Navy Athletic's Joe Bellino Tribute Video
A YouTube video filled with highlights of Navy Midshipmen Heisman Award-winning halfback Joe Bellino.
A Legend on Two Battlefields
John Beckett wasn't your typical football star. His legacy straddles two worlds - the gridiron and the battlefield - etching his name in both athletic and military history. Here's a summary of his remarkable career:
Football Accolades :
-All-around athlete playing tackle, halfback, and punter for the University of Oregon (1913-1916).
-Captain of the 1916 Oregon team, leading them to an undefeated record and a tie for the Pacific Coast Conference championship.
-Named Most Valuable Player of the 1917 Rose Bowl after leading Oregon to victory over Pennsylvania.
-Served as captain of the 1917 Marine Corps team, the only person ever to captain two Rose Bowl teams.
-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1972.
Military Service (1917-1967):
-Enlisted in the Marines during his senior year at Oregon, serving with distinction for 50 years.
-Reached the rank of Brigadier General, earning medals for bravery and leadership in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
-Commanded the Fifth Marine Regiment during the Battle of Iwo Jima, one of the bloodiest battles in Marine Corps history.
-Coached Marine football teams at various stations, achieving an impressive 56-19-3 record.
John Beckett's career was a testament to human potential. He excelled in athletics, mastered the demands of military service, and led by example on and off the field. His story continues to inspire generations of athletes and soldiers, reminding us that true greatness lies not just in achievements but in the character and spirit with which we pursue them.
Football Accolades :
-All-around athlete playing tackle, halfback, and punter for the University of Oregon (1913-1916).
-Captain of the 1916 Oregon team, leading them to an undefeated record and a tie for the Pacific Coast Conference championship.
-Named Most Valuable Player of the 1917 Rose Bowl after leading Oregon to victory over Pennsylvania.
-Served as captain of the 1917 Marine Corps team, the only person ever to captain two Rose Bowl teams.
-Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1972.
Military Service (1917-1967):
-Enlisted in the Marines during his senior year at Oregon, serving with distinction for 50 years.
-Reached the rank of Brigadier General, earning medals for bravery and leadership in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
-Commanded the Fifth Marine Regiment during the Battle of Iwo Jima, one of the bloodiest battles in Marine Corps history.
-Coached Marine football teams at various stations, achieving an impressive 56-19-3 record.
John Beckett's career was a testament to human potential. He excelled in athletics, mastered the demands of military service, and led by example on and off the field. His story continues to inspire generations of athletes and soldiers, reminding us that true greatness lies not just in achievements but in the character and spirit with which we pursue them.
Hube Wagner - Early HOF Pitt Hallfback
Hube Wagner was an American football player and surgeon who enjoyed a brief but impactful career as an athlete:
Football Career (1910-1913):
-Starred as a versatile player for the University of Pittsburgh, excelling at end, halfback, and even quarterback.
-Led the undefeated 1910 Pitt team to a national championship.
-Known for his aggressive tackling, decisive running, and exceptional passing skills.
-Earned All-American honors in 1913.
-Considered one of the greatest athletes in the University of Pittsburgh's history.
Gridiron Legacy:
-Although his playing career was short, his impact on Pitt football was significant. He helped establish the program as a national power and remains one of its most celebrated alumni.
-His versatility and athleticism paved the way for future generations of multi-positional players.
-After ending his football career, Wagner became a prominent surgeon in Pittsburgh, showcasing his dedication and intelligence beyond the gridiron.
-In 1915, he was on the roster of the Canton Bulldogs.
While Hube Wagner's playing career only spanned a few years, his talent, achievements, and connection to the University of Pittsburgh solidified his place among the program's legends. His versatility and athleticism remain an inspiration for future generations of athletes.
Football Career (1910-1913):
-Starred as a versatile player for the University of Pittsburgh, excelling at end, halfback, and even quarterback.
-Led the undefeated 1910 Pitt team to a national championship.
-Known for his aggressive tackling, decisive running, and exceptional passing skills.
-Earned All-American honors in 1913.
-Considered one of the greatest athletes in the University of Pittsburgh's history.
Gridiron Legacy:
-Although his playing career was short, his impact on Pitt football was significant. He helped establish the program as a national power and remains one of its most celebrated alumni.
-His versatility and athleticism paved the way for future generations of multi-positional players.
-After ending his football career, Wagner became a prominent surgeon in Pittsburgh, showcasing his dedication and intelligence beyond the gridiron.
-In 1915, he was on the roster of the Canton Bulldogs.
