Football History

Delve into the captivating history of the NFL Championship era, spanning from 1920 to 1965, a time when the game was evolving and legends were born. This series explores the teams, players, and unforgettable moments that shaped this formative period of professional football, before the dawn of the Super Bowl era.

The 1920s, an era of jazz, flappers, and prohibition, also witnessed the nascent stages of the National Football League. This series will delve into the captivating history of the first 13 NFL champions, exploring the teams, players, and key events that shaped the league's early identity.

-In this series, we'll uncover:


The Founding Fathers: Discover the origins of the NFL and the visionary individuals who laid its foundation.

-Early Dominators: Explore the rise of early dynasties and the teams that consistently challenged for the championship.

-Legendary Players: Uncover the stories of the gridiron greats who emerged during this era, their impact on the game, and their lasting legacies.

-The Evolution of the Game: Witness the early evolution of NFL rules, strategies, and player positions.

-Social and Cultural Context: Examine how the social and cultural landscape of the 1920s influenced the development of professional football.

Join us on this journey through time as we uncover the fascinating history of the NFL's formative years.

-"The Golden Age of Gridiron Greats: A Deep Dive into NFL Champions (1933-1965)"

This series will explore the thrilling and often turbulent era of NFL football from 1933 to 1965. We'll delve into the captivating stories of the legendary teams and players who shaped the early decades of professional football.

-Expect to uncover:

-The rise of iconic franchises: Discover the origins and early dominance of teams like the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, and New York Giants.

-The legendary coaches: Learn about the innovative strategies and coaching philosophies of gridiron greats like Vince Lombardi, George Halas, and Curly Lambeau.

-The emergence of superstar players: Explore the careers of Hall of Fame talents like Jim Brown, Johnny Unitas, and Bart Starr.

-The evolution of the game: Witness the game's transformation from a regional pastime to a national phenomenon, marked by rule changes, stadium expansions, and growing media attention.

Join us as we journey back to the golden age of gridiron greatness and celebrate the pioneers who laid the foundation for the NFL we know and love today.

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The 1938 season marked a pinnacle in the New York Giants' history. Under the guidance of coach Steve Owen, the team clinched the NFL Eastern Division title and ultimately captured the NFL Championship, solidifying their status as a dominant force in professional football.

The Giants' regular season was marked by a balanced attack strategy, a testament to their versatility and adaptability. With a record of 8-2-1, they demonstrated their prowess on both sides of the ball. Their defense was a formidable obstacle for opponents, allowing the fewest points in the league. On offense, the team's balanced attack effectively moved the ball down the field and capitalized on scoring opportunities.

-The 1938 Season in NFL Eastern Division

The New York football club needed clear sailing through the season to represent the Eastern Division in the League finals. The Washington Redskins were the front runners of the East teams going into the pivotal games of week 10 of the '38 season. In their way were the defending NFL Champions, the Washington Redskins.

Washington lost to the Chicago Bears 31-7 in week 10, which allowed the Giants to take over the top spot as N.Y. blanked the Cleveland Rams 28-0. Less than a month later, the stage was set for the December 4 game at the Polo Grounds, where the G-Men would host their foes from the Nation's Capitol. This was, in essence, a game for the Eastern Title as the Giants sat at 7–2–1, and the Redskins were perched with a 6-2-2 record going into the contest. It was a win-and-in scenario for Washington, while the Giants could move on with a win or a tie. The game was a rematch from the 1937 season, which Washington won handily 49-14, propelling them to the NFL Championship game victory over the Bears 28-21.

On December 4, 1938, the largest NFL crowd of the season gathered at the Polo Grounds: 57,461 screaming fans, mainly from the Big Apple, witnessed the action.

The Skins were a talented bunch led by star Quarterback Slingin' Sammy Baugh, End Bob McChesney, Fullback Andy Farkas, and fellow fieldmates Ernie Pinkert, Max Krause, and Jay Turner.

The Giants countered with a star-studded roster featuring Quarterback Ed Danowski, backs Tuffy Leemans, Bull Karcis, Ward Cuff, Center Mel Hein, and End Jim Lee Howell.

Much of the stat line for the game was misleading, as Washington outgained New York 207 to 160 in total offensive yards, and the visitors tallied 13 first downs to the Giants 6 times of reaching the line to gain. This is very misleading, as all the other numbers in the game heavily leaned towards the home team.

The Giants' defense was outstanding, forcing seven D.C. fumbles that helped propel Big Blue to a 36-0 route. Four of the five New York TDs were set up on Redskin miscues. The scoring was led by Chuck Gelatka, who caught a Leeman's pass for a score and also took Baugh's interception to the house. Cuff completed a Pick-Six of his own, measuring 96 yards, and added more points off his toe in the kicking game.

