By Darin When you talk about versatile legends in football history, Danny White stands in a league of his own. Long before the “modern” mobile quarterback was the norm, White dominated the Western Athletic Conference as a prolific passer and an elite punter. Whether leading Arizona State to three consecutive Fiesta Bowl trophies or stepping into the monumental task of succeeding Roger Staubach in Dallas, White proved that he wasn’t just a placeholder—he was a powerhouse.
Football Bio
February 9, 1952 – Mesa, Arizona – The legendary quarterback from Arizona State University, Danny White, celebrated the day of his birth. White guided the Sun Devils to an outstanding 32-4 record during his time at the helm of the ASU offense and helped his team win three straight Fiesta Bowls in the early 1970s. The NFF notes that White led the nation in pass efficiency and was named All-America in 1973. Danny held Arizona State records for the most yards gained by passing in a career (6,717) and most touchdown passes (64). At probably his pinnacle collegiate game against New Mexico in 1971, he threw six touchdown passes! The National Football Foundation selected Danny White for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998. When Danny left college, he joined the Memphis Southmen, sometimes remembered as the Grizzlies of the World Football League. When the WFL folded two years later, Danny was picked up by the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and became a long-time quarterback and punter for the franchise.
Conclusion
Danny White’s legacy is one of remarkable resilience and multi-faceted talent. Often remembered for the unenviable task of following a legend in Dallas, his own resume is staggering: a College Football Hall of Famer, a Super Bowl champion, and a pioneer of the Arena Football League as both a coach and executive. From his record-setting days in Tempe to his Pro Bowl years in the NFL, White remains the gold standard for what a scholar-athlete and professional leader should be.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (Class of 1997)
- Super Bowl XII Champion (Dallas Cowboys)
- NFL Pro Bowl Selection (1982)
- Second-Team All-Pro (1982)
- WAC Offensive Player of the Year (1973)
- First-Team All-American (1973)
- 3-time Fiesta Bowl Champion (1971, 1972, 1973)
- Arizona Athlete of the Century (Named by the Arizona Republic in 2000)
- Arena Football Hall of Fame (Inducted as a coach in 2002)
- 2-time ArenaBowl Champion Coach (1994, 1997)