While Hube Wagner's playing career only spanned a few years, his talent, achievements, and connection to the University of Pittsburgh solidified his place among the program's legends. His versatility and athleticism remain an inspiration for future generations of athletes.
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Donny Anderson Packer HOF Halfback
Born May 16, 1943, in Borger, Texas, was Donny Anderson who was the 1963 to 1965 starting halfback of Texas Tech. Donny’s NFF bio lists that he was known as "The Golden Palomino" as a two-time All-America halfback 1964 and 1965. He had some splash plays almost from the get-go, for as a sophomore at Tech, he intercepted a pass and ran 43 yards against Washington State. As a junior his stat-line included a 90-yard run from scrimmage against Texas Christian and a 68-yard punt against Southern Methodist. The more he played the better he got. In his Senior season Donny was off the charts. That 1965 season Anderson ran a kickoff back 100 yards against Oklahoma State, caught ten passes against Arkansas, and scored 17 touchdowns on the season. The Sporting News named him co-winner (with Jim Grabowski of Illinois) of its Player of the Year Award. His 5111 yards on all-purpose running was a Texas Tech record. This includes his career yardage by rushing, receiving, kick returns, and interception returns. The National Football Foundation selected Donny Anderson for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989. Donny enjoyed nine seasons at the professional level as a player too. The Pro Football Reference website shares that he spent 6 seasons as a Green Bay Packer winning two Super Bowls and two NFL Championships and three more years as a St Louis Cardinal. During his NFL stint he tallied almost 4700 yards with a 3.9 yards per carry average.
Johnny Blood McNally The Vagabond Halfback
John McNally Jr., better known by his colorful nickname "Johnny Blood," wasn't your typical Hall of Fame football player. He wasn't a bruising fullback or a record-breaking passer. Instead, McNally carved out a unique legacy as a versatile backfield threat, a journeyman with a knack for finding the end zone, and a personality as vibrant as his nickname. This essay explores the career of Johnny Blood McNally, examining his nomadic journey through the early years of the NFL and his lasting impact on the game.
-Early Days and a Basketball Buzzer Beater (Early 1920s)
Born in 1895, McNally's athletic journey began on the basketball court. Playing for Saint John's University in Minnesota, he earned a reputation for clutch plays, famously sinking a game-winning shot at the buzzer. However, football beckoned, and McNally's speed and elusive running style attracted the attention of the Pottsville Maroons of the fledgling NFL.
-A Nomadic Star in the Early NFL (1925-1928)
McNally's professional career was a whirlwind of movement. He played for four different teams in his first four seasons, including the Pottsville Maroons, the Chicago Cardinals, the New York Giants, and finally, the Philadelphia Quakers (later renamed the Eagles). Despite the constant change of scenery, McNally consistently impressed. He could run, throw, and catch with exceptional skill, becoming a fan favorite for his on-field theatrics and infectious personality.
-Championship Glory with the Green Bay Packers (1929-1933, 1935-1936)
McNally finally found a semblance of stability in 1929 when he joined the Green Bay Packers. Here, his versatility found a perfect fit within Coach Curly Lambeau's innovative offense. McNally's contributions were crucial as the Packers captured three consecutive NFL championships from 1929 to 1931. He formed a formidable backfield duo with Don Hutson, another future Hall of Famer.
-A Winding Road and a Coaching Stint (1937-1941)
McNally's later career saw him bounce between teams once again, playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates (later Steelers) and even returning briefly to the Buffalo Tigers in a minor league. He eventually retired as player-coach for the Kenosha Cardinals in a minor league. McNally's coaching stint was short-lived, but it cemented his dedication to the game.
-A Legacy of Versatility and Entertainment
Johnny Blood McNally's legacy goes beyond statistics. He was a true "iron man" of the early NFL, playing in an era before the luxuries of modern equipment and training methods. His versatility on the field and his larger-than-life personality made him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the rise of professional football's popularity in the early 20th century. While his career was defined by nomadic stints with various teams, his impact on the game, particularly his role in the Green Bay Packers' championship runs, is undeniable.
-Early Days and a Basketball Buzzer Beater (Early 1920s)
Born in 1895, McNally's athletic journey began on the basketball court. Playing for Saint John's University in Minnesota, he earned a reputation for clutch plays, famously sinking a game-winning shot at the buzzer. However, football beckoned, and McNally's speed and elusive running style attracted the attention of the Pottsville Maroons of the fledgling NFL.
