Football History

The Rose Bowl Game, affectionately known as "The Granddaddy of Them All," boasts a storied history intertwined with the evolution of college football itself. 1 This series will delve into the captivating narrative of this iconic sporting event, exploring its origins, its impact on the sport, and the enduring legacy it has cultivated.  

From its humble beginnings as a simple post-Christmas football game in Pasadena, California, the Rose Bowl has grown into a cultural phenomenon. We'll journey back to the early 1900s, witnessing the game's inaugural clash and tracing its gradual ascent to the pinnacle of college football. We'll examine how the Rose Bowl's unique blend of athletic competition and festive celebration has captivated audiences for generations.

This series will not only chronicle the game's triumphs and challenges but also explore the social and cultural contexts that shaped its development. We'll delve into the fascinating stories of legendary players and coaches, the iconic moments that have defined the game, and the enduring impact the Rose Bowl has had on the cities, universities, and communities it has touched.

Join us as we celebrate the rich history of the Rose Bowl Game and its enduring place in the annals of American sports.

The thunderous roars and the clash of helmets resonate through the storied hills overlooking the bay. For generations, a program has woven itself into the very fabric of this region, a tapestry of grit, resilience, and unwavering spirit. This series of posts delves into the rich and complex history of a football heritage, a legacy built upon the shoulders of countless individuals who donned the iconic colors.

Pictured is the team photo of the 1886 Cal Berkeley Football squad courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

We embark on a journey through time, exploring the evolution of a program that has witnessed both soaring triumphs and humbling defeats. From the early days of leather helmets and rudimentary strategies to the modern era of sophisticated offenses and defenses, we will trace the arc of a team that has consistently challenged the status quo. These posts will examine the cultural significance of this program, its profound impact on the surrounding community, and the enduring traditions that have shaped its identity.

We will uncover the stories behind the legendary rivalries, the pivotal moments that defined eras, and the unwavering dedication that has fueled the passion of generations of fans. This is a chronicle of more than just wins and losses; it is a narrative of the human spirit, a testament to the power of teamwork, and an exploration of the enduring legacy of a program that has become an integral part of the region's sporting landscape. Join us as we explore the heart and soul of this enduring football tradition.

The UCLA Bruins football program, established in 1919, boasts a rich history marked by moments of thrilling success and periods of rebuilding. While national championships have eluded them, the Bruins have carved their own unique path in college football, known for their:
Early Success and Golden Age (1950s-1970s):
Led by legendary coaches like Frank Kush and Darryl Rogers, the program achieved sustained success, capturing seven conference championships and three bowl appearances.
Stars like Merlin Olsen, John Hadl, and Jackie Robinson Jr. emerged under their leadership, showcasing the program's talent development.
Turbulent Times and Rebuilding (1980s-2000s):
The program faced challenges in the latter half of the 20th century, experiencing inconsistent results, NCAA sanctions, and coaching changes.
Despite these obstacles, the Bruins continued to develop NFL talent like Jake Plummer and Terrell Suggs, demonstrating their commitment to player development.
Resurgence and Modern Era (2010s-Present):
Under head coaches Dennis Erickson and Todd Graham, the Bruins experienced revitalization, winning two Pac-12 South Division titles and participating in eight bowl games.
Innovative approaches to NIL opportunities and a focus on developing young talent continue to position the program for future success.

For more of the latest news and history of the Bruins Football program visit UCLABruins.com.

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One of the most significant pigskin pranks happened at the Rose Bowl in early January one year.

The Rose Bowl, played on Monday, January 2, 1961, contained a fascinating secondary story. That year, the Washington Huskies were pitted against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. At halftime, the Huskies led 17–0, and their cheerleaders took the field to show the spectators in the stands in a card stunt, a routine involving flip cards depicting various images for the audience to raise. However, several California Institute of Technology students altered the card stunt shown during the halftime break by making the Washington fans inadvertently spell out CALTECH.

