Football History

For over a century, the roar of the crowd at Beaver Stadium has echoed through Happy Valley, Pennsylvania. The Penn State Nittany Lions football program is more than just a team; it's a cultural phenomenon, a symbol of resilience, and a breeding ground for legends. From the early days on Old Main Lawn to the modern era of Big Ten dominance, Penn State football boasts a rich history filled with iconic victories, heartbreaking losses, and moments that transcended the game itself.

This series of posts dives deep into the Nittany Lions' legacy. We'll explore the program's evolution, from its humble beginnings to its rise as a national powerhouse. We'll revisit the legendary coaches who shaped the team's identity, the unforgettable players who etched their names in Penn State lore, and the defining games that continue to be recounted with passion. We'll delve into the traditions that bind the Penn State football community together, the passionate fanbase that fuels the team's spirit, and the challenges that have tested the program's resolve.

Whether you're a die-hard Nittany Lion fan or simply curious about one of college football's most storied programs, this series has something for you. So, put on your blue and white, settle in, and join us as we embark on a journey through the remarkable history of Penn State football. We Are Penn State!

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Happy Valley, Pennsylvania, Penn State University boasts a football program steeped in tradition and gridiron glory. The roar of the Nittany Lions resonates far beyond Beaver Stadium, echoing through a rich history that has captivated fans for over a century. This essay explores the journey of Penn State football, from its humble beginnings to its rise as a national powerhouse, examining the iconic figures, defining moments, and enduring legacy that have cemented the Nittany Lions' place in college football lore.

The program's roots trace back to 1887 when Penn State fielded its first team. Early years were marked by inconsistency, with the team playing on the Old Main Lawn before the construction of Beaver Stadium in 1921. However, the seeds of future success were sown in the 1930s with the arrival of legendary coach Bob Woodruff. Under Woodruff's leadership, Penn State established a winning culture, capturing its first national championship in 1947 with a dominant defense led by the iconic linebacker John McNally.

The 1950s and 60s ushered in an era of unprecedented dominance under the legendary Rip Engle. Engle's innovative offensive schemes, featuring the "Bulldozer" backfield, propelled Penn State to national prominence. Quarterback Lenny KIffner and running back Franco Harris became household names, leading the Nittany Lions to two national championships in 1966 and 1967. Harris, in particular, cemented his place in Penn State lore with his game-winning touchdown run in the iconic "Ice Bowl" against the University of Nebraska.

The arrival of Joe Paterno in 1966 marked the beginning of a coaching dynasty that spanned over four decades. Paterno's meticulous coaching style and commitment to academics fostered a culture of excellence. Quarterbacks like Todd Blackledge and Kerry Collins led Penn State to two more national titles (1982, 1986) and numerous bowl appearances. Paterno's legacy, though tarnished by the Jerry Sandusky child sexual abuse scandal in 2011, remains a significant part of Penn State football history.

Despite the heartbreak of the Sandusky scandal, Penn State football has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Under coaches like James Franklin, the Nittany Lions are steadfastly striving to reclaim their place among the national elite. The program continues to produce NFL talent, with recent standouts like Saquon Barkley and Micah Parsons carrying on the tradition of excellence.

Beyond the wins and losses, Penn State football is deeply embedded in the university's culture. The 'We Are!' chant, a powerful symbol of unity and shared passion, reverberates through Beaver Stadium, uniting generations of fans. The passionate student section, known as the 'Szone,' is consistently ranked among the best in college football. The iconic white helmet emblazoned with a single blue stripe embodies the program's dedication to tradition and simplicity.

The Penn State Nittany Lions football program is more than just a collection of victories and championships. It's a symbol of resilience, a testament to the power of tradition, and a source of unwavering pride for generations of fans. The roar of the Nittany Lions will continue to echo through Happy Valley, reminding everyone that Penn State football remains a force to be reckoned with on the national stage.

The exceptional running back from Penn State drove the ground game and offensive success of the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers.

Franco Harris wasn't just a running back; he was a symbol of Steelers dynasty, blue-collar spirit, and one of the most celebrated figures in NFL history. From his iconic run in Super Bowl IX to his longevity and consistency, Harris left an indelible mark on the gridiron that continues to inspire.

Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1972, Harris immediately made an impact. His powerful running style and knack for finding the end zone made him a perfect fit for the "Steel Curtain" era. He formed a dynamic duo with quarterback Terry Bradshaw, terrorizing defenses and leading the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories in six years.

But Harris wasn't just about touchdowns. He was a complete back, excelling in both rushing and receiving. His durability was legendary, racking up over 12,000 rushing yards and 91 touchdowns in his 13-year career, despite playing in a physically demanding era.

His most iconic moment came in Super Bowl IX, when his 64-yard touchdown run in the dying moments of the game sealed victory for the Steelers against the Minnesota Vikings. This "Immaculate Reception," forever etched in NFL lore, solidified Harris's place as a Steelers legend and one of the sport's most unforgettable moments.

Harris's impact transcended the field. He was a leader in the locker room and a beloved figure in Pittsburgh. His blue-collar work ethic and infectious smile resonated with fans, making him a symbol of the city's resilience and character.

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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.

Born May 30, 1949 - Salem, New Jersey -  Lydell Mitchell 3 time Pro- Bowl NFL Running back played for the Colts, Chargers & Rams.  The Baltimore Colts drafted Mitchell with the 48th pick of the 1972 NFL Draft. Mitchell played his college career at Penn State under Joe Paterno along with his fellow backfield mate Franco Harris. Quite a one two punch for the Nittany Lions in the season of '71. Lydell Mitchell entered the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004. Lydell's was a threat to run and recieve passes as a pro and when he teamed up with Colts QB Bert Jones the pair helped the team win 3 consecutive AFC East Titles (1975, 76 & 77), stealing the crown from their division rival the Miami Dolphins, yes those Dolphins that only a year or two earlier had an undefeated season.

Born May 3, 1941, in Mount Holly, New Jersey, was Penn State’s brilliant end from 1960 to 1962, Dave Robinson. The NFF shares that Robinson was an All-America in 1962.

Dave had also been elected to the Gator Bowl Hall of Fame. In 1962 the Newark Athletic Club named Robinson the College Player of the Year. The Philadelphia Sports Writers Association named him the College Lineman of the Year as the Nittany Lions had a 24-8 record in his three years there and won two Lambert Trophies as best team in the East.

Dave Robinson received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997. In 1963 the big end was picked by both the Chargers in the AFL and the Packers in the 1963 Drafts. He of course chose Green Bay and played outside linebacker for Vince Lombardi’s team playing on three straight NFL Championship squads from 1965 to 1967. He was also on the Super Bowl I and II teams that took the title for Green Bay.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame says he intercepted 27 passes for 449 yards and scored one pick six. Dave Robinson was selected for enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. NFL Jersey 89

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

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The narrative unfolds around the historical encounter between Penn State and Notre Dame, marking their first clash on the football field. I engage in a detailed examination of the circumstances leading up to the 1913 game, emphasizing both teams' relatively modest standings prior to their ascendance in collegiate football. My personal bias as a Notre Dame enthusiast is evident, yet I strive to maintain an objective lens while discussing the significance of this matchup. The episode provides a platform to reflect on the transformative journey of both programs, from their nascent stages to their eventual prominence in the sport.

This information comes from his original post titled: The First Notre Dame-Penn State Game.

Timothy P. Brown and I engage in a spirited dialogue about the broader implications of this game, including the societal and cultural contexts of American football during the early 20th century. We discuss the impact of coaching philosophies and the evolution of playing styles that characterized the game at that time. The reference to the football landscape of the era, especially the religious affiliations of many institutions and their influence on the game, adds a rich layer to our discussion. I highlight the innovative strategies that coaches like Jesse Harper employed, which would lay the groundwork for future developments in college football strategies.

Ultimately, the discussion serves as a recounting of a specific game and a reflection on how historical narratives shape our understanding of contemporary college football. I encourage listeners to consider the broader implications of this history and its relevance to the current landscape of the sport, as well as to engage with the memories and traditions that continue to define these iconic programs.

-Takeaways

-The inaugural meeting of the Nittany Lions and the Fighting Irish occurred in 1913, marking a significant event in college football history.

-Both Notre Dame and Penn State have storied football programs that were not always as prominent as they are today.

-The first game between Notre Dame and Penn State took place when both teams were relatively lesser-known and unestablished in the national football scene.

