Football Daily

Kenneth Adams MacAfee II wasn't your typical NFL superstar. His story isn't one of touchdowns and endorsements, but a rare tale of talent sacrificed for passion, woven into the fabric of both Notre Dame and the San Francisco 49ers.

MacAfee was a legend at Notre Dame. A three-time All-American, he dominated defenses with a blend of power and grace, nicknamed "The Golden Hammer" for his punishing blocks and acrobatic receptions. He anchored the 1977 national championship team and seemed destined for NFL stardom.

Yet, when the San Francisco 49ers drafted him seventh overall in 1978, a twist of fate awaited. While he struggled to adapt to the pro game, a different dream simmered beneath the surface – dentistry. This wasn't a whim; it was a lifelong passion, nurtured alongside his football prowess.

His NFL career remained respectable, but the whispers of the dental lab grew louder. In 1983, after two seasons with the 49ers, MacAfee made a decision that shook the football world. He traded the roar of the stadium for the hum of drills, walking away from his NFL career to pursue dentistry full-time.

The choice sparked debate. Some saw it as a missed opportunity, others a testament to integrity. MacAfee, however, remained unfazed. He thrived in his new realm, building a successful dental practice and even serving as president of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Born March 4, 1888, in Voss, Norway, was Knute Rockne, American College Football Hall of Fame coach. Rockne led the Fighting Irish to gridiron prominenance as Notre Dame won 13 National titles, under his leadership. Rockne was also an end for Notre Dame, and later played professional football before starting his coaching tenure. In 1914, he was recruited by the legendary Peggy Parratt to play for the Akron Indians. At Akron, Parratt had connected with Rockne on several successful forward pass plays during their mythical Ohio League schedule.

The Legendary player and coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Rockne's passion for the game, his innovation, and his inspiring speeches made his teams rise to the top of college football in the 1920s.

Born July 25, 1914, in Los Angeles, California legendary football End and trailblazer, Woody Strode. Woody famously played in the the UCLA Bruins back field dubbed the Gold Dust Trio along with Jackie Robinson and Kenny Washington.

He went on with K. Washington to break racial barriers in the NFL as a member of the LA Rams, and later the CFL's Calgary Stampeders. After football he became a Hollywood and actor and can be found in such classics as the Posse, Cotton Club, Vigilante, and Scream.

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Timothy P Brown uncovers a story about covers that kept the gridiron fields dry during in-climate weather. The hay, sawdust, tarpaulins, tarps, and everything in between in this history of football field protection.

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