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Pigskin Dispatch

Darin Hayes

Get a daily glimpse at the history of American football highlighting the events, people, teams, and anniversaries that took place on the calendar day, the year, or the story that the episode centers on. The show is in lock-step with our website PigskinDispatch.com to bring football fans of all ages a refreshing and fun gridiron experience!

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  • Avg 19 min
  • English

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  • S7 · E1613
    Today · 32 min

    We Explore Why the Giants Once Played at the Yale Bowl

    I am joined in the episode by podcast Joe Santos as he recounts how the New York Giants were displaced from Yankee Stadium and forced to play their home games at the Yale Bowl in New Haven. We explain that the move resulted from lease complications and urgent renovations that closed Yankee Stadium. I describe the practical problems that followed, including long fan travel, split team operations, and inadequate facilities at the Yale Bowl. We discuss the public and political backlash, the financial consequences, and the effect on team performance. I draw on archival research and interviews to show how this episode of homelessness shaped both the franchise and its supporters. We also note related work on early Patriots history and my continuing efforts to preserve NFL history. You can find Joe's podcast New York Giants Without a Home on the Sports History Network or your favorite podcast provider. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1612
    Saturday · 13 min· Video

    The Story of John Heisman and Pop Warner's Deception Feud

    Deception in football drove major rule changes, including the banning of a play that hid the ball under a player’s jersey. I recount how John Heisman and Pop Warner each claimed and traded that play for decades. We describe Heisman’s hidden-ball tactic at Auburn and Warner’s elastic garment trick at Carlisle that compelled rulemakers to act. I narrate the rivalry moments that followed, from Heisman’s 222–0 rout of Cumberland to Warner’s 32–0 victory with Pitt. We explain how both coaches also promoted legal innovations, such as the forward pass and the jump shift, which were later constrained. I conclude that their ingenuity reshaped the sport and that the rule book ultimately outlawed their most extreme devices. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. I recount the rivalry between John Heisman and Pop Warner as a contest of invention, tactic, and consequence. I describe how both men embraced deception as a means to victory and how their experiments altered the game. I trace Heisman’s career across Auburn, Clemson, Georgia Tech, Penn, and Rice, and Warner’s path from Cornell to Carlisle and Pittsburgh. I explain concrete plays: the hiding of the ball under the jersey, the elastic seam devices Warner used, and Heisman’s advocacy for the forward pass. I note specific meetings between the two men, including the 1895 Auburn–Georgia clash and later encounters in Pittsburgh, and I emphasize how those games produced strategies that confounded opponents and prompted rule changes. I reflect on the institutional response to their innovations. I note the formal ban in 1910 on the disguised-ball play and the later restrictions that limited shifting and motion, such as the rule permitting only one man in motion. I describe how Heisman’s legal mind pushed for rule reform while Warner’s creative offense, exemplified by the single wing and pre-snap shifts, forced the sport to codify limits. I close by situating their legacy: they expanded the tactical vocabulary of football and compelled authorities to adapt the rules in order to preserve a balance between creativity and fair play.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1611
    Friday · 17 min

    Chronicle Review of Al Davis and the Raiders' Legacy

    Guest historian Scott Perry explores Raiders history. He examines the Raiders as the Broncos’ chief rival and traces the franchise’s rise to multiple championships and its prolonged decline since 2002. I recount the team’s origin in Oakland, the impact of Al Davis, and the Super Bowl titles in 1976, 1980, and 1983. We describe pivotal games and moments that shaped the rivalry with Denver and influenced NFL history. I document the post-2002 downturn, noting only two winning seasons and sustained mediocrity thereafter. We also discuss my book that ranks teams by winning percentage since the 1970 merger and provides detailed team histories. I direct listeners to our website and show notes for further information and resources. Scott frames the conversation around his book, NFL Since 1970, which provides a visual record of franchise standings. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1610
    Thursday · 30 min