-The 1938 Season NFL Championship Game

The Giants' successful season climaxed in the championship game against the Green Bay Packers, held on December 11 at the Polo Grounds. Over 48,000 spectators entered the New York City venue gates to root their teams on. The game was a thrilling contest that showcased both teams' talent and determination.

The Packers had won the Western Division with an 8-4 record, outlasting the challenges of the Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears, who were nipping at their heels much of the season. A couple of weeks earlier, a dramatic win by the Pack over the Lions 28-7 and a regular season-ending Eagles victory over Detroit sealed the Green Bay appearance in the Title game.

Under Head Coach Curly Lambeau, Green Bay featured quarterback Arnie Herber and his favorite target, Don Hutson. Other formidable gridiron legends, such as Cecil Isbell, Ed Jankowski, Andy Uram, and Clark Hinkle, were also on the Wisconsin team's roster.

On game day, just before the coin toss, Giant star Mel Hein was presented with a watch by NFL President Joe Carr. This watch signified him as the League's Most Outstanding Player for the season, as he was at the top of the News Pro All-America voting. This award matches the modern NFL Player of the Year honors.

The fans were in for a treat as the game lived up to the hype in one of the season's most exciting NFL contests. Staying true to form, the Giants took advantage of their opponent using opportunities made on defense, and maybe more accurately stated, special teams, and jumped out a nine-point lead in the first quarter on a Ward Cuff field goal set up after New York's Jim Lee Howell blocked a Packer punt the Giants recovered at the Green Bay seven. Three straight rushes were stymied by the Packers short-yardage defense, which set up Cuff's three-pointer.

A bit later, a second Cecil Isbell punt was blocked, this time by Jim Poole, with Howell diving on the ball at the Green Back 26. After a short pass gained ground, the Packers D was loosened up for the Tuffy Leemans show to commence. Leemans was handed the leather on multiple plays until he finally twisted and turned through a reported four would-be Packers tacklers for the Giant's first TD. John Gildea's extra point try missed the mark, but the first quarter ended with the Giants up 9-0.

The second stanza featured a flurry of points between the two teams. Green Bay got on the board when Arnie Herber scrambled and launched a 49-yard strike to Carl Mulleneaux, who stepped under the goal post and over the goal line to cut the New York lead to two.

The momentum was with the Packers, who held the Giants on the next series and got the ball back, moving it to midfield before they fumbled, and New York's future Hall of Famer Mel Hein came out of the pile with the pigskin. The Giants scored a TD of their own six plays later with a short pass from Danowski to Hap Barnard.

Coach Lambeau would later comment that the officials made a bad call on the pass play and claim that moving pictures would show Barnum losing control of the ball and flying out of bounds, making it not a catch but an incomplete pass, which would have nullified the score.

Isbell helped the Packers get back into the game just before the half, leading a drive with his legs and arms that culminated when Paul Miller plunged over the goal line behind the block of his right guard to make the score 16-14 Giants at the intermission.

-It Was a Crazy Half Time Session

Usually, Coach Lambeau would make some adjustments and possibly give a rousing speech in the locker room at the half, but this particular game, the legendary sideline chief was eerily absent.

The halftime session was filled with drama as Curly Lambeau needed clarification from the officials as they were walking off the field and in not following the rest of the team to the Polo Grounds Visitors locker room, Lambeau made a wrong turn and, by some bizarre circumstance, found himself outside of the stadium! When he tried to return, the gatekeepers did not recognize him and would not believe his story to let him reenter.

Eventually, the commotion of Lambeau's pleas was heard by sportswriters who confirmed his identity, and Ole Curly was allowed entrance just in time to go back to the field with the team. The team showed no effects from not having their field boss in the locker room.

-Thrilling Second Half

The second half started with excitement when Green Bay's Joe Law returned the kick-off to the Packers's 31, and a combination of long runs by Clark Hinkle and Bob Monnett moved the drive to the New York fourteen before a fourth and less than a half yard brought on a field goal try. The boot by Paul Engebretsen was true, and the visitors went up by one on the scoreboard. This lead would only be for three minutes.

New York took the ball after the kick and went on a long drive that ended with Giants back Hank Soar snatching an errant pass off Hinkle's fingertips and then tiptoeing across the goal line stripe to put Big Blue up 23-17.

The game had a controversial fourth-quarter play that Lambeau would later point to when an apparent long pass play from Herber to Gantenbein, which would have moved the sticks, was called back by officials who stated that the receiver was ineligible. The Giant's defense held on to the next play and gave New York the ball back. Their drive was stalled, and Green Bay would get the ball back with little time left.

