Sports History Network

In 1990, the Detroit Pistons and Philadelphia 76ers got into an epic fight at the end of a 10-point Philly win.

In 1960, the exploding scoreboard debuted at Chicago's Comiskey Park after Minnie Minoso's Grand Slam homer in the fourth inning.

In 1967, Katherine Switzer became the first woman to run the Boston Marathon even though women were not permitted to enter.

The fourth overall pick in the NFL draft often represents a pivotal juncture in a team's trajectory, as evidenced by the illustrious history of players selected in this position. This episode delves into the remarkable legacy of fourth overall picks, highlighting the fact that greatness can be achieved without the burden of being the first selection. From the indomitable prowess of Walter Payton to the defensive genius of Charles Woodson, these individuals have shaped the landscape of the NFL. We meticulously analyze both the celebrated successes and the notorious failures that accompany this coveted draft slot. Join us as we explore the intricate narratives surrounding these players, ultimately affirming that the fourth pick, while fraught with potential peril, has also yielded transformative talents within the annals of football history.

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.

Total Sports Recall (TSR) is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

TOTAL SPORTS RECALL HOMEPAGE

EPISODE SUMMARY

If you have not heard the story of pro wrestler Fritz Von Erich and his six sons you can listen to it with this episode. Von Erich had six sons five of which died in some way. His story is also reflected in the movie "The Iron Claw" which is discussed on this episode. Audio clips from family member Lacey, son Kevin, and Fritz himself are included in this podcast.

TOTAL SPORTS RECALL BACKGROUND

Host Harv Aronson brings you an array of sports history topics recalling great moments and athletes from sports yesteryear.

No sport is left alone with an emphasis on football and baseball but there will be reflections on past boxing, mixed martial arts, basketball, golf, and an occasional hockey memory.

Harv Aronson has been an established sportswriter with one published book under his wing and brings with him nearly 55 years of sports knowledge and exposure to sports as a fan.

With a degree in communications and journalism, Harv will be using his radio voice to entertain listeners with popular stories and events from the past as well as some surprises. Some podcasts will bring interviews with a sports personality and perhaps the opportunity for listeners to join in on the show.

HOSTS - HARV ARONSON

Harv Aronson was born and raised in Pittsburgh and now resides in Jacksonville, Florida. You can listen to the Total Sports Recall Podcast at https://totalsportsrecall.captivate.fm, which is also available on Spotify , iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.

He currently writes for Abstract Sports.com, the Sports History Network, and the magazine Gridiron Greats. Harv wrote the published book "Pro Football's Most Passionate Fans" and as a professional writer has had articles published in an array of sports publications. Harv loves all sports but football and baseball are at the top of his interest.

His passion is for sports history. Visit Harv’s portfolio at https://www.clippings.me/totalsportsrecall. You can contact Harv using his official podcast email address which is [email protected]. Y

ou may also reach out to Harv on X using the handle @TotalSportsRecl.

In 1962, Bill Russell scored 30 points and grabbed an NBA Finals Game 7 record 40 rebounds as Boston beat LA to win the championship.

In 1966, Bill Russell was named coach of the Celtics, becoming the first black head coach in the NBA.

In 1996, Orlando's Dennis Scott hit an NBA record 11 three point shots in a win against Atlanta. Klay Thompson now has the record with 14. Scott's 11 isn't even in the top ten now.

In 1942, Toronto beat Detroit to win the Stanley Cup. The Leafs became the first NHL team to battle back from an 0-3 deficit to win the Cup.

In 1974, Moses Malone became the first high school player to make the jump to pro basketball when he was drafted in the third round of the ABA draft.

The number five overall selection in the NFL Draft has historically been a dual-edged sword, serving as both a launching pad for extraordinary talent and a cautionary tale of missed opportunities. Throughout the episode, we meticulously explore the significant history associated with this particular draft slot, from the legendary careers of players like Deion Sanders and Junior Seau to the sobering narratives of prospects who never fulfilled their immense potential. We delve into the extremes of success and failure, highlighting both the top five best selections and the top five notorious busts that have emerged from this position over the decades. Our discussion is enriched by the insights of Ed Cleese, who shares his expert analysis on the veritable rollercoaster of outcomes that have characterized the number five pick in the draft. As we journey through these memorable selections, we reflect on how the decisions made at this pivotal spot have indelibly shaped the trajectories of franchises and the lives of athletes alike.

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.

Gridiron Greats Magazine podcast is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

An Open Forum with Co-Host Joe Squires as they talk about a 1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski card, along with a Jim Thorpe baseball card and unopened football wax packs and boxes, especially from 1973.

