Football

This Date In Football

December 12

1936 — The NFL holds its annual draft at Hotel Lincoln in New York City. The Philadelphia Eagles use the first overall pick on back Sam Francis, while future Hall of Fame quarterback Sammy Baugh is selected sixth by the Boston Redskins.

1964 — Cleveland Browns quarterback Frank Ryan posts a perfect passer rating in a 52-20 rout of the New York Giants. Ryan goes 12-of-13 for 202 yards and five touchdowns to become just the fifth player to register a perfect rating.

1965 — Chicago Bears running back ties an NFL record with six touchdowns as the Chicago Bears throttle the San Francisco 49ers 61-20. Sayers rushes for four scores, catches a TD pass and adds a punt return touchdown in the rout.

1967 — Dallas Cowboys quarterback Don Meredith has a near-perfect day in a 52-14 trouncing of the Cleveland Browns. Meredith completes 10 of 12 passes for 212 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

1967 — John Randle is born in Hearne, Texas. One of the most intimidating defensive linemen in history, Randle racks up 137 1/2 sacks – good for seventh on the all-time list – while earning six All-Pro nods and a Hall of Fame induction in 2010.

1988 — Miami Dolphins legend Dan Marino throws for 404 yards and four touchdowns in a 38-31 triumph over the Cleveland Browns. It’s the 10th career 400-yard game for Marino, extending his NFL record.