At the turn of the 20th century, collegiate football could best be described as ruthless, chaotic, and hazardous. Injuries were common, many times serious, and, in a few cases, deadly.

President Theodore Roosevelt is credited with highlighting a serious review of the fledgling sport, resulting in reforms such as allowing the forward pass, increasing the distance for a first down from 5 yards to 10, and establishing a neutral zone dividing one team’s offense from the other’s defense. Injuries declined and interest in the sport rose as measured by participation, attendance, and competition.