Pro Football History.com Blog

September 26th, 2024

The NFL is peppered with shocking moments—extraordinary feats where the underdogs took reigns of the match, defying the odds and etching their names in football lore. And these go back to the '60s and '70s, like the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants' rivalry that is still going strong! Fast-forward to even the 2000s and beyond, countless plays in the NFL history books left fans and analysts alike in awe. Let’s look at 3 of the most shocking upsets that still have fans reeling today.

Reliving Memorable Upsets That Shook the NFL

All is fair play before the final whistle — after all, the underdog's determination can turn the score around in the "eleventh hour" of the game. To us as fans, these moments have us on the edge of our seats and will fuel countless debates for years to come! And it's not an understatement to say that they are part and parcel of the NFL's widespread popularity.

A fumble or foiled play just seconds to the final whistle can be all it takes to upend the scoreline. If you're looking to be part of the play, NFL football betting lets you test your forecast, backing the underdog in futures, halftime, or quarter markets. Even better, in-play (live) betting lets you call these moments in real-time. These upsets are plays for the ages, and if you're a new fan, you're in for a treat!

1978 Week 12: Victory at the Face of Certain Defeat (Eagles 19, Giants 17)

If we're going down the NFL annals, we must highlight the "Miracle at the Meadowlands", a stunning feat in the wee hours of the game that remains etched in football fans’ memories. With just 31 seconds left on the clock in the 4th quarter and the Giants leading 17-12, victory seemed certain, and they could have easily taken a knee to run out the remaining time.

But in what seemed like a divine intervention, quarterback Joe Pisarcik's botched attempt (fumble) to hand the football to Larry Csonka saw Eagles' Herman Edwards recover it and sprint down 26 yards for a touchdown, sealing a 19-17 victory. This incredible play changed the way teams approached the final seconds of a game. A similar stunt feat occurred in what fans would name Miracle at the New Meadowlands (2010), where the Eagles made an improbable comeback, winning over the New York Giants (Eagles 38, Giants 31).

1999-2000 Wild Card Round: The Controversial Lateral Pass (Titans 22, Bills 16)

The wild-card playoff pitting the Tennessee Titans against the Buffalo Bills in 2000 produced perhaps one of the most controversial (yet exciting) finishes in NFL history. Dubbed the "Music City Miracle," the Titans were trailing (16-15 against the Bills. With just 16 seconds on the clock, a kickoff return saw Frank Wycheck throw a lateral pass to Kevin Dyson, who sprinted 75 yards for a touchdown—securing a 22-16 win just moments before the final whistle. The move sparked heated debates about it possibly being an illegal forward pass; still, the referee's challenge upheld the call, and to date, it remains one of the most unforgettable moments in NFL history.

Super Bowl XLII (2008): The Helmet Catch (Giants 17, Patriots 14)

Super Bowl XLII marked an amazing season for the New England Patriots, who went undefeated leading up to the big game. Victory seemed inevitable; after all, they were favored to win. But, fate had other plans! Down to the 4th quarter, the Giants were still playing catch, with the Patriots leading 14-10. With 2:39 left on the clock, Giants quarterback Eli Manning aired the ball (slung it) down the field, where we got David Tyree’s iconic “Helmet Catch”, by far the game's most memorable play. Immediately after, a first-down conversion by Steve Smith saw wide receiver Plaxico Burress score the winning touchdown, pulling off a stunning 17-14 upset, and denying the Patriots their perfect season.

The Underdog's Tale: Upsets That Defied the Odds

There you have it! If there's anything we can learn from these moments, it's that the beauty of the NFL (football) lies in the unpredictable—anything can happen, and the underdog always has a fighting chance. Even years later, these games remind us why we love football and will continue to inspire fans and players alike for generations to come.

September 19th, 2024

Football has always captured the hearts of millions across the nation. Keeping up with the latest news and developments in the sport is crucial for fans and analysts alike. As we dive into the 2024 NFL season, the NFC East stands out as one of the most competitive and intriguing divisions in football, not least because of its rich history of fierce rivalries and a roster of talented teams. Let's look at the key contenders – the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Washington Commanders and New York Giants – to get a clearer picture of what's to come.

