Evolution of American Football
How Football
Came to be
Journey through football history—from the 1800s to today—with Mark Murphy.
From the roots of this sport to the early days of the NFL to the modern professional game we know today, football has been incredibly culturally significant in America. Guided by Mark Murphy, former President and CEO of the Green Bay Packers, you'll learn the evolution of the sport, examining changes in rules, player development, league structure, media influence and the broader social impact of football.
Series Dates
September 8, 2026; October 13, 2026; November 10, 2026
12-1 p.m.
Location
Each session is a live webinar through Zoom, so you don't even have to leave your house to learn.
$119
The cost of the 3-session webinar series is $119.
Three-Part Webinar Series
Each session stands alone while also building upon the previous one.
Session 1: Where the Game Began
September 8, 2026
A look at how American football evolved and the key figures who shaped its early years.
- Roots in rugby and soccer in the 1800s
- The impact of Walter Camp and early rule changes
- First college game and early league formation
- Origins of the NFL
- Founding of the Green Bay Packers
- Early championships and milestones that defined the sport
Session 2: Rise of the NFL and Lombardi Era
October 13, 2026
How the Super Bowl era began and the Packers became a dominant force.
- Creation of a rival league and the road to the Super Bowl
- Vince Lombardi’s leadership and championship success
- The Packers’ role in growing the NFL’s popularity
- Challenges and transition after Lombardi
- A memorable moment from the team’s rebuilding years
Session 3: Return to Titletown
November 10, 2026
The Packers’ resurgence and continued success in the modern NFL.
- Key leaders behind the 1990s turnaround
- Super Bowl success and sustained competitiveness
- Evolution of Lambeau Field and the Green Bay market
- Another championship run in the 2000s
- The team’s current era and community impact