    Complete Week 4 NFL Predictions

    We present our Week 4 NFL predictions and emphasize that the league remains highly unpredictable. I and my colleague provide both straight-up and against-the-spread picks and note how our early results have diverged. We highlight the Thursday night Steelers–Browns game as an important primetime contest and offer split views on the outcome. Guest-host Ed Kleese joins us once again to help identify the Jaguars–Bengals matchup as an early-season bellwether for AFC contention. We discuss concerns about quarterback injuries, especially Jaden Daniels’s elbow issue, and we explain how such injuries shape team strategy. We conclude with specific game choices, acknowledge considerable uncertainty, and invite listeners to compare our picks next week. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1609
    Wednesday · 19 min

    We Review Teams in Trouble and Those Making History in Week Three

    I state that week three of the 2026 NFL season produced several historical moments and notable upsets. We recount a rare primetime home collapse by the Packers and note that the Texans and Chargers sit at 0–3 despite historical examples of teams recovering from similar starts. I describe the Cowboys’ critical late-game time management error when they elected a touchback and failed to remove clock time. We note Denver’s back-to-back comeback wins from double-digit second half deficits and Washington scoring twenty points off turnovers for the first time in twenty-one years. I highlight that the Raiders and Saints tied the all-time mark for tight end touchdowns in a game and that Jameer Gibbs passed Billy Sims for second in franchise rushing touchdowns. We conclude that these events will shape narratives heading into week four and that we will present our week four picks tomorrow. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1608
    Tuesday · 16 min· Video

    We Discuss How Pop Warner Shaped the Forward Pass and Modern Offense

    Pop Warner predicted the single wing would return and that the T formation would disappear, and we open by examining that claim from his 1950 interview. I speak with historian Timothy P. Brown to place Warner’s forecast in historical context and to explain how his innovations, including early use of the forward pass, influenced the game. We describe how Warner built his schemes around singular athletes like Jim Thorpe and Ernie Nevers and why many teams could not sustain those formations. I acknowledge that the T formation instead became dominant for decades, yet note that modern schemes such as the Wildcat, zone read, and RPO show echoes of single wing concepts. We invite listeners to explore footballarchaeology.com for more research and to consider how older strategies reappear in new forms. The conversation is based on Tim's recent article titled: Pop Warner Looks Forward and Back - https://www.footballarchaeology.com/p/todays-tidbit-pop-warner-looks-forward ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:11 Pop Warner's Bold Prediction: The T Formation's Future 00:23 Digging into the Gridiron Archives — Timothy Brown on Pop Warner 03:43 Pop Warner — Innovator of the Forward Pass and Single Wing 07:17 Warner, Grantland Rice, and the Single-Wing Revival 09:15 Evolution of the Quarterback: From Drop-Back Stars to Mobile Playmakers 12:41 Antiquated Offenses and Where to Find Tim's Tidbits Do you want more football history? Grab a copy of our Award-Winning book, "The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team: The 1903 Franklin All-Stars" at https://amzn.to/4rG6uVe 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1607
    September 26 · 28 min

    We Remember the Underdog 1976 Pitt Panthers & the Sugar Bowl Triumph

    We present the 1976 Pittsburgh Panthers as national champions and a remarkable, rapid rebuild under coach Johnny Majors, led by Heisman winner Tony Dorsett. I speak with author David Finoli about his book, 1976 National Champion Pitt Panthers: Miracle on Cardiac Hill. We recount the team’s rise from a one‑win program to national prominence and the key games that secured the title. I describe the team’s balanced strengths, including a dominant rushing attack, fast and cohesive defense, and resilient coaching. We reflect on the season’s lasting impact on Pittsburgh and college football. I direct listeners to the show notes for links to the book and additional resources. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. I recount the arc of the 1976 Pitt Panthers as a deliberate and methodical recovery from institutional neglect to national acclaim. I describe how John Majors arrived to a moribund program and set the cultural and structural groundwork that permitted dramatic recruitment and development. I emphasize Tony Dorsett’s prodigious rushing, the adaptive quarterbacking from Matt Kavanaugh to walk‑on Tommy Usick, and a defense led by Al Romano, Bob Jury and others that neutralized elite opponents. I trace the season through signature victories at Notre Dame and Penn State and conclude with the decisive Sugar Bowl performance against Georgia. I underscore that the championship was not the consequence of transient stars alone but of coaching, institutional investment, local talent cultivation, and sustained discipline. I also note the wider social resonance in Pittsburgh and how the team reanimated local fandom and produced a persistent legacy for the program.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1606
    September 25 · 15 min

