Bob Ward – One of the Top Terrapins

Born on September 16, 1927, Bob Ward was a celebrated football player and coach known for his tenacity. A standout at the University of Maryland, he is considered one of the most outstanding linemen in school history, alongside Randy White. His aggressive play style, which earned him the nickname “watch-charm guard,” allowed him to overcome his relatively small stature.

By Unknown author – 1950 University of Maryland football media guide back cover, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=154521137

Ward is uniquely recognized as the only player to be named a first-team All-American on both offense and defense in the same year. He was a consensus All-American in 1951, capping a stellar college career where the Terrapins went 32-7-1. He helped Maryland win a national championship and was named the MVP of the 1950 Gator Bowl.

After college, Ward declined professional playing offers and turned to coaching. He spent 22 years in the profession, with assistant roles at Oklahoma and Army before a two-year stint as Maryland’s head coach. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1980, a testament to his dominant legacy on the gridiron.