The Packers were not done yet, though. In the last eleven seconds of regulation, the Green Bay offense moved forty yards.

Ultimately, the Giants emerged victorious with a score of 23-17, securing their place in NFL history as champions.  

The 1938 New York Giants were a team defined by their grit, skill, and, most importantly, their unwavering commitment to excellence and opportunistic defensive and special team play. This dedication and determination were critical factors in their championship triumph, a cherished chapter in the franchise's storied legacy.

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Lace up your cleats and step back in time to December 9th, 1934, for a championship game unlike any other. This isn't just about a battle between gridiron giants – the New York Giants and Chicago Bears. This is the story of ingenuity, adaptation, and a surprising footwear choice that changed the course of the game, earning it the unforgettable nickname: The Sneakers Game.

Get ready for a tale of frozen fields, underdog tactics, and a legendary fourth-quarter comeback fueled by...well, let's just say it wasn't your typical football gear. Join us as we delve into the history of this iconic game, exploring the strategies, the stars, and the unexpected twist that secured victory for one lucky team. So, grab some hot cocoa, because things are about to get interesting (and a little slippery) in the 1934 NFL Championship Game!

-The 1934 Season

The defending champion Chicago Bears, a team that had dominated the NFL in 1934 and went undefeated in the regular season, were the Giants' formidable opponents.

December 9, 1934 - Polo Grounds, New York City - "The Sneakers game" is what this National Football League Championship game has been fondly branded. This was a rematch of the two teams that played in the 1933 League Championship contest, the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants. The Bears entered the game as the favorites; after all, they had not lost a game all season and had beaten the Giants twice earlier. The November 4 match-up of the two squads at Wrigley Field saw the home team dismantle New York 27-7. The two franchises met again two weeks later at the Polo Grounds, and the Bears won out again in a much closer decision, 10-9.

The Bears had a roster of All-Stars and future Hall of Famers. Experienced veterans like Red Grange, George Musso, Walt Keisling, Link Lyman, and Bronko Nagurski complemented the athleticism of Keith Molesworth, Rookie Beattie Feathers, Bill Karr, and Jack Manders. Yes, George Halass has put together an extremely talent-laden roster.

The Giants countered with a strong supporting cast of Red Badgro, Ray Flaherty, Mel Hein, Ed Danowski, and Ken Strong but ran the gambit with a disappointing 8-5 regular season mark. New York had suffered two season-opening losses, one to Green Bay and the other to Detroit, to back into the season 0-2 before rattling off four straight. The Giants did just enough to win the East outlasting the 6-6 Boston Redskins for the right to play in the NFL Championship game.

The Giants were quite confident entering the contest; though blown out in Chicago during the regular season, they played the Bears almost even on the Polo Grounds' home field. Coach Owen had to carefully search for an edge to give his team an advantage and a fighting chance against the undefeated Champs. Ultimately, this 'leg up' would reveal itself on game day.

The 1934 NFL Title Game

The game was played in New York as the NFL practiced an alternate rotation of East and West Conference's home-field advantage for the title game participants. You may remember from a previous discussion that the 1933 game was played at Wrigley when the two teams squared off. Weather in New York City in early December is always a factor to consider, and in this case, rain the night before froze as temperatures plummeted below 32 degrees to the teens, leaving the Polo Grounds turf and every other outdoor surface in the Big Apple more like a hockey rink that a gridiron battlefield. A sparse crowd of over 35,000 braved the elements to watch the contest in the frozen stands.

The early portion of the contest went as the oddsmakers calculated. Molesworth was a handful for the Giant's defenders as he and Nagurski slashed and pounded the football for chunks of yardage in the first half. Chicago's bright young star, Beattie Feathers, was injured and unavailable for this big game. Bronko eventually lumbered his way over the goal line, and Chicago jumped out to a 10-3 lead by the intermission.

A Change in Momentum

John Mara, the Giants treasurer, noticed that the turf of the Polo Grounds was practically a sheet of ice just hours before kick-off. Mara let the coaching staff, including team Captain Ray Flaherty, know about the field. Flaherty's thoughts returned to a game he remembered that he and his team at Gonzaga College had played with similar icy conditions where they took off their cleats and put on basketball shoes to try and gain better traction. Flaherty wanted the Giants to take the same action; however, since it was a Sunday, no sporting goods store was in the open area. That's when some networking and a true home-field advantage played out.

The Giants' equipment personnel hurried to Manhattan College to borrow their basketball teams' footwear. Both teams initially struggled with traction, but Head Coach Steve Owen's secret strategy and the Giants' determination turned the tide. At halftime, it was time for a footwear revision, and Owen's receivers and backs donned the limited number of sneakers they had on loan, gaining a significant advantage.