    We Chronicle the Oilers' Rise, Falls, and Enduring Legacy

    Join us as Scott Perry returns to the podcast for a deep dive into the fascinating history of the Houston Oilers and Tennessee Titans. Scott argues that despite the move from Texas to Tennessee, the franchise possesses an unbroken identity that shapes everything we see on the field today. Scott frames the conversation around his book, NFL Since 1970, which provides a visual record of franchise standings. We trace the journey from the pre-merger roots and early AFL glory days—including the costly release of George Blanda—through the turbulent post-merger decades. From the agonizing late-70s playoff battles against Pittsburgh and the high-flying Warren Moon era to the devastating 1993 Buffalo comeback and the magical run to Super Bowl XXXIV, every era has left its mark. The conversation also covers modern milestones, such as the 2019 playoff upset in Foxborough that signaled the end of Tom Brady's Patriots career, alongside the ongoing evolution of team culture, coaching, and aesthetics (including the beloved "Love You Blue" throwbacks). Key Highlights Franchise Continuity: Why the Oilers and Titans story is one continuous, connected narrative. Historical Turning Points: Examining the impact of pivotal personnel choices like letting George Blanda go. Heartbreak and Triumph: Revisiting the highs of the Warren Moon years and Super Bowl XXXIV alongside the lows of the 1993 Buffalo collapse. Modern Eras: Breaking down the 2019 New England playoff stunner and recent shifts in team identity. Aesthetic Heritage: How modern uniform updates and helmet designs reconnect fans to the "Love You Blue" era. Featured Book: Scott introduces his comprehensive compendium, NFL Since 1970, which contextualizes these moments within the wider post-merger landscape. Note: Check out the show notes below for links to Scott Perry's book, NFL Since 1970, and archival artifacts mentioned in this episode! Make sure to check out Scott's web pages at https://nflsince1970.com/ 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1605
    September 24 · 16 min

    We Predict Week 3 NFL Winners and Covers

    Ed Kleese joins us once again as we present predictions for Week 3 of the 2026 NFL season and provide picks both straight up and against the point spread. I am 21- 11 straight up, and Ed leads 18- 14 against the spread. We proceed game by game and discuss our differing views on several key matchups. Notable disagreements include Bills versus Chargers and Rams versus Broncos. We favor teams such as the 49ers, Chiefs, Saints, and Vikings to cover their spreads. Visit pigskindispatch.com and the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for the full discussion and our detailed picks. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1604
    September 23 · 19 min

    We Summarize Week 2 NFL History and Scorigami Results; The Birth of the "Scoregasm"

    Week two of the 2026 NFL season was manifestly momentous and historically significant, and we convey that central observation without equivocation. I was joined by Ed Kleese as we cataloged an array of notable milestones, among them Devin Lloyd’s exceedingly rare single-game compilation of a sack, multiple interceptions, and a touchdown; Patrick Mahomes’ ascension to an 8–0 mark in regular-season overtime contests, thereby establishing a new NFL benchmark; and the fact that no new Scorigami was recorded this week, with 41–31 (Buffalo over Detroit) registering as the rarest final score. The origin of the "Scoregasm" comes to life here, in a story from Ed you don't want to miss! We examined franchise-specific anomalies and streaks, including the Panthers’ defensive resurgence, the Steelers’ prolonged difficulties in Foxborough since the Brady era, Dak Prescott’s record-tying dominance in AT&T Stadium against NFC East opponents, and the Browns’ emerging rookie Denzel Boston entering the record books with successive long touchdown receptions. We further observed that the Packers–Jets 20–17 result remains the most prevalent final score in league annals, now occurring for the 303rd time, and that our week-two Scorigami ME index registered a 73.18. I invite the audience to regard these developments as substantive contributions to the evolving ledger of football history, and we will continue to preserve and expound upon such records in subsequent discussions. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

