By Darin Born over a century ago, the legend of Gerald Mann is one of dedication, versatility, and an unlikely skill that delivered a championship. Discover the incredible story of the SMU quarterback who deliberately trained to throw with his non-dominant hand just to meet his coach’s vision for an explosive passing attack.
Football Bio
January 13, 1907 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – Southern Methodist University’s stalwart QB Gerald Mann was born. SMU’s Coach Ray Morrison wanted to have an explosive passing offense in the mid-1920s, and he figured a passing attack with a left-handed thrower would really be productive. Mann was right-handed but told Coach Morrison not to look any further, according to the NFF. Gerald spent the off-season learning how to toss a ball southpaw. The bio goes on to say that, according to Morrison, Mann completed several left-handed passes in crucial situations. Mann was pivotal in SMU’s Southwest Conference Title in 1926, when the team finished the regular season at 8-0-1. The tie was a 7-7 stalemate with Missouri. The truly versatile Gerald Mann was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame by NFF voters in 1969.
Conclusion
Gerald Mann’s story transcends simple statistics; it’s a powerful testament to personal commitment in pursuit of team success. His willingness to fundamentally alter his technique—a move unheard of in modern sports—not only secured a major conference title for the Mustangs but also cemented his legacy as one of the most versatile and dedicated players in college football history, rightfully earning his spot among the game’s greatest.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1969)
- Southwest Conference Champion (1926)
- All-Southwest Conference Selection (1926)
- SMU Mustangs Quarterback (1924–1927)
- Pivotal player in SMU’s undefeated 1926 regular season (8-0-1)
- Credited for successfully completing left-handed passes in crucial situations, a skill he developed specifically for Coach Ray Morrison’s passing attack.