Philadelphia Eagles

If you're a football fan, then you've surely seen that the Eagles are coming off an impressive season, showcasing one of the most well-rounded rosters in the league. Their success in 2023, including a strong playoff run, has set really high expectations for 2024. Jalen Hurts continues to be a dynamic force at quarterback, and his development as a passer complements his dual-threat capabilities. The Eagles' offense is bolstered by a deep receiving corps and a potent running game led by rising star Kenneth Gainwell. Their defense, anchored by an elite defensive line and a versatile secondary, remains formidable. The key for Philadelphia will be maintaining health and consistency. If Hurts stays at his high level of play and the defense continues to perform at an elite level, the Eagles are well-positioned to repeat as NFC East champions. In case you are looking to get some skin in the game and place a sports bet, make sure that you stay well-informed via sites like https://www.betting.us, one of the best football betting sites, to enhance your understanding of the game's intricacies.

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys have been a perennial contender in the NFC East, and 2024 is no different. With Dak Prescott at the helm, Dallas boasts one of the most potent offenses in the league. Prescott’s ability to distribute the ball effectively, combined with the dynamic playmaking of CeeDee Lamb and the powerful running of Tony Pollard, gives the Cowboys a multifaceted offensive attack. Remember that a team is only as strong as its worst player and things like player trades, new signings and which respective stadium the match is played at has a gigantic impact on the outcome. Back to the players, the addition of a few key defensive pieces and the continued development of young stars like Micah Parsons make their defense a significant asset. The Cowboys' challenge lies in overcoming their recent playoff disappointments and ensuring their defense performs consistently. If Prescott can stay healthy and avoid turnovers, and if the defense can step up in critical moments, the Cowboys have a strong chance to claim the division title. Fans who engage with detailed analyses including innovative technologies can appreciate the nuances that often go unnoticed during live broadcasts.

Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders have undergone significant changes in recent years, with a new ownership group and coaching staff aiming to turn the team’s fortunes around. The arrival of new head coach and a revamped offensive scheme should provide a fresh start. Sam Howell, now more experienced, is poised to lead the offense with more confidence. The Commanders' defense remains one of the most promising units in the league, featuring a strong pass rush and an improving secondary. For Washington to be a serious contender in the NFC East, they need Howell to make substantial progress and for their defense to remain as impactful as it has been. While they might not be the favorites, their potential for improvement could make them a dark horse in the division.

New York Giants

The New York Giants are in a phase of rebuilding under their current regime. Daniel Jones, while showing flashes of promise, needs to develop further consistency as the quarterback. The Giants' offense is bolstered by Saquon Barkley, whose health and performance will be crucial for their success. Their defense, led by a few key veterans and emerging talents, has the potential to be disruptive. The Giants face the challenge of bridging the gap between rebuilding and competing. If Jones can progress significantly and Barkley stays healthy, the Giants could pose a challenge, but it may be more realistic to expect them to be a year or two away from truly contending for the division title.

Prediction

Given the current landscape and team dynamics, the Philadelphia Eagles are the most likely candidates to win the NFC East in 2024. Their well-rounded roster, strong quarterback play, and solid defense give them a slight edge over their rivals. However, the Dallas Cowboys are a close second, with their high-powered offense and improving defense. If the Cowboys can resolve their recent playoff woes, they could certainly challenge the Eagles for the top spot. The Washington Commanders and New York Giants, while promising, may need more time to bridge the gap with the division’s top teams.

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September 10th, 2024

The NFC West is one of the most competitive divisions, and this can make it hard to predict. Yet this year, the race seems tighter than ever. Most eyes will be on the 49ers and Rams, who have butted heads on many occasions before. With the 49ers heading into a possible third consecutive winning season, it pays to keep your eyes on the game.