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  • S7 · E1603
    September 22 · 15 min· Video

    Chronicle of Army's Triple Championship and Historic Wins

    We highlight Army’s back-to-back Heisman winners, Doc Blanchard and Glenn Davis, as the central subject. We explain how their teams dominated college football during World War II and in the immediate postwar years. We note that the 1944 team went 9-0 and won a national title while holding opponents to seven points or fewer, and that the 1945 team produced lopsided wins such as 48-0 over Notre Dame and 61-0 over Penn. We describe their complementary styles, with Davis running a quick sweep and Blanchard using a counter out of a full house T. We credit Colonel Earl H. Blake as their coach and explain how Army’s service academy status helped attract talent during the war. We point listeners to footballarchaeology.com for play diagrams and further detail. We invite readers to visit pigskindispatch.com for more positive 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1602
    September 21 · 9 min· Video

    Army Ends Navy's Five-Year Winning Streak in 1944

    We state the central fact: Army beat Navy 23 to 7 on December 2, 1944, ending Navy’s five‑year streak and cementing Army’s dominance in the wartime years. We describe how Army, led by Doc Blanchard and Glenn Davis, outscored opponents 504 to 35 and began a 32‑game unbeaten run. We note the game’s wartime setting in Baltimore, where ticket sales required war bonds and raised over $58.6 million for the war effort. We recall the national weight of the moment and the telegram from General MacArthur that declared the nation paused to celebrate the team’s success. We conclude that the victory showed both an unusually strong roster and a team that rose to the test in a decisive fourth quarter. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1601
    September 18 · 15 min

    The Broncos Story: From Outhouse Colors to Super Bowl Champions

    Historian Scott Perry joins us and recounts that the Denver Broncos underwent a decisive transformation into a winning franchise. Scott frames the conversation around his book, NFL Since 1970, which provides a visual record of franchise standings. The transformation began in 1976, a pivotal turning point. The team struggled in the 1960s and early 1970s, with frequent losses and few major achievements. I describe how the franchise rose to prominence by winning the AFC Championship in 1977 and later claiming Super Bowl victories, including back-to-back titles under John Elway. He emphasizes the franchise’s sustained success across decades and notes that Denver ranked eighth or better in every completed decade from 1970 through 2019. I place the Broncos’ rise within the larger context of the AFL–NFL merger and the evolving structure of the league. We invite listeners to consult the show notes for a link to my book, which provides the full narrative and the statistics that underpin these conclusions. Make sure to check out Scott's web pages at https://nflsince1970.com/ 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1600
    September 17 · 24 min