-A Nomadic Star in the Early NFL (1925-1928)
McNally's professional career was a whirlwind of movement. He played for four different teams in his first four seasons, including the Pottsville Maroons, the Chicago Cardinals, the New York Giants, and finally, the Philadelphia Quakers (later renamed the Eagles). Despite the constant change of scenery, McNally consistently impressed. He could run, throw, and catch with exceptional skill, becoming a fan favorite for his on-field theatrics and infectious personality.
-Championship Glory with the Green Bay Packers (1929-1933, 1935-1936)
McNally finally found a semblance of stability in 1929 when he joined the Green Bay Packers. Here, his versatility found a perfect fit within Coach Curly Lambeau's innovative offense. McNally's contributions were crucial as the Packers captured three consecutive NFL championships from 1929 to 1931. He formed a formidable backfield duo with Don Hutson, another future Hall of Famer.
-A Winding Road and a Coaching Stint (1937-1941)
McNally's later career saw him bounce between teams once again, playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates (later Steelers) and even returning briefly to the Buffalo Tigers in a minor league. He eventually retired as player-coach for the Kenosha Cardinals in a minor league. McNally's coaching stint was short-lived, but it cemented his dedication to the game.
-A Legacy of Versatility and Entertainment
Johnny Blood McNally's legacy goes beyond statistics. He was a true "iron man" of the early NFL, playing in an era before the luxuries of modern equipment and training methods. His versatility on the field and his larger-than-life personality made him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the rise of professional football's popularity in the early 20th century. While his career was defined by nomadic stints with various teams, his impact on the game, particularly his role in the Green Bay Packers' championship runs, is undeniable.
George McAfee The Versatile Halfback Who Paved the Way for Future Stars
George McAfee's name might not be etched in the NFL's record books, but his impact on the game in the early 1940s is undeniable. McAfee's career, marked by versatility and innovation, helped pave the way for the emergence of the dual-threat running back in the NFL.
Hailing from Duke University, McAfee arrived in the league with the Chicago Bears in 1940. Standing at a sturdy 6 feet and weighing 200 pounds, he possessed a unique blend of power and speed. While primarily a running back, McAfee's skillset extended beyond the backfield. He excelled as a kick returner, a punter, and even played some defense. This versatility made him a valuable asset for the Bears, allowing them to utilize him in various offensive and defensive schemes.
McAfee's most significant contribution lies in his innovative running style. Unlike the typical straight-ahead rushers of the era, he incorporated lateral movements and jukes into his game, confusing defenders and creating space. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield further expanded his offensive repertoire, a concept that would become commonplace in future decades.
McAfee's career was tragically cut short after just four seasons due to a serious knee injury sustained during World War II. Despite the brevity of his playing time, his impact is undeniable. He is credited with helping to redefine the role of the running back, showcasing the effectiveness of a player who could not only run the ball with power but also contribute in the passing game and on special teams.
The legendary back that played for Duke University and the Chicago Bears was so good at both levels that he is inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Hailing from Duke University, McAfee arrived in the league with the Chicago Bears in 1940. Standing at a sturdy 6 feet and weighing 200 pounds, he possessed a unique blend of power and speed. While primarily a running back, McAfee's skillset extended beyond the backfield. He excelled as a kick returner, a punter, and even played some defense. This versatility made him a valuable asset for the Bears, allowing them to utilize him in various offensive and defensive schemes.
McAfee's most significant contribution lies in his innovative running style. Unlike the typical straight-ahead rushers of the era, he incorporated lateral movements and jukes into his game, confusing defenders and creating space. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield further expanded his offensive repertoire, a concept that would become commonplace in future decades.
McAfee's career was tragically cut short after just four seasons due to a serious knee injury sustained during World War II. Despite the brevity of his playing time, his impact is undeniable. He is credited with helping to redefine the role of the running back, showcasing the effectiveness of a player who could not only run the ball with power but also contribute in the passing game and on special teams.
The legendary back that played for Duke University and the Chicago Bears was so good at both levels that he is inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Joe Bellino (1977) - Hall of Fame - National Football Foundation
Bellino was a former halfback of the US Naval Academy team. He was a Heisman Trophy winner.
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Eddie Kaw Cornell's great halfback
Eddie Kaw - One of Cornell[apos]s great football halfbacks, he was named to the All-America first team in 1921 and 1922, leading the Big Red to two undefeated, untied — cornellbigred.com
Eddie Kaw got his fame on the football field for the Cornell Big Red and eventually starred as a professional for the Buffalo Bisons.
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