Book excerpt: From Europe’s rugby and soccer evolved a truly American sport. Played across the United States at parks, schools, universities, and in stadiums, football is as much a part of America’s iconographic experience as apple pie. Emerging from college campuses, it has blossomed to become a popular form of recreation throughout the country, as well as a professional-sports juggernaut. This detailed narrative examines the history of gridiron football, including the teams and players that have helped make it a national obsession.