Red Grange The Legend of the Galloping...

Born on June 13, 1903, in Forksville, Pennsylvania, Harold Edward "Red" Grange etched his name into football lore as one of the game's first true superstars. 1 His electrifying speed and agility captivated audiences and helped propel professional football into the national spotlight. 2 Grange's journey from a small Pennsylvania town to football immortality is a testament to his exceptional talent and the transformative era in which he played.  

✦ College Career

Grange's collegiate career at the University of Illinois from 1923 to 1925 was nothing short of sensational. Donning the iconic No. 77 jersey, "The Galloping Ghost" or "The Wheaton Iceman," as he was also known, set numerous Big Ten and national records. His dazzling runs, often covering significant yardage, became his trademark. In a legendary 1924 game against Michigan, Grange scored four touchdowns in the first twelve minutes, a feat that cemented his status as a national phenomenon. He earned All-American honors in all three of his seasons at Illinois and is still revered as one of the greatest college football players of all time. His performances drew massive crowds and brought unprecedented attention to college football.

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Grange's decision to leave Illinois early and join the professional ranks sent shockwaves through the football world. In 1925, his agent, C.C. Pyle, negotiated a groundbreaking contract with the Chicago Bears. This move was highly controversial but undeniably significant, as it legitimized professional football in the eyes of many. Grange's presence instantly elevated the profile of the NFL, drawing large crowds to Bears games and generating national media coverage. His barnstorming tour with the Bears after the college season further fueled the popularity of the professional game, demonstrating its potential for widespread appeal and financial success.

✦ Football Legacy

Red Grange's legacy extends far beyond his individual achievements. He is widely credited with popularizing professional football in its early years. His charisma and exceptional talent captured the imagination of the American public, helping to transform the NFL from a regional pastime into a major national sport. Grange's signing with the Bears marked a turning point, demonstrating the potential for players to earn a substantial living playing professional football. He was a pioneer whose impact on the game's growth and acceptance is immeasurable. His electrifying playing style set a new standard for offensive excitement and inspired generations of future players.

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

College:

✦ Three-time First-Team All-American (1923, 1924, 1925)

✦ Set numerous Big Ten and NCAA records for rushing and scoring during his career at the University of Illinois.

✦ Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951.
Professional:
Two-time NFL Champion with the Chicago Bears (1932, 1933).

✦ Named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1920s.

✦ Led the NFL in rushing touchdowns in 1931.

✦ Charter member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, inducted in 1963.

✦ His No. 77 jersey is retired by the University of Illinois and the Chicago Bears.

Red Grange's impact on football is undeniable. From his dazzling runs in college to his pivotal role in the growth of the NFL, he remains a legendary figure whose contributions continue to resonate within the sport. His electrifying talent and groundbreaking move to the professional ranks helped shape the game we know today.