Sports History Network

Pro Football in the 1970s is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

JOE ZAGORSKI'S BOOKS ON AMAZON

From the Outhouse to the Penthouse: The Football Journey of Hall of Famer Larry Little

Free Spirit at Free Safety: The Incredible (But True!) Football Journey of Bill Bradley

The 2,003-Yard Odyssey: The Juice, The Electric Company, and an Epic Run For A Record

America's Trailblazing Middle Linebacker: The Story of NFL Hall of Famer Willie Lanier

The Year the Packers Came Back: The 1972 Resurgence

The NFL in the 1970s: Pro Football's Most Important Decade

EPISODE SUMMARY

CHECK OUT THE NFL IN THE 1970S FACEBOOK PAGE

CHECK OUT JOE'S WEBSITE - JOE ZAGORSKI WRITER

The 1978 NFL season incorporated a bunch of changes that resulted in important changes across the league. Several brand new rules opened up the pro passing game, which resulted in more yardage accumulation and more scoring by virtually every team. Those new rules changes were big in and of themselves.

Then came the advent of an extra playoff team in each conference, meaning that a total of five teams in the AFC and five teams in the NFC made the playoffs. Those extra two playoff teams led to the birth of the NFL’s very first Wildcard Weekend on the weekend after the regular season.......

Read the entire episode blog post and check out some other cool info regarding this episode here.

PRO FOOTBALL IN THE 1970S BACKGROUND

Reliving Gridiron Glory: Pro Football in the 1970s with Joe Zagorski

Professional football is one of the most exciting spectator sports in America. The decade of the 1970s saw the sport grow by leaps and bounds, thanks mostly to exciting players who quickly became icons. NFL players such as Joe Namath, Roger Staubach, O.J.Simpson, Terry Bradshaw, “Mean” Joe Greene and Fran Tarkenton are still considered household names today.

During the 1970s, the growing millions of pro football fans also witnessed numerous exciting games and plays, many of which are still remembered and discussed today. Plays like Franco Harris’ Immaculate Reception in 1972, or the original Hail Mary Pass in 1975, or the Sea of Hands game in 1974, or the Ghost to the Post game in 1977…so many memories, and all during one of the greatest decades in NFL history.

Joe Zagorski’s Pro Football in the 1970s podcast explores all the great memories that occurred in the NFL during that memorable decade. Each segment will tackle a specific event or player in the NFL during the 1970s. Each episode will also include a trivia question from some aspect of that particular episode’s theme or topic.

Joe Zagorski’s Pro Football in the 1970s podcast takes listeners back to a time of old school pro football, where the game might have been simpler in the form of strategy, but it was also more pure and more robust than it had ever been before. Practically everything that happened during that decade on pro gridirons gets attention in this podcast.

In 1994, Formula One driver Ayrton Senna was killed during a race a Imola.

In 1999, three spectators were killed at Lowes Motor Speedway when debris from a crash flew into the stands.

In 1920, the Boston Braves and Brooklyn Robins played the longest MLB game in terms of innings. They played 26 innings and ended the game tied 1-1.

In 2003, Baltimore Orioles pitcher B.J. Ryan won a baseball game without throwing a single pitch.

In 1993, Monica Seles was stabbed during a match in Germany.

in 1971, the Milwaukee Bucks won the NBA Championship in only their third year as a franchise.

In 1956., the St. Louis Hawks traded Bill Russell to the Boston Celtics.

In 1922, Chicago White Sox rookie Charlie Robertson pitched a perfect game against the Detroit Tigers.

In 1976, Muhammad Ali retained his heavyweight title with a 15-round unanimous decision over Jimmy Young.

In 1986, Boston's Roger Clemens became the first MLB pitcher to strike out 20 in a 9-inning game.

In 2012, the LA Clippers erased a 27-point second half deficit to beat Memphis in their first round playoff series.

In 1971, the New York Rangers got a Pete Stemkowski goal in the third overtime to beat Chicago and extend their playoff series.

In 1970, LA Laker Jerry West sank a desperation 60-footer to tie the game and force overtime against New York in the NBA Finals. The Knicks won in OT.

Gridiron America Radio is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

Sadly, the planned relaunch of the former Gridiron Japan Radio podcast on SHN did not go as planned this past week, and we do very much apologize. However, we had some unaired episodes still left in our vault and want to share them with you, including this one- Gridiron Gyudon. In this episode, Greg St. James sits down with student filmmaker Parker Benningfield who in January 2026 visited Japan and filmed a documentary about the X League Rice Bowl, the Super Bowl of Japan. You can watch his documentary on YouTube, and while you are at it, please like and subscribe to his page. To watch it, please click https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuBtbT1E7KY

GRIDIRON AMERICA RADIO BACKGROUND

Gridiron America Radio (formerly, the From the 55 Yardline podcast), is anchored by former sports executive David Cieslinski, former international professional football player Mike Tackett, and football nerd Greg St. James, from Gridiron Japan Radio.

