Football History

In the Northwest corner of the country is a proud football program of the University of Washington. The team has made the students, faculty, alums, and fans proud to support them at home and away games. UW has an excellent tradition of quality pigskin play and is a perennial contender for their respective conference title and sometimes even the National Championship. Dig into UW gridiron history here!

Here is a summary of the Huskies football program:

-Early Years: Washington played independently for 26 years (1889-1915) before joining the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC) in 1916.

-Conference Evolution: The PCC morphed into various iterations: AAUW, Pacific-8, Pacific-10, and ultimately the current Pac-12. Washington and California remained members throughout.

-Big Ten Shift: In 2023, Washington and Oregon were accepted into the Big Ten Conference, starting in 2024.

-Championships: Washington claims two national championships: 1960 (Helms Athletic Foundation) and 1991 (Coaches Poll). The latter title was split with Miami (AP Poll).

George "Wildcat" Wilson, a name synonymous with football excellence, left an indelible mark on both the collegiate and professional levels of the game. Born September 6, 1901, George Wilson or Wildcat Wilson, was a halfback from the University of Washington.

Wildcat showed his importance to the the Huskies team in the 1926 Rose Bowl Game. Wilson's dominant performance for much of the first half of the "Grand Daddy of them All" had opponent Alabama on their heels and down by a couple of scores. The Crimson Tide finally got a break late in the second quarter when George Wilson left the game due to injury. The Tide led by Johnny Mack Brown with 20 unanswered points and were driving down the field to score again when the banged up Wildcat Wilson re-entered the contest and was significant in stalling the 'Bama drive at the Husky 12 yard line.

Wilson then guided the Washington offense down the field and capped off the drive with Wilson throwing a 20 yard scoring strike to John Cole. It was not enough as the Tide held ont win the game 20-19. The stat line of the game showed that with Wilson on the field, the Washington Huskies gained 317 yards and put up 19 points, when he was out they mustered a mere 17 yards and were shut out while the Crimson Tide scored all 20 of their points in that 22 minute absence of Wilson from the contest.

It really put Alabama football on the map as a prominant football power in the college football landscape. The 1926 Rose Bowl has gone down in history known as "The game that changed the South." but it could have been a much different game had Wildcat Wilson played the whole game. Needless to say, the College Football Hall of Fame invited George Wilson into their exclusive club of legends in 1951.

His versatile skills and electrifying performances solidified his status as one of the most iconic players of his era.  

Wilson's collegiate career at the University of Washington was nothing short of extraordinary. As a halfback, he displayed a remarkable combination of speed, power, and agility. His ability to evade defenders, break tackles, and score touchdowns consistently made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Wilson's impact on the Huskies was undeniable, as he led them to numerous victories and earned consensus All-American honors.  

After his successful college career, Wilson transitioned to the professional ranks, where he continued to impress. His most notable stint was with the Los Angeles Wildcats. Despite the challenges of the early days of professional football, Wilson's talent and determination shone through. He became a fan favorite and a respected figure among his peers.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Wilson's legacy extends to his impact on the sport as a whole. His dynamic playing style and fearless approach to the game inspired countless athletes and fans alike. His contributions to the development of football, both at the collegiate and professional levels, continue to be celebrated and admired.

George "Wildcat" Wilson's name will forever be etched in the annals of football history. His exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and enduring impact on the sport make him a true legend.

For a hundred years, the Washington Huskies have thrilled fans with their exciting brand of football, leaving a trail of memorable moments etched in college football history. From legendary victories to individual feats of brilliance, let's rewind and relive some of the defining chapters in Husky football history:

Early Days & Triumphs:
1949 Apple Cup: Witness the "phantom of Compton," Hugh McElhenny, as he carves through the Washington State defense for a record-breaking 296 yards and five touchdowns, leading the Huskies to a dominant 52-0 victory.
1960 Rose Bowl: Quarterback Bob Schloredt and running back George Fleming orchestrate a thrilling upset over the heavily favored Minnesota Golden Gophers, securing a 17-7 Rose Bowl victory and marking the program's first-ever bowl win.

