Pigskin Dispatch

Darin Hayes
  • 4.9 (13)
  • Football
  • Updated Semiweekly

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!

  1. 14h ago

    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.

    We Trace 33 Years of Silence Between Michigan and Notre Dame

  2. 3d ago

    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.

    We Remember Key Bills Moments: Championships and Heartbreaks

  3. 5d ago

    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.

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

  4. 6d ago

    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.

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

  5. Sep 7

    The Rise and Fall of Walter Eckersall: A Football Legend

    Walter Eckersall, heralded as college football's inaugural superstar, epitomized the duality of athletic prowess and moral ambiguity in early 20th-century sports. This discourse delves into Eckersall's meteoric rise as a quarterback at the University of Chicago, where he achieved remarkable accolades yet was ultimately expelled under dubious circumstances that marred his legacy. We uncover how the very architects of college football conspired to safeguard their national championship while Eckersall, despite his celebrated status, engaged in ethically questionable practices that included fixing games. Accompanied by insights from historians Chris Serb and Timothy Brown, we navigate the complexities of Eckersall’s life, revealing the darker undercurrents that shaped his narrative and the sport itself. As we explore this multifaceted figure, we aim to present not merely a chronicle of triumph but a cautionary tale of the perils of idolization in athletics. Special thanks to the experts from our archives who helped tell this story, along with our Amazon Associate link to their amazing books, 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! Chris Serb's book "Eckie: Walter Eckersall and the Rise of Chicago Sports" (2025) Jennifer Taylor Hall (2021) is the author of a comprehensive biography on Coach Stagg, titled "Amos Alonzo Stagg: College Football's Man in Motion." Timothy P. Brown of FootballArchaeology.com, who visits here every Tuesday, is the author of "How Football Became Football." 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 illustrious journey of Walter Eckersall, regarded as the first iconic figure in American college football, is laden with both triumph and controversy. Emerging from the Chicago sports scene at the turn of the 20th century, Eckersall epitomized the prowess and potential of collegiate athletics. His remarkable high school tenure, marked by an impressive victory margin of 105-0 in a national championship game, ignited fervent interest from prominent coaches such as Fielding Yost of Michigan and Alonzo Stagg of the University of Chicago. Stagg's decisive intervention at a train station, where he persuaded Eckersall not to sign with rival Michigan, illustrates the fierce competition and strategic maneuverings prevalent in the early days of college football. Upon joining the University of Chicago, Eckersall's exceptional talent as a quarterback garnered accolades, leading his team to an undefeated season and a retroactively awarded national championship in 1905. However, beneath the surface of his athletic achievements lay a troubling reality of academic neglect and eventual expulsion for misconduct, which would shadow his legacy.

    The Rise and Fall of Walter Eckersall: A Football Legend

  6. Sep 3

    Exploring the Historical Significance of Week One NFL Matchups

    This episode delves into the intriguing history of Week One matchups in the NFL, particularly those that will unfold in the 2026 season. Our discussion, led by the erudite Ed Cleese, uncovers the fascinating fact that there are three matchups this year that have never occurred before in Week One since 1980. Among these novel encounters is the highly anticipated game between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, marking a significant milestone in their historical rivalry. Furthermore, we explore the rare occurrences of certain teams, such as the Chicago Bears and the Carolina Panthers, meeting for the first time in Week One, despite their long-standing presence in the league. Through a meticulous examination of past games, we aim to enrich our understanding of football history as we prepare for the upcoming season. 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 episode opens with Darren Hayes expressing excitement as he welcomes back Ed Cleese, who brings his extensive knowledge of football history to the table once again. The primary focus of their discussion is the upcoming NFL season, particularly the intriguing matchups set for Week One in 2026. Ed has conducted thorough research into past encounters, and he shares fascinating insights about how these matchups have unfolded over the years. Among the highlights of their conversation is the revelation that three matchups will feature for the first time in Week One: the New England Patriots versus the Seattle Seahawks, the Chicago Bears against the Carolina Panthers, and the Miami Dolphins facing the Las Vegas Raiders. Each of these games carries a unique historical significance, with Ed detailing the context behind these matchups and what they might mean for the teams involved. He emphasizes how the NFL's scheduling can lead to unexpected pairings, which adds to the excitement of the season. The episode continues with Ed discussing other matchups that have occurred only once in the past, such as the Buccaneers against the Bengals, and the Jets facing the Titans, with both hosts reflecting on the implications of these historical encounters. They draw upon rich anecdotes and statistics that not only entertain but also educate the audience about the sport's past. This thorough exploration of Week One games serves as a prelude to the excitement that the new NFL season promises, while also fostering a deeper appreciation for the historical narratives that shape the game today.

