A Storied Beginning: The Foundation of Drake Football

Drake University, located in Des Moines, Iowa, boasts a rich tradition in collegiate athletics, none more storied than that of its football program. Established in 1893, the Drake Bulldogs football team quickly became an integral part of the university’s culture. Early years saw the program laying the groundwork for future successes, characterized by passionate play and a steadily growing fan base. This foundational era was essential in building the traditions that would come to define Drake football.

Major Milestones and Historic Achievements

The legacy of Drake football is punctuated by several key milestones. One of the most significant came in the late 1920s and early 1930s under the coaching of Ossie Solem. The 1929 season was particularly memorable, with the Bulldogs finishing with an 8-1 record, capped by a stunning victory over Pittsburgh in the 1930 Rose Bowl. This era marked Drake’s emergence on the national stage, establishing a standard of excellence that future teams would strive to emulate.

In subsequent decades, the program continued to produce notable campaigns and standout players. The 1950s and 1960s saw the