On this day in sports history in 1969, John Madden was named head coach of the Oakland Raiders, launching one of the most influential careers in NFL history.
At just 32 years old, Madden quickly transformed the Raiders into a powerhouse, never posting a losing season and leading the team to a Super Bowl XI championship. His fiery leadership and brilliant football mind made Oakland one of the most feared teams of the 1970s.
After retiring from coaching, Madden became the voice of football, spending more than three decades as a legendary NFL broadcaster. His enthusiasm, simple explanations, and iconic telestrator moments helped generations of fans better understand and love the game.
Madden’s influence expanded even further with the launch of Madden NFL, the groundbreaking football video game franchise that revolutionized sports gaming and taught millions the strategies of football.
The episode also looks at Madden’s passing in 2021 and how the NFL continues to honor his legacy every Thanksgiving with special tributes celebrating the man who helped make the holiday synonymous with football.
From championship coach, to beloved broadcaster, to video game legend — John Madden left an unforgettable mark on the sport of football.
