Shows
Pigskin DispatchUnveiling the 1945 NFL Championship: A Historical PerspectiveToday, we delve into the captivating narrative of the 1945 NFL season, a period marked by significant transitions and the emergence of remarkable teams. The episode features a distinguished guest historian, Joe Squires, who elucidates the historical context surrounding the Cleveland Rams' championship victory, a triumph achieved amidst the backdrop of World War II's conclusion. As we explore the complexities of that season, we uncover fascinating details, such as the impact of player drafts, including the notable selections of future Hall of Famers Elroy Hirsch and Tom Fears, who, despite not participating in the championship run, would later join the...2025-04-1733 min
Pigskin DispatchWabash College and the Evolution of the Forward Pass: An In-Depth AnalysisThe focal point of this episode is the intriguing history of the forward pass in American football, as elucidated by our esteemed guest, Timothy P. Brown from footballarchaeology.com. This information comes from his original post titled: Wabash and Kent Lambert's Forward Pass Innovations For the written post of this story check out pigskindispatch.com/RorZWe delve into the significant contributions of Wabash College and its quarterback, Kent Lambert, who innovatively navigated the complexities of early football rules to enhance the strategic use of the forward pass. Lambert's ingenious tactics included what...2025-04-1515 min
Pigskin DispatchWhen Football Officials Wore White: A Colorful HistoryThe podcast delves into the fascinating evolution of officiating uniforms in American football, particularly focusing on the historical transition from white shirts to the now-iconic black and white striped uniforms. Darren Hayes, the host, engages with Timothy Brown, a football historian, to explore how the visual identity of referees has changed over the decades. They discuss how, in the early 20th century, officials often wore white shirts, which sometimes caused confusion on the field as teams began to adopt white jerseys. This led to a pivotal moment in football history when Lloyd Olds, a professor and track coach, designed...2025-01-2820 min
Pigskin DispatchThe Evolution of the Football Helmet: From Safety to IconThe podcast delves into the intricate history and cultural significance of the football helmet, a central icon in American football. Host Darin Hayes engages with experts Noah Cohan and Timothy Brown, who share their insights on how the evolution of the helmet has paralleled changes in the game itself. The discussion covers the helmet's transition from rudimentary leather models to modern plastic designs, emphasizing safety innovations and the impact of branding and aesthetics in the sport. The guests highlight the importance of the helmet not only as protective gear but as a symbol that connects fans to their teams...2025-01-271h 03
Pigskin DispatchArmed and Dangerous: Exploring NFL's Most Iconic Player NicknamesThis podcast delves into the fascinating world of NFL player nicknames, particularly focusing on those that evoke themes of weaponry and artillery, aptly titled "Armed and Dangerous." Host Darin Hayes explores the rich history behind these colorful monikers, highlighting legendary players like Reggie White, known as the "Minister of Defense," and Peyton Manning, affectionately referred to as "the Sheriff." The episode not only profiles these iconic athletes but also shares intriguing stories about how they earned their distinctive names. Listeners will discover the impressive careers of players like Fred "the Hammer" Williamson and Jim "the Machine Gun" Kelly, along...2025-01-2420 min
Pigskin DispatchFootball's Forgotten Words: A Journey Through HistoryThis podcast delves into the fascinating evolution of language within the context of American football, highlighting how certain terms have shifted in meaning over the years. Timothy Brown from FootballArchaeology.com shares intriguing tidbits from historical articles, showcasing how phrases that once seemed commonplace can now carry different connotations. Listeners will enjoy anecdotes from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including a humorous account of a football game in a prison setting and quotes from players that reflect the game's rough nature. The discussion also touches on how language changes, with examples of archaic terms that have fallen...2025-01-2111 min
Pigskin DispatchThe Tonawanda Kardex: A Forgotten Chapter in NFL HistoryThe Tonawanda Kardex, a team with the shortest franchise history in professional football, is the focal point of this podcast episode. Originating from the All Tonawanda Lumberjacks in the early 1900s, they played only one game in the 1921 season before fading into obscurity. Host Darin Hayes invites historian Ken Crippen to share insights about this little-known team and its connection to the early days of the NFL from a recording made in 2021. The discussion delves into the challenges faced by the Kardex, including financial struggles and competition from stronger teams like the Buffalo All-Americans. Listeners will also learn about...2025-01-1612 min