-Darin Hayes and Timothy P. Brown delve into the historical context and significance of this classic college football matchup in their podcast.

-The podcast provides insights into college football's evolution and highlights team prominence's changing nature over the decades.

-Listeners are encouraged to explore footballarchaeology.com for further historical tidbits and insights related to the sport.

The Penn State Nittany Lions are known for their iconic blue and white uniforms, but one element often goes unnoticed – the helmet. While seemingly simple, Penn State's helmet design has evolved subtly over the years, reflecting the program's history and tradition. This essay delves into the journey of the Penn State helmet, exploring how it transformed from an essential protective measure to a recognizable symbol of Nittany Lion pride.

The Early Days (1940s-1950s): Embracing Functionality

In the early years of Penn State football (1940s-1950s), helmets were primarily practical. As the leather helmets of the early days transitioned to hard plastic shells, the focus remained on player safety. The initial Penn State helmets were white, devoid of decals or markings. This minimalist approach reflected the general design philosophy of the era.

The Introduction of the Stripe (1957-Present): A Signature Emerges

1957, a defining element was introduced – the single blue stripe running down the helmet's center. This simple addition marked the birth of the Penn State helmet design that fans recognize today. The blue stripe mirrored the prominent stripes on the team's jerseys, creating a cohesive visual identity.

A Brief Experimentation (1957-1962): Numbers on the Sidelines

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Penn State briefly deviated from the minimalist aesthetic. Inspired by other teams, it experimented with adding player numbers to the sides of the helmets. However, this design element only partially resonated with the program's identity and was discontinued after several seasons.

A Return to Simplicity (1962-Present): The Timeless Look

Since removing the player numbers in 1962, the Penn State helmet has remained remarkably consistent. The single blue stripe has become the cornerstone of the design, instantly recognizable and synonymous with the Nittany Lions. This commitment to tradition reflects the program's focus on timeless values – hard work, dedication, and a fighting spirit.

Beyond Design: A Symbol of Legacy

While the design has remained relatively unchanged, the Penn State helmet carries a significant weight of history. It has adorned the heads of legendary Nittany Lions like Franco Harris, John Cappelletti, and LaVar Arrington, becoming a symbol of excellence and tradition. It represents the unyielding spirit of the program, uniting generations of players, coaches, and fans under a shared identity.

A Look to the Future

Although the core design is unlikely to change drastically, subtle variations may exist. The introduction of alternate uniforms in recent years hints at the possibility of alternate helmet designs in the future. However, the classic white helmet with the single blue stripe will remain the cornerstone of Penn State's helmet history, a testament to the program's enduring legacy.

Lydell Mitchell wasn't your average running back. He carved his name in football history not just with his punishing runs, but with his surprising agility and knack for catching passes. This essay explores the remarkable career of Mitchell, a college standout who became a versatile weapon in the NFL.

Mitchell's journey began at Penn State University. There, he established himself as a dominant force. He shattered school rushing records, amassing nearly 3,000 yards and a staggering 38 touchdowns. His explosiveness on the field earned him All-American honors and a coveted fifth-place finish in the 1971 Heisman Trophy race.

Drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1972, Mitchell's professional career spanned nine seasons. He donned the jerseys of the Colts, San Diego Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams, proving his adaptability across different systems. While his rushing prowess remained undeniable, Mitchell surprised many with his receiving skills. Twice, he led the entire NFL in receptions, a feat unheard of for a running back at the time. This versatility made him a nightmare for defenses, unsure whether to brace for a run or a pass.

Mitchell's impact went beyond raw statistics. He earned three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro nods, a testament to his consistent excellence. He finished his career with over 6,500 rushing yards and 30 rushing touchdowns, solidifying his place as a ground-and-pound threat. But his 376 receptions for over 3,200 yards showcased his ability to be a receiving weapon as well.

Lydell Mitchell's legacy extends beyond the stat sheet. He helped redefine the role of the running back in the NFL. No longer were they just one-dimensional rushers. Mitchell proved that backs could be threats in the passing game, adding a new layer of complexity to offensive schemes. His success paved the way for future dual-threat running backs like Marshall Faulk and Christian McCaffrey.

Today, Lydell Mitchell stands enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame. His impact on the game continues to resonate, a testament to a career that blended power with finesse, forever etching his name among the NFL's greatest running backs.