WGIL’s Jay Redfern talks with Steve Ferguson, a 1966 Galesburg High School graduate and standout running back and cornerback, in this 16-minute podcast, with a portion airing during halftime of Galesburg football broadcasts this season on WGIL. Ferguson takes us back to the mid-1960s, when 5,000 fans packed Lombard Field and the 1964 Silver Streaks, “a heck of a team,” went 6-1-1, ranked #2 in Illinois. Relive the thrilling 6-6 tie against #1 Peoria Central, officiated by NFL refs, and a defense so stingy it allowed no touchdown passes all season. Ferguson shares Coach C.C. Van Dyke’s rugged practices, a cracked-helmet concussion with no protocol, and a missed Alabama scholarship under Bear Bryant. From the Kimbrough twins’ legacy to Silver Streaks pride, this episode captures 1960s football’s grit.
2025 Halftime Interviews:
Week 1: From Silver Streak to surgeon: Beau Shay’s hall of fame journey
Week 2: Galesburg’s 1956 Undefeated Silver Streaks: Tom Milan’s Story
Week 3: Jerry 'Buddy' Cato: Silver Streaks football legend
Week 4: Greg Turner reflects on Galesburg and Illini football days
Week 5: Peyton Isaacson: Streaks Star on Legacy, Leadership, Success
Week 6: ‘Heck of a Team’: Steve Ferguson relives Galesburg Football Glory in the ’60s