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1959 Pro Football Hall of Fame Revisited Project Class.

Here we are!  Again!!

If you have been following our Pro Football Hall of Fame Revisited Project, you know that we have asked the rhetorical question: What if the PFHOF began in January 1946?

After soliciting and obtaining a passionate group of football fans and historians, we sent out a ballot for a Preliminary Vote, in which we asked each voter to give us 25 names as their semi-finalists and 5 in the Senior Pool. Following that, we asked the group to vote for their 15 Finalists in the Modern Era and 3 in the Senior Category. The final stage was to vote for their five Modern Era inductee and one Senior inductee.

This is the result of the fourteenth official class;

Below are the final results of this project based on 30 votes,

Remember that the group took a vote, and we have reverted back to the top five candidates entering the Hall.  This will be put to a vote again in “1960”.

This is for the “Modern Era”

*Bold indicates they have been elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame Revisited Class of 1959:

Player

Year of Eligibility

Vote Total

Bill Dudley HB-TB-QB

1

23

Bill Willis G

1

23

Arnie Weinmeister DT

1

17

Mac Speedie E

2

17

Wayne Millner E

9

12

Whizzer White TB-HB

12

9

Marshall Goldberg FB

6

8

Buckets Goldenberg G-BB

9

7

Bill Osmanski FB

7

4

Ken Kavanaugh E

4

4

George Christensen T-G

16

5

Ace Gutkowski FB-TB

15

5

Pat Harder FB

1

4

Woody Strode E

5

3

Ward Cuff WB-QB-HB

7

2

This is for the “Senior Era”, *Bold indicates they have been elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame Revisited Class of 1959, though no one made the mandatory 50% threshold to advance.

Tony Latone

4

10

Al Nesser

2

10

Hunk Anderson

9

8

None of the Above

N/A

2

About the 1959 Inductees:

Bill Dudley HB-TB-QB-K-P, WAS 1937-52: Inducted in 1959 on his 1st Ballot.  Inducted into the actual Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966.

 

Taken number one in the 1942 Draft, Bill Dudley went from the University of Virginia to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where, as a rookie, he won the Rushing Title (696 Yards) and was the league leader in All-Purpose Yards (1,349).  World War II took the Halfback out of the NFL for three years, but he returned late in the 1945 season, and he again led the NFL in Rushing Yards (604) and All-Purpose Yards (1,650).  That season, Dudley was named the league MVP.  The versatile yet diminutive football player could do it all, as he was not just a rusher but excelled at returning, kicking, and punting and was decent on the defensive side of the ball.  Dudley played three years each for Pittsburgh, Detroit and Washington.

Bill Willis DG-G, CLE 1946-53: Inducted in 1959 on his 1st Ballot.  Inducted into the actual Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977.

Bill Willis played for Paul Brown at Ohio State, where he was a part of the 1942 National Championship Team.  Willis graduated in 1945 and wanted to play pro football, but as a black man with the knowledge that the NFL had an unspoken rule about African Americans, there was nowhere for him to go.  Enter the All-American Football Conference.  In 1946, his former Head Coach, Brown, was the Head Coach of the new team that bore his name, and Willis received an opportunity to try out for the Cleveland Browns. Willis made the team and, along with Marion Motley, was among the first two black players in pro football.  Playing at Guard, he was a part of the Browns dominance of the short-lived league, winning all four Championships.  Willis proved to be one of the top Guards in the AAFC, especially on the defensive side of the ball.  When the AAFC migrated with the NFL, Willis was recognized as a three-time Pro Bowl and three-time First Team All-Pro.  The Browns won the 1950 NFL Championship, and Willis was a colossal component of Cleveland's success in their early existence.

Arnie Weinmeister DT, NYY 1948-49, NYG 1950-53: Inducted in 1959 on his 1st Ballot.  Inducted into the actual Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984.

Arnie Weinmeister was one of the toughest players in football, and after two productive seasons with the New York Yankees of the AAFC, Weinmeister made history as the first native of Saskatchewan to play in the NFL when he joined the New York Giants in 1950.  Weinmeister played Tackle on both sides of the ball, but he was known primarily for his defensive skill.  He only played four years for the Giants, but he was one of the best they had while he wore the blue.  Weinmeister was a Pro Bowl and First Team All-Pro in all of his years as a Giant.  He could have played longer in the NFL, but he opted to play for the B.C. Lions of the Canadian Football League.

Mac Speedie E, CLE 1946-52: Inducted in 1959 on his 1st Ballot.  Inducted into the actual Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020.