GRIDIRON GREATS MAGAZINE BACKGROUND

Gridiron Greats covers 150+ years of North American football history and memorabilia. It was founded in 2002 and published by Franklin Rose who then turned over to Bob Swick and Swick Enterprises starting with Issue 23.

Editor and publisher, Bob Swick has been collecting football cards since 1965. He has written about football cards and memorabilia since 1990 for several major sports collecting publications including Sports Collectors Digest and had his own column, Turning The Pages.

He self-published Bob Swick’s Football Times in the 1990s; he has been interviewed in Tuff Stuff, the Giants Report, the Packers Report, and the Beckett Football Monthly magazine. He has also been a contributor to the Beckett Annual Football Price Guide. Bob also collects programs, yearbooks, media guides, ticket stubs, pocket schedules, and team photos of the Green Bay Packers, of which he is a shareholder.

He is also a member of The Professional Football Researchers Association. Bob brings his expertise to the magazine in the form of his love of all things football-related. His BA in journalism and MS in Economics brings a unique focus to the niche of football memorabilia and history.

We want to thank everyone who takes the time to subscribe to and support Gridiron Greats Magazine. Besides our knowledgeable, generous contributors and most talented illustrator, Jared Kraus, all administrative activities are performed by Bob Swick and his wife, Brenda. Thank you all for your support. We are ever so grateful.

See our Contributors page for a bio on some of our fantastic writers. Without them, this magazine would not exist. We are grateful for their continuing support.

If you would like to be a contributing writer, or subscriber or want to advertise in Gridiron Greats, please contact the Publisher via the information above. Portions of the material presented are the opinion of the contributing writers and not necessarily those of Swick Enterprises, LLC.

CONTACT US If you are interested in any particular football topic that you would like to either see featured in Gridiron Greats or would like to write about, and if you have a Super Collection you want to be considered for an upcoming publication please feel free to contact Bob via email.

In 1953, New York Yankee Mickey Mantle belted a 535-foot home run. It was measured and from that point on, any long homer is called a tape measure shot because of it.

In 1976, Philadelphia Phillie Mike Schmidt hit 4 consecutive home runs against the Chicago Cubs in an 18-16 win.

In 1943, F1 Driver St. John Horsfall drove two British intelligence officers and a corpse to be used in 'Operation Mincemeat' to a port in Scotland. It was a key part in a delicate secret mission.

In 1911, American League president Ban Johnson relented and allowed Cleveland Nap players to attend the funeral of teammate Addie Joss, who'd died on April 16th.

The sixth overall pick in the NFL draft represents a pivotal juncture where the potential for legendary careers and franchise transformations lies. Historically, this selection has birthed some of the most revered names in the annals of the NFL, encompassing both exceptional playmakers and foundational offensive linemen. Yet, the unpredictability surrounding this draft position remains a compelling topic, as we endeavor to decipher the factors contributing to its volatility. In this discourse, we engage with Ed Cleese to explore the historical significance of the sixth pick, examining instances of draft day triumphs, notable career trajectories, and the haunting "what ifs" that linger in the memories of football executives. Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of the sixth pick's legacy, illuminating the successes and missteps that have defined this critical selection in the NFL draft.

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.

Author Tom Gilbert has written an excellent biography of baseball's first superstar, Jim Creighton. Even though he died in 1862 at only 21 years of age, Creighton revolutionized the way the game was played and his death was mourned throughout the sporting world.

In his book, "Death in the Strike Zone: The Mystery of America's First Baseball Hero", Gilbert tells of how Creighton revolutionized pitching, caused the invention of the strike zone, and helped make Brooklyn the center of the baseball universe in the 19th Century. And we learn about his catcher Joe Leggett as well! One of baseball's original scoundrels.

Hello Old Sports is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear. Contact the show at [email protected] and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HelloOldSports

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

EPISODE SUMMARY

To celebrate the rebirth and rebranding of ⁠SHN's From the 55 Yardline podcast to that of Gridiron America Radio⁠, we sit down in the Gridiron America studio with a true witness to sports history- the legendary Upton Bell!

Upton is not only the son of Philadelphia Eagles founder and former NFL commissioner, Bert Bell, but is also a former NFL executive with the Baltimore Colts and the New England Patriots. Upton is also a pioneer in professional football, as he helped bring pro ball to the Carolinas in the 1970s with the WFL's Charlotte Hornets. Additionally to being a living link to pro football's past, he is a well known Boston area commentator. talk show host and author of the book, "Present at the Creation."

You can listen more to Upton on the podcast Unvarnished Football, and also learn more about his life and witness to pro football history at ⁠UptonBell.com⁠ and also the UMass Amherst Collection at ⁠exhibits.library.umass.edu/scua/s/upton-bell.⁠

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