49ers

In the past five years, the 49ers have wracked up an impressive record. They have managed to make it to the Superbowl twice, but have been beaten both times by the Chiefs. This places a huge psychological barrier on the team.

For many, the 49ers winning the division seems a forgone conclusion. They have won it twice in a row and scooped it three times in the last five seasons, with no signs of a weaker squad this year. They have also won 11 of their last 12 NFC West games. Currently, sportsbooks have them at -190 in live score betting. However, if they take their eye off the ball looking for bigger prizes outside the league, it could be their undoing.

Rams The Los Angeles Rams are the teams most likely to topple the 49ers stranglehold on the NFC West Division. They're currently around +375 to win. They were the last team to beat them in one of the division's games, showing they do have the tenacity to snap the streak. The team is also looking very strong, with key players like Matthew Stafford fighting fit.

However, they do have to overcome some psychological barriers. They lost the season tiebreaker to the 49ers last season due to their overall record.

Seahawks

Of all the teams, the Seattle Seahawks could throw up the most surprises this season. New coach Mike Mcdonald has shown his prowess with a win in his debut, partly down to a solid defense. This was backed up by a 17-point surge in the second half.

Geno Smith was also credited for this. The star Quarterback executed the plan perfectly, delivering on time. He has made 18-17 over the last three seasons in 35 starts. Last season, they finished 2-4 in the division and their only wins were over the Cardinals. With this streak behind them and a new coach putting wind in their sales, they have nothing to lose by taking on the big boys.

Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals are currently +1300 to win the season. How they will fare is very hard to predict. They have starting quarterback Kyler Murray returning after a long injury stint. His torn ACL meant he missed a host of games last season, which were crucial to the Arizona Cardinals. However, his absence showed a lack of depth in the team which does not seem to have been rectified.

It was 2015 since they last won the division and they need to perform this season, purely because it would add a little spice and drama to the division. Last season they had losses to all the other teams and need to bounce back.

Schedules and Upcoming Matches

If you are placing a bet on the division, then keeping track of schedules and upcoming matches is vital for any serious bettor. Knowing when and where games are played can affect team performance due to factors like travel fatigue or home-field advantage. Additionally, understanding the schedule within each division helps in identifying key matchups that could influence playoff standings. By staying informed about schedules, you ensure that your betting decisions are based on comprehensive information.

The 49ers are clear favorites, but that does not mean they're certain to win. A few upsets from less fancied teams like the Cardinals could upturn the apple cart. While the division may seem a forgone conclusion, it very seldom is.

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September 2nd, 2024

The work of an NFL coach is one of the most dynamic and ever-changing jobs; the only constant in the league seems to be change. Now, from the days of pounding the pigskin to the high-flying, pass-happy offenses of today, these coaching changes are very interesting. There is more to the evolution of strategies and techniques in the NFL than X's and O's; it is one of innovation, adaptation, and the never-ending pursuit of wins.

The Early Days

Coaching in the early NFL just wasn't that complicated. Teams lined up and ran the ball, physically beating their will and strength into moving the chains. You'll hear old-timers refer to trench warfare football as coaches working on playbooks heavy in running plays and light on passing. The idea was pretty simple back then: continuously run the ball down your opponent's throat, and every now and then, a pass would catch them off guard.

Coaches like George Halas and Vince Lombardi built their house of fame on this ground-and-pound philosophy. Lombardi's Green Bay Packers were the masters of the sweep play, something as supposedly simple as a run that became legendary because it was impeccably executed and by the sheer will of the players who ran it.

In the days of the great coaches, running was probably one of the most under-disguised plays, where 11 men lined up and successfully blocked the play. It was coaching in those days that was all about discipline and conditioning, getting the most out of a limited playbook. Creativity took a back seat to execution.

Innovations on Defense

New offenses produced a new set of defenses. The competing coaches came up with the most highly complicated schematics. Buddy Ryan's 46 Defense, most famously used during the mid-1980s with the Chicago Bears, is a great case in point. Very aggressive, centering on pressuring the quarterback and knocking the timing off an offense, the 46 defense was no joke. It was a defense built on intimidation and made the Bears rather good at pounding teams en route to a Super Bowl win in 1985.

