Sports History Network

The American Basketball League (ABL) was the first major pro basketball league starting in 1925. They paid their players enough money that the players did not need another job. It was the first league of its kind and set the blueprint for future leagues like the NBA.

CREDITS

Rick Loayza: Head researcher, writer, and voice

Jacob Loayza: Editor, producer, and publisher

MUSIC

"A Slow Day" by Chiro

"Horizons" by Roa

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

EPISODE SUMMARY

From 1957 to 1971, the Baltimore Colts never experienced a losing season. They played in four NFL Championship games, winning three of them. They also appeared in two AFC Championship games, winning one, and played in two Super Bowls, winning one. 

But by 1972, age had caught up with them, and combined with some questionable trades, that led to their worst season since 1954. The Colts finished 1972 with a 5–9 record, and things only worsened. In 1973, they went 4–10; in 1974, they were 2–12. The Colts went through four head coaches in three years.

The head coach for 1975 was Ted Marchibroda, but there was little hope that the team would improve......

You can read the full blog post here.

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 1911, Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School upset powerhouse Harvard 18-15.

In 1985, Philadelphia Flyers goalie Pelle Lindbergh died after being involved in a car accident on the 10th.

In 1990, Kansas City's Derrick Thomas sacked Seattle QB Dave Kreig seven times to set an NFL record that still stands.

In 1961, a University of South Carolina fraternity pulled a pre-game prank against rival Clemson. It probably had no effect on the outcome but USC did beat Clemson that day, 21-14.

In 2007, Phil Mickelson won the HSBC Champions of China in Shanghai, despite being penalized six strokes in the final nine holes. He won on the second playoff hole.

This podcast episode commemorates Veterans Day on November 11, 2025, by delving into the rich tapestry of football history through the lens of a remarkable figure, Bib Graves. Graves, a notable athlete, played an instrumental role in the formative years of both Alabama and Texas football, thereby establishing an enduring legacy within the sport. Our esteemed guest, Timothy P. Brown, elucidates Graves's dual contributions as a player and a prominent political figure, having served as the governor of Alabama.

We explore the fascinating trajectory of Graves's life, from his athletic endeavors to his military service in World War I, and ultimately to his governorship, illustrating how his experiences intertwined with the evolution of college football. Join us as we uncover the historical significance of Bib Graves and reflect on the profound impact of his multifaceted life in American football history.

The discussion is based on one of, guest Tim Brown's recent tidbits titled: Bibb Graves, Founding Member of Alabama and Texas Football

The Pigskin Daily History Dispatch presents an exploration of the life and legacy of Bibb Graves, a significant yet often overlooked figure in American football history. As the episode coincides with Veterans Day, the discussion delves into Graves's multifaceted identity as a football player, attorney, and politician. Graves is notably recognized for being a founding member of both the University of Alabama and the University of Texas football programs, contributing to the development of these storied institutions. The narrative unfolds with insights from Timothy P. Brown, who recounts Graves's journey from a prominent football player at Alabama—where he participated in the inaugural Iron Bowl—to his legal studies at the University of Texas, before ultimately transferring to Yale Law School. Despite his athletic prowess during a period when football was still in its nascent stages, Graves’s contributions extended far beyond the gridiron, culminating in his service as a twice-elected governor of Alabama and a military veteran of World War I, thus bridging the realms of sports, law, and public service.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

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.

In 1928, Knute Rockne delivered his 'Win one for the Gipper' speech to fire up his Notre Dame team to go beat Army.

In 1984, Maryland erased a 31-point halftime deficit against Miami to win 42-40.

In 2018, Davidson rushed for 789 yards in a 56-52 loss to San Diego.

In 1957, Charlie Sifford became the first black player to win a professional golf tournament.

In 1985, Ron Jaworski hit receiver Mike Quick for a 99-yard strike to end a game against Atlanta.

The preservation of football history owes a significant debt to the pioneering figures of the sport, and today, we delve into the life of one such luminary, Walter Eckersall. In our discussion with author Chris Serb, we explore the profound impact Eckersal had on Chicago sports and American football at large. Through his remarkable achievements as a three-sport athlete and his subsequent role as a distinguished sports journalist and official, Eckersall's contributions have largely been obscured by time. We will examine not only his athletic prowess but also his enduring influence on the game's evolution during a critical period marked by both innovation and peril. Join us as we uncover the legacy of Eckersal, a man whose story deserves to be celebrated in the annals of sports history.

Here is our Amazon Associate link to Chris Serb's book "Eckie," which gets you the book and provides a slight commission to Pigskin Dispatch operating costs to help the consumer, author, and the Pig Pen! Win, Win, Win!

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

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.

In 1974, Michigan State upset #1 Ohio State. The Buckeyes final TD was denied. It took 45 minutes for game officials and the Big Ten commissioner to determine who actually won it.

In 1984, Julius Erving and Larry Bird got in a fight in the Boston Garden.

In 1946, in a game between #2 Notre Dame and top-ranked Army that was billed as the Greatest Offensive Battle in the History of College Football’ ended in a 0-0 tie.

In 2012, Davidson Day School (NC) QB Will Grier set the national high school single game passing yardage record, completing 34 passes for 834 yards. He threw 10 TD passes and ran for 2 in a 104-80 win.

In 1969, Australian Bruce Crampton beat Jack Nicklaus at the Hawaiian Open.

In 1958, Ohio State's Jim Marshall returned a blocked punt for a touchdown and followed that up later with an interception return for a touchdown. The guy who became known for going the wrong way on a fumble recovery in the NFL in 1964, actually knew how to get to the right endzone.

In 1997, the Nebraska Cornhuskers benefitted from a missed call to score a touchdown with no time left in regulation to force overtime.

In 1980, Illinois quarterback Dave Wilson launched an impressive aerial attack against Ohio State despite the fact that the Big Ten was desperately trying to bar him from playing.

In 1975, Daniel ‘Rudy’ Reutiger made his appearance for Notre Dame that would later be immortalized in the film ‘Rudy.’

In 1963, a riot broke out at Roosevelt Raceway in Westbury, New York after an on course crash and then a controversial judgement.

In 1970, New Orleans Saints kicker Tom Dempsey kicked a 63-yard field goal.

In 1896, students at Auburn played one of the greatest pranks on the Georgia Tech football team.

In 2015,. Nebraska benefitted from a controversial call and referee review to beat undefeated Michigan State.

In 1925, Northwestern kicker Tiny Lewis kicked a field goal on the way to handing Michigan a 3-2 loss.

In 1991, Magic Johnson announced he had HIV, the virus that causes AIDS and retired from basketball.

In 1999, Tiger Woods won the inaugural World Golf Championship played that year in Valderama, Spain.

The primary focus of this podcast episode is the exploration of the various manifestations of football across the globe, particularly emphasizing the distinctions and connections between American football and its international counterparts. We delve into the historical underpinnings that link football to rugby and soccer, while also examining the unique variations that have emerged in different cultures, such as Australian Rules Football, rugby league, and Gaelic football. Our esteemed guest, Dr. Spencer Kassimir, provides invaluable insights drawn from his extensive knowledge and experience, having transitioned from the American football landscape to the vibrant world of football in Australia. This discourse not only illuminates the diverse interpretations of the term "football" but also underscores the unifying nature of the sport, which transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences. As we navigate through this rich tapestry of football history, we invite our listeners to appreciate the complex relationships that define this beloved game worldwide.

Our guest is Spencer Kassimir addresses these topics from Australia and more in this episode.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

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.