As an expert in the history of sports, particularly American football, I can provide a detailed account of how the game evolved and who contributed to its modern form. The question of who "found" football is a bit of a misnomer, as the sport has evolved over time through the contributions of many individuals and institutions. However, I can certainly discuss the key figures and events that shaped the game we know today.

**Step 1: The Early Days of American Football**
The origins of American football can be traced back to the mid-19th century. On November 6, 1869, Rutgers and Princeton played a game that is often referred to as the first college football game. This early form of football was more closely related to soccer, with players primarily using their feet to move the ball. The rules were rudimentary, and the game was quite different from the American football we are familiar with today.

**Step 2: Walter Camp and the Transformation of the Game**
The transformation from rugby to the modern game of American football began in the 1880s, largely due to the efforts of Walter Camp. Camp, a former Yale University football player and coach, is often referred to as the "Father of American Football." He was instrumental in the development of the line of scrimmage, the system of downs, and the establishment of the quarterback position. These innovations helped to distinguish American football from rugby and laid the groundwork for the sport as we know it.

Step 3: The Evolution of the Rules
The rules of American football continued to evolve throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The forward pass, which is now a fundamental part of the game, was introduced in the early 1900s. This rule change was initially controversial but eventually became one of the key elements that set American football apart from other forms of football.

**Step 4: The Influence of College Football**
College football played a significant role in the popularization and development of the sport. Games between college teams attracted large crowds and helped to spread the game across the United States. The competition between colleges also drove innovation in the sport, as teams sought to gain an advantage over their rivals.

**Step 5: The Professionalization of the Sport**
The professionalization of American football began in the early 20th century with the formation of the American Professional Football Association, which later became the National Football League (NFL). The NFL has been a driving force in the continued evolution of the game, introducing new rules and regulations, and promoting the sport to a national and international audience.

Step 6: The Current State of the Game
Today, American football is one of the most popular sports in the United States, with a massive fan base and significant cultural influence. The NFL is a major sports league, and the Super Bowl, its championship game, is one of the most watched television events in the country.

In conclusion, while it's not accurate to say that someone "found" football, the sport has been shaped by numerous individuals and events. Walter Camp's contributions were particularly significant, but the development of American football is a collective effort that continues to this day.

read more >>

On November 6, 1869, Rutgers and Princeton played what was billed as the first college football game. However, it wasn't until the 1880s that a great rugby player from Yale, Walter Camp, pioneered rules changes that slowly transformed rugby into the new game of American Football.read more >>