From College to the Pros: The Rise of Red Grange and CC Pyle

Pigskin Dispatch

Join Darin Hayes as he welcomes author Doug Vilhard to discuss his captivating new book, "The Golden Age of Red," which shines a light on the legendary football player Red Grange and his impact on the sport. Set in the 1920s, the conversation explores Grange's journey from a humble college athlete to a national sensation, revealing the complexities of fame and the pressures that came with it. The episode delves into the intriguing relationship between Grange and his groundbreaking sports agent, C.C. Pyle, who played a pivotal role in reshaping the business of football. Listeners will also discover how Grange's story parallels contemporary discussions around athlete compensation and the evolving landscape of college sports. With rich historical context and engaging anecdotes, this episode offers a unique perspective on the origins of professional football and the enduring legacy of its early stars.

Professor Doug Villhard puts the story of Red Grange and his eccentric manager, C.C. Pyle front and center in his amazing book, The Golden Age of Red. It is an amazing ride with some new twists on a well-known story based on real history.

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