune Silver Football, 1946)
-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1963)
Professional:
-2x AAFC Champion (1948, 1949)
-NFL Champion (1950)
Coaching:
-Football Writers Association of America Coach of the Year (1970)
College Career
Agase's collegiate career began at the University of Illinois, where he quickly established himself as a dominant right guard starting in 1941. His exceptional play earned him his first All-American selection in 1942. Notably, in a game against Minnesota that year, Agase became only the second guard in college football history to score two touchdowns in a single game. With the onset of World War II, Agase enlisted in the U.S. Marines in 1943. During his military training, he played football alongside other military personnel at Purdue University. His outstanding performance there resulted in his second All-American honor in 1943, contributing to Purdue's undefeated season and Big Ten co-championship. After serving in the Pacific theater, including the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa where he was wounded and received a Purple Heart, Agase returned to Illinois for his senior season in 1946. He capped off his remarkable college career by earning his third All-American selection and the Chicago Tribune Silver Football as the Big Ten's most valuable player, leading the Fighting Illini to a Rose Bowl victory. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1963.
Road to the Pro Game
Although drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1944, Agase's professional debut was delayed by his military service. Upon graduating, he signed with the Los Angeles Dons of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1947. After a brief stint with the Dons and the Chicago Rockets, he joined the Cleveland Browns in 1948. This move proved pivotal, as he became an integral part of a dominant Browns team that won two AAFC championships (1948, 1949) and the NFL Championship in 1950, following the AAFC's merger with the NFL. Agase's contributions as a key member of the offensive line were crucial to the Browns' success during this golden era.
Football Legacy
Alex Agase's legacy extends far beyond his playing days. His three All-American selections in college underscore his exceptional talent and impact at that level. As a professional, he was a cornerstone of a championship-winning dynasty with the Cleveland Browns, demonstrating his toughness and skill in the trenches. Following his playing career, Agase transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant before taking on head coaching roles at Northwestern University and Purdue University. While his head coaching records were mixed, he notably led Northwestern to a Coach of the Year honor for the Football Writers Association of America in 1970. His career path, from a decorated player to a college coach, highlights his deep commitment to the sport. Agase's induction into the College Football Hall of Fame solidifies his place among the legends of the game.
Accolades, Awards and Career Stats
College:
-3x All-American (1942, 1943, 1946)
-Big Ten MVP (Chicago Tribune Silver Football, 1946)
-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1963)
Professional:
-2x AAFC Champion (1948, 1949)
-NFL Champion (1950)
Coaching:
-Football Writers Association of America Coach of the Year (1970)
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