A Gridiron Birthday for Legends

May 18th marks a significant date in American football history, notably sharing a birthday with two iconic College Football Hall of Famers. Charlie "Choo Choo" Justice, the electrifying halfback from the University of North Carolina, captivated fans with his all-around athleticism. His legendary career for the Tar Heels solidified his place as a college football great, earning him national recognition and lasting adoration in Chapel Hill.

Joining Justice in this May 18th birthday club is Vince Young, the dynamic quarterback who led the Texas Longhorns to a memorable National Championship victory. Young's exceptional talent and leadership defined an era in Austin, earning him numerous accolades and a place among the most celebrated players in Longhorns history. Both Justice and Young, born on this same date, represent different eras of college football brilliance, showcasing the enduring impact of exceptional individual talent.

Beyond these shared birthdays, May 18th has also seen other noteworthy events in the broader landscape of college football. While specific team mentions like the Michigan Wolverines celebrating certain players highlight individual program histories, this date serves as a recurring point to reflect on the legacies and contributions of remarkable athletes across the collegiate game, reminding fans of the rich tapestry of talent that defines American football.

Larry Johnson graduated from Munster High School in 1970 played in the North-South All Star game and caught a 60 TD pass to help his team win then went on to the Wolverines and helped them attain three Big 10 Championships accumulating a record 30-2-1. 

Keith Johnson, Larry’s younger brother graduated from Munster in 1972 and went on to catch eight or nine passes in the Orange Bowl according to a quote from their Michigan Head Coach Bo Schembechler. It’s no wonder that this pair of siblings was inducted into the Indiana Football Hall of Fame!