The Two-Sport Titan

Born on May 28, 1957, in Pontiac, Michigan, Kirk Gibson is widely celebrated for his heroics in Major League Baseball, particularly his iconic home run in the 1988 World Series. However, before his legendary baseball career, Gibson was a phenomenal football player at Michigan State University from 1975 to 1978. A physically imposing and exceptionally athletic wide receiver, Gibson left an indelible mark on the Spartans' football program.

✦ College Career

Record-breaking performances marked Gibson's time in East Lansing. He still holds the Michigan State record for career yards per reception with an astounding 21.0-yard average. By the end of his college career, Gibson had established himself as the university's all-time leader in receptions (112), touchdown receptions (24), and receiving yards (2,347) – with the latter two still ranking among the top five in school history. His outstanding senior season in 1978 saw him earn First-Team All-American honors, helping the Spartans achieve a share of the Big Ten title and a No. 12 national ranking. That year, he led the team with 42 receptions for 806 yards and seven touchdowns, earning recognition as the Outstanding Offensive End by the New York Downtown Athletic Club. A three-time All-Big Ten selection, Gibson's collegiate achievements culminated in his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2017.

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Despite his exceptional football talent, Gibson was also a highly regarded baseball prospect. The St. Louis Cardinals drafted him in the seventh round of the 1979 NFL Draft but ultimately chose to pursue a career in professional baseball after being selected by the Detroit Tigers in the first round of the 1978 MLB Draft.

✦ Football Legacy

While Kirk Gibson did not pursue a professional football career, his impact on Michigan State's football program remains significant. His school records, All-American honors, and College Football Hall of Fame induction underscore his exceptional talent and dominance on the collegiate gridiron. Gibson's ability to excel at such a high level in both football and baseball is a testament to his rare athletic gifts, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest two-sport athletes in Michigan State history.

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

✦ College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2017)

✦ First-Team All-American (1978)

✦ 3x All-Big Ten Selection (1976, 1977, 1978 - First Team in 1978)

✦ Michigan State University Records: Career yards per reception (21.0), career receptions (112), career touchdown receptions (24), single-season receiving yards (806 in 1978 - then a record).

✦ Led Big Ten in receptions (1976, 1978) and receiving yards (1978) in conference games.
Michigan State Centennial Super Squad Selection.