At the onset of the second half, things got worse for the Giants as the visitors padded the lead with a field goal that went up 13-3.

Ken Strong's talents were shown bright that day even though he had been banged up due to a rough injury-plagued season, and star end Red Badgro had suffered a season-ending wound in an earlier game, preventing him from playing in the title tilt. He was the Giants' weapon of choice for much of the game, but for the first three quarters, the Bears' defense limited his effectiveness. Strong and the Giants finally caught a break in the third, but it was almost heartbreaking. Ed Danowski stepped back to pass as the Giants drove deep into Chicago territory. The QB's toss seemed destined for glory until Chicago's Carl Brumbaugh stepped in front and appeared to intercept the ball. However, New York receiver Ike Frankian swiped the ball out of the Bears's defender's mits and strolled into the endzone to close the gap on the Chicago lead, avoiding the disaster and making it 13-10 early in the fourth quarter.

After a quarter, the Giants were literally and figuratively finding their footing as the rubber-soled footwear, with its suction cup design to grab a hold on the hardwoods, gave traction to the New York bunch that wore them. It was all Giants the rest of the way as Ken Strong crossed the stripe twice, the first one on a 41-yard scamper to paydirt, followed by another of his own and a Danowski TD run as an insurance policy.

The G-men scored four touchdowns in the final stanza, surprising the Chicago Bears with a 30-13 Giants comeback victory route.

For their efforts, the players on the Giants received a check of $621.03 each while the Bears players licked their wounds on the long train ride back to the Windy City, holding their pay receipts up to just over $400 each.

Little did anyone know that this game would go down in history, not just for the Giants' victory but also for the innovative strategy that changed the course of football.

What State has the most NFL Titles? Here is an infographic charting the history of the APFA/NFL Championship, a visual tapestry woven through decades of gridiron glory. Spanning from 1920 to the present, the infographic's primary axis represents the passage of time, with each year marked along a timeline. Dominating the visual are team logos, instantly recognizable emblems of victory. Each logo represents a championship team, positioned according to the year they earned the title.

The quest for gridiron supremacy has unfolded across the United States for over a century, with teams battling for the coveted NFL championship.

While the infographic I'm viewing clearly illustrates the victors and their home states, analyzing the broader trends is fascinating. Several states emerge as clear contenders in the race for the most titles, their prominence evident in the sheer number of championship logos clustered within their borders.  

Wisconsin leads the league with 13 Titles between the NFL Championships and Super Bowl wins. Green Bay, calling itself "Titletown," is very befitting!

Close behind is Illinois, which has 12 titles, such as the Staleys, Bears, and Cardinals, which contributed to this total.

Pennsylvania comes in third with 11 NFL Championships as the Frankford Yellow Jackets, Philadelphia Eagles, and Pittsburgh Steelers summed their league tops spots to get the Keystone State to that number.

California is fourth with ten championships, while Ohio and New York are not far behind with nine each to round out the top five states with the most NFL Championships.

We examined the entire history of the NFL, even in 1920 and 1921 when they were under the American Professional Football Association (APFA) guise.

Looking at the infographic, it's immediately apparent that a few states stand out. One state, easily identifiable by its central location and a cluster of logos spanning several decades, appears to be a strong frontrunner. The sheer consistency of wins from teams within this state suggests a deeply rooted football culture and sustained periods of dominance. Another state, located on the West Coast, also boasts many championships, though their victories are perhaps more concentrated in specific eras. The visual representation on the infographic makes it clear that these two states are major players in NFL history.

Other states also contribute to the overall championship count, but their representation on the infographic, while notable, is less densely populated. These states have certainly tasted victory, and their logos represent significant moments in NFL history, but they don't quite reach the level of the two dominant states I've mentioned. The infographic provides a compelling visual narrative of this competitive landscape, showcasing the winning teams and the geographical distribution of their success. It highlights the enduring passion for football nationwide and the fierce competition that fuels the pursuit of the championship title, a battle waged state against state, year after year. The infographic clarifies that the title of "most championships" is a hard-fought honor claimed by only a select few states that have consistently fielded teams capable of reaching the pinnacle of the sport.

Crucially, the infographic incorporates geographical context. The state they call home for each winning team is clearly indicated, and an icon represents the winning team(s) on the graph bar. This allows for immediate identification of which states have been historical powerhouses and which have seen sporadic success.


The NFL title game being played in 2025 (Super Bowl LIX) may notch another click for Missouri or Pennsylvania and would move into a tie with a team currently ahead of them.

