By Darin Felix “Doc” Blanchard was the cornerstone of the greatest dynasty in Army football history. Known as “Mr. Inside,” Doc was an unstoppable fullback, but his versatility defined his legend. He was the team’s place kicker, punter, and a key linebacker on defense. During his time at West Point, the Cadets were nearly untouchable, recording an unparalleled 27-0-1 record and capturing three National Championships. His career is forever linked with backfield partner Glenn Davis, forming what many consider the best collegiate tandem ever.
Mr. Inside: Doc Blanchard, the Army Fullback Who Made History as the First Junior Heisman Winner
December 11, 1924 – Mr. Inside, the Army’s outstanding fullback, “Doc” Blanchard, was born. Doc was the first junior to win the Heisman Trophy and the Maxwell Award, and the first football player to win the James E. Sullivan Award, all in 1945. The Cadets were undefeated under Blanchard, posting an impressive 27-0-1 record and three national championships!
Doc was more than just a running back; he also served as the place kicker and punter, in addition to playing linebacker on defense. His pairing with Glenn Davis in the backfield may be the best tandem in collegiate football history.
The 1945 season saw Doc run for 722 yards and 16 touchdowns. (source)
Conclusion
Doc Blanchard’s achievements in 1945 stand as one of the most dominant single-season performances in college football history. By becoming the first junior to claim the Heisman, Maxwell, and James E. Sullivan Awards, Blanchard set a nearly insurmountable standard for collegiate success. His three National Championships and near-perfect team record with the Army Cadets solidify his place not just as a legend, but as a revolutionary player who truly earned the moniker “Mr. Inside.”
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Born: December 11, 1924 (Stratton, Nebraska).
- College: U.S. Military Academy (Army) (Fullback, Linebacker, Kicker, Punter).
- Team Record: Contributed to a 27-0-1 record over three seasons.
- National Championships: Won three consecutive National Championships.
- 1945 Season Stats: Ran for 722 yards and 16 touchdowns.
- Individual Awards (1945): First junior to win the Heisman Trophy, first junior to win the Maxwell Award, and first football player to win the James E. Sullivan Award.
- Backfield Partner: Formed the legendary “Mr. Inside and Mr. Outside” tandem with Glenn Davis.