The prank has been described as the "greatest collegiate prank of all time" and received national attention. NBC broadcasts the game to an estimated 30 million viewers across the United States. One author wrote, "Few college pranks can be said to be more grandly conceived, carefully planned, flawlessly executed, and publicly dramatic" than the Great Rose Bowl Hoax, as it is now called.

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Richard Clark "Rick" Redman (March 7, 1943 – September 30, 2022) was an American football player who carved out a remarkable career as a linebacker in both college and professional football.

College Prowess:

Redman's football journey began at Bishop Blanchet High School in Seattle, Washington, where he showcased his athletic talent. He continued to shine at the University of Washington, playing both linebacker and offensive guard, a testament to his versatility. Redman garnered national recognition, earning consensus All-America honors in both 1963 and 1964. He played a pivotal role in leading the Huskies to a conference championship and a Rose Bowl berth in 1963. His outstanding collegiate performance enshrined him in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1995.

Professional Success:

Redman's professional career began with a bang as he was drafted by both the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles and the AFL's San Diego Chargers in 1965. He opted to join the Chargers, where he became a mainstay on their defense for nine seasons (1965-1973). Redman's exceptional tackling and leadership earned him an AFL All-Star selection in 1967. He continued to be a valuable contributor to the Chargers' defense after the AFL-NFL merger in 1970. In 1974, Redman capped off his playing career with a season with the Portland Storm of the World Football League.

Beyond the Gridiron:

Redman's impact extended beyond the football field. Following his retirement, he joined his stepfather's construction company, Sellen Construction. Redman's leadership and business acumen helped the company grow and diversify, contributing to the construction or renovation of several notable landmarks in Seattle, including Alaska Airlines Arena and Conibear Shellhouse. He remained active in the community, supporting various philanthropic initiatives and serving on the Tyee Club's "Champions Circle."

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Listeners are transported back to the winter of 1918 as the podcast recounts the dramatic backdrop of the Rose Bowl featuring military teams.

Host Darin Hayes welcomes Timothy P. Brown, who reveals the intriguing details of how the game came to be played with teams composed of military personnel rather than the collegiate athletes typically associated with the event.

Of course, this discussion all stems from Tim's original article titled: December 29, 1917: 1918 Rose Bowl Coaches .

The audio only podcast of the discussion can be found at: 1918 Rose Bowl Coaches.

The episode delves into the unique circumstances surrounding the Rose Bowl, such as the decision-making process that led to the inclusion of the Mare Island Marines and Camp Lewis, both of which were military training camps. Timothy emphasizes the significance of this game, not only as a sporting event but as a cultural touchpoint for a nation undergoing the trials of war. The coaches emerge as pivotal figures in the narrative, with Timothy elaborating on their diverse coaching philosophies and the camaraderie they fostered among their players. By examining these relationships, the podcast paints a vivid picture of teamwork in the face of adversity, offering listeners a deeper appreciation for the role of sports in shaping American identity during tumultuous times.

Takeaways

-The 1918 Rose Bowl featured military teams instead of college teams due to World War I.

-Timothy P. Brown detailed the historical context of the teams and their coaches.

-The coaches of the teams included notable figures like Hugo Bezdek and Red Stanton.

-Mare Island Marines and Camp Lewis had contrasting playing styles during the game.

-Bezdek was one of the first showman coaches, famous for his charisma and innovation.

-The game ended with Mare Island winning 13 to 0 in a competitive match.

John Hicks, born March 21, 1951, in Cleveland, Ohio, established himself as a dominant offensive lineman, leaving a mark on Ohio State University football and earning recognition as one of the game's all-time greats.

John according to the NFF was a two-time First Team All-American and undeniably one of the most outstanding Ohio State football players of all time.

