History

Throwback to 1969 when Jerry Markbreit worked the Ohio State-Michigan Game

by Mark Schultz - 12188

Michigan and The Ohio State University face yet again this Saturday with playoff and conference championship implications. Let's throw it back to 1969, when future NFL official, Jerry Markbreit, officiated the annual rivalry between the two power houses. Ohio State was unbeaten and ranked number one in the nation. Michigan had

Tony Corrente turns 70, a rare milestone for an active official

by Mark Schultz - 14654

Referee Tony Corrente celebrates his 70th birthday on November 12. In his 27th season, he is in small company of officials who were on the field into their 70s. Down judge Mike Spanier, who retired after the 2019 season, was 70 in his final season. And there aren't likely many

Throwback to 1980: Officials call an illegal hideout foul in the Eagles-Vikings Divisional Playoff

by Mark Schultz - 14291

In 1980, the Philadelphia Eagles played the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Veterans Stadium. With the game in doubt, the Eagles ran a fake punt where punter Max Runager threw a pass to John Sciarra for a first down. On the play, the Vikings were guilty of

Throwback to the 1992 playoffs: Referee Dale Hamer roughed up and gained respect from John Madden

by Mark Schultz - 04095

It is always good to get a playoff assignment, and after the 1992 season, referee Dale Hamer was assigned to the Philadelphia Eagles - New Orleans Saints wild card game in New Orleans. Officials want to get in and get out without any recognition, but when John Madden is giving praise

New Year’s Eve throwback: Future NFL officials working college bowl games

by Mark Schultz - 02439

Our bowl season is rationed this year due to covid-19, instead of the usual glut. But, over the years, we have found footage of future NFL officials working college bowl games, prior to working in the pros. To gear you up for a great college and pro football holiday weekend, here are