Born on November 5, 1933, Bruce Bosley wasn’t just a great tackle for the West Virginia Mountaineers; he was the lineman that opposing players respected most. Here’s an interesting fact that verifies his dominance: In 1955, when Bosley earned a spot on the prestigious All-Players team, he was named by a staggering 93 percent of opposing players—a true testament to the respect and fear he commanded on the field.
The Legend of Bruce Bosley
November 5, 1933 – Fresno, California – Bruce Bosley, the West Virginia Mountaineer tackle, was born. The website footballfoundation.org states that Bosley helped defeat Penn State three times in a row. The Associated Press named Bosley the National Lineman of the Week in two contests against the Nittany Lions. One of the 12 All-America teams Bosley made in 1955 was the All-Players team. Bosley was named by 93 percent of opposing players. The NFF’s voters chose Bruce Bosley to take a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1982.
Accolades and Accomplishments
- Dominant Rivalry Performance: Bosley was instrumental in helping the West Virginia Mountaineers defeat rival Penn State three times in a row.
- National Recognition: The Associated Press (AP) named him the National Lineman of the Week in two separate contests against the Nittany Lions.
- Unanimous Esteem: In 1955, Bosley was selected to 12 different All-America teams, notably including the exclusive All-Players team, where he was voted in by 93% of his peers.
- Hall of Fame Induction: His exceptional collegiate career earned him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1982.

