Sports History Network

Sports History Network

By Sports History NetworkSportsHistoryFootball
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Sports History Network episodes

  • Unveiling the Legacy of the 17th NFL Draft Pick

    The 17th overall pick in the NFL Draft has historically proven to be a veritable treasure trove of talent, yielding exceptional players such as Emmett Smith, the all-time leading rusher in NFL history. In this discourse, we delve into the illustrious legacy of this particular draft position, examining the remarkable careers of both first-ballot Hall of Famers and notable specialists. Furthermore, we engage in an analytical exploration of the recent resurgence of high-caliber selections at this slot, contrasting them with previous decades that yielded fewer impactful athletes. Our esteemed guest, Ed Cleese, joins us to provide keen insights into the evolution of the 17th pick and its implications for teams in pursuit of greatness. Through our discussion, we aim to illuminate the significance of this pick in shaping the trajectories of NFL franchises.

    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.

    25 min
  • This Week in NDN All-Stars History: April 5–11

    NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

    This week’s episode of This Week in NDN All-Stars History takes us from the boxing ring to the ice rink, and everywhere in between.

    We highlight standout moments including early career victories from Henry Armstrong, a dominant three-home run performance by Willie Stargell, and Jonathan Cheechoo reaching the 50-goal mark in the NHL. You’ll also hear about key moments from athletes like Gary Sargent, Virgil Hill, and Tahnee Robinson as they made their mark in their respective sports.

    These are the stories that deserve to be remembered—and shared.

    TOPICS COVERED
    • Nelson Levering’s pro boxing debut win
    • Bucky Dent’s trade to the New York Yankees
    • Zach Whitecloud’s first NHL game
    • Henry Armstrong’s knockout victories
    • John Starks’ 37-point performance
    • Bobby Madritsch’s final MLB appearance
    • Marvin Camel’s early pro career success
    • Joe Louis victory in Saint Louis
    • Gary Sargent’s playoff heroics and career milestones
    • Willie Stargell’s three home run game
    • Jonathan Cheechoo’s 50-goal season
    • Virgil Hill’s title fight win
    • Tahnee Robinson drafted into the WNBA
    • Carey Price’s dominant NHL season finish

    If you’re enjoying these stories and want to help us keep sharing the history of great Native athletes, head over to NDNAllStars.com to explore the collection.

    You can also follow the podcast, share this episode, and help us continue growing the visibility of Native athletes—past and present.

    SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS

    If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

    NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND

    Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about.

    This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history.

    We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right.

    Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement.

    Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like.

    So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team.

    You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us.

    NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present!

    7 min
  • A Timeout they didn't have, the Slam Dunk reinstated, and Joe Theisman a Dolphin? - This DiSH for April 5

    In 1993, Michigan's Chris Webber called the infamous timeout his team did not have in the NCAA National Championship game.

    In 1976, the NCAA reinstated the slam dunk.

    In 1915, boxer Jack Johnson was beaten for the first time since becoming heavyweight champ.

    In 1971, Joe Theisman was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the fourth round of the NFL draft. He decided to play for Toronto in the CFL instead.

    6 min
  • The Hidden Value of the 18th Pick in the NFL Draft

    The 18th pick in the NFL draft may be the most underrated position, as evidenced by a historical analysis that reveals its significance in shaping successful franchises. Throughout the years, this selection has yielded remarkable talents, including Hall of Famers such as Art Monk and Paul Krause, who exemplify the potential of players chosen in this slot. As we traverse the landscape of past drafts, we shall examine both celebrated and overlooked athletes, discussing their contributions and the impact they have had on their respective teams. Each player, from the legendary to the less heralded, narrates a unique story that underscores the importance of the 18th pick in the grand tapestry of NFL history. Join us as we delve into these narratives and celebrate the rich legacy associated with this pivotal draft position.

    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.

    26 min
  • Professional Boxers from Pittsburgh

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

    TOTAL SPORTS RECALL HOMEPAGE

    EPISODE SUMMARY

    NOTE FROM HARV: In the Harry Greb discussion the year 2013 was mentioned several times mistakenly. The year mentioned should be 1913.

    This episode looks back at some of the greatest professional boxers that were born and raised in Pittsburgh or nearby towns. This conversation peaks to the venues where boxing matches were held and these fighter's records, accomplishments, and some of the details of their lives.

    TOTAL SPORTS RECALL BACKGROUND

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

    Harv currently writes for AbstractSports.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]. You may also reach out to Harv on X using the handle @TotalSportsRecl.

    39 min
  • The Greatest Airball in Basketball History, Tulane's Men's Basketball Program Eliminated, and Sam Snead sets the PGA Record - The DiSH for April 4

    In 1983, NC State beat Houston in one of the great upsets in NCAA Tournament Championship history.

    In 1985, Tulane eliminated its men's basketball program following the discovery of a points shaving scandal.

    In 1965, Sam Snead won the GGO for his 82nd and final PGA win. He's the oldest to win a PGA Tour event at 52 years, 10 months and 8 days

    In 2016, Villanova's Kris Jenkins hit a buzzer-beating three to beat North Carolina 77-74 and give the Wildcats the National Championship.