    Week Two 2026 NFL Picks: Complete 60‑Second Rundown Analysis

    We commence with our Week Two 2026 NFL selections, in which we undertake the task of picking every game and adjudicating outcomes both straight-up and against the spread. I, Darren Hayes, and my colleague Ed Cleese articulate rapid, sixty-second appraisals for each of the sixteen contests and embrace a disciplined method of record-keeping. We recapitulate that in Week One I achieved an 11–5 straight-up ledger while Ed recorded a 9–7 mark, although Ed fared superior against the spread, thereby underscoring the distinction between prognostication and wagering outcomes. Among the salient choices we proffer are the Bills to prevail over the Lions in the stadium opener, the Bears to outmatch the Vikings, and a New England triumph over Pittsburgh, while multiple games remain projected as close affairs with covers favored by underdogs in several instances. We deliberate on the authenticity of Week One performances, identifying Denver’s deficiencies and the Bears’ emergent offense as focal points that may presage substantive trends. We invite listeners to consult pigskindispatch.com for supplementary history and analysis, and we shall reconvene next week to render further selections and retrospective commentary. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. We present our Week Two selections with clear statements and lucid reasoning. I recount our method: we pick every game straight up and against the spread. We keep a running record. Last week I finished 11–5 straight up and 7–9 against the spread, while my colleague Ed finished 9–7 straight up and 9–7 against the spread. We opened with the Thursday game and moved through all sixteen contests. We chose the Bills to win the Lions game while acknowledging the Lions as a cover. We split several picks where we agreed on winners but differed on covering the spread. Our choices balanced recent performance with matchup context and venue effects, such as the Bills’ new stadium and home-field dynamics. We supply compact rationales for each selection. We favored certain home teams where preparation time and schematic fit were decisive, notably New England and Houston. We expressed skepticism toward teams that looked like week one anomalies, such as the Cardinals, while we identified units that appear consistent, such as the Bears’ offense. We highlighted several situational concerns for teams like Denver and Cleveland. The summary captures our procedure, our record, and the principal reasons behind each pick, presented plainly for readers who seek direct, actionable insight.

    • Transcript
  • S7 · E1599
    September 16 · 18 min· Video

    We Detail Historic Performances and Records from Week 1

    We open by noting that Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season produced 791 points, tying the league record set in 2012. My co-host and I examine the many record-setting performances and notable statistics from the weekend. We detail high scoring affairs, rare final scores, and individual milestones, including the Bears’ 59-37 victory and Kenneth Walker’s 173-yard debut following his Super Bowl MVP season. I outline historical comparisons, including unusually low kickoff-game totals and long-running team week-one records. We introduce a new Scoragami index to quantify score rarity and report a Week 1 value of 53.75. We encourage listeners to follow our continued analysis and daily football history at pigskindispatch.com. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. We open with the scale of Week 1 and the volume of offense that reshaped expectations. I describe the league tying total of 791 points and how that contrast with the kickoff game that finished 13-10. We note high-scoring affairs such as the Bears’ 59-37 win and Kansas City’s late contributions on Monday night. We explain how many teams produced explosive starts — the Ravens, Bears and others — and how defenses that had been expected to control games were frequently outmatched. We emphasize the most striking team trends: the 49ers’ unblemished record in international play, the Browns’ prolonged week-one struggles across three decades, and the Packers surrendering 39 points in the opener for the first time since 1971. I close with the practical takeaway: Week 1 demands fresh assessment of offenses and forces a recalibration of preseason assumptions. This summary communicates the episode’s primary narrative and the statistical backdrop that shaped our analysis.

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  • S7 · E1598
    September 15 · 21 min· Video