Mac Speedie played collegiately at Utah and was a late-round pick (15th) in the NFL Draft.  He did not enter the NFL, opting instead to go to the military to serve the United States in World War II, and when he returned, he tried out and made the Cleveland Browns of the upstart All-American Football Conference.  Browns' Head Coach, Paul Brown, used Speedie in his offense at End, where he would become one of the top receivers in the AAFC.  Speedie and the Browns won all four titles in the AAFC’s existence, and Speedie was the league leader in Receiving Yards twice.  The Browns migrated to the NFL in 1950, and he was named to the Pro Bowl twice, though he was unable to reach the four-digit mark in Receiving Yards as he did in the AAFC.  He did, however, help Cleveland win the NFL Championship in 1950, which was his fifth in a row.  His run in the NFL could have been longer, but a dispute with Brown resulted in Speedie taking his talents to Canada, where he played three years before retiring.  Speedie had 5,602 Yards with 33 Touchdowns with Cleveland.

Wayne Millner DE-E, BOS 1936, WAS 1937-41 & 1945: Inducted in 1959 on his 9th Ballot.  Inducted into the actual Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968.

Wayne Millner was a star of some phenomenal Notre Dame teams, and in 1936, the Boston Redskins took him in the Eighth Round of the NFL Draft.  Millner was an all-purpose End, and while the air game was not a huge part yet of American Football, his six consecutive years of 200 Yards (1936-41) were more than respectable.  Millner aided the Redskins in winning their first-ever NFL Championship in 1937.  After 1941, Millner was in the U.S. Military for three years and returned to Washington for a final season as a player.  Millner was named to the 1930s All-Decade Team, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, in the same group as his legendary teammate, Cliff Battles.

The National Hockey League (NHL) boasts a rich tapestry of historic games that have left an indelible mark on the sport. From intense playoff battles to iconic matchups, here are six of the greatest games in NHL history, each etched in the annals of hockey lore, in some cases beating NHL playoff odds.

1972 Summit Series, Game 8 - Canada vs. Soviet Union:

The culmination of the historic Summit Series between Team Canada and the Soviet Union captivated hockey fans worldwide. In Game 8, played in Moscow, the series was tied 3-3-1, setting the stage for a winner-takes-all showdown. With tensions running high and the fate of hockey supremacy on the line, Team Canada rallied to secure a dramatic 6-5 victory, clinching the series and cementing its place in hockey history.

1980 Miracle on Ice - United States vs. Soviet Union:

The "Miracle on Ice" remains one of the most iconic moments in sports history. At the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York, the underdog United States team faced off against the powerhouse Soviet Union squad in the medal round. In a stunning upset, Team USA, comprised of amateur and college players, defeated the heavily favored Soviets 4-3, capturing the hearts of a nation and inspiring future generations of hockey players.

1994 Stanley Cup Finals, Game 7 - New York Rangers vs. Vancouver Canucks:

The 1994 Stanley Cup Finals featured a thrilling Game 7 showdown between the New York Rangers and the Vancouver Canucks. With the series tied 3-3, both teams battled fiercely for hockey's ultimate prize. In a nail-biting contest, the Rangers emerged victorious with a 3-2 win, securing their first Stanley Cup championship in 54 years and igniting celebrations throughout New York City.

1979 Challenge Cup - NHL All-Stars vs. Soviet Union:

The 1979 Challenge Cup pitted the best players from the NHL against the formidable Soviet Union national team in a two-game series. In Game 2, held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, the NHL All-Stars showcased their skill and determination in a dominant 6-0 victory over the Soviets. The series served as a testament to the talent of NHL players and marked a significant moment in the ongoing rivalry between North American and Soviet hockey.

2010 Olympic Gold Medal Game - Canada vs. United States:

The gold medal game at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver featured a highly anticipated matchup between arch-rivals Canada and the United States. In front of a passionate home crowd, the Canadian team prevailed in overtime, with Sidney Crosby scoring the game-winning goal to secure a 3-2 victory. The dramatic conclusion to the tournament solidified Canada's status as a hockey powerhouse and provided a fitting climax to an unforgettable Olympic Games.

1993 Stanley Cup Finals, Game 5 - Montreal Canadiens vs. Los Angeles Kings:

The 1993 Stanley Cup Finals culminated in a memorable Game 5 showdown between the Montreal Canadiens and the Los Angeles Kings. With the series tied 2-2, both teams vied for the championship in a hard-fought battle at the Montreal Forum. In a thrilling overtime finish, Canadiens defenseman Eric Desjardins scored a hat trick, including the game-winning goal, to lead Montreal to a 3-2 victory and clinch the Stanley Cup.

These six games stand as shining examples of the drama, passion, and excitement that define the NHL. From historic international clashes to unforgettable playoff moments, each game has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire hockey fans around the world.