No defense rested on its laurels with innovation of its own, though. The 2000s introduced the Tampa 2 defense, made famous by Tony Dungy and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Developed out of the necessity elicited by the ever-developing passing game, the Tampa 2 became a staple for many NFL defenses over the course of the decade.

The Modern Era

Coaching has never been more intricate in the current state of the NFL. Surrounded by an infinite number of ever-changing technologies, it continues to push the evolution of the ways teams evaluate players, design game plans, and make quality decisions during game time. Coaches such as Bill Belichick have warmly embraced analytics to make a difference in areas such as fourth-down decisions and clock management.

One of the most obvious modern realities about NFL coaching is specialization, in which times have rolled far past a head coach being a jack-of-all-trades. It is amazing to see how big the coaching staff is today, with coordinators, position coaches and further expanded to include specialized assistants on certain aspects of the game. This specialization has given components of teams the means to devise more complex and nuanced strategies tailored to the strengths and weaknesses of their own players.

Another feature of the modern NFL has been the emergence of this run-pass option. The RPO sits on the fringes of a traditional run play and pass play; it might involve a quarterback handoff, keep, or pass depending on how a defense reacts. This added layer of complexity puts immense pressure on defenses, forcing them to make split-second decisions. The RPO has become a standard practice for most NFL offenses and increasingly influences the game at every level, from high school to the highest professional ranks.

The Future of NFL Coaching

As the NFL grows and changes, so will coaching strategies and techniques. It is a copycat league; teams copy and adapt very fast to the innovations that work. The future will likely bring even more developments in analytics, technology, and player development. Perhaps we will see even further specialization of coaching roles and game-plan tailoring to individual matchups.

But one thing is for certain—the NFL can still be a breeding ground for innovation. Coaches have to continue pushing the envelope by realizing new methods to outsmart opponents and avail themselves of any opportunity on the field. The only thing in the NFL that stays the same is change, and that is just what makes the evolution of coaching in the league so gripping.

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August 19th, 2024

There is no doubt that the NFC South is one of the most intriguing divisions in the NFL, especially due to the mix of veteran players and emerging talents. Predicting the outcome of the divisional winner is a guessing game, however there are some key factors to consider making educated guesses. These include the team performance, players statistics, coaching strategies, and head-to-head matchups.

It can also be worth looking into the playing conditions for the games. You could investigate details such as the weather, the quality of the field, whether the stadium uses a line marking robot for optimized conditions, and much more. This article will dive into the four teams of the NFC South and discuss their chances of winning.

Atlanta Falcons

To many fans, the Falcons are seen as an overhyped team. However, due to the level of engagement in the NFC South, the Falcons look like they might win. It might not be the strongest team in the country, but they will be sufficient for a playoff game. However, the Falcons are facing a challenge with Cousins, who is a key player on the team, but he is also just coming off an Achilles injury, meaning he cannot be held to the same level of expectations as before.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The quarterback player Mayfield just received a big contract, but the team also ensured Minshew, providing some valuable talent for the upcoming season. However, the Buccaneers do not seem to be investing much in going for a Super Bowl win. This is despite the fact that the team won the title in 2021, and one would assume the team is thirsty for more.

New Orleans Saints

Right now, the Saints are in the worst cap situation in the NFL. They have already exceeded the cap by 60-70 million dollars in 2025, which was due to their signing of Chase Young. Even though many think the Saints are overspending even though they are not real contenders, it is worth noting that their defense has improved after trading Young. However, until the team gets their cap situation under control, the Saints will be looking at a decline.

Carolina Panthers

In the past season, CJ Stroud was a quarterback of highest value. But at the same time, the team also had one of the worst quarterbacks on their team, namely Bryce Young. The team gave up a lot to get Young, and after that the Panthers lacked draft picks. They ended up investing heavily in expensive guards, which came at the expense of the defense where a big decline in pass rush was seen.

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