    5 min
  • The Historical Significance of the 19th Overall Pick in the NFL Draft

    The examination of the 19th overall pick in the NFL draft elucidates its historical prominence and the dichotomy of its recent selections, which have, for the most part, failed to live up to the legacy established by predecessors. The episode probes into the annals of football history to unearth the remarkable achievements of players who have donned the mantle of the 19th pick, showcasing individuals who not only reached the pinnacle of their professions but also redefined their positions in the league. The discourse navigates through the compelling narratives of MVPs and Hall of Famers, pinpointing how their selections at this position have become synonymous with offensive prowess and defensive fortitude. Throughout the conversation, we juxtapose these illustrious careers with a critical analysis of the recent draft history, which appears to cast a shadow over the 19th pick's potential for success. As the speakers reflect on the last decade of draft choices, a consistent theme emerges—many selections have yielded underwhelming results, leading to a broader discourse on the evolving strategies employed by NFL teams. The episode serves as a clarion call for enhanced scrutiny of the drafting process, emphasizing the importance of historical context in evaluating present decisions. Our engagement with the guest, Ed Cleese, further enriches this exploration, as he shares insights drawn from years of following the league, culminating in a nuanced discussion of the factors that contribute to a player’s success post-draft.

    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.

    21 min
  • The Migraine Game

    The fellas take a deeper look at the Detroit Pistons dynasty through the lens of the infamous "migraine game," Game 7 of Eastern Conference finals, which serves as turning point in NBA history, as it marked the last time Michael Jordan would be denied before beginning a run of three straight titles.

    The Mixtape: 90s Sports Edition is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

    The Mixtape: 90s Sports Edition Home Page

    THE MIXTAPE BACKGROUND

    Step into the time machine with hosts Scott and Derek as they dissect the most electrifying decade in sports history.

    90s Sports Mixtape is your weekly deep dive into the era that gave us legendary dynasties, iconic athletes, and unforgettable controversies. Each episode explores the stories behind the headline, from championship runs to shocking scandals, from breakthrough moments to career-defining performances.

    Each week on 90s Sports Mixtape, this Texas duo will break down the championships, controversies, and cultural moments that made the '90s unforgettable. Whether it's Jordan's Bulls, Aikman’s Cowboys, or the Trial of the Century of OJ Simpson, no topic is off limits.

    Expect deep dives, hot takes, and the kind of passionate arguments that can only come from two friends who've been rehashing these debates for decades.

    Subscribe now and relive the glory of the decade that changed sports forever.

    HOSTS - SCOTT & DEREK

    Scott and Derek first met at Blockbuster Video in college bonding over their shared love of The Big Lebowski. But during those long minimum-wage shifts stacking copies of Armageddon, they quickly found out they had a deeper affection for sports of their childhood and the players and teams they idolized.

    From Pete Rose to Nolan Ryan, Larry Bird to Hakeem Olajuwon, these two Texans have spent countless hours debating the top players and thrilling moments from their favorite decade of sports, making them the ideal hosts of The Mixtape: 90s Sports Edition.

    Takeaways:

    • The Detroit Pistons were a pivotal team that bridged the gap between the Boston Celtics and the Chicago Bulls, showcasing a unique style of play that was both physical and effective.
    • The infamous 'Migraine Game' exemplifies the intense rivalry between the Pistons and the Bulls, marking a significant turning point in NBA history.
    • This podcast episode highlights the importance of historical context in understanding the evolution of the NBA and its great players, particularly during the late 80s and early 90s.
    • Isaiah Thomas's legacy is complex, as he was both an instrumental player for the Pistons and a polarizing figure in NBA history, particularly regarding his relationships with other stars.
    • The discussion around Scottie Pippen's migraine during the critical game raises questions about how injuries are perceived in the competitive environment of professional sports.
    • Overall, the episode emphasizes the need to reassess the reputations of teams and players like the Pistons and Isaiah Thomas, acknowledging their contributions to the game.

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • NBA
    • Lakers
    • Celtics
    • Chicago Bulls
    • Detroit Pistons
    • Magic
    • Bird
    • Jordan
    • Isaiah Thomas
    • Rodman
    • Bill Simmons
    • Nick Faldo
    • Rory McElroy
    • Phil

    1 hr 8 min
  • Unveiling NFL Draft Legends: The 20th Pick's Immortal Impact

    The analysis of the 20th overall pick in the NFL draft reveals that this particular selection has the potential to yield exceptional talent, with three individuals from this slot achieving the status of first-ballot Hall of Famers. In our discourse, we delve into the illustrious careers of these legends, highlighting their significant contributions to the sport and the indelible marks they have left on the game of football. We examine the historical context of the 20th pick, tracing its lineage from the inception of the draft to the present day, and we assess the impact of choices made at this pivotal juncture. Throughout this episode, we also reflect on the inherent risks and rewards associated with draft selections, underscoring the notion that while the NFL draft may be perceived as a gamble, it can also serve as a conduit for greatness. Join us as we chronicle the most notable figures to have emerged from this selection, offering insights into their remarkable legacies and the overarching narratives that have shaped their careers in the NFL.

    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.

    22 min
  • A Historical Perspective: The Impact of Pick 21 in Football

    The 21st pick in the National Football League draft is presented as the ultimate wild card in the realm of football history. Throughout this episode, we delve into the significance of this particular draft position, examining its capacity to yield extraordinary talents who have made indelible marks on the sport. From the high-stakes gamble involving Randy Moss, whose remarkable achievements transformed the record books, to the historical acquisition of Hall of Famer Lynn Swann by the 1974 Steelers, this selection has fostered numerous iconic legends. Today, we shall meticulously count down the top five players who exemplified the potential of the 21st pick, illustrating how, indeed, one can hit the jackpot at this juncture. Join us as we engage in a profound exploration of football history alongside our esteemed guest, Ed Cleese.

    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.

    21 min

About Sports History Network

From the publisher's feed

The Sports History Network was founded in May of 2020 to bring together podcasters and bloggers covering the history of sports. Our mission is to create the Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear by…