From dominating the gridiron to showcasing exceptional athleticism, Canadian NFL stars have made a lasting impact on the sport of American football. The Pro Football Hall of Fame stands as a testament to their remarkable careers, with a surprising number of NFL stars from Canada managing to make the cut.

In this article, we’ll explore the journey of Canadian NFL players who have achieved the prestigious milestone of induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame

Canadian Legends in the Pro Football Hall of Fame

First, let’s take a look at some of the most notable players who managed to get into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. One such player is Warren Moon, a quarterback who overcame numerous obstacles to achieve greatness in the NFL. Born in Los Angeles but raised in Canada, Moon began his professional career in the Canadian Football League (CFL) before making the leap to the NFL.

His exceptional talent and leadership skills propelled him to a successful career with teams like the Houston Oilers and the Minnesota Vikings, earning him nine Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro nods. Because of his many accolades and achievements, Warren Moon was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006.

Another Canadian football legend enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame is Bronko Nagurski. Hailing from Rainy River, Ontario, Nagurski made a name for himself as a dominant player in both the NFL and the early days of professional wrestling.

Known for his brute strength and tenacity, Nagurski played for the Chicago Bears during the 1930s and helped lead the team to multiple championships.

His impact on the game was so profound that he was named to the NFL's 1930s All-Decade Team and remains a revered figure in football history. Nagurski's induction into the Hall of Fame in 1963 solidified his legacy as one of the most iconic Canadian athletes of all time.

These are but a few examples of Canadians who made it into the Hall of Fame. There are many more, and even more players made it onto sites like Not in Hall of Fame.

Celebrating Canadian Football Excellence

When it comes to football, Canadians might immediately think of the CFL (Canadian Football League) or even the beloved sport of hockey. However, the NFL has also seen its fair share of Canadian talent making waves in the league.

While the path to the Pro Football Hall of Fame is arduous and competitive, Canadian NFL stars have proven that they have what it takes to earn their spot among the game's immortals.

There are many Canadians who have made their mark in various aspects of American football, but their induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a testament to their exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Only the best of the best ever stand a shot of getting inducted.

Each enshrinement ceremony serves as a reminder of the rich football tradition that exists north of the border and the impact Canadian players have had on the NFL. As fans, we can take pride in celebrating the achievements of these remarkable athletes and their contributions to gambling sites with zero wagering.

How Many Canadian NFL Stats Made it Into the Pro Football Hall of Fame

While the NFL has seen numerous Canadian players grace the gridiron throughout its storied history, the number of Canadian-born athletes enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame stands at a more modest count.

As of the latest estimations, around 320 individuals have earned the esteemed honour of induction into the Hall of Fame. Among these illustrious inductees are players, coaches, and contributors who have left an indelible mark on the sport of football.

Though the exact number of Canadian-born players among the Hall of Fame inductees is not readily available, several notable Canadian athletes have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the game.

From legendary quarterbacks to dominant linemen, these players have distinguished themselves as some of the finest to ever play the game. While the quantity may be relatively small compared to the total number of Hall of Fame inductees, the impact of Canadian NFL stars on the league#s history is undeniable.

Conclusion

 

Well, there you have it - you now know how many Canadian NFL stars have been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Game. The number might not be as high when compared to other countries, but it’s an understatement to say Canada has produced some of the best NFL players to have ever lived.

And when you consider the Canadian talent out there on the pitch right now, it’s likely there’s going to be more in the near future. See you next time.

Yesterday, the Premier League Hall of Fame announced that John Terry and Andy Cole have been inducted after winning a global online poll against 13 other former Premier League stars.  They will join Ashley Cole, who was already chosen last week.

John Terry played at Center-Back for Chelsea from 1998 to 2017 where he appeared in 492 Games.  A former Captain with Chelsea, Terry was instrumental in the club winning five Premier League Titles, five FA Cups, one UEFA Champions League and one UEFA Europa Title.  Terry was praised (and knocked) for his no-nonsense and aggressive style of play.  Blessed with a high-soccer IQ, Terry was known for his pugnacious defence, though he could score, as shown by his career 42 Goals (41 with Chelsea and 1 with Aston Villa).

Andy Cole began his professional career in England with Second Division Bristol City, and then Division One Newcastle United opened their bank to land Cole.  Shortly after Cole helped Newcastle elevate to the Premier League, he was sold to Manchester United where he had his greatest success.  Cole scored 93 Goals for Man U and helped them win five Premier League Titles, two FA Cups and one UEFA Champions League.  He later played for Blackburn, Fulham, Manchester City, Portsmouth, Sunderland and Nottingham Forest and scored 289 Goals over his career.

We at Notinhalloffame.com would like to congratulate the impending members of the Premier League Hall of Fame.