College Career:

Hicks's tenure at Ohio State from 1970 to 1973 was marked by exceptional performance and leadership. A two-time First Team All-American, he was a cornerstone of the Buckeyes' offensive line. His 1971 season was cut short by a devastating knee injury, but he returned to full form, contributing to a period of remarkable success under legendary coach Woody Hayes. During his three full years of play, the Buckeyes won a national championship in 1970 secured three Big Ten titles. Hicks made history as the first player to start in three Rose Bowls, anchoring a powerhouse Ohio State team. Despite entering each game undefeated, the Buckeyes experienced mixed results. In the 1971 Rose Bowl, they fell to Stanford 27-17. The 1973 game saw them overwhelmed by USC, 42-17. However, Hicks and the Buckeyes turned the tables in the 1974 Rose Bowl, dominating USC 42-21, with Hicks leading the way for a dominant 323-yard rushing performance. These feats led to his induction into the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame in 2009. His 1973 season was particularly remarkable, earning him unanimous All-American honors, the Lombardi Award, and the Outland Trophy, recognizing him as the nation's best interior lineman. He also finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting, a rare achievement for an offensive lineman.  

Road to the Pro Game:

Hicks's exceptional college career led to his selection by the New York Giants in the first round of the 1974 NFL Draft.  

Drafted third overall by the New York Giants in 1974, Hicks was the sole college player invited to the draft. He started every regular season game at right guard for the Giants from 1974 to 1977. In April 1978, the Giants traded him to the Pittsburgh Steelers for Jim Clack and Ernie Pough, but Hicks never played for Pittsburgh.

Football Legacy:

Hicks's football legacy is defined by his dominance on the offensive line at Ohio State. He is remembered as a key player in the Buckeyes' successful era under Woody Hayes, contributing to their national championship and Rose Bowl appearances. His numerous accolades, including the Lombardi and Outland Trophies, and his near-Heisman victory, underscore his exceptional talent and impact on the game. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2001 solidified his place among the legends of college football.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-Two-time First Team All-American.  

-National Championship (1970).

-Three Big Ten Titles.

-Three Rose Bowl appearances.  

-Rose Bowl Hall of Fame Inductee (2009).  

-Unanimous All-American (1973).

-Lombardi Award (1973).  

-Outland Trophy (1973).  

-Second in Heisman Trophy Voting (1973).  

-First-round NFL Draft pick (New York Giants).  

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2001).  

John Hicks's exceptional talent and contributions to Ohio State football have cemented his place as a college football legend.

In the modern era of College football, the reward for a team at season's end is to make it to one of the big holiday bowl games and win it. Hoefully they are ranked high enough to be playing in the college playoff format for a National Title.

Timothy Brown of Football Archaeoloogy joined us in 2023 to tell the tale of the first team to win at least one of each of the "Major" Bowl games.

-Transcribed Conversation with Timothy Brown on the Georgia Tech Grand Slam

Hello, my football friend, Darin Hayes, of PigskinDispatch.com. Welcome once again to The Pig Pen, your portal to positive football history, and welcome to Tuesday at FootballArcheology.com. Timothy P. Brown joins us to talk about another one of his amazing tidbits on football history. Tim, welcome back to The Pig Pen.

Hey, Darin. Thank you. I look forward to chatting once again about old-time football.

Yeah, this podcast airs in December, and we're getting into the college football championships, the end of the season, and bowl games.

And that's what we're thinking about as far as college football. And you posted a very interesting story back in June about the Ramblin' Wreck of Georgia Tech. And we'd sure love to hear about this old-time football.

Yeah, so this story is, uh, you know, I called it the, um, I forget exactly what I called it. It was basically about Georgia Tech. Georgia Tech hits football's first Grand Slam, which is your title.

Yeah. So football's first Grand Slam. I knew the Grand Slam.

I didn't know exactly how I worded it, but I also want to point out that they hit the reason; well, part of the contribution to the Grand Slam was that they hit a rare triple as well. And the rare triple was the fact that Georgia Tech, I mean, had three absolute stud coaches right in a row. Those three coaches have handled the team for 63 combined years.

You know, it's just one of those, like, you know, how many, you know, I mean, like, if you just think about, try to think about other places that have had phenomenally, or just very successful coaches, uh, and to have three in a row, I mean, Notre Dame has had some great coaches, but a lot of them didn't really last that long. No, not 63 years between the three of them. Yeah.