The overall effect is a compelling narrative of professional football's evolution. At a glance, viewers can trace the ebb and flow of power across different states, identify periods of dominance by specific franchises, and appreciate the league's rich history. The infographic becomes more than just a list of champions; it transforms into a visual representation of the sport's dynamic journey through time and across the American landscape.

The 1921 season of the American Professional Football Association (APFA), later to become the NFL, remains a fascinating and controversial chapter in the league's formative years. While the Chicago Staleys officially hold the championship title, the story surrounding their victory is rife with debate, centering on the impact of exhibition games and the persuasive power of George Halas. This season exemplifies the challenges and ambiguities that plagued the early days of professional football, where clear-cut rules and consistent practices were still a work in progress.

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champions? Check it out here NFL Champions.

The controversy revolves around the Buffalo All-Americans and their scheduling choices. In 1921, the nascent league struggled with standardized schedules and consistent competition. Teams often played various games, and the definition of a "league game" versus an "exhibition" was frequently blurred. Buffalo's decision to participate in an exhibition game proved pivotal in the championship's ultimate outcome. As discussed in historical football podcasts, this seemingly innocuous decision significantly impacted their official record. Had that exhibition game not been played, or had it been counted towards their league record, Buffalo's standing, and potentially the championship outcome, could have been dramatically different. The very fact that such a decision could have such a profound effect underlines the fluid and, at times, chaotic nature of the early NFL.

Ken Crippen's insights shed light on how these exhibition games, though often overlooked, played a crucial role in determining championship recognition in 1921. In those early years, teams relied on revenue from any and all games, including exhibitions, to survive. These games weren't just for practice but essential for financial stability. While perhaps financially beneficial, Buffalo's choice to play an exhibition ultimately cost them dearly in the championship race.

While Buffalo's fate was intertwined with their scheduling decisions, George Halas and the Chicago Staleys capitalized on the situation. Halas, a shrewd strategist and influential figure in NFL history, played a key role in securing the championship for his team. His persuasive arguments regarding the interpretation of league standings and the impact of exhibition games proved decisive. It’s been suggested that Halas's ability to navigate the league's often murky rules and regulations, combined with his persuasive skills, ultimately swayed the decision in Chicago’s favor.

The 1921 season serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of exhibition games in professional football's early history. These games weren't merely warm-ups; they were vital for a team's survival and, as the Buffalo/Chicago situation illustrates, could influence the championship outcome. With its controversial championship decision, the story of the 1921 season underscores the challenges faced by the early NFL. It highlights the complex interplay of on-field performance, scheduling decisions, and the influence of key figures like George Halas.

-1921 Chicago Staleys season

-Owner George Halas,

-Dutch Sternaman

-Head coach George Halas

-Home field Staley Field (Decatur),

-Cubs Park (Chicago)

-Results

-Record 9–1–1 APFA

-(10–1–1 Overall)

-League place 1st APFA

-APFA standings

W L T PCT PF PA STK
Chicago Staleys 9 1 1 .900 128 53 T1
Buffalo All-Americans 9 1 2 .900 211 29 L1
Akron Pros 8 3 1 .727 148 31 W1
Canton Bulldogs 5 2 3 .714 106 55 W1
Rock Island Independents 4 2 1 .667 65 30 L1
Evansville Crimson Giants 3 2 0 .600 89 46 W1
Green Bay Packers 3 2 1 .600 70 55 L1
Dayton Triangles 4 4 1 .500 96 67 L1
Chicago Cardinals 3 3 2 .500 54 53 T1
Rochester Jeffersons 2 3 0 .400 85 76 W2
Cleveland Tigers 3 5 0 .375 95 58 L1
Washington Senators 1 2 0 .334 21 43 L1
Cincinnati Celts 1 3 0 .250 14 117 L2
Hammond Pros 1 3 1 .250 17 45 L2
Minneapolis Marines 1 3 0 .250 37 41 L1
Detroit Tigers 1 5 1 .167 19 109 L5
Columbus Panhandles 1 8 0 .111 47 222 W1
Tonawanda Kardex 0 1 0 .000 0 45 L1
Muncie Flyers 0 2 0 .000 0 28 L2
Louisville Brecks 0 2 0 .000 0 27 L2
New York Brickley Giants 0 2 0 .000 0 72 L2


1921 Chicago Staleys season. (2025, February 3). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1921_Chicago_Staleys_season

The fifth season of the National Football League was filled with change and some familiar faces. The League went into the season with 18 teams (down from 20 participating in the 1923 season). The Cleveland Indians, Toledo Maroons, Oorang Indians, Louisville Brecks, and the St Louis All-Stars all folded shop, but some new blood was instilled into the fray to make it a net loss of only two teams. The Kansas City Blues, Kenosha Maroons and the Frankford Yellow Jackets all debuted as new franchises for the 1924 season.

