winklogo200.png

Football Daily

Nebraska
Page Blog Posts

Greatest Pro Team
Who was the MOST DOMINANT team in Pro Football History? We have the answer in the latest Pigskin Dispatch book

The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team

FREE Daily Sports History
You are only seconds away from receiving the Pigpen's Newsletter everyday filled with new items

SUBSCRIBE BY CLICKING _________________________  

Results 1 thru 10 of 17 for "Nebraska"
Go To Page: 1 2

Vintage image of Ed Weir

Mar 31, 2013 - This Pin was discovered by k. Discover (and save!) your own Pins on Pinterest — www.pinterest.com

Ed Weir, Nebraska | Husker football, Football players, Vintage football

Nebraska Corn Huskers Gridiron Traditions and History

Corn Husker fans, huddle up! Brace yourselves for a deep dive into the storied history of Nebraska football, a tale woven with crimson and cream threads of triumph, grit, and an unyielding passion for the game. Over the coming weeks, we'll journey through time, retracing the footsteps of legendary coaches, iconic players, and unforgettable moments that etched Nebraska's name onto the gridiron's Hall of Fame.

Our saga begins in the heart of the Great Plains, where the "Old Gold Knights" first took the field in 1890. We'll witness the birth of the "Corn Huskers" nickname, a moniker born from both admiration and scorn but destined to symbolize unwavering pride. We'll relive the golden age under Bob Devaney and Tom Osborne, a dynasty forged in the crucible of Blackshirt defense and option-run offense, capturing five national championships and leaving rivals trembling in their cleats.

But Nebraska's story isn't solely one of glory. We'll delve into the program's moments of adversity, the heartbreaks and near-misses that fueled the fire of determination. We'll remember the iconic figures who defied the odds – Johnny Rodgers' electrifying speed, Mike Rozier's bulldozing power, Tommie Frazier's unwavering spirit – athletes who embodied the Husker spirit on and off the field.

This journey transcends mere statistics and game recaps. It's about the unbreakable bond between players, coaches, and fans, forged in the crucible of Memorial Stadium's loud cheers and bone-chilling nights. It's about the values of hard work, resilience, and never giving up – values that resonate far beyond the confines of the playing field.

So, Husker Nation, let's embark on this odyssey together. Sharpen your knowledge, prepare your vocal cords, and get ready to relive the magic, the heartbreaks, and the unwavering spirit that makes Nebraska football more than just a game – it's a way of life. Stay tuned because the most incredible stories in Cornhusker history are about to unfold, one glorious gridiron chapter at a time.

Get ready for goosebumps, for tears of joy and maybe a few of frustration (we'll get to those 4th-and-1s, don't worry!), and above all, for a celebration of the red-clad warriors who have etched their names onto the tapestry of Nebraska football history. Onward, Big Red!

The Origin Story of the Nebraska Corn Huskers

From the Archives of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, "Nebraska U" is a collaborative effort to explore, through research projects and multimedia, the history of Nebraska's most important University.



— unlhistory.unl.edu

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.

Husker Nation, Assemble! Relive the Glory of Nebraska's Greatest Plays

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.

Nebraska Football's All-Time Legends

In the relatively brief time that I've been a writer here at Bleacher Report, I've written several articles that were outside my comfort zone. After all, Nebraska football has been my bread and butter... — bleacherreport.com

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.

Where Husker Power Echoes Through History

In the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska, Memorial Stadium isn't just a venue; it's a beating heart, a cathedral of crimson and cream, and a testament to the unyielding spirit of the Cornhuskers. More than just bricks and mortar, it's a canvas upon which legends are painted, dreams are chased, and victories are etched in the collective memory of Husker Nation.

Born from the ashes of World War I, Memorial Stadium was envisioned as a tribute to fallen Nebraskans. Construction began in 1922 and was funded by donations from every corner of the state, solidifying its status as a community endeavor. The inaugural game in 1923 saw 21,000 fans witness a 49-0 rout of Minnesota, setting the stage for a century of passion and unrest.

Over the years, Memorial Stadium has undergone numerous expansions, morphing from its horseshoe-shaped origins into a behemoth capable of seating over 81,000 fervent fans. The iconic red seats pulsate with energy under the floodlights, creating a sea of crimson that rivals the most vibrant sunsets. The pre-game ritual of "Tunnel Walk," where players emerge from the stadium's bowels into the roaring embrace of the crowd, is an electrifying spectacle that sends shivers down spines and goosebumps erupting on arms.

Memorial Stadium's hallowed grounds have witnessed countless historic moments. Tom Osborne's dynasty produced three national championships and a staggering 139-13-4 record, etching his name and those of his players into Husker lore. The "Blackshirt" defense, a unit renowned for its ferocity, has struck fear into the hearts of opposing offenses for decades.

Beyond the victories, Memorial Stadium has also weathered moments of heartbreak. The "Miracle in Miami" loss to Miami in 1983 and the stunning upset by Colorado in 1994 remain etched in the memories of Husker fans. Yet, these setbacks only highlight the unwavering resilience and enduring love for the team that permeates the Nebraska faithful.

Today, Memorial Stadium stands as a symbol of Midwestern grit and determination. It's a place where families come together, generations bond over a shared passion, and Husker power reverberates through the stands, echoing across the plains and reminding everyone that Nebraska football is more than just a game; it's a way of life.

Texas Steals Big 12 Championship from Nebraska in Last-Second Thriller (2009)

On December 5, 2009, the #5 Texas Longhorns faced off against the #22 Nebraska Cornhuskers in a nail-biting Big 12 Championship showdown.

Nebraska held the lead throughout the game, but Texas fought back with a late touchdown drive. With just seconds remaining on the clock, Texas kicker Hunter Lawrence nailed a 46-yard field goal, securing a dramatic 13-12 victory and stealing the Big 12 Championship from Nebraska.

This thrilling contest, decided by a last-second field goal, cemented itself as a memorable chapter in both teams' histories and solidified the 2009 Texas Longhorns as Big 12 champions.
Results 1 thru 10 of 17 for "Nebraska"
Go To Page: 1 2

Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there! Brought to you by Number 80 Productions and Pigskin Dispatch _________________________

Proud to Support The Professional Football Researchers Association
To learn more about joining the fun in preserving football history go to The Official PFRA Website. _________________________
We have placed some product links on this page. If you purchase by clicking on them, we will get a commission to use to help with operating costs.

Sports Jersey Dispatch
If you like remembering players of the NFL by their numbers then you may also enjoy going uniform number by number in other team sports as well. We have it for you on our other website in baseball, basketball, hockey and more on the Sports Jersey Dispatch. _________________________

Sports History Network
A Proud Partner in the Headquarters of Sports Yesteryear, SHN. _________________________

Sports Memorabilia
This Deal Ends Soon! We have become an affiliate of

SportsMemorabilia.com. Find the latest deals on football treasures. When you purchase you not only get great historical items but you also help Pigskin Dispatch. It is win win!

Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry
Author Joe Ziemba the master historian of football in Chicago has released another beauty. It is titled Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry. _________________________

Posts on "Search"

GROUPS: PUBLICSITEGROUP