I mean, you know, Ohio State and Michigan, and you know, I mean, there's a USC, I mean, name, and whoever you want. There just aren't too many. Maybe Oklahoma or Texas or somebody had, you know, but they've tended to have somebody that just wasn't great in between or didn't last that long. But here are the three for Georgia Tech, which started in 1904 and ran through 1919 with a 102-29-7 record.

So, John Heisman won 70, nearly 78% of his games. So, most football fans have heard of him. Um, he was followed by a guy who played there and then coached under Heisman named, you know, Bill Alexander, who, you know, isn't as, uh, didn't have as great a record.

He had some uneven seasons, but he also had just some absolute stud seasons. So he went 134 and 95 and 15, um, you know, for 0.585, you know, a record. And then he was followed by Bobby Dodd, who, you know, was an assistant under Alexander.

And so Bobby Dodd goes from 1945 to 1966, and he goes 165-64-8. So, for 0.721 percent. So, basically, those three guys from 1904 to 1966 are the three coaches of Georgia Tech, you know, it's just crazy.

So then during, um, so of the three, just from a pure record standpoint, Alexander is the least successful. And yet it was during his time that Georgia Tech, I mean, think about it. He's the least in terms of winning percentage.

And yet, during his time, he won, and they beat Cal in the 1939 Rose Bowl. He beat Missouri in the 1940 Orange Bowl. They lost to Texas in the 1943 Cotton Bowl.

And then they beat Tulsa in the 1944 Sugar Bowl. And so his grand slam was that they were the first team to play in the Rose, the Orange, the Cotton, and the Sugar, which were the four games until, I don't know, uh, 85 ish or something like when the Fiesta started, you know, being considered along those lines as a, you know, in terms of the top four bowl games. So, um, you know, so at the time that, you know, it was, people considered it a big deal that they were the first ones to play in all four.

Now, some teams didn't go to bowl games at all. And conferences that didn't go to bowl games at all. And, you know, they were able to do some things, maybe other teams couldn't, but I don't care what, you know, they were the first ones.

And so, you know, really an impressive feat. Just think about that. What are, I mean, you have to have many things fall into place to be invited to each of those particular bowl games because they're looking for certain criteria each year. You have to fall in that to get an invite first of all, and then to go and beat an opponent who is a worthy opponent that's, you know, looked upon as your equal because they're trying to get the best matchup they can in those games and, you know, and to win each of those.

I mean, that is quite a feat if you really sit there and think about it. Yeah. And I think, you know, these, you know, like last week's podcast, we talked about warriors.

And so this, you know, a couple of these wins occurred during war years. So, they probably chose Southern teams a bit more than they would have otherwise, just to reduce travel and, you know, easier access for their alums to attend the game. But again, make up any scenario you want.

They were still the first ones playing in a game, so it's a big deal. And, you know, they ended up. He stepped down after winning, or no; he then took Georgia Tech to the 45 Orange Bowl.

So he ran through those four, the four we already mentioned. Then he went to the Orange Bowl again in 45. And then he resigned after that.

And Bobby Dodd took over. He can stick it out three more years and try to get the double. Yeah.

Yeah. Hit everyone twice. Man.

Yeah. So, I mean, it is a pretty remarkable record. Alexander was also one of those guys who was just a pretty innovative guy.

I mean, some of the things he did now seem kind of goofy. I've written in the past about him using the reverse QB. And I think he may have used a side-saddle QB at times.

But, you know, the reverse QB took the ball, like had his butt against the center's butt, and then took the snap between his legs, and then tossed it, you know, to a single wing kind of formation, tossed it left or right or backward. But. Yeah, I remember our conversation.

We did a podcast on your side saddle, probably back a year ago. But I remember that. That's, man, that is fascinating.

