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Lee McClung Yale's Stalwart Hall...

Lee McClung wasn't your typical football player. In an era known for its brutality, McClung stood out...
March 25 Current Day: March 26 March 27

Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there! Brought to you by Number 80 Productions and Pigskin Dispatch

Sports Jersey Dispatch
If you like remembering players of the NFL by their numbers then you may also enjoy going uniform number by number in othre team sports as well. We have it for you on our other website in baseball, basketball, hockey and more on the Sports Jersey Dispatch.
College HOF

"Lee McClung Yale's Stalwart Hall of Fame Runner"

Last updated 📅 2025-03-25

Lee McClung wasn't your typical football player. In an era known for its brutality, McClung stood out for his remarkable athleticism and innovative spirit. This essay explores McClung's groundbreaking career at Yale University, highlighting his dominance on the field, his influence on the evolution of the game, and the legacy he leaves behind.

From Baseball Star to Football Pioneer: Born in 1867, McClung excelled at various sports in his youth. He was a standout baseball player, but it was at Yale University that he made his most significant impact. Joining the Yale Bulldogs football team in 1888, McClung quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Despite his relatively small stature for the time (5'10", 165-180 lbs.), he possessed exceptional speed, agility, and elusiveness.

Dominating the Field and Inventing the Cutback: McClung's impact on the game transcended mere statistics. He is credited with inventing, or at least popularizing, the cutback play. This innovative maneuver involved the ball carrier faking a run in one direction before cutting back against the grain for unexpected yardage. This revolutionary tactic challenged the rigid, straight-ahead running style prevalent in the late 19th century and opened doors for more dynamic offensive strategies.

An Unbroken Spirit and Unsung Hero: Football in the late 1800s was a brutal sport. Injuries were common, and protective equipment was minimal. Despite the physical toll, McClung never left a game due to injury, showcasing his remarkable toughness and dedication to his team. He captained the undefeated 1891 Yale squad, famously nicknamed the "unscored upon team," leading them to a dominant 13-0 record.

The bio of the life and career of Lee McClung, Yale Bulldogs College Football Hall of Fame star, and Secretary of the US Treasury.

  • HASHTAGS: #March26 #LeeMcClung #Halfback #YaleBulldogs #NumberB4 #CollegeFootballHallofFame
  • DOB: March 26
  • EVENTDAY: March 26
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Lee McClung
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Halfback
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Yale Bulldogs
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number B4
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame

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Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there! Brought to you by Number 80 Productions and Pigskin Dispatch _________________________

Sports Jersey Dispatch
If you like remembering players of the NFL by their numbers then you may also enjoy going uniform number by number in othre team sports as well. We have it for you on our other website in baseball, basketball, hockey and more on the Sports Jersey Dispatch. _________________________

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