Might have been inspired by the 1932 Disney short "Touchdown Mickey." Football was becoming hugely popular in the 30's, though mostly the college variety. Professional ball was still in the early stages of development.
In addition to a youthful Popeye, a young Bluto and Olive can also be seen, along with scorekeeper Wimpy.
As Popeye's team takes the field, the tune from an earlier Popeye short, "Brotherly Love," is playing.