So, going back 80 years ago, and just actually 100 years ago or more with Heisman, when you think about it, I mean, just a great program. And we don't think about Georgia Tech in that light anymore because there's sort of they're overshadowed by some of their fellow teams that are in that area, you know, Georgia, for one, who's phenomenal the last few years, especially. But you have to look back at some of these teams and give them credit because they had some really strong programs back in that day and the errors with, you know, those three coaches 60 some years.

Wow, that's a tip your hat off to the program directors there. Yeah. And I mean, they played in a lot of big games.

I mean, back in, you know, in the World War One era, you know, Pitt and Georgia Tech came a couple of really big, you know, games that they played kind of national championship consequences, you know, that kind of thing. And, you know, they played in the 29 Rose Bowl when, you know, the wrong way Regal ran, the tip California who picked up the ball ran the wrong way. And, you know, it ended up at the end of the day, which is the reason Georgia Tech won the game.

But, you know, so I mean, they were involved in some really, some really big games. And, you know, like you said, not quite as much anymore, but, you know, they still play at a very high level and, you know, great school, all that kind of stuff. Well, Tim, it always amazes me, the stories that you come up with, and you do this daily in your tidbits, just some, you know, maybe not the mainstream of what we think of mainstream football today, you know, very popular from 80 years ago, but, you know, some of these teams that probably should get more attention, like these Georgia Tech teams, and some of the elements that we discussed today with going to the four bowl games, but you're doing this daily.

Why don't you share with the audience how they, too, can participate in reading your daily tidbit? Yeah, so, you know, the easiest thing to do is just go to footballarchaeology.com. And, you know, at the end of every article, there's an opportunity to subscribe. Just hit the button to subscribe and sign up; it's free. And then every day, you'll get an email that, basically, seven o'clock Eastern, you'll get an email story.

Otherwise, you know, you can follow me. I'm still publishing on Twitter, threads, and the Substack app, or you can bookmark the site and show up whenever you want to. Yeah, and I must add that when you go into your Substack on footballarchaeology.com, on your Substack, and you go into the tidbit section, there's a nice little search function there. So if you want to look up, you know, anything else about, you know, coach Bobby Dodds on there, any other articles that you have them in there, it'll take you right to those and give you a nice listing.

You get a nice round, I guess, a full belly of what Bobby Dodds was to football. It's the footballarchaeology.com site. Tim, we really appreciate you coming on here and sharing this.

And we would love to talk to you again next Tuesday about some more great football. Very good. Look forward to it.

Transcribed by TurboScribe.ai.

In the annals of college football history, few pranks have captured the public's imagination quite like the Great Rose Bowl Hoax of 1961. This audacious caper, orchestrated by a group of mischievous Caltech students, forever altered the face of the Rose Bowl and cemented its place as a legendary moment in sports history.

A Masterfully Planned Deception:
The brainchild of a group of Caltech undergraduates known as the "Fiendish Fourteen," the hoax was a meticulous operation executed with military precision. The students, led by the charismatic Dick Feynman, created hundreds of index cards bearing Caltech's name and strategically inserted them into the card stunts prepared by the University of Washington cheerleaders. Their goal? To infiltrate the Rose Bowl halftime show and replace the University of Washington's script with their own, declaring Caltech the victor against a fictitious opponent, MIT.

The Hoax Unfolds:
As planned, during the halftime show, the unsuspecting Washington cheerleaders began displaying Caltech's name instead of their own. Initially met with confusion, the crowd soon erupted in laughter and astonishment as the prank unfolded. The national television broadcast captured the bewildered faces of the Washington cheerleaders and the jubilant faces of the Caltech students, forever etching the moment in sports history.

Impact and Legacy:
The Great Rose Bowl Hoax was hailed as a stroke of genius, showcasing the ingenuity and humor of the Caltech students. It became a national sensation, sparking discussions about sportsmanship, tradition, and the power of a well-executed prank. Though some deemed it disrespectful, the hoax ultimately enhanced the allure of the Rose Bowl, adding a layer of intrigue and humor to its legacy.