The Don James Era & Championship Glory:

1984 Orange Bowl: Under the leadership of legendary coach Don James, the Huskies pull off a captivating win against the Oklahoma Sooners in the Orange Bowl, solidifying their place among the nation's elite.

1991 National Championship: Witness the crowning moment of the Don James era as Billy Joe Hobert leads the Huskies to an undefeated season, culminating in a Rose Bowl victory over Michigan and the program's first and only national championship.

Modern Era & Pac-12 Dominance:

2000 Apple Cup:
Relive the electrifying finish of the 2000 Apple Cup, where Marques Tuiasosopo connects with Reggie Williams for a last-second touchdown pass, securing a share of the Pac-10 championship and engraving a legendary moment in Husky lore.

2016 College Football Playoff: Coach Chris Petersen orchestrates the rise of a Pac-12 powerhouse, leading the 2016 Huskies, featuring quarterback Jake Browning and dynamic running backs, to a berth in the prestigious College Football Playoff, showcasing their talent on the national stage.

Beyond Victories: Individual Brilliance:

The Husky legacy extends beyond team triumphs, with individual moments of greatness etched in memory. From Hugh McElhenny's electrifying runs to Jake Browning's record-setting passing performances, these individual feats have impacted the program and its fans.

A Legacy of Excellence:
The history of Husky football is a testament to the dedication, passion, and talent that have defined the program for over a century. The unforgettable moments, from iconic victories to individual heroics, continue to inspire future generations of athletes and fans. As the Huskies continue to write their story in the annals of college football, their legacy of excellence and passion will undoubtedly endure.

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Born May 22, 1907, in Chicago, Illinois, was Washington tackle of 1929 to 1931, Paul Schwegler. The FootballFoundation.org reflects on how the Washinton Huskies football program was not very good during Schwegler’s time there. In fact they won only 12 of the 27 games played. But the play of tackle "Schweg" Schwegler, a native of Raymond, Washington, helped ease the pain and reverse the trend.

Despite Washington's lack of success, selectors were unable to overlook Schwegler, naming him to no less than 43 collegiate all-star teams.  In 1931 Paul was a first team All-America choice that year as well, and went on to be named the defensive standout of the West squad in the 1932 East-West Shrine game. Paul Schwegler received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1967.

Being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame is a mark of unparalleled prestige and accomplishment. It signifies that a player has not only excelled on the field but has also left a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This honor is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and impact in collegiate football, shaping the sport’s history and inspiring future players. Remembering these inductees is not just a tribute to their remarkable careers but also a celebration of their enduring influence on the game. Their stories and achievements serve as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the profound role they’ve played in elevating college football to new heights.

The history of the Washington Huskies football program is told through the collection of images that Blaise D'Sylva on Helmet History.com has collected and organized in the post below.
In the dynamic ballet of gridiron action, where bodies clash and plays unfold at lightning speed, one element stands out as a beacon of team identity: the helmet. Far from a protective shell, the football helmet has become a vibrant canvas, a declaration of colors, logos, and traditions that instantly sets one team apart.

This is an excellent trip down memory lane to not only the logo and helmet color scheme/design but also the evolution of the safety equipment itself.

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The Washington Huskies, a powerhouse in college football, have proudly displayed their iconic purple and gold colors for over a century. But beyond the striking uniform, the evolution of their logo reflects the program's rich history and evolving identity.

-From Sun Dodgers to Huskies (1900s)
In the early days, the Huskies' athletic teams went by the name "Sun Dodgers." Reflecting this, the first recorded logo in 1919 depicted a man standing under an umbrella, facing away from the sun. This historically significant logo lacked the ferocity and spirit that would later define the Huskies.