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champions? Check it out here NFL Champions.

The Cleveland Indians are an interesting story, though. The owner of the Cleveland Indians pro football team, a Cleveland area jeweler named Sam Deutsch, agreed on August 4, 1924, to buy the Canton Bulldogs franchise, players, equipment... yes, the whole kit and kaboodle. Yes, the same Canton Bulldogs that were the two-time defending NFL Champions after the 1923 season. The sale was a win for both teams as Canton’s owners had great teams with good game attendance but struggled to make a profit.

At the same time, Cleveland had cash flow but lacked the firepower to put fannies in the stands. So before the 1924 season started, Deutsch named his coach Guy Chamberlin, the player-coach and stud player from the University of Nebraska who led the Bulldogs to their 1922 and 1923 NFL championships in Canton through his strategy and coaching. Deutsch demanded that some of the core players of his former Indians team still be in the lineup, especially quarterback Hoge Workman, an All-American from nearby Ohio State.

The Cleveland Bulldogs was a powerhouse as the combined rosters of the Indians, and the Bulldogs were what, in essence, was an All-star team of the two clubs. He promoted them as the Cleveland Bulldogs, and the team continued the Canton Bulldogs' unbeaten streak by dispatching the Chicago Bears in their opener 16-14, tying Frankford’s Yellow Jackets the next week, then rattling off a string of victories over the likes of the Akron Pros twice, Rochester Jeffersons and the Dayton Triangles. On November 16, though, riding a 31-game unbeaten streak dating back to Canton, the Bulldogs were finally defeated on the gridiron. The second meeting with the Frankford Yellow Jackets ended the streak as the Jackets knocked off the Dogs 12-7 in Cleveland.

-A Unique Twist:

-One of the key factors in the Bulldogs' success was a rather unusual situation involving the Canton Bulldogs.

-The Canton Bulldogs were a successful team on the field, but they struggled financially.

-The owner of the Cleveland franchise purchased the Canton franchise and essentially merged the two teams, taking the best players from Canton and adding them to his Cleveland roster.

-This infusion of talent undoubtedly strengthened the Cleveland Bulldogs and contributed to their championship run.

-No Playoffs, Just a Crown:

As mentioned earlier, there were no playoffs in 1924. So, the Cleveland Bulldogs, with their league-best record, were simply declared the NFL champions.  
This was a different era of professional football, and how championships were determined differed from today's system.

-A Legacy Forged:

-The 1924 championship was a significant moment in the history of the Cleveland Bulldogs (who would later become the Cleveland Rams and then move to Los Angeles).

-It marked their first NFL title and solidified their place among the league's top teams.

-While the circumstances surrounding their championship were unique, there's no denying that the Bulldogs earned their victory with a strong and consistent season.

The 1924 NFL season serves as a reminder of the league's early days, a time of change, adaptation, and some rather unusual twists and turns. The Cleveland Bulldogs' championship story is a perfect example of this intriguing era in professional football history.

The 1923 NFL season marked a pivotal moment in the league's nascent history, showcasing the growing popularity of professional football and the rise of dominant teams like the Canton Bulldogs. While the league was still relatively young and evolving, the '23 season solidified the Bulldogs' place as a powerhouse and offered a glimpse into the future of the sport.

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champions? Check it out here NFL Champions.

The Canton Bulldogs, led by the legendary player and coach Guy Chamberlin, entered the 1923 season as defending champions. They were a team stacked with talent, boasting a roster of seasoned veterans and emerging stars. Chamberlin's leadership was instrumental to their success, instilling a winning mentality and fostering a cohesive team dynamic. Their style of play was characterized by a tough, physical brand of football, relying on a strong running game and a tenacious defense. This approach proved highly effective in the relatively rough-and-tumble era of early professional football.

The Bulldogs' dominance in 1923 was undeniable. They steamrolled through the regular season, compiling an impressive 11-1-1 record. Their sole loss was a narrow defeat, and the tie game could easily have been a victory. This near-perfect record underscored their superiority over the rest of the league. They consistently overpowered their opponents, showcasing their superior talent and coaching. Their victories were often decisive, leaving little doubt about their standing as the league's premier team.