More than just a prank:
While primarily remembered for its comedic value, the Great Rose Bowl Hoax also highlighted the intellectual prowess and resourcefulness of Caltech students. It served as a testament to their ability to think outside the box and execute complex plans with meticulous detail.

There is more n the story at the link below.

Some people wouldn’t agree that football stadiums, history, and romance can fit in the same sentence. Such people aren’t relevant in this situation. They can keep holding hands while walking on beaches or eating picnics in local parks…

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, William Leishman | AD

Yet those who know that combining a passion for pro football and their partner usually results in spectacular dates should probably keep reading this article.

We’ll mention some little-known strategies for meeting football fans on hookup sites, but we’ll also create an ultimate list of stadiums to visit with your partner. And, of course, we’ll include historical facts…

-A Dating Site to Meet Your Football Lover

Nowadays, it seems like everyone prefers casual dates over long-term relationships. That’s good because that paved the path for a high-level site for local hookups where singles can quickly filter the community and meet people with similar interests. That’s possible because of the modern features such as matchmaking games and filters. While matchmaking games are great because they let the algorithm know about one’s taste, it may take a couple of hours of swiping to find someone. Of course, that doesn’t stop singles from chatting with more than one person.

But while most people focus on Hot or Not games, those looking for quick wins know that manual filters are the most effective tool for pinpointing ideal partners. They let people hide everyone outside their area or show only those members with desired body type, hair color, etc.
Some people don’t know that manual filters don’t work only on physical features. They let singles filter the community based on their interests so football fans seeking other football fans can find each other in seconds…

However, for that to work, a person must mention that they love football on their profiles. Even uploading photos in football gear or at football stadiums helps because other fans can instantly relate.

And if those pictures are from one of the stadiums below, date proposals probably keep coming…

-Rose Bowl (Pasadena, California)

Known as one of the most iconic stadiums in American sports history, the Rose Bowl has hosted numerous historic events, including Super Bowls and college football's Rose Bowl Game. It’s set in San Gabriel Mountains making it ideal for romantic dates.

Since 1922 Rose Bowl has become synonymous with college football's New Year's Day tradition. A fun fact about the Rose Bowl is that it wasn’t a Bowl but a horseshoe. It was expanded several times. The southern stands were completed in 1928. That’s when it got its famous shape.

-Lambeau Field (Green Bay, Wisconsin)

Home of the Green Bay Packers, Lambeau Field is often called the "Frozen Tundra" due to its chilly climate during football season. A romantic date at Lambeau Field could include a tour and exploring its rich history and legendary status in the NFL. Lambeau Field opened in 1957 and has become an enduring symbol of football excellence and community spirit. And here’s a fun fact that might impress a fellow football fan… Lambeau Field is the second-largest stadium in the NFL and has 81,441 seats.

-Soldier Field (Chicago, Illinois)

Soldier Field is the oldest NFL stadium in continuous operation. Add a prime location along the shores of Lake Michigan, and it’s clear why a couple of football fans would love to have a romantic date there.

It was built in 1924 as a memorial to American soldiers. Since then, the stadium has had a couple of makeovers, but its energy never changed. It’s still perfect for a romantic evening. Even a vanilla sunset picnic on the surrounding park grounds becomes memorable when followed by a stroll through the stadium's historic columns and arches.

And if the stadium takes your breath away, that’s because it was one of the most expensive sports venues in the US at that time. The stadium cost $13 million to construct (in 1922), which would be $232 million in 2023.

-Michigan Stadium (Ann Arbor, Michigan)

Commonly known as "The Big House," Michigan Stadium is the largest stadium in the United States. With a seating capacity of over 100,000 spectators, the stadium offers a grand backdrop for a memorable date night during a game or even during one of the tours. Built in 1927, Michigan Stadium has a rich history of hosting legendary football games, making it a unique and impressive setting for a romantic outing.

Sitting there, looking at the empty field, and talking about all the Hall of Fame guys who touched that grass is a great date idea for football fans. Now imagine how exciting it’d be to be a drop in the ocean of fans enjoying the game at The Big House.
That goes right to our dating bucket list.