    We Trace the Origins of Jersey Front Numbers from 1928 San Francisco

    We state that the first clearly documented use of numbers on the fronts of football jerseys occurred on September 15, 1928, when the Presidio team in San Francisco wore front numbers. I explain that teams had used numbers on their backs since the early 1900s, but front numbering did not become common until that Presidio game. We say that adding numbers to the front helped stadium announcers, radio broadcasters, and fans identify players more easily. I note that several colleges adopted front numbers soon after and that the NCAA required numbers on both front and back by 1937. We credit Timothy P. Brown and Football Archaeology for researching and publishing this history and for bringing attention to this important development in the sport. The conversation is based on Tim's recent article titled: Football’s First Numbers on Jersey Fronts - https://www.footballarchaeology.com/p/footballs-first-numbers-on-jersey ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:10 Guest Introduction: Football Archaeology's Timothy P. Brown 00:39 Football's First Jersey Numbers — Origins on the Field 04:17 The Presidio: First Recorded Team to Wear Jersey Numbers 08:05 The History and Significance of Jersey Numbers 09:42 Show Closing and Announcements Do you want more football history? Grab a copy of our Award-Winning book, "The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team: The 1903 Franklin All-Stars" at https://amzn.to/4rG6uVe 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. I recount a specific act of innovation on the football field and its wider consequences. I describe how the military team at the Presidio in San Francisco adopted numbers on the front of jerseys on September 15, 1928. I explain that the practice of numbering players on the back had existed for decades, with examples such as a 1905 Iowa State–Drake game and Pitt adopting numbers consistently from about 1907. I then show how the Presidio’s front-number experiment attracted attention when Stanford, under Pop Warner, adopted front numbers for the remainder of that season and how other programs soon followed. The narrative traces a clear arc from isolated trials to broad adoption, concluding with the NCAA mandate in 1937 that required numbers on both front and back. I assert that what now seems inevitable was once controversial, resisted by coaches who feared individualism and competitive exposure, and that the change ultimately reflected a shift toward accommodating fans and emerging media. I emphasize the historical importance of that date and place. I note that front numbers solved practical problems for press boxes, stadium announcers, and early radio broadcasts. I close by insisting that the humble jersey number reveals much about the interplay of technology, media, and sport. I position the event as less than a century old yet foundational to how we watch and report the game.

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  • S7 · E1597
    September 14 · 12 min

    We Trace 33 Years of Silence Between Michigan and Notre Dame

    I state that Michigan canceled the 1910 game over eligibility paperwork, and that decision froze the dispute for 33 years. We explain that Michigan's athletic director called off the game because Notre Dame listed players who exceeded allowed years of varsity play. I describe how the argument never resolved and how Fritz Chrysler later offered a two‑game experiment that reopened the series in 1942. We recount the first game back in South Bend on November 14, 1942, when Michigan rallied to win 32 to 20. I note that the teams met again in 1943 but did not play annually and did not resume regular meetings until 1978. We close by asking who bears the blame for the long break: the school that canceled the game or the school that fielded the ineligible players. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. I recount the sequence that severed one of college football's most consequential rivalries and the eventual, tentative reunion that followed. I open with the contested November of 1910 when Michigan reviewed Notre Dame's roster, protested three players as ineligible, and the Michigan athletic director responded by canceling the scheduled game. I emphasize that the cancellation did not adjudicate the dispute; it suspended it. The result was a three‑decade silence in which generations of players never tested the rivalry on the field. I trace the arc from the first Michigan‑taught lesson in 1887 through Michigan's early dominance, Notre Dame's rise under Knute Rockne, and the altered tenor after Notre Dame defeated Michigan in 1909. I describe how the disagreement was as much about institutional pride and historical narrative as it was about rules. I then turn to 1942, when Fritz Crisler framed a cautious two‑game arrangement as an experiment. I relate the November 14, 1942 contest in South Bend, attended by over 57,000, in which Michigan overturned a halftime deficit to win 32–20. I close by noting the immediate sequel in 1943, when the teams produced the first-ever meeting of the AP's No. 1 and No. 2 teams, and by observing that even after the door was unbolted, regular annual play did not resume until decades later.

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  • S7 · E1596
    September 11 · 16 min

    We Remember Key Bills Moments: Championships and Heartbreaks

    Historian Scott Perry joins us and states that if the Buffalo Bills finish 13-5 this season, they will be a winning organization for the first time since the 1970 NFL merger. I welcome Scott Perry, and we frame the conversation around his book, NFL Since 1970, which provides a visual record of franchise standings. We review Buffalo’s origins in the AFL in 1960, Lou Saban’s 1964–65 championships, and the Bills’ four consecutive AFC title game appearances in the early 1990s. We recount player highlights, helmet changes, and key moments that shaped the club across decades. I urge listeners to consult Scott’s book on Amazon for a detailed, year-by-year standings reference and historical context. Make sure to check out Scott's web pages at https://nflsince1970.com/ 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

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  • S7 · E1595
    September 9 · 18 min

    Predictions Unveiled: Who Will Prevail in This Week’s NFL Matchups?