-NFL standings 1923

Franchise Name W L T PCT PF PA STK

Canton Bulldogs 11 0 1 1.000 246 19 W5
Chicago Bears 9 2 1 .818 123 35 W1
Green Bay Packers 7 2 1 .778 85 34 W5
Milwaukee Badgers 7 2 3 .778 100 49 W1
Cleveland Indians 3 1 3 .750 52 49 L1
Chicago Cardinals 8 4 0 .667 161 56 L1
Duluth Kelleys 4 3 0 .571 35 33 L3
Buffalo All-Americans 5 4 3 .556 94 43 L1
Columbus Tigers 5 4 1 .556 119 35 L1
Toledo Maroons 3 3 2 .500 35 66 L1
Racine Legion 4 4 2 .500 86 76 W1
Rock Island Independents 2 3 3 .400 84 62 L1
Minneapolis Marines 2 5 2 .286 48 81 L1
St. Louis All-Stars 1 4 2 .200 25 74 L1
Hammond Pros 1 5 1 .167 14 59 L4
Akron Pros 1 6 0 .143 25 74 W1
Dayton Triangles 1 6 1 .143 16 95 L2
Oorang Indians 1 10 0 .091 50 257 W1
Louisville Brecks 0 3 0 .000 0 90 L3
Rochester Jeffersons 0 4 0 .000 6 141 L4

While the Bulldogs were the clear frontrunners, the 1923 season also saw other teams vying for contention. Teams like the Cleveland Indians and the Green Bay Packers, though not as dominant as Canton, displayed flashes of brilliance and hinted at the growing competitiveness of the league. These teams and others contributed to the overall narrative of the season, showcasing the increasing talent pool and the growing fan interest in professional football.

Beyond the wins and losses, the 1923 season was significant for the development of the NFL itself. The league was still in its formative years, grappling with standardization issues, player contracts, and overall organization. However, the success of teams like the Canton Bulldogs helped solidify the league's credibility and attract more fans. The growing media coverage of the games also contributed to the increasing popularity of professional football, laying the foundation for its future growth.

The Canton Bulldogs' 1923 season is a testament to their exceptional talent and coaching. Their dominance on the field earned them a championship and contributed to the NFL's overall growth and development. The season was a crucial stepping stone in the league's journey to becoming the dominant force in American sports today. The legacy of the 1923 Canton Bulldogs and their championship season continues to resonate within the history of professional football, reminding us of the sport’s rich and evolving past.

1923 Canton Bulldogs season. (2025, January 27). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1923_Canton_Bulldogs_season

The Akron Pros, the champions of the inaugural NFL season in 1920. The challenges faced by the Akron Pros during their season, including a tight schedule and internal team issues, yet they still managed an impressive record. Listeners are taken back to the early days of the league, where the structure and organization of professional football were still in their infancy.

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champions? Check it out here NFL Champions.

The inaugural season of the American Professional Football Association (APFA), later to become the NFL, in 1920 was a chaotic experiment, a wild west of fledgling franchises grappling with the very concept of a professional league. Amidst this uncertainty, the Akron Pros emerged as the first champions, finishing the season with an impressive 8-0-3 record. However, their path to the title was far from straightforward, reflecting the league's growing pains.

The early days of professional football were riddled with challenges. Scheduling was a logistical nightmare, with teams often playing irregularly and against varying levels of competition. Player disputes were common, as the league struggled to establish consistent rules and regulations. The very structure of the league was in flux, with teams joining and disbanding throughout the season. In this turbulent environment, the Akron Pros managed to maintain consistency and secure their place in history.

A fascinating "what if" scenario highlights the precarious nature of that first season. Had a hypothetical game between the Pros and the Decatur Staleys, another strong contender, actually been played, the course of NFL history could have been drastically different. This underscores how close the championship was and how easily it could have swung the other way.

Key figures like Fritz Pollard and Paul Robeson played pivotal roles in Akron's success. Pollard, a pioneering African American player and coach, brought exceptional talent and leadership to the team. Robeson, a multi-talented athlete and activist, contributed significantly to the Pros' performance. Their presence on the team not only showcased their individual brilliance but also reflected the diverse landscape of early professional football.

Despite the excitement surrounding the nascent league, professional football faced a significant hurdle: public perception. College football reigned supreme in popularity, and the professional game was often viewed with skepticism, considered a less refined and somewhat chaotic version of its collegiate counterpart. The 1920 season and the Akron Pros' championship represented a crucial step in legitimizing professional football and paving the way for its eventual rise to national prominence.

-1920 Akron Pros Facts

-Owner Akron Exhibition Co.

-Charles Stahl

-President Frank Nied,

-Art Ranney

-Head coach Elgie Tobin

-Home field League Park

-Results

-Record 8–0–3 overall

-6–0–3 (APFA)

-Division place 1st APFA (named champions)

-Playoff finish No playoffs until 1932

The 1925 NFL season was a wild and controversial one, ultimately leading to the Chicago Cardinals being crowned champions. It was a season marked by the rise of Red Grange, the suspension of the Pottsville Maroons, and a league still finding its footing.  