Pigskin Dispatch1905: The Year That Changed Football - What If the Forward Pass Was Never Legalized?What if the forward pass in American football had never been legalized? This episode delves into the pivotal changes brought about in 1906 that allowed the forward pass to transform the game from a brutal, ground-and-pound style to the dynamic, high-scoring spectacle we know today. Host Darin Hayes explores the historical context surrounding the introduction of this rule, including the safety concerns that prompted significant reforms in college football. He discusses how the forward pass not only reshaped gameplay but also played a critical role in ensuring the survival and popularity of football as a major American sport. With fascinating...2025-01-1511 min
Pigskin DispatchDiscovering Football's Roots: Kickoff Techniques from 1923Darin Hayes and Timothy B. Brown embark on a historical journey exploring the fundamentals of kicking in football as they existed in 1923. This enlightening episode provides a detailed examination of the era's kicking techniques, equipment, and the overall strategy involved in the kicking game. Tim shares intriguing anecdotes from a rare publication by Wilson Athletic, which sought to rival the established Spalding brand in sports literature. The pamphlet reveals that drop kicks were the norm for field goals and extra points, highlighting the skill and precision required by kickers of that time. This information comes from his...2025-01-1416 min
Pigskin DispatchUnveiling the Champions: Who Rules College Football History?The excitement surrounding the first-ever college football playoff is palpable as two iconic teams, Ohio State and Notre Dame, vie for the championship title. This special edition of the Pigskin Daily History Dispatch delves into the historical significance of these teams and their impressive records in college football history. Host Darin Hayes takes listeners on a journey through the annals of college football, discussing the rich tapestry of national championships and how the current playoff format has brought new energy to the sport. The episode highlights the remarkable achievements of powerhouse programs like the University of Minnesota, Oklahoma, Harvard...2025-01-1311 min
Pigskin DispatchThe 1936 NFL Championship: A Look Back at Neutral Site GamesListeners are invited into a heartfelt discussion as Darin Hayes opens the podcast with a tribute to the victims of the devastating wildfires in California. The emotional weight of his words resonates deeply as he reflects on his own experiences with loss, reminding us of the fragility of life and the strength of community in the face of disaster. This segment not only serves as a poignant reminder of the human impact of such crises but also sets the stage for a broader conversation about how these disasters can disrupt the fabric of everyday life, including the world of...2025-01-1109 min
Pigskin DispatchTouchdowns and Traditions: How Frank Hering Became the Father of Mother's DayThis podcast episode unveils the fascinating story of Frank Hering, a pioneering figure in the development of the overhand spiral pass in football and an unexpected contributor to the establishment of Mother's Day. Host Darin Hayes engages with Tim Brown from footballarchaeology.com, who shares insights into Herring's remarkable journey from the University of Chicago to coaching at Notre Dame and Bucknell University. The discussion highlights Herring's innovative play style that revolutionized the passing game during the 1890s and the unique connection between his legacy and the creation of a day honoring mothers. As they explore Herring's life and...2025-01-0714 min
Pigskin DispatchUpsets and Rankings: Analyzing the 2024 College Football SemifinalsThe inaugural College Football Playoff has sparked significant debate regarding the rankings and structure of the tournament. Despite being favored, the top-seeded teams were unexpectedly eliminated in the quarterfinals, leading host Darin Hayes to question whether the rankings accurately reflected the best teams in college football. As the playoffs progress, Hayes discusses the intriguing matchups between Penn State and Notre Dame, as well as Texas and Ohio State, emphasizing the exceptional talent and performance of the quarterbacks involved. He argues that the current system may need re-evaluation, suggesting that automatic seeding based on conference championships may not always yield...2025-01-0613 min
