By Darin On January 4, 1925, a quarterbacking legend was born who would help define the Golden Era of Notre Dame football and become a star for George Halas’s Chicago Bears. Johnny Lujack‘s career is a testament to resilience, encompassing service in World War II, three National Championships, a Heisman Trophy, and NFL stardom. Discover the incredible journey of the man who replaced a Heisman winner and then earned the sport’s most coveted prize himself.
Football Bio
January 4, 1925 – Connellsville, Pennsylvania – Notre Dame’s legendary Quarterback Johnny Lujack was born. The NFF has a great bio on Johnny L.
John Lujack was Heisman Trophy winner Angelo Bertelli‘s replacement at quarterback when the signal caller was called to fight in the US military during World War II. Johnny led Notre Dame to important victories over Army (26-0) and Iowa Pre-Flight (14-13) to secure the 1943 national championship. After serving in the War effort overseas himself, Lujack returned under center for the Irish in 1946-47. Notre Dame went 17-0-1 in that period and won two national championships. Lujack was a unanimous All-America both seasons and won the Heisman Trophy himself in 1947.
Johnny was an excellent defender as well. This was demonstrated in 1946, when he tackled Doc Blanchard, cutting off a sure Army touchdown, in a game that ended 0-0. The National Football Foundation voters selected Johnny Lujack for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1960. Johnny’s gridiron glory did not stop after college. Lujack played for the Chicago Bears and George Halas from 1948 to 1951. The pinnacle of his pro career came in 1948 against the Chicago Cardinals, when he tossed six touchdown passes!
Conclusion
Johnny Lujack’s impact stretched far beyond his birth date on January 4th. His seamless transition from a wartime replacement to a three-time National Champion and Heisman winner cemented his status as a college football icon. His four-year tenure with the Chicago Bears, highlighted by his explosive six-touchdown performance, ensured that his legacy transcended the collegiate game, earning him a permanent place in the sport’s history books.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Heisman Trophy Winner: (1947)
- National Champion (Notre Dame): 3-time winner (1943, 1946, 1947)
- Unanimous All-America Selection: (1946, 1947)
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee: (1960)
- NFL Tenure: Played for the Chicago Bears (1948–1951)
- Wartime Service: Served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
- Chicago Bears Record: Threw 6 touchdown passes in a single game (1948 vs. Chicago Cardinals).
