Albert Benbrook smashes through opposing defensive lines and pioneers the running guard position for the University of Michigan. Known for his exceptional quickness and massive size, he anchors the Wolverines’ trenches and becomes the very first Western lineman to achieve two-time All-American status. Discover the legendary career of the man who dominated the early era of college football.
Football Bio
August 24, 1887 – Albert Benbrook, a guard from the University of Michigan, played with the Wolverines from 1908 through the 1910 season, was born.
Benbrook was chosen by Walter Camp himself to be an All-American in both the 1909 and 1910 seasons.
He was voted into the College Football Hall of Fame in the class of 1971. [National Football Foundation]
Albert Benbrook sets the standard for interior line play in the early days of college football. He transforms the guard position with his unique blend of physical power and unmatched quickness. By earning back-to-back Walter Camp All-American honors and taking his rightful place in the College Football Hall of Fame, Benbrook cements his legacy as a true Michigan Wolverine icon.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame: He was posthumously elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 1971.
- 2× Consensus All-American: He was chosen by Walter Camp as a first-team All-American in 1909 and 1910.
- 3× First-Team All-Western: He earned first-team All-Western honors in 1908, 1909, and 1910.
- Team Captain: He was Michigan’s team captain in 1910.
- Historic Milestone: He was the first Western lineman to become a two-time All-America.
- Defensive Dominance: He led a Michigan defense that allowed only nine points during his 1910 senior season.
- Military Honors: He earned First-team All-Service honors in 1917 while serving in World War I.