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-The Rise of Red Grange

The biggest story of the 1925 season was undoubtedly the emergence of Red Grange. The "Galloping Ghost" was a star halfback from the University of Illinois who captivated the nation with his incredible speed and elusiveness. After the college season, Grange signed with the Chicago Bears, and his presence instantly transformed the league. Huge crowds flocked to see him play, and he became a national sensation, bringing unprecedented attention to professional football.  

-The Pottsville Maroons Controversy

The Pottsville Maroons were a dominant team in 1925, boasting a 10-2 record. They even defeated the Chicago Cardinals, their main rivals, late in the season. However, a controversial decision by NFL Commissioner Joseph Carr cost them the championship. The Maroons scheduled a game against a team of former Notre Dame players in Philadelphia, which was considered to be in the territory of the Frankford Yellow Jackets. Despite warnings from Carr, the Maroons played the game, leading to their suspension from the league and the forfeiture of their right to compete for the championship.  

-The Cardinals Claim the Crown

With the Pottsville Maroons out of the picture, the Chicago Cardinals, who had finished the season with an 11-2-1 record, were declared the NFL champions. It was a bittersweet victory for the Cardinals, as they had not defeated the Maroons on the field. Owner Chris O'Brien would NOT accept the title; however, in 1933, when the Bidwell family took over ownership of the franchise, they did embrace the title, marking the franchise's first NFL championship.

-A League in Flux

The 1925 season highlighted the challenges the NFL faced in its early years. The league was still relatively young and lacked the stability and structure of later decades. Controversies like the Pottsville Maroons suspension and the constant movement of franchises were common occurrences. However, the emergence of stars like Red Grange and the growing popularity of the game were signs that professional football was on the rise.

-The Legacy of 1925

Despite the controversies and challenges, the 1925 NFL season played a significant role in the development of the league. The excitement generated by Red Grange helped to attract new fans and solidify the league's place in the American sports landscape. The lessons learned from the Pottsville Maroons incident likely contributed to future rule changes and a greater emphasis on league uniformity. While the Cardinals' championship may have come under somewhat unusual circumstances, it still stands as a testament to their strong season and their place in NFL history.

The 1928 NFL season, though lacking the modern spectacle of today's game, was a pivotal chapter in the league's formative years. At its heart lies the story of the Providence Steam Roller, a now-defunct franchise that defied expectations to claim the NFL championship. This season, as explored in a detailed podcast, sheds light on the league's early struggles, the absence of a structured championship game, and the unique circumstances that shaped the Steam Roller's triumph.

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Unlike the contemporary NFL, where a playoff system culminates in the Super Bowl, the 1928 season determined its champion based solely on regular-season records. This absence of a formal championship game underscores the era's evolving nature, where organizational structures were still being refined. The Providence Steam Roller, entering their fourth NFL season, had demonstrated steady improvement, and in 1928, they reached their zenith.

The podcast narrative meticulously traces the Steam Roller's journey, highlighting pivotal matches that ultimately secured their championship. Critical victories against key rivals propelled them to the top of the standings, showcasing their resilience and strategic prowess. The detailed accounts of these games provide a window into the raw, unpolished football of the late 1920s, a stark contrast to the sophisticated strategies of today.

However, the Steam Roller's story is not merely one of on-field success. The podcast delves into the team's personal challenges, revealing a poignant tale of resilience in the face of tragedy. Amidst their championship pursuit, the players coped with personal losses, demonstrating their unwavering determination and camaraderie. This emotional depth adds a human dimension to their victory, transforming it from a mere sporting achievement into a testament to the team's spirit.

The inclusion of Greg Tranter, a guest expert on the Providence Steam Roller, significantly enriches the podcast. Tranter's insights provide valuable context, offering a deeper understanding of the franchise's history and its place within the broader landscape of early NFL. His expertise illuminates the nuances of the 1928 season, adding layers of historical accuracy and detail.

The narrative emphasizes the importance of historical context in appreciating the NFL's evolution. By examining the 1928 season, listeners gain a greater understanding of the league's humble beginnings and the challenges it faced. The Providence Steam Roller's championship serves as a reminder of the league's diverse history, where teams of varying sizes and resources competed on a level playing field.

The 1928 Providence Steam Roller season stands as a unique achievement, as they are the last defunct team to win an NFL championship. Their record of only one loss is a testament to their dominance that year. This narrative serves as a critical examination of the NFL’s past, and the unique circumstances that shaped the league we know today.