    Exploring the Historical Significance of Week One NFL Matchups

  7. Sep 1

    Revisiting the Crescent Athletic Club in Football History

    Timothy P. Brown has unearthed a significant historical first in American football, specifically concerning the illustrious Crescent Athletic Club. This episode delves into the life and work of the prominent sports writer Allison Danzig, who championed the revival of the Crescent Athletic Club in a 1921 article, advocating for opportunities for former college players to continue their football careers. Danzig's insights illuminate the evolving landscape of football during a period when the professional game was in its infancy, scarcely perceived as a viable path for athletes. We explore the implications of Danzig’s vision and the broader context of football's development, highlighting the transition from amateur to professional play. Join us as we navigate this intriguing facet of football history, revealing how perceptions and opportunities have transformed over the decades. The conversation is based on Tim's recent article titled: Allison Danzig and the Crescent Athletic Club - https://www.footballarchaeology.com/p/allison-danzig-and-the-crescent-athletic ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:09 Discovering Firsts in American Football 00:39 The Legacy of Allison Danzig 03:44 The Rise of Professional Football 07:57 The Rise of Professional Football 09:49 Exploring Football History 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 of American football's origins and its intricate historical narratives unfolds in this episode, featuring insights from Timothy P. Brown of FootballArchaeology.com. The focus is primarily on Allison Danzig, a prominent sports writer whose writings encapsulated the sentiments and challenges of the early 20th century sports landscape. In particular, Danzig's call for a revival of the Crescent Athletic Club in 1921 serves as a poignant reminder of the transitional phase of American football following World War I. This club, once a powerhouse comprised of elite collegiate athletes, represents a significant chapter in the history of amateur athletics, highlighting the struggle to maintain competitive relevance amidst the burgeoning professionalization of the sport. The discussion navigates through the historical context of Danzig's advocacy, revealing how the post-war era presented unique challenges for former collegiate players who sought to continue their football careers. The Crescent Athletic Club, with its roster of talented athletes from esteemed institutions, faced an uphill battle against the established collegiate teams, which often overshadowed their efforts. This dynamic not only reflects the competitive landscape of the time but also underscores the cultural attitudes towards professional athletics, as many, including Danzig, could not foresee the monumental rise of the NFL and its transformation into a dominant force in American sports culture. As the speakers delve deeper into the implications of Danzig's writings, they highlight the broader societal transformations that influenced the evolution of football. The conversation culminates in an exploration of how the NFL's eventual rise to prominence was catalyzed by various factors, including the advent of television and changing public perceptions of professional athletics. This episode serves as a valuable reminder of the rich tapestry of history that has shaped American football, inviting listeners to appreciate the complexities and narratives that have contributed to the sport's enduring legacy.

    Revisiting the Crescent Athletic Club in Football History

  8. Aug 31

    Uncovering Pennsylvania's Hidden Football Legacy

    The pivotal theme of this podcast revolves around the rich and intricate history of Pennsylvania football, as we engage in a discourse with the esteemed sports historian, Dave Finoli. He elucidates the fascinating narrative of how the Pro Football Hall of Fame could have potentially been situated in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, rather than its current location in Canton, Ohio. Furthermore, we delve into the significant impact of the controversial passenger fence during the 1955 Sugar Bowl, an event that transcended sports and became emblematic of the civil rights movement in America. Our exploration extends to Finoli's latest literary contributions, including "Pennsylvania Made," which encapsulates the diverse sports heritage of the state through compelling essays. As we navigate through Finoli's extensive body of work, we celebrate the indelible legacy of the Keystone State's football history and its implications for the broader tapestry of American sports culture. Find Dave’s work at: 21-66Books.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. This episode engages in an enlightening dialogue with Dave Finoli, a venerable figure in sports history, as he discusses his extensive work chronicling Pennsylvania's rich football legacy. The discussion highlights an astonishing fact: the Pro Football Hall of Fame was nearly situated in the town of Latrobe rather than in Canton, Ohio, underscoring the significance of this region in the annals of American football. Finoli, who has dedicated over four decades to journalism and historical writing, introduces his recent publications, particularly 'Pennsylvania Made,' which showcases the state's profound relationship with sports through compelling narratives. The conversation delves into various intriguing topics, including the 1897 professional pay dispute between the La Trobe and Greensburg teams, setting the stage for a broader examination of the state's historical contributions to the sport. Furthermore, the episode explores the impact of pivotal events such as the 1955 Sugar Bowl, which became a flashpoint in the civil rights movement, illustrating the intersection of sports and social justice. Finoli's anecdotes captivate the audience, as he recounts the trials and triumphs of athletes whose stories have often been overshadowed by more prominent narratives in sports history. In conclusion, this episode serves as an evocative reminder of the rich tapestry of Pennsylvania football, inviting listeners to appreciate the sport's historical significance. Finoli's wealth of knowledge and narrative prowess make this episode an essential resource for those interested in understanding the intricate relationship between sports and culture in the Keystone State.

    Uncovering Pennsylvania's Hidden Football Legacy
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4.9
out of 5
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About

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!

Information

  • Creator
    Darin Hayes
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Darin Hayes
  • Show Website
    Pigskin Dispatch

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