    The commencement of the National Football League season for 2026 heralds a momentous occasion, as we eagerly anticipate the inaugural games that promise to enthrall fans across the nation. Our discourse today is centered upon the pivotal matchups, specifically the highly anticipated Super Bowl rematch between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, alongside the contest featuring the San Francisco 49ers against the Los Angeles Rams. With great enthusiasm, we present our predictions for these encounters, as well as others that comprise this week's schedule. Joining us for insightful analysis is Ed Cleese, who will elucidate on the intricacies of each game, while we meticulously examine the point spreads and potential outcomes. As we embark on this journey through the season, we invite listeners to engage with us as we traverse the landscape of football history and contemporary match predictions. 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. The commencement of the 2026 NFL season heralds an exciting return to the gridiron, as the anticipation surrounding the opening matchups builds. The dialogue between the hosts provides an insightful exploration of the season's first games, including a highly anticipated rematch between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. Each host articulates their predictions with a clarity that reflects their understanding of team dynamics, the implications of player performances, and the intricate details of each matchup. The hosts delve into the analysis of point spreads and the statistical underpinnings that may influence the outcomes of these games, emphasizing the importance of historical context and recent form. As they navigate through various matchups, such as the 49ers against the Rams and the Bengals facing the Buccaneers, they showcase their expertise and contrasting viewpoints, which enrich the conversation and provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the factors at play. This season prediction show serves not only as a guide for fans eager to engage with the upcoming games but also as a platform for the hosts to demonstrate their analytical prowess and passion for the sport of football.

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  • S7 · E1594
    September 8 · 21 min

    Decoding the Evolution of Football Measurements: The Story of Joe Lipp and Eckersall

    This episode delves into the intriguing intersection of football history and innovation, specifically exploring the contributions of Walter Eckersall and Joe Lipp. We examine the lesser-known aspects of their collaboration, particularly the development of the "Eckie-Lipp" down marking system, which aimed to enhance the accuracy of officiating in the game. Timothy P. Brown, our guest, illuminates the evolution of these innovations and the impact they had on the sport, shedding light on the significance of timing in both football and other athletic competitions. Furthermore, we reflect on the broader context of football officiating, discussing how advancements in equipment and techniques have shaped the contemporary game. Join us as we uncover the layers of this narrative, revealing how historical figures like Eckersall and Lip have left an indelible mark on the fabric of football. The conversation is based on Tim's recent article titled: Joe Lipp, Walter Eckersall, and Innovations…- https://www.footballarchaeology.com/p/joe-lipp-walter-eckersall-and-innovations ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:00 The Legend of Walter Eckersall 01:37 The Story of Joe Lipp: Innovations in Sports Timing 08:14 The Evolution of Down Markers in Football 08:27 Understanding the Chain Gang in Football 11:25 Recapping Football History and Looking Ahead Do you want more football history? Grab a copy of our Award-Winning book, "The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team: The 1903 Franklin All-Stars" at https://amzn.to/4rG6uVe 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 PigskinDispatch@Gmail.com Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. A profound exploration into the storied legacy of Walter Eckersall, a pivotal figure in the annals of Chicago Maroons football, unfolds through the lens of Timothy P. Brown, an esteemed football archaeologist. As the podcast delves into Eckersall's multifaceted contributions to the sport, we are invited to examine not only his celebrated feats but also the controversies that may have marred his illustrious career. Brown's insights reveal the complexities of Eckersall's persona, shedding light on how his fame was both a catalyst for innovation and a potential source of scandal. The discussion further navigates the intricate relationships between key figures in football history, illustrating how their collective endeavors shaped the game's evolution. This episode serves as a compelling reminder of the layered narratives that populate sports history, encouraging listeners to appreciate the nuances that define our understanding of athletic legacies.

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