Football History

Born May 8, 1930, in Humboltd, Tennessee, was Doug Atkins the Tennessee tackle of 1950-1952. The FootballFoundation.org has a great bio of Atkins where they share that head football coach Bob Neyland went after the basketball recruit to use his 6'8", 245- pound frame on the football field as well. As a sophomore in 1950, Atkins played end on Tennessee's 11-1 Cotton Bowl champion team.

Soon they flipped him over to play defensive tackle and soon Doug led a vicious pass rush! The Vols led the nation in pass defense as Tennessee raced to 10 consecutive regular-season victories and a national championship. In Doug's 1952 senior season he won All- America recognition as Tennessee led the nation in total defense.

Against Vanderbilt, he intercepted a pass thrown by future Chicago teammate Billy Wade and returned it for the game's first touchdown in a 46-0 rout. Doug Atkins collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1985. The Cleveland Browns selected Doug in the 1953 NFL Draft with their first-round pick to play defensive end for them. After just two seasons, the Chicago Bears traded with the Browns to get the rights to Doug, and he thrived in the Monsters of the Midway system and scheme.  Atkins enjoyed a 17-year NFL career, earning legendary acclaim as a devastating pass rusher who would often leapfrog blockers to get at the passer. Atkins was selected with All-NFL honors four different times as he also played in 8 Pro Bowls games. Doug Atkins was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982.

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Born August 9, 1962, in New Orleans, LA, was legendary Southern Mississippi Receiver Louis Lipps. Lipps was drafted number 23 overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1984 NFL Draft. He played his eighth and final NFL season as a member of the New Orleans Saints.

Drafted in the first round of the 1984 NFL Draft, Lipps quickly showcased his exceptional skills.

His rookie season was nothing short of sensational, earning him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. With his speed, agility, and sure hands, Lipps became a nightmare for opposing defenses.  

Throughout his career, Lipps consistently made clutch plays and delivered memorable performances. His ability to stretch the field and make acrobatic catches earned him the admiration of fans and teammates alike. Lipps' contributions extended beyond receiving, as he also excelled as a punt returner. His electrifying returns often ignited the Steelers' offense and shifted momentum.  

Although his career was cut short due to injuries, Lipps' impact on the Steelers organization remains undeniable. His name is synonymous with excellence, and his legacy as a beloved player will continue to inspire generations of fans.

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Thom Gatewood, born on March 7, 1950, in Baltimore, Maryland, forged a notable football career, primarily remembered for his stellar contributions at the University of Notre Dame.

Gatewood was the first African-American captain in Notre Dame history, and this player set almost every receiving record in school history during an All-American career! Earning the consensus First Team All-American in 1970, Thom was the leader of receiving for Notre Dame in all three seasons of his collegiate career. Gatewood didn't establish just one but owned multiple Irish receiving records for more than 30 years!

-College Career

Gatewood's collegiate football journey unfolded at the University of Notre Dame, where he became a standout wide receiver. Playing under the legendary coach Ara Parseghian, he was a key component of the Fighting Irish's offensive attack during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Known for his exceptional hands, route-running, and ability to make crucial catches, he played a vital role in Notre Dame's success. He was an essential part of the 1970 National Championship team. He was considered one of the best receivers in the nation during his time at Notre Dame.  

These Irish gridiron milestones included a single-season of 77 catches and 157 career receptions, single-season yardage marks with 1,123 and career yardage of 2,283 receiving, and career receiving touchdowns at a solid 21 times crossing the goal line. The doors swung wide open for Thom Gatewood as he carried his collegiate legacy into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2015. Thom was taken in the fifth round of the 1972 NFL draft by the New York Giants and spent two seasons in the Big Apple with the team.

-Road to the Pro Game

Gatewood's impressive college performance garnered professional interest. He was selected in the fifth round of the 1972 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. However, his professional career was relatively short. He played with the giants for a couple of seasons.  

-Football Legacy

Thom Gatewood's enduring legacy is primarily defined by his remarkable achievements at the University of Notre Dame. He was a symbol of the Fighting Irish's football excellence during a golden era of the program. He also holds a distinct honor as the first African-American team captain in Notre Dame football history, further solidifying his impact on the program. Beyond his athletic prowess, he was recognized for his academic excellence and leadership qualities. His legacy extends beyond the football field, as he has gone on to have a successful post-football career.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-1970 National Champion

-All-American honors.

-Academic All-American honors.

-First African American team Captain at Notre Dame.  

-Cotton Bowl Hall of Fame inductee.

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2015).  

Thom Gatewood's career exemplifies a blend of athletic talent, academic achievement, and leadership, solidifying his place in Notre Dame football history.