All three are avid armchair sports historians and sports simulation enthusiasts, who, despite the vastness of geography, have found a way to leverage technology to help keep the games they love truly alive, both on the screen or tabletop.

Gridiron America Radio is dedicated to both current and historical American football talk, including the “what if” questions that all sports fans ask and try to answer with the help of statistics, math and computer modeling provided by Sportsmaster Simulation Games www.SportsMaster-Simulation.games. In addition to the gridiron game, the team will on occasion look at other sports through the same eyes of that of grown men who still remember their childhood and the thrill of rolling the dice or picking up a joystick.

The show was previously co-hosted by retired sports journalist Scott Adamson, whose continued writings. sports coverage and articles can be found at www.Adamsonmedia.com.

David, Mike and Greg, can be contacted directly via the podcast’s website at www.GridironAmerica.net, as well as:

On X at https://x.com/GridironAMRadio

On Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GridironAmerica/

On Threads at https://www.threads.com/@gridironamerica

On Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/gridironamerica

Gridiron America Radio is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this unaired episode in the SHN Gridiron Japan Radio vault (as stated in the liner notes for Episode 51 of this podcast, the planned relaunch of GJR did not go as planned and thus unfortunately has been discontinued), Greg St. James sits down with author John Kowalski, whose forthcoming book English for American Football, will be released later this year and available at Sports English Media (www.sportsenglish.org). We are hopeful to have John back later in the year to sit down with the Gridiron America Radio team to talk about his book and also the rich history of American football in Japan.

GRIDIRON AMERICA RADIO BACKGROUND

Gridiron America Radio (formerly, the From the 55 Yardline podcast), is anchored by former sports executive David Cieslinski, former international professional football player Mike Tackett, and football nerd Greg St. James, from Gridiron Japan Radio.

All three are avid armchair sports historians and sports simulation enthusiasts, who, despite the vastness of geography, have found a way to leverage technology to help keep the games they love truly alive, both on the screen or tabletop.

Gridiron America Radio is dedicated to both current and historical American football talk, including the “what if” questions that all sports fans ask and try to answer with the help of statistics, math and computer modeling provided by Sportsmaster Simulation Games www.SportsMaster-Simulation.games. In addition to the gridiron game, the team will on occasion look at other sports through the same eyes of that of grown men who still remember their childhood and the thrill of rolling the dice or picking up a joystick.

The show was previously co-hosted by retired sports journalist Scott Adamson, whose continued writings. sports coverage and articles can be found at www.Adamsonmedia.com.

David, Mike and Greg, can be contacted directly via the podcast’s website at www.GridironAmerica.net, as well as:

On X at https://x.com/GridironAMRadio

On Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GridironAmerica/

On Threads at https://www.threads.com/@gridironamerica

On Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/gridironamerica

What if the modern NBA went back to just 8 teams like they had in the 1960s? Only 16% of the current players would still have a roster spot in a reduced league. Everyone else would have to play in the G-league, Europe, Australia, or just get a regular job. We took the top 80 players from the 2024-2025 NBA and placed them on 8 teams. Here is what those teams would look like:

Team 1 - San Francisco Warriors

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
• Kyrie Irving
• Zion Williamson
• Brandon Ingram
• DeMar DeRozen
• Miles Bridges
• Pascal Siakam
• Evan Mobley
• Nikola Vucevic
• Keynote George

Team 2 - Boston Celtics

• Giannis Antetokounmpo
• Anthony Davis
• Steph Curry
• James Harden
• Jaylen Brown
• Coby White
• Austin Reaves
• Sharron Sharpe
• Collin Sexton
• Deni Avdija

Team 3 - New York Knicks

• Nikola Jokic
• Damian Lillard
• Karl-Anthony Towns
• Ja Morant
• Jaren Jackson Jr.
• Jordan Poole
• Kristaps Porzingis
• Tyrese Haliburton
• Michael Porter Jr.
• De’Andre Hunter

Team 4 - Los Angeles Lakers

• Luka Doncic
• Lámelo Ball
• LeBron James
• Zach Lavine
• Normal Powell
• Darius Garland
• Scottie Barnes
• Julius Randle
• Bam Adebayo
• Bradley Beal

Team 5 - St. Louis Hawks

• Anthony Edwards
• Devin Booker
• Victor Wembanyama
• De’Aaron Fox
• Jalen Williams
• Jalen Green
• Anfernee Simons
• Cameron Johnson
• OG Anonuby
• Immanuel Quickley