Pigskin DispatchExploring the Akron Pros' Legendary 1920 Season & What If ScenarioDelving into the origins of professional football, the podcast explores the first season of the American Professional Football Association (APFA), which would eventually evolve into the National Football League (NFL). Darin Hayes provides an engaging narrative on how the league was formed in 1920, marking a significant moment in sports history. With only 14 teams, the APFA faced numerous challenges, including a disorganized scheduling system where games were arranged on a whim. The Akron Pros, crowned the APFA champions with an impressive record of 8 wins, 0 losses, and 3 ties, emerged from this tumultuous backdrop. Their journey, filled with hurdles such as player...2025-01-0214 min
Pigskin DispatchUncovering Football's Past: The Legacy of Walter EckersallTimothy P. Brown joins Darin Hayes to delve into the fascinating history of Walter Eckersall, a significant yet often overlooked figure in early American football. As the last great pre-forward pass quarterback, Eckersall made his mark in a time when the game was vastly different, showcasing his talents as a smart strategist and outstanding athlete. The discussion highlights Eckersol's contributions not only as a player but also as a sports writer and referee, illustrating the unique blend of roles he occupied in the sport's early days. Listeners will learn about his pivotal moments, such as the 1905 Chicago-Michigan game that...2024-12-3115 min
Pigskin DispatchTimothy Brown Uncovers the Origins of Football's Tackling DummiesThe Pigskin Daily History Dispatch takes listeners on a fascinating journey into the history of tackling dummies in football, a crucial piece of training equipment that has evolved significantly since its inception. Host Darin Hayes welcomes historian Timothy Brown from FootballArchaeology.com, who shares remarkable insights into the origins of tackling dummies, dating back to the early 1890s. Brown illustrates how both Amos Alonzo Stagg of Yale and Arthur Cumnock of Harvard independently designed the first tackling dummies to help players practice safely amidst the growing physicality of the game. Their innovations laid the groundwork for the modern training...2024-12-2413 minPigskin DispatchTouchdown History: Exploring the Giants' Stadiums and Name OriginsExploring the rich tapestry of the New York Giants' history, this episode invites listeners to journey through the evolution of one of the NFL's most storied franchises. The discussion begins with the origins of the Giants' name, tracing back to the baseball team that captured the hearts of New Yorkers long before the football team took the field. Host Darren Hayes delves into the significance of branding and identity in sports, highlighting how Tim Mara's decision to adopt the 'Giants' name in 1925 was a strategic move to leverage the popularity of the baseball team while establishing a unique identity...2024-12-2206 minPigskin DispatchThursday Night Football Shocker: The Fair Catch Free Kick Explained!A rare NFL occurrence took place during the Thursday Night Football game on December 19th, when viewers witnessed the fair catch free kick, a rule that hasn't been activated since 1976. This unique play occurred just before halftime in a competitive match between the Denver Broncos and the Los Angeles Chargers, ultimately leading to a surprising 60-yard field goal by Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker. The episode delves into the history and mechanics of the fair catch free kick, explaining how it operates and its significance in football. Host Darren Hayes sheds light on the origins of this rule, tracing it...2024-12-2008 min
Pigskin DispatchUnpacking the Birth of TV Timeouts in Football HistoryThe episode presents a detailed narrative on the evolution of TV timeouts in football, led by Darin Hayes and Timothy P. Brown, who examine the critical role these pauses play in the modern viewing experience. The discussion opens with an examination of football's inherent characteristics that make it a television favorite, including its pacing and the strategic breaks that allow viewers to engage with the game without missing the action. Brown provides a historical context, explaining how the adoption of TV timeouts in football mirrored changes in the NBA, where coaches had the option to call timeouts that could...2024-12-1716 min
Pigskin DispatchThe Evolution of Football Helmets: A Colorful HistoryJoin us at the Pigskin Dispatch website and the Sports Jersey Dispatch to see even more Positive football news! Sign up to get daily football history headlines in your email inbox @ Email-subscriberDon't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. Listeners are treated to a unique exploration of football history, specifically the evolution of helmet c...2024-12-1011 min
Pigskin DispatchGet Ready for the Playoffs: December's Must-Watch College Football Matchups!With the conclusion of the conference championship games, the landscape of college football has dramatically shifted, heralding the dawn of the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff format. This episode of the Pigskin Daily History Dispatch captures the excitement and implications of this new era in college football, as host Darren Hayes enthusiastically discusses the thrilling games that have defined this season. He reflects on how each week has brought compelling matchups that captivated fans, a testament to the unpredictable nature of college football. The episode delves into the impact of conference realignment, noting how the movement of storied programs...2024-12-0913 min