The shift to "Huskies" as the official mascot in 1922 ushered in a new era of visual representation. The iconic "W" logo was introduced in 1924, featuring a bold serif font and a classic block design. This simple yet powerful symbol quickly became synonymous with Husky athletics and has remained constant.

-Modern Adaptations and Variations (1900s onwards)
While the "W" remained the centerpiece, the logo underwent several stylistic changes. In the 1950s, bolder fonts and playful designs emerged, reflecting the changing aesthetic of the time. The 1959 logo, for example, featured a whimsical Husky mascot alongside the "W," offering a more lighthearted representation.

By the 1980s, a more modern approach was adopted. The 1983 logo featured a sleek, sans-serif font for the "W," set against a contrasting blue and white background. This streamlined design emphasized the power and strength of the Huskies brand, reflecting the program's growing national prominence.

The 21st century saw further refinements to the logo. The 2001 iteration introduced a subtle gradient effect to the "W," adding depth and dimension. This version and the 2016 logo featuring a bolder, more aggressive font solidified the Huskies' visual identity in the modern era.

-A Legacy in Purple and Gold
Today, the Washington Huskies logo is a testament to the program's rich history and enduring legacy. With its simple yet powerful design, the "W" symbolizes excellence, representing generations of talented athletes and passionate fans. As the Huskies forge their path in college football, their iconic logo will undoubtedly remain a cherished emblem for years.

Check out the logos and more at the 1000logos.net link below.

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5 Best Seasons of Washington Husky Football
The Washington Huskies, with their iconic purple and gold colors, have a rich history in college football. Since their inception in 1892, the Huskies have experienced several periods of dominance, boasting 19 conference championships and 1 national championship. Here are the top 5 best seasons in Washington Husky football history:

-1991:
This season remains etched in Husky lore as the pinnacle of Washington football. Led by the legendary Don James and featuring stars like quarterback Billy Joe Hobert and running back Beno Bryant, the Huskies finished the regular season undefeated at 12-0 and ranked No. 1 in the nation. They capped off their historic year by defeating the University of Michigan 34-14 in the Rose Bowl, claiming their first and only national championship.

-2000:
The 2000 season saw the Huskies return to national prominence under the leadership of coach Rick Neuheisel. Quarterback Marques Tuiasosopo and receiver Reggie Williams formed a dynamic duo, leading the Huskies to a 10-2 record and a share of the Pac-10 championship. They fell short of reaching the Rose Bowl after losing a thrilling Apple Cup to Washington State. Still, their dominant performance throughout the season solidified their place among the best Husky teams ever.

-2016:
Under the guidance of head coach Chris Petersen, the 2016 Huskies emerged as a Pac-12 powerhouse. Led by quarterback Jake Browning, running backs Myles Gaskin and Lavon Coleman, and a stout defense, the Huskies finished the regular season with a perfect 12-0 record and a No. 4 ranking. They secured their second Pac-12 championship in three years and earned a berth in the College Football Playoff, ultimately falling to the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Peach Bowl.

-1984:
The 1984 Huskies were a force to be reckoned with, boasting a potent offense led by quarterback Warren Moon and running back Jacque Robinson. Coach Don James orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, guiding the team to a 10-2 record and a No. 1 poll ranking during the season. They capped off their successful year with a convincing victory over Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl, cementing their place as one of the best teams in the nation.

-1992:
The 1992 season marked the Huskies' centennial year, and the team celebrated in style. Led by quarterback Damon Huard and running back Napoleon Kaufman, the Huskies finished the regular season with a 9-3 record and a share of the Pac-10 championship. They earned a berth in the Rose Bowl, where they faced the University of Michigan for the second time in eight years. Despite falling short in a thrilling game, the 1992 Huskies remain beloved in Washington football history.

-2023
With QB Penix and crew the Huskies earned a spot in the final four team tournament

These five seasons represent the pinnacle of Washington Husky football, showcasing the program's talent, dedication, and resilience. Their achievements have left a lasting legacy on the program and continue inspiring future generations of Husky players and fans.

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.

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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."