Team 6 - Detroit Pistons

• Jayson Tatum
• Paolo Banchero
• Trae Young
• Joel Embiid
• Kawhi Leonard
• Brandon Miller
• Desmond Bane
• Jalen Johnson
• Andrew Wiggins
• Malik Monk

Team 7 - Philadelphia 76ers

• Kevin Durant
• Jalen Brunson
• Franz Wagner
• Tyler Herro
• Jamal Murray
• RJ Barrett
• Domantas Sabonis
• John Collins
• Mikal Bridges
• Dejaunte Murray

Team 8 - Cincinnati Royals

• Tyrese Maxey
• Cade Cunningham
• Cam Thomas
• Donovan Mitchell
• Trey Murphy III
• CJ McCollum
• Alperen Sengun
• Lauri Markkanen
• Jaden Ivey
• Jimmy Butler

CREDITS

Rick Loayza: Head researcher, writer, and voice

Jacob Loayza: Editor, producer, and publisher

MUSIC

"Horizons" by Roa

SPORTS HISTORY NETWORK

sportshistorynetwork.com

sportshistorynetwork.com/podcasts/basketball-history-101/

FACEBOOK

m.facebook.com/Basketball-History-101-103801581493027/

BUSINESS CONTACT

[email protected]

Yesterday's Sports is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS HOME PAGE

EPISODE SUMMARY

Step back in time to an era of leather helmets and legendary grit as Mark chronicles the 1940s Chicago Bears, the original "Monsters of the Midway." This decade marked a period of unparalleled dominance where George Halas built a juggernaut that defined professional football. From the historic 73-0 dismantling of the Washington Redskins in the 1940 Championship to the innovative T-formation that revolutionized the game, Mark explores how the Bears captured four NFL titles and appeared in five championship games, cementing their status as the league's premier dynasty.

We dive deep into the storied careers of Hall of Famers like Sid Luckman, the quarterback who transformed the passing game, and the versatile George McAfee, whose explosive speed made him a threat every time he touched the ball. Listen as Mark recounts the "Golden Era" stars—from the bruising Bronko Nagurski to the ball-hawking Bulldog Turner—and examine how the team navigated the challenges of World War II, including the emotional backdrop of the Pearl Harbor attack and the player shortages that forced legends out of retirement.

This 3-part series is a nostalgic journey through a decade where the Bears averaged nearly nine wins a season and turned Wrigley Field into a fortress of football excellence. Whether it’s the fierce rivalry with the Green Bay Packers or the heartbreaking season finales against the cross-town Cardinals, we bring the 1940s back to life with vivid detail. Relive the stats, the stories, and the sheer dominance of a team that ended the decade with a staggering 86-23-3 record, proving they were truly the kings of the gridiron.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS BACKGROUND

Host Mark Morthier grew up in New Jersey just across the river from New York City during the 1970s, a great time for sports in the area. He relives great moments from this time and beyond, focusing on football, baseball, basketball, and boxing. You may even see a little Olympic Weightlifting in the mix, as Mark competed for eight years. See Mark's book below.

No Nonsense, Old School Weight Training: A Guide For People With Limited Time

Running Wild: (Growing Up In The 1970s)

In 2009, the Carolina Hurricanes scored two goals in the final 90 seconds to beat the New Jersey Devils 4-3 and advance to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

In 1988, the Baltimore Orioles lost their 21st straight game to open the season, the MLB record for futility out of the gate.

In 1974, PGA touring pro Mike Reasor posted the worst four-round score in a PGA Event.

In 1967, Muhammad Ali refused induction into the armed forces, citing his religion.

This podcast episode delves into the remarkable achievements of Gene Roberts, a football player whose career is often overlooked yet exemplifies extraordinary talent across multiple leagues. We explore the serendipitous nature of his journey, from his early days in Kansas City to leading in scoring at both the collegiate and professional levels, including the NFL and Canadian football leagues. Roberts' story serves as a testament to the unpredictability of success within the sport, where a single individual can achieve the rare feat of being the highest scorer in three different football domains. We emphasize the significance of recognizing such historical figures, who, despite their obscurity, have contributed immensely to the fabric of football history. Join us as we unfold this compelling narrative, shedding light on the intricacies of football and the indelible marks left by its unsung heroes.

Don'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.

Do you want more football history? Test your Gridiron Knowledge, we feed you Daily with our new FREE activity, The Pigskin Trivia Drive.

Grab a copy of our latest book, "Marooned," on the 1925 Pottsville Maroons NFL franchise saga.

*OR* Grab a copy of our book on Western Pennsylvania football history, "World's Greatest Gridiron Team" on the 1903 Franklin All-Stars

Drop us a line at PigskinDispatch@gmail .com and check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel.

Contact us directly at [email protected]

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.