Pigskin DispatchThe Mystery of Football's Numbering: What Could Have BeenDarin Hayes welcomes Timothy P. Brown from footballarchaeology.com to the Pigskin Daily History Dispatch, where they delve into the intriguing history of player numbering systems in American football. The discussion begins with a look back at the time when there was no standardized system for player numbers, allowing players to wear any number between 1 and 99, regardless of their position. Brown shares insights from a 1940 article by Bob Balfe, a columnist for the Palm Beach Post, who proposed a more organized numbering system. His suggestion was to assign specific number ranges to positions: backs would wear numbers 1 through 4, while...2024-12-0310 min
Pigskin DispatchFrom 8 Sacks to Victory: A Deep Dive into NFL's Wildest GamesThe episode captivates audiences by delving into the rich tapestry of football history, particularly focusing on the extraordinary resilience of quarterbacks faced with overwhelming odds. It opens with a recount of the Tennessee Titans' recent game against the Houston Texans, where Will Levis, despite being sacked a staggering eight times and throwing a pick six, led his team to victory. This contemporary example serves as a springboard into a discussion about historical parallels in the NFL, particularly the remarkable story of Randall Cunningham, who faced similar challenges in 1986.As the episode unfolds, listeners learn about Cunningham's incredible...2024-11-2709 min
Pigskin DispatchFrom War to Cleats: Unearthing Football's Hidden HistoryThis Thanksgiving week, listeners are treated to a fascinating story about a surprising piece of football history involving an enormous stockpile of cleats. Timothy P. Brown from footballarchaeology.com shares how, during World War II, a Navy purchasing agent inadvertently ordered hundreds of thousands of football cleats, leading to a half-million sitting unused in a warehouse in Iowa by 1953. The tale takes a quirky turn as these cleats were eventually donated to local schools, leaving one to imagine the spectacle of children wearing them daily. Alongside this intriguing factoid, the episode explores the rhythm of football storytelling, blending great...2024-11-2611 min
Pigskin DispatchGiants' 100 Top Players: Who Made the Cut and Who Didn't?The Pigskin Dispatch podcast delves into the recently released top 100 players list of the New York Giants, celebrating the team's rich history as they mark their 100th anniversary. Host Darin Hayes begins with a brief introduction to the significance of the list, which was curated by an independent committee of esteemed journalists, NFL executives, and passionate fans. He highlights the notable names involved in the selection process, including Hall of Famers and seasoned sports writers, setting the stage for a thoughtful discussion on the rankings and their implications. As the episode unfolds, Hayes meticulously reviews the top 10 players on...2024-11-2516 min
Pigskin DispatchUnveiling the Providence Steamroller: New England's Forgotten NFL ChampionsThe podcast dives into the remarkable history of the Providence Steamroller, recognized as New England's first NFL team, and their journey to becoming champions in 1928. Host Darren Hayes speaks with author Greg Tranter, who details his extensive research and insights from his new book on the team. The conversation highlights the Steamroller's unique nickname origin, born out of a casual fan conversation, and how they capitalized on local talent from institutions like Brown University. Listeners learn about the team's key players, the challenges they faced during the Great Depression, and the emotional rollercoaster surrounding their championship victory. Tranter shares...2024-11-201h 00
Pigskin DispatchHow One Man Revolutionized College Football RulesTimothy Brown joins Darin Hayes to spotlight the significant yet often overlooked contributions of Henry Mitchell McCracken to the safety and evolution of American football. McCracken, who became NYU's chancellor in the late 19th century, played a pivotal role in advocating for safer rules in the sport during a time when football was facing scrutiny for its dangers. Following the tragic death of a player during a game, he galvanized university leaders to convene and develop new regulations, ultimately leading to the formation of what is now the NCAA. The discussion delves into McCracken's legacy, including his influence on...2024-11-1219 min
Pigskin DispatchWhen History Repeats: Giants' Epic 1956 NFL ChampionshipThis podcast episode delves into the remarkable 1956 season of the New York Giants, culminating in their stunning 47-7 victory over the Chicago Bears in the NFL Championship Game. Host Darin Hayes highlights the team's exceptional roster, featuring legends like Frank Gifford, Sam Huff, and coaching greats Vince Lombardi and Tom Landry. The episode draws parallels between this championship and previous seasons, emphasizing how history seemed to repeat itself in terms of strategies and outcomes. Listeners will learn about the unique conditions of the game, including the icy field at Yankee Stadium and the infamous "sneakers game" strategy that played...2024-11-1111 min
Pigskin DispatchCelebrating 100 Years of Giants Football: The Untold Stories of Tuffy LeemansThis episode delves into the rich history of the New York Giants as they celebrate their 100th anniversary, focusing on the fascinating player Tuffy Leemans. Host Darin Hays takes listeners on a journey through the early days of American football, highlighting significant events and figures, including insights from the renowned announcer Myron Cope. The discussion touches on Lehman's unique experiences, such as his rural upbringing and the challenges he faced in a bustling New York City that he found surprisingly dull during his playing days. Listeners will also learn about an extraordinary game in 1942 where the Giants triumphed over...2024-11-0412 min
Pigskin DispatchMeet the Legend: Andy Smith and the Golden Era of College FootballDarin Hayes takes listeners on a captivating journey through the life and legacy of Andy Smith, one of college football's most legendary coaches, known for his transformative impact on the University of California football program. Starting as a player in Dubois, Pennsylvania, Smith showcased his talents at Penn State before transitioning to an illustrious coaching career that would see him lead the California Golden Bears to unprecedented heights. Under his guidance, the team shifted from a rugby background to become a formidable force in American football, winning three national championships in the 1920s and earning a reputation as a...2024-11-0205 min
Pigskin DispatchUnraveling the Legend of Greasy Neal: The Coach Who Dominated Football HistoryThis podcast episode dives into the remarkable life and career of Earl Greasy Neale a legendary figure in both football and baseball history. Known for leading the Philadelphia Eagles to two NFL championships in the late 1940s, Neal's impact extended far beyond coaching. Before his NFL success, he showcased his athletic prowess as a standout player in college and a World Series champion with the Cincinnati Reds in 1919. The episode highlights his unique journey through various coaching roles, including his undefeated season at Washington and Jefferson College, and his contributions to the early days of professional football in the...2024-11-0105 min
Pigskin DispatchFrom Postcards to Play Diagrams: Discovering Hidden Football GemsJoin Darin Hayes and Timothy P. Brown in this engaging episode of the Pigskin Daily History Dispatch as they dive into the intriguing world of football history through Timothy's unique "Factoid Feast." Timothy shares fascinating tidbits he uncovers during his research, highlighting a particularly quirky postcard from a World War II Army Air Force football team. This postcard, featuring a peculiar play diagram, serves as a springboard for a lively discussion about the evolution of football and the often humorous misunderstandings of the game's tactics. Listeners will enjoy the banter as they explore the connection between past and present...2024-10-2912 min
Pigskin DispatchRivalry Rewind: Giants vs. Steelers - 90 Years of Football HistoryAs the New York Giants celebrate their 100th anniversary, this episode dives into the storied rivalry between the Giants and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Host Darren Hayes recounts the historical significance of their matchups, dating back to their first game in 1933 when the Steelers, then known as the Pittsburgh Pirates, faced off against the Giants. Throughout the years, these two franchises have shared memorable moments and close games, with the Giants leading the all-time series. Hayes also highlights the friendship between the teams' founders, Art Rooney and Tim Mara, which played a crucial role in the Steelers' early survival in...2024-10-2815 min
Pigskin DispatchFrom College to the Pros: The Rise of Red Grange and CC PyleJoin Darin Hayes as he welcomes author Doug Vilhard to discuss his captivating new book, "The Golden Age of Red," which shines a light on the legendary football player Red Grange and his impact on the sport. Set in the 1920s, the conversation explores Grange's journey from a humble college athlete to a national sensation, revealing the complexities of fame and the pressures that came with it. The episode delves into the intriguing relationship between Grange and his groundbreaking sports agent, C.C. Pyle, who played a pivotal role in reshaping the business of football. Listeners will also discover...2024-10-2348 min