Terry Hoage Georgia's Outstanding...

April 11, 1962, in Ames, Iowa, marked the birth of Terry Hoage, a dominant safety who became a legendary figure for the University of Georgia Bulldogs from 1980 to 1983. His exceptional playmaking ability was evident early in his career, as highlighted by the National Football Foundation. In the 1981 Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame, Hoage blocked a crucial field goal attempt, contributing significantly to Georgia's victory, undefeated 12-0 season, and national championship title.  

✦ College Career

Hoage's impact on the Georgia defense was profound. As a sophomore in 1981, he established himself as a key playmaker. His junior season in 1982 was nothing short of spectacular, as he led the entire nation with an astounding 12 pass interceptions. This remarkable performance earned him his second All-America selection, alongside his first Academic All-America award, showcasing his excellence both on and off the field. His senior year in 1983 was equally impressive, garnering him consensus All-America honors for the second time and his second Academic All-America award, as well as his third All-SEC academic selection. He was also named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year for the second time that season. With Hoage anchoring the defensive backfield, the Bulldogs amassed an incredible 43-4-1 record, the best among all major division teams during his tenure.  

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Terry Hoage's stellar college career naturally led him to the professional ranks. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 1984 NFL Draft. Over a successful decade-long NFL career, Hoage played for several teams, including the New Orleans Saints (1984-1986), the Philadelphia Eagles (1987-1989), the Washington Redskins (1990-1993), and the Arizona Cardinals (1994). He was a key contributor to the Redskins' Super Bowl XXVI victory.  

✦ Football Legacy

Terry Hoage's football legacy is defined by his exceptional collegiate career at Georgia, where he set a standard for defensive excellence and academic achievement. His playmaking ability, exemplified by his national-leading interception total and crucial blocked field goal, was instrumental in the Bulldogs' national championship run. His consistent All-America selections, coupled with his multiple Academic All-America awards, underscore his commitment to both athletic and scholastic pursuits. The NCAA recognized his all-around excellence with a prestigious Big Five Award, given to the nation's top five outstanding athletes. Further cementing his legendary status, the SEC named him to its 25-year team (1961-85), and the Walter Camp Foundation honored him on its all-century team. His indelible contributions to college football were celebrated with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. His successful professional career further solidified his reputation as an elite defensive back.  

✦ Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

✦ 1981 Sugar Bowl National Championship  

✦ 1982 NCAA Interceptions Leader (12)

✦ Two-Time All-America Selection (1982, 1983)  

✦ Two-Time Consensus All-America Selection (1983)  

✦ Two-Time Academic All-America Selection (1982, 1983)  

✦ Three-Time All-SEC Academic Selection

✦ Two-Time SEC Defensive Player of the Year

✦ NCAA Big Five Award Winner

✦ SEC 25-Year Team (1961-85) Selection  

✦ Walter Camp Foundation All-Century Team Selection

✦ Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame (2000)

✦ Super Bowl XXVI Champion (Washington Redskins)

NFL Teams: New Orleans Saints (1984-1986), Philadelphia Eagles (1987-1989), Washington Redskins (1990-1993